cruises from usa to greenland

• Cruise Destinations
• Greenland & Canada

Cruises to Greenland & Canada

• Carnival Pride

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• Ports of Call

If you think back to school, remember that Greenland is the one with all the ice, right? And while it’s true that Greenland is both huge and mostly icy, there are actually places on the southernmost tip that are just perfect for cruising. When you show up in the summer, remember that it’s always jacket weather here — we are still in the Arctic Circle, barely! — but small port towns welcome visitors warmly to experience all the history and culture of their native people. And while you’re in the neighborhood, you’ll also have a chance to check out some of eastern Canada’s most scenic seaside towns in Newfoundland and Nova Scotia — yep, visit two cool countries on one cruise!

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Greenland Cruises

ALL ABOUT GREENLAND

Poseidon Expeditions - your polar cruise operator

We’re fascinated by the wonders of Greenland and want to share our passion with real expeditioners from around the globe! Join us on an epic Greenland cruise. Discover the mesmerizing wilderness and iconic wildlife of the world’s largest island, with prime opportunities to see reindeer, musk oxen, polar bears, arctic foxes, arctic hares and whales. Explore as part of a real expedition and get a feel for the unique scenery and local culture.

Join our Greenland Cruises for Impressions That Last a Lifetime

It’s the biggest island on the planet, has huge icebergs, is home to many iconic wild animals and offers prime opportunities to see the northern lights – Greenland is a must on your travel bucket list! With over 2 million square kilometers (770,000 square miles) and only 56,000 inhabitants, it’s an untouched paradise for wildlife and nature, with most of the island located above the Arctic Circle.

Many of Greenland’s gems are inaccessible to everyday travelers and only a small expedition ship will get you there. Board one of our Zodiac tours or join the kayak club and paddle at your own speed. Whether you are a photographer, wildlife lover, adventurer or simply a connoisseur of remote nature, Greenland will create lasting memories!

What You Can See in Greenland

Greenland is not just ice and snow. There are countless gems to explore, and our Greenland cruises are scheduled for the summer months, when the midnight sun will give you plenty of time to sightsee. Colossal fjords in West and South Greenland, pristine glaciers, Northeast Greenland National park with its mesmerizing landscapes and wildlife, charming Inuit villages, contemporary cities and spectacular northern light sightings will give you bragging rights as a real polar explorer.

Why travel with Poseidon Expeditions?

M/V Sea Spirit – Tiny but Mighty

With a maximum capacity of just 114 passengers, we usually operate with 100 guests off the ship. It maximizes our travelers' time ashore because there is no need for splitting passengers into groups for landing rotations as required on larger ships.

A real polar expedition

Experience active exploration of the polar regions through a variety of activities. Weather permitting, we schedule up to 3 excursions per day and offer optional kayaking and, in Antarctica, camping. Enrich your polar knowledge in an engaging and interactive way through Poseidon’s edutainment program.

25 years of polar cruising

Polar cruising is our passion and expertise and over the past 24 years, we’ve gained tremendous experience building a strong team of enthusiastic polar professionals who are all experts in their field. Each cruise is a thoughtfully crafted expedition voyage.

Greenland’s capital with its 15,000 inhabitants is the cultural and economic center of the island. Visit the national museum with its beautiful collection of artifacts, which tell 4,500 years of Greenland’s history. The art museum features local art and paintings, as well as work by Andy Warhol.

Visit Hans Egede’s House, the oldest building in Greenland, dating back to 1728 when it was a Dano-Norwegian missionary. Nowadays it functions as a governmental building.

Northeast Greenland National Park

The world’s largest national park is home to approximately 15,000 musk oxen, polar bears, walruses and many other iconic animals. Marine fauna include the ringed seal, narwhal and beluga whale. With a little bit of luck you can see them during our expedition cruises.

The park is part of the UNESCO heritage and one of the most spectacular places to see remote Arctic wilderness..

Ilulissat Icefjord

It’s a UNESCO world heritage site you can step on! The glacier is actively calving and moves around 19 meters a day. On our Greenland cruises you can admire this solid cold beauty and get a close-up view. We’ve seen the emotions of our expeditioners – nobody keeps cool around this amazing natural wonder. It’s a bucket-list item for many of our travelers with a guaranteed wow moment!

US$ 7 796

US$ 8 581

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Greenland is a paradise for wildlife lovers! Expect to see iconic animals in their natural habitat such as reindeer, musk oxen, walruses, arctic foxes, arctic hares, humpback and bowhead whales, as well as majestic polar bears. While we always keep a safe distance from the animals, you’ll still get to see them up close. During the polar day, you will have a maximum amount of daylight to explore and view wildlife.

Get the best photo ops from the deck of our small expedition ship and during Zodiac cruises, hikes ashore and while kayaking. Our professional photographers will help you get that perfect shot so you can bring home the best pictures to remember the adventure.

Birders will be excited to spot great northern divers, barnacle geese, pink-footed geese, common eiders, king eiders, gyrfalcons, snowy owls, sanderlings, ptarmigan and ravens. Ask our expedition team and onboard specialists everything you ever wanted to know about your favorite animals and learn about their unique life in the Arctic.

About Greenland

Breathtaking wilderness, charming towns and contemporary Inuit culture – Greenland is a unique place with its very own charm. It’s the prime destination for any Arctic explorer. History buffs will love the Viking heritage of the region, nature lovers will appreciate the untouched and rough beauty of the island and wildlife lovers will appreciate its rich fauna. Did you know that Greenland is the best place to see the Aurora Borealis? On our late summer cruises, we hit the best spots around the coast to see this majestic spectacle.

Short History

The first inhabitants of Greenland were the Inuit, who settled from around 2500 BC until about 900 BC on the island. After a period during which Greenland was abandoned, the Dorset people arrived around 500 BC, and from the 10th century AD the Thule people came and settled. It’s believed that Viking Erik the Red gave Greenland its contradictory name to attract more Viking settlers, thinking that it would make this northern land sound more fertile, attractive (and greener) for newcomers.

Greenland at that time was not quite as cold as it is now because the Earth’s climate cooled in the 14th century and the Vikings eventually disappeared from the island.

Since 1721, Denmark held colonies in Greenland and in 1953 the island became part of Denmark. Since 2009, Greenland has been an autonomous country within the Kingdom of Denmark. The official language is Greenlandic, but people also speak Danish and English.

The world’s lowest temperature record (in the northern hemisphere) of -69.6 °C (-93.3 °F) was recorded in Greenland in 1991. The average temperature in the capital Nuuk varies from around -5 C to +10 °C (23 to 50 °F). During the summer months, it can warm up to +21°C (70 °F), but only in the coastal regions. In the center of Greenland, the temperature hardly ever exceeds 0°C (32 °F).

The eastern part of Greenland is considered colder due to fierce winds. During the winter months, the weather can be harsh. That’s why expedition cruises are usually scheduled during the warmer and more moderate summer months. The south and west coastal regions are generally warmer.

The precipitation quantity in the south is around 1,080 mm (43 inches) per year. In north Greenland, it may be as little as 100-200 mm (4-8 inches).

With a total area of 2,166,086 km2 (836,000 square miles), Greenland is the biggest island in the world. Only 410,449 km2 (158, 475 square miles) of it are not covered in ice. The highest point in Greenland is Gunnbjørn Fjeld at 3,700m (12,119 ft), situated in the Watkins Range in the east. Most of the mountains are covered by Greenland’s ice sheet. Coastlines are predominantly rocky with numerous fjords.

How People Live in Greenland

While primary and secondary schools cover the basic educational needs of locals, many choose to continue their studies abroad. While Nuuk has its own university featuring a few classes in the native Greenlandic language, most classes are taught in Danish and English. In 2021 there were less than 300 students registered at the local university.

Plan Your Greenland Tour

Great expeditions need proper planning. Consider what your Arctic adventure should look like. Do you want to see incredible fjords and the biggest icebergs? Then consider a cruise to Northeastern Greenland. Northern lights are on your bucket list? Then a cruise to East Greenland in late summer is perfect for you. And if you are looking for the perfect Arctic odyssey, then choose a combined expedition covering Iceland, Greenland and Svalbard.

How to Get to Greenland

Book a flight to one of the departure ports ahead of time. Depending on which cruise you choose, you may embark/disembark in Longyearbyen (Svalbard) or Reykjavik (Iceland). After you board our expedition, you’ll cruise in comfort and style on the Sea Spirit toward Greenland. Contact us for assistance with booking and choosing the right cruise for your adventurous spirit!

Greenland Ships

Most of the remote and tucked-away gems of Greenland are only reachable via small expedition ship. Aboard the Sea Spirit, perfectly suited for small expedition cruising with a maximum of only 114 passengers, we take you on the adventure of a lifetime. You can choose from various cabin categories to make your expedition comfortable and memorable. The ship also features a gourmet restaurant, large open deck, bistro, bar, lecture hall, gym and lounge with a 24/7 coffee and tea station. Feel like a real explorer, but with all the modern comforts!

When to Visit Greenland

The best time to visit Greenland on an expedition cruise are the summer months. June to September are warmer and the midnight sun gives you a maximum amount of daylight to explore, spot wildlife and see the beautiful landscape. Average temperatures in summer are around 0 °C (32 °F), with occasional highs around +10°C (50 °F). Be prepared for all contingencies and bring warm clothes. There are cases of snow even in the summer months!

If you’re after prime opportunities to view the northern lights, be sure to book a cruise in late summer/early fall. At the beginning of September, the chances of seeing them are very high and we have a special cruise scheduled right around this time (one of our travelers’ all-time favorite)!

Facts About Greenland

Ready to visit Greenland? Need a few more facts to be prepared for your expedition? Check out our top 5 favorite facts about this region:

A whopping 81% of the island is covered by Greenland’s ice sheet!

Golfing amid icebergs and snowfields? Every March golfers flock to the Ice Gold World Championships in Uummannaq.

Krone is king – Greenland’s currency is the Danish Krone.

Greenland was actually green, about 2.5 million years ago.

You’re speaking some Greenlandic already! Kayak and igloo are in fact Greenlandic words that have been adopted by other languages.

How can I fight seasickness?

If you’re lucky, you may not get seasick at all. Many avid expeditioners swear it all depends on attitude. While the open sea may be rough, the coastal waters are much calmer. Many people are unnecessarily worried ahead of their cruise. Consult your physician before your trip and pack motion sickness medication, just in case. There are many remedies that can ease seasickness and it’s better to come prepared. We also have an onboard physician who can assist you if needed.

Do I need travel insurance?

Travel health insurance is a must on expeditions cruises to the remote Arctic. We also recommend travel cancellation and luggage insurance. Contact us and we’ll be glad to consult you in detail on this subject.

Is there internet, email, or a telephone on board?

Yes, Wi-Fi aboard the Sea Spirit is available free of charge.

What’s not included in the tour?

Airfare to and from the departure ports is generally not covered by your cruise package, as well as additional nights ashore before and after the designated cruise duration. Also excluded are passport and visa fees, drinks (apart from welcome and farewell cocktails), additional telecommunication charges, insurance and gratuities.

What time is it in Greenland?

The regular time zone is UTC-3. Ittoqqortoormiit in East Greenland is on UTC-1. Danmarkshavn (a weather station in Northeastern Greenland is on UTC+0 and the Thule Air Base at Pituffik in Western Greenland is at UTC-4. (Source: visitgreenland.com)

What Money Do I Take and How Much?

This depends on you. While accommodation, meals and the 24/7 hour coffee and tea station are included in the cruise package, you may want to purchase additional drinks or souvenirs. We also accept credit cards. And for landings ashore: Greenland’s currency is the Danish Krone.

What clothes should you take with you?

Weather can be unpredictable. We recommend dressing in layers. Warm base layers, pullovers, trousers and water and windproof top layers. Don’t forget a hat, gloves, scarf and warm socks, as well as comfortable footwear for onboard activities. Opt for synthetics, polar fleece and wool (no cotton fabrics). You’ll get rental boots for the duration of the cruise for landings, and our warm and versatile signature expedition parka for you to keep as a souvenir.

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Greenland Cruises & Tours

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Greenland Travel Guide

• Aurora Borealis: Known also as "the Northern Lights," you'll have a front row seat to this natural marvel, as the neon rainbow dances across the Arctic sky.
• Whale watching : The majestic humpback and Greenland whales can be seen breaching here in these icy waters.
• Sailing past icebergs bigger than houses along the Coast of South Greenland.
• Trekking across glaciers that have helped form the country or exploring the Polar seas by Zodiacs  around the world's biggest fjord system in Scoresbysund .
• A visit to some of the most secluded parts of the northern hemisphere and expeditions to traditional fishing villages .
• A cruise through the legendary Northwest Passage .
• Discovery of the ancient ways of the Vikings, who made Greenland their base, just like you will.

Explore the World’s Largest Island on a Greenland Cruise!

The best times to visit greenland, arctic cruise: when to go, wildlife guide to polar regions, best greenland small ship cruise lines for 2024-2025.

• ​ Silversea Cruises  -  is a luxury cruise line owned by Royal Caribbean Group and headquartered in Monaco, pioneer of all-inclusive cruising. Tour Greenland’s most coveted destinations from Kangerlussuaq. Explore the uniquely Greenlandic character of the country’s capital, Nuuk, to the still waters and eerie silence of the Uumanaq Fjord, on a voyage aboard the  Silver Wind . 
• Ponant  - has purposefully designed ships to welcome a limited number of guests with 32 to 132 staterooms. Its nine ships offer comfort comparable to the finest luxury hotels. Discover the extreme northeast of Greenland on the liquefied natural gas (LNG) fueled  Le Commandant Charcot , the first hybrid electric polar exploration vessel.
• Oceanwide Expeditions   - aim   to take you off the ship and into action as often as possible. Its sea routes are short and direct, allowing for maximum shore time, and activities are designed to accommodate a wide range of experience and fitness levels. Join  Rembrandt van Rijn  on a cruise to Greenland to meet a world where European culture combines with the Inuit in a beautiful landscape of ice, rock, and the sea. 
• Quark Expeditions  -  has been a leader in polar adventure, forever driven to forge new paths in polar explorations. On the   Ultramarine , visit indigenous communities in Nunavut and Greenland for a richer and more intimate glimpse of what life in the Arctic is really like. 
• Adventure Canada  -  is   a leader in expedition cruising with a deep commitment to safety. Their staff is rigorously trained and certified for their roles, and crews have lifetimes of experience. Enjoy the stunning mountain scenery of Kangerlussuaq Fjord (Søndre Strømfjord) as you sail south from Kangerlussuaq to the Baffin Bay aboard the  Ocean Endeavour .
• Lindblad Expeditions  -  has   ships that feature comfortable cabins, a lounge, a library, and wellness services so that you can unwind after an active day. Chefs on board create delicious meals that reflect the cuisine of the regions we visit using fresh, local, and sustainable ingredients wherever possible. Embark the  National Geographic Resolution  for a true polar exploration to discover the Northeast Greenland National Park, West Greenland, and the towering icebergs of UNESCO World Heritage Ilulissat Icefjord.
• Aurora Expeditions  -  offers customizable itineraries. If weather or sea ice prevents travel, Plan B, C, and D are available. They are constantly on the hunt for new locations to explore and are not hesitant to adjust their schedules to take advantage of unexpected wildlife displays. On the  Greg Mortimer , encounter summer in Greenland when 24-hours of sunlight can still be experienced above the Arctic Circle where migratory birds arrive at nest and whale numbers are at their greatest.
• Hurtigruten  -  goes beyond the usual highlights and iconic cities, going further to remote communities, hidden vistas, and rare wildlife few get to see.  MS Fram  allows you to experience places few others ever visit, whether that’s the silent vastness of Northeast Greenland National Park, on an island beach in remote Disko Bay, or deep within a mist-shrouded fjord. 
• Iceland Pro Cruises  -  is part of the   Iceland ProTravel Group, the leading tour operator in Europe, specializing in Iceland. The  MS Seaventure  has been assigned the highest ice class for passenger ships. A greater density of steel plates in the hull and a massive stem are just two elements that allow the expedition ship to glide safely through the waters.
• Poseidon Expeditions  -  is a leading provider of polar expeditions in the cruise business, founded in 1999. The   Sea Spirit  offers 114 guests large cabins and the friendliness of small ships. An ice-hardened hull, Zodiacs, and retractable fin stabilizers make this ship a breeze to sail.

Greenland Travel FAQs & Tips

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Northwest Passage—Across the Top of the World

Alaska to greenland.

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Cruise Overview

Northwest passage cruise | northwest passage—across the top of the world (alaska to greenland).

Witness incredible beauty and experience the thrill of exploration as we sail through the fabled Northwest Passage from Nome, Alaska to Nuuk, Greenland. 

Discover UNESCO-listed sites, spectacular scenery, abundant wildlife and Inuit settlements, all while guided by your expert Expedition Team. 

Sail down the west coast of Greenland, with its stunning coastal panoramas and pretty settlements of colorful houses.

Sail along the top of the world through the Northwest Passage

Sailing through the Northwest Passage on a state-of-the-art ice-class expedition ship is a captivating journey that blends natural wonders, culture and history. The passage, once an elusive route for explorers, now offers intrepid travelers a chance to witness breathtaking Arctic landscapes and learn about indigenous communities through first-hand experiences. On this adventure, we’ll attempt to traverse the entire route and beyond, going from Nome, Alaska to Nuuk, Greenland.  

The breathtaking beauty of the High Arctic and Greenland

Our 26-day voyage takes us “above” the North American continent to the frozen far north. As we head up from Alaska through the famed Beaufort Sea and Bering Strait, we pass into Western Arctic Canada, where we’ll explore the western section of the Northwest Passage. From here on in, it’s pure expedition as we transit to Eastern Arctic Canada, where you’ll experience a pristine and remote wilderness featuring surreal vistas of frozen sea ice. We then emerge into Baffin Bay and sail to West Greenland, where you’ll encounter natural beauty like nowhere else.

Know before you go

Practical information you need to know

• Expedition Health & Safety
• Travel Entry Requirements
• What to pack?
• Frequently Asked Questions About Life on Board

Health and Safety

Health & Safety Onboard

The safety of our guests, our employees, and the communities we visit is our top priority.  This is why we have partnered with leading experts in health and safety to design and implement protocols/procedures across our expedition fleet.

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We'll help you plan where to go, when to visit and how long to stay

Setting Out from Scenic Seattle

Enjoy the city before your expedition cruise begins

The adventure begins in the Emerald City of Seattle, on the Pacific coast of the United States.  

Why not arrive early and head to the Seattle Aquarium to see sea otters and a giant Pacific octopus? Or, for incredible views of Puget Sound and the surrounding mountains, take a stroll through the nine-acre Olympic Sculpture Park, admiring the work of renowned artists as you go. And for a feast of the senses, visit the famous Pike Place Market. Operating for over a century, this lively farmer’s market boasts everything from buskers and bars to salmon-throwing fishmongers! 

You’ll spend the night here in Seattle before your connecting flight to Alaska the next day.

There's no place like Nome

Setting off on your adventure

Today you’ll take an early flight from Seattle to Nome, Alaska, where your state-of-the art expedition ship awaits to take you on a journey through the famed Northwest Passage and beyond. 

Prospectors first came to Nome in 1898, and people still hunt for gold here today. You'll see evidence of the Gold Rush era all around, including abandoned dredges, turn-of-the century steam engines and old railroad tracks, lending the town a unique and intriguing atmosphere. 

You’ll be in good company as you explore the town. Wyatt Earp, the famous sheriff, opened a saloon here. Nome was also the end point of three of Roald Amundsen's great polar expeditions. 

Upon boarding the ship and after collecting your complimentary expedition jacket, it's time to check out your cabin, meet the Expedition Team and explore your new home-away-from-home. Your adventure has truly begun!

Along the Alaskan Coast

Science and wildlife watching at sea

Join your Expedition Team for insightful lectures as we journey through the Beaufort Sea towards Amundsen Gulf, the gates to the Northwest Passage, on this eastbound transit. Topics might include subjects such as wildlife, tectonic activity, glaciology and local history, which will prepare you for the adventures ahead. 

 The highlights of this transit include: 

The Bering Strait  

The International Date Line  

Sailing across the Beaufort Sea  

Wildlife watching  

For more detailed information about each of these, along with our explorer's guide to the Northwest Passage, see our Travel Guide.

Exploration and Adventure

Spend eight days exploring the Western section of the fabled Northwest Passage

Our excursions begin on Day 7 as we enter the Western Canadian Arctic. Over the next eight days, in this section of our voyage we’ll transit through three distinct regions—Nunavut, Northwest Territories and Yukon—and two traditional Inuit Territories—Inuvialuit and Nunavut. 

During our time here, we anticipate up to five days of shore excursions and four transit days. Excursion stops and local highlights we hope to be able to visit include: 

Herschel Island  

Smoking Hills  

Ulukhaktok  

Coronation Gulf  

Cambridge Bay (Iqaluktuuttiaq)  

Gjoa Haven (Uqsuqtuuk)  

For more detailed information about each of these places, along with our explorer's guide to the Northwest Passage, see our Travel Guide .

Into Bellot Strait

Navigate the dividing line between west and east

The “Rubicon” of the Canadian Arctic that divides west from east is the infamous Bellot Strait. This narrow body of water separates the northernmost part of mainland North America from Somerset Island, one of the largest islands in the Canadian Arctic archipelago.  

Bellot Strait is approximately 15 nautical miles long and just over half a mile wide at its narrowest point. Our ability to navigate this passage will be determined by ice and weather conditions.

The Eastern Canadian Arctic

Explore the eastern stretch of the Passage

On the eastern shores of Somerset Island, we find ourselves in the Eastern Canadian Arctic. The main waterway of this area is Lancaster Sound (Tallurutiup Imanga), the eastern gates to the Northwest Passage. 

This chapter of our exploration is likely to be action-packed, with excursions planned on each of the five days we hope to spend in and around this area. Remember: all our excursion plans depend on the weather and ice but, conditions permitting, our days will be filled with excitement and discovery.  

Excursion stops and local highlights we hope to share with you include:  

Fort Ross  

Prince Leopold Island (Appait)  

Beechey Island (Iluvilik)  

Croker Bay  

Dundas Harbour  

Pond Inlet (Mittimatalik)   

For more detailed information about each of these places, along with our explorer’s guide to the Northwest Passage, see our Travel Guide .

Crossing Baffin Bay

Watch for wildlife and get involved in Citizen Science

Leaving Nunavut behind, our expedition cruise continues to Greenland across Baffin Bay. The Expedition Team will continue their on-board lectures on topics such as the wildlife of the Arctic, Inuit culture and the history of exploration in this region.  

Why not take part in one of our Citizen Science projects? You can help photograph and track whales, or observe the clouds to help scientists study our climate by contributing to the GLOBE Program.

The Wonders of West Greenland

Discover the magical beauty of Greenland

The final chapter of our journey encompasses the majestic coast of West Greenland.  

We will begin by sailing into Disko Bay—a haven for whales and seals. Over the next three days, you’ll experience some of the most iconic sites in all of Greenland. Our objectives include: 

  Ilulissat  

Nestled at the edge of the magnificent Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is Ilulissat. Here you’ll find an ever-changing gallery of passing icebergs set against a backdrop of colorful houses. In town you can visit a multitude of shops selling local crafts, and on the outskirts walking trails take you along the epic icefjord.  

  Sisimiut  

Sisimiut is Greenland’s second city and is situated in a spectacular location just above the Arctic Circle. This area has history spanning more than 4,500 years, and old traditions are alive and well.  

Learn more about ancient Saqqaq artifacts in the local museum, or stretch your legs on a hike.  If you're looking for a special souvenir, pick up a scarf, hat or mittens made of qiviut , the inner wool of the musk ox that’s said to be 10 times warmer than sheep’s wool.   

Evighedsfjord  

As we head north, we plan to offer an exploration day in the magical and pristine Evighedsfjord near Maniitsoq. Each day, we’ll determine which adventures we can take part in. 

 The “Fjord of Eternity” is fed by an ice cap that calves huge icebergs into its 2,300 ft-deep waters. It's surrounded by mist-cloaked mountains with beautiful white ridges, punctuated by crystal blue ice caves.

Old and New in Nuuk

End your voyage in colorful Nuuk

Today we arrive in Nuuk, Greenland’s colorful capital. It has a population of 18,000 and boasts a striking mix of old and new buildings.  

We’ll explore this fascinating city, comparing the old buildings—such as Hans Egede House and Nuuk Cathedral—with the ultra-modern architecture of the Parliament of Greenland.  

Your voyage ends with a flight from Nuuk to Reykjavík and an overnight stay.

Cosmopolitan Reykjavík 

Discover Iceland's modern capital

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and discover the city before connecting to your onwards flight home.  

Packed full of art, culture and history, Iceland’s capital is a delight to explore. Visit Laugavegur, the main shopping street, and head towards the striking Hallgrímskirkja church. Or why not explore the many galleries and museums dotted around the city? 

If you have the time, we recommend booking a Post-Program with us and discovering some of Iceland’s natural highlights.

- - - Attempted route, ice conditions dependent

Our Attempts are voyages where we challenge the elements in true expedition style. As we explore these remote and captivating areas in a safe way, our adventure will ultimately be guided by nature. If weather, sea or ice conditions do not allow our planned navigation, our experienced crew will deliver an adapted itinerary. Flexibility and our deep knowledge of the area combine to give you an amazing exploration experience.

What's included

• Overnight in Seattle before the expedition cruise, including breakfast
• Overnight in Reykjavík after the expedition cruise, including breakfast
• Economy class flight from Seattle to Nome before the expedition cruise
• Economy class flight from Nuuk to Reykjavik after the expedition cruise
• Transfer from the hotel to the airport in Seattle
• Transfer from the airport to the ship in Nome
• Transfer from the airport to the hotel in Reykjavík after the expedition cruise

Expedition Cruise

• A stay in a cabin of your choice
• Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Wine, beer and spirits available at meals and throughout the day and evening (subject to licensing laws, excludes premium drinks)
• All day coffee, tea and soft drinks
• Meals and take-away available throughout the day during Fredheim restaurant opening hours
• Fine dining in restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests
• A complimentary water bottle to refill on board and take home
• A polar expedition jacket, a backpack, or another piece of HX kit
• Professional photos from your trip taken by our onboard photographer
• Complimentary Wi-Fi. Please note, streaming is not supported
• Use of sauna, hot tubs, pool, fitness room, lounges and more
• Gratuities included. Fantastic service is standard at HX – though if you’d like to leave something extra, it’s always appreciated
• Range of included activities 

Onboard Activities

• In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team
• Full access to the ship’s Science Center
• Citizen Science Programme allows guests to assist with ongoing scientific research
• Professional onboard photographer gives tips and tricks for the best landscape and wildlife photos
• Informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings

Landing Activities

• Escorted landings with small expedition boats
• Loan of boots, trekking poles and all equipment for activities
• Expedition photographers on hand to assist you
• All planned activities are subject to weather and ice conditions
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Cruises from New York to Greenland & Iceland

There are cruises from New York to Greenland and Iceland. The one-way and round-trip voyages depart in the summer and are available on 3 cruise lines.

Greenland ports include Nuuk, Paamiut, Qaqortoq and Nanortalik. In summer icebergs float in fjords, water flows over waterfalls, flowers bloom and there are whales to watch.

Iceland ports include Reykjavik and Akureyri. Iceland is known for geothermal pools, hiking, kayaking and whale watching.

June 2, 2024: 18-night cruise to Greenland & Iceland on Regent Seven Seas . One-way from New York to Reykjavik (Iceland). Visit Martha's Vineyard (Massachusetts), Boston (Massachusetts), Portland (Maine), Bar Harbor (Maine), St John (New Brunswick), Halifax (Nova Scotia), Sydney (Nova Scotia), Corner Brook (Newfoundland), Nuuk (Greenland), Paamiut (Greenland), Qaqortoq (Greenland) and Isafjordur (Iceland).

July 12, 2024: 14-night cruise to Greenland & Iceland on Oceania . One-way from New York to Reykjavik (Iceland). Visit Boston (Massachusetts), Bar Harbor (Maine), Halifax (Nova Scotia), Sydney (Nova Scotia), Corner Brook (Newfoundland), Nuuk (Greenland), Paamiut (Greenland) and Qaqortoq (Greenland).

August 4, 2024: 12-night cruise to Greenland & Iceland on Celebrity Cruises . One-way from Cape Liberty (New Jersey) to Reykjavik (Iceland). Visit Halifax (Nova Scotia), St John's (Newfoundland), Qaqortoq (Greenland), Prins Christian Sund (cruising), Akureyri (Iceland) and Isafjordur (Iceland).

August 6, 2025: 38-night cruise to Greenland & Iceland on Oceania . Round-trip from New York to Newport (Rhode Island), Halifax (Nova Scotia), Sydney (Nova Scotia), St John's (Newfoundland), Maniitsoq (Greenland), Nuuk (Greenland), Paamiut (Greenland), Isafjordur (Iceland), Akureyri (Iceland), Seydisfjordur (Iceland), Reykjavik (Iceland), Djupivogur (Iceland), Husavik (Iceland), Qaqortoq (Greenland), Frederikshab (Greenland), St Anthony (Newfoundland), Corner Brook (Newfoundland), St John (New Brunswick), Bar Harbor (Maine), Boston (Massachusetts) and Martha's Vineyard (Massachusetts).

July 10, 2025: 18-night cruise to Greenland & Iceland on Regent Seven Seas . One-way from New York to Reykjavik (Iceland). Visit Newport (Rhode Island), Boston (Massachusetts), Portland (Maine), Rockland (Maine), St John (New Brunswick), Halifax (Nova Scotia), Sydney (Nova Scotia), Corner Brook (Newfoundland), Nuuk (Greenland), Paamiut (Greenland), Narsaq (Greenland) and Isafjordur (Iceland).

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Suites & Staterooms

Please select your stateroom or suite type and room category from the available options.

• Daily housekeeping
• Complimentary 24-hour room service
• Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
• Luxurious bathrobes
• Generous storage
• Fresh fruit upon request
• Ice service
• TV with On Demand movies, programming

Two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads and a host of amenities are featured in these comfortable staterooms.

• Hair dryers, makeup mirrors

These expansive staterooms include two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our Signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads, a host of amenities and an ocean view.

Filled with light from floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these staterooms include a sitting area, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and shower with premium massage showerheads.

Vista Suite

With a verandah, floor-to-ceiling windows and comfortable sitting area, these comfortable suites are filled with light. They include two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, plus a shower, mini-bar and refrigerator.

Signature Suite

These large, comfortable suites feature a spacious sitting area with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and one murphy bed for one person. The bathroom includes a dual-sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath and shower, and an additional shower stall.

Neptune Suite

• Premium bathrobes, slippers
• Fresh flowers
• One-Touch concierge service
• Whirlpool bath (suite dependent)
• In-suite coffee, espresso
• Complimentary laundry
• Pre-dinner hors d'oeuvres served in suite
• Welcome glass of sparkling wine
• Priority boarding for tender ports, priority dining/seating requests, special disembarkation service
• High tea in suite on request
• Exclusive tote bag

With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these spacious suites are flooded with light. They feature a large sitting area and two lower beds convertible to one king-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses. The bathroom comes with a dual-sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath and shower, plus additional shower stall. Amenities include use of the exclusive Neptune Lounge, a private concierge and an array of complimentary services.

Your Ship: Nieuw Statendam

Fluid lines and dramatic spaces make the Holland America Nieuw Statendam a modern beauty. The second in the line of our Pinnacle Class ships, her design draws inspiration from the elegant curves of musical instruments. When not relaxing in well-appointed suites or staterooms, guests will have many innovative dining and entertainment options—from Rudi’s Sel de Mer to Nami Sushi to the Rolling Stone Lounge, B.B. King’s Blues Club, and the visually stunning two-level World Stage. 

• 975 ft. Length
• 114.8 ft. Width

Dining & Onboard Activities

Each day on board offers delicious dining options, world-class entertainment and enriching activities

Pinnacle Grill

The ultimate steakhouse at sea, with an exceptional menu of Prime steaks, seafood and wine.

Pinnacle Grill is the ultimate steakhouse at sea, where an exceptional menu and impeccable service make for one of finest meals you’ll ever have. The refined menu features a selection of 28-day wet-aged USDA Prime steaks — meticulously chosen to guarantee the finest quality — as well as classic steakhouse dishes and innovative recipes from James Beard Award-winning chef and Culinary Council® member, David Burke. Every dish is exquisitely prepared, beautifully plated and complemented by a vast collection of award-winning wines. Here, your meal is an event unto itself, a celebration of fine dining and a triumph of flavor.

*Meals at Pinnacle Grill are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Canaletto is a relaxed setting with authentic Italian cuisine that is best enjoyed when shared.

In Italy, there’s nothing more important than coming together to celebrate the joy of great food. This is the inspiration for our onboard Italian restaurant, Canaletto. Enjoy amazing Italian classics like braised chicken cacciatore al forno, branzino ai ferri or garlic shrimp ravioli. And for dessert: tiramisù, cannoli alla Siciliana, gelato, and more. Including pasta made fresh daily. Buon Appetito!

Meals at Canaletto are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Explore traditions of Southeast Asia, China and Japan with cuisine praised by Condé Nast Traveler as rivaling the top restaurants on land.

Praised by  Condé Nast Traveler  for cuisine “that rivals the top restaurants on land,” Tamarind is the perfect place to explore the culinary traditions of Southeast Asia, China and Japan. The menu, which honors the elements of water, wood, fire and earth, features such exotic fare as wok-seared lobster, barramundi (Asian sea bass) in banana leaf and sushi, accompanied by chilled or heated sake. 

Meals at Tamarind are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Rudi's Sel De Mer

Master Chef Rudi Sodamin’s award-winning, lively brasserie offers a modern twist on classic French dishes and seafood.

Named for Master Chef Rudi Sodamin, Rudi’s Sel de Mer is an intimate brasserie featuring classic French dishes reimagined with contemporary flair. Menu selections include whole Dover sole meunière with shaved pink Himalayan sea salt, oysters on the half shell, fruits de mer, and salt-crust baked branzino, as well as favorites such as steak frites, duck cassoulet and coq au vin. Conclude your dinner with a classic dessert and fine French cheeses.  

Meals at Sel de Mer are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Rudi’s Sel de Mer restaurant is available on  Rotterdam ,  Koningsdam  and  Nieuw Statendam , but on other ships, the Rudi’s Sel de Mer menu is available on select evenings in Pinnacle Grill.

Grand Dutch Cafe

Enjoy a savory snack, a pint of lager or a traditional Dutch coffee in a space that exudes Dutch heritage from the moment you walk in.

Looking for a refreshing pick-me-up on an adventure-filled day? The Grand Dutch Cafe is for you. Located just off the atrium area, it’s the perfect spot to connect with friends over a cold beer, coffee or other Dutch specialty beverages, such as Genever and Advoccaat, and a snack. Choose from among 16 Belgian and Dutch beers (four on tap) and a variety of spirits or enjoy your favorite coffee beverage with complimentary Dutch snacks. For heartier appetites, there are made-to-order Dutch specialties from open-faced herring sandwiches to apple and bacon pancakes. Just place your order at the counter; anything we prepare will be brought to your table.

Lido Market

A casual, modern marketplace, Lido Market offers the widest range of food options on board for breakfast, lunch, dinner and a late-night snack.

Explore a world of intriguing culinary possibilities in the Lido Market. Steps from the Lido pool, this modern marketplace includes a curated selection of delicious options that you can grab on the go or have made to order: Breadboard, with freshly baked breads and pastries; Wild Harvest, offering a bountiful selection of hearty salads; Homestead, serving up comfort classics; Distant Lands, featuring global cuisine; Sweet Spot, for ice cream creations and desserts; Roasting Pan, hand-carved meats, fish and other hearty entrees; Perk, freshly brewed beverages and chilled juices; Quench, premium coffee, beer, wine, and soda available for purchase; Rise, savory quiches, croissants and sandwiches, and more.

This casual poolside grill serves up the best burgers at sea, Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dogs, golden French fries and more.

Dive-In offers a variety of casual culinary classics, using the highest quality ingredients. Enjoy a burger, grilled to perfection and served on a toasted brioche with our own trade-marked secret sauce. Savor a succulent Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dog with golden French fries. Or choose a grilled chicken breast sandwich or juicy portabella mushroom stack. Dive-In is the perfect spot to dine poolside on the best burgers at sea.

New York Pizza

Our poolside pizzeria has fresh Italian salads and authentic thin-crust personal pizzas with savory toppings.

At New York Pizza, choose from a variety of scrumptious, 9-inch, thin-crust pies. Named for New York’s famed five boroughs, our signature pizzas are made to order and topped with only the finest ingredients. Enjoy your pizza by day while overlooking the Lido pool, and into the night. This venue is New York Deli & Pizza on  Koningsdam ,  Rotterdam  and  Nieuw Statendam , offering made-to-order deli sandwiches in addition to pizza.

24-Hour Room Service

Enjoy breakfast in bed or an early dinner on your verandah — entrées and more are available whenever you wish.

Sleep in and have breakfast delivered. Enjoy an early dinner on your verandah before an evening excursion. Order a salad, sandwich or entrée any time. Room Service is only a phone call away. All selections are included in your cruise fare unless otherwise noted on the in-room menu.

Explorations Cafe

Our relaxing café with panoramic views is your home for handcrafted espresso drinks during the day and refreshing cocktails in the evening.

At Explorations Café, sink into plush chairs and sofas in a comfortable environment. Sip elegantly prepared espresso drinks and nosh on fresh pastries from the coffee bar. You can also take in fantastic views, catch up on your favorite book or browse the web. 

Dine on delectable sushi and sip Asian-inspired spirits at Nami Sushi, a sushi bar within Tamarind offering stunning ocean views.

Nami Sushi offers a tempting array of the sushi rolls he’s created. Choose from such delectable selections as Tempura Lobster Roll with soft shell crab tempura; Dragon Roll with tempura shrimp, unagi sauce and avocado; Tsutsumi Roll with snapper, green olive, caper and avocado; Futomoki Roll with crab, yamagobo, avocado and cucumber; Volcano Roll with sesame-marinated salmon and Thai chilis; Nigiri sushi with tuna, salmon and ebi shrimp; and more. The word “nami,” Japanese in origin, means “wave” and is an homage to the ocean views you’ll enjoy as you dine on the freshest, tastiest and most inventive sushi at sea.

With many flavors to choose from and ingredients like Sicilian pistachios and amarena cherries, each frozen spoonful transports you to Italy.

At “G” Gelato, you can indulge your sweet tooth with a classic European gelato (ice cream), made fresh on board each day by chefs trained at the Carpigiani Gelato University. Choose from among 12 delightful flavors, two of which are rotated daily. Smooth, creamy and refreshing, this tasty treat is served in a variety of ways, including gelato popsicles and the flavors of G, composed shots with layers of caramel, nuts and gelato. Love pistachio?  Select ingredients like Sicilian pistachios make our pistachio gelato out of this world!

Club Orange Program Benefits

Club Orange offers an added level of luxury on Holland America with expanded dining menus, special events and priority access. Learn more about Club Orange.

See the  full Club Orange benefits  (PDF)

Join Club Orange to experience a new level of luxury, from priority check-in and disembarkation to premium dining amenities. Club Orange benefits include a complimentary stateroom upgrade, a special event chosen by the captain and priority check-in and disembarkation. Read on for a full list of Club Orange benefits.

Please  contact us  for Club Orange pricing and availability or to enroll.

The Dining Room

Our flagship dining experience is a welcoming and sophisticated setting for an exquisite breakfast, lunch or superb multicourse dinner.

For an elegant breakfast, leisurely lunch or unforgettable multi-course dinner, The Dining Room is your destination. For dinner, choose from classics such as Boneless Lamb Loin en Croute, Rosemary Roasted Chicken, as well as regionally inspired cuisine and artfully prepared vegetarian dishes. 

Crow's Nest

BARS AND LOUNGES

Enjoy cocktails and sunsets in this lounge, featuring panoramic views.

Holland America Line offers you a wide selection of lounges onboard. The panoramic view takes center stage in The Crow's Nest at the top of the ship, where you can relax just about any time of day and enjoy your favorite drink.

Enjoy cocktails and ocean views while listening to live music.

Holland America Line offers you a wide selection of lounges. This popular bar is at the top of the atrium and is the perfect locale for cocktails and dancing.

Tamarind Bar

Partake in exotic cocktails and sakétinis amid wraparound ocean views.

Which is more delightful: the apple-pear saketini in your chilled glass or views of the sun going down in a crimson blaze? Enjoy both in this stylish hideaway – your destination for panoramic views and exotic cocktails, and just one of the wide selection of lounges and gathering places on board.

For aficionados, this is truly your whisk(e)y wonderland. At NOTES, a dedicated whisk(e)y bar guests can gaze in awe at the more than 120 labels on display.

For aficionados, this is truly your whisk(e)y wonderland. At NOTES, a dedicated whisk(e)y bar guests can gaze in awe at the more than 120 labels on display — and sample some of the rarest whisk(e)y selections in the world. An interactive menu board and multiple tasting options are designed to identify uniquely personalized flavor profiles for every guest.

Billboard Onboard

ENTERTAINMENT

Sing along, test your music trivia knowledge, or sit back and enjoy as chart-topping hits fill the room each night.

2 pianos - 60 Years of Chart Toppers - 100s Of Songs.  Sing along, test your music trivia skills or just sit back and enjoy as the hits fill the room each night.

World Stage

World Stage features innovative cruise ship shows and a two-story LED screen that creates a vivid wraparound display.

World Stage, the largest theater on board is home to a variety of performances day and night. Our exclusive EXC® Talk lecture series features captivating regional stories told by local experts and narrated by your Cruise & Travel Director. In the evenings, Step One Dance Company, vocal sensation Cantaré, BBC Earth in Concert and more take the stage.  Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam  and  Rotterdam  bring the World Stage experience to the next level by surrounding you in spectacular sight and sound with a two-story, panoramic LED screen.

Onboard Shopping

Enjoy a wide variety of duty-free shopping onboard.

Enjoy a wide variety of duty-free shopping in such signature shops as The Vault, Diamonds and Gemstones by Merabella, which offers the best diamonds at sea, brought to you by Effy.

Fitness Center

Take a class in our professionally staffed Fitness Center.

Stop by the professionally staffed Fitness Center equipped with the latest cardio and weight machines. Try one of our classes on indoor cycling, Pilates and more or work out at your own pace. You can also head out for fresh air and exercise on deck, where you'll find basketball and volleyball courts, and two refreshing pools (available on select ships). Some classes may have a nominal fee.

Holland America Line Navigator

Personalize your cruise experience with our free mobile-friendly tool.

Personalize your cruise experience once you’re on the ship with our free mobile-friendly tool. Plan your daily activities, browse and purchase shore excursions, view restaurant menus, make dining reservations, check your account balance and more. 

Casino Action

The Casino offers games for all levels.

Your Holland America Line ship’s Casino offers a wide array of gaming options. Whether you prefer slot machines or want to try your hand at blackjack or poker, our dealers and staff are available to provide complimentary instruction — and we offer many engaging tournament options. The Casino is only open at sea.

Movies On Board

Enjoy recent-release films in the movie theater on select ships or in the comfort of your stateroom.

Screening nightly in the movie theatre (on select ships) are recent-release films and perennially popular classics. You can also watch movies any time in your stateroom or suite. And aboard  Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam  and  Rotterdam , watch your favorite stars light up the night on a giant outdoor LED movie screen by the Lido Pool.

Pickleball at Sea

Enjoy complimentary lessons, tournaments, and courts with amazing top-deck views.

Play the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. with Holland America Line, the exclusive cruise line partner of the Professional Pickleball Association. All our cruise ships feature pickleball courts with amazing top-deck views. The equipment and courts are available for a match anytime, so long as the weather allows. Frequent pickler? Join a pickleball tournament at sea and put your dink shot to the test. Hesitant amateur? Learn the basics at complimentary beginner’s lessons, starting in spring 2023. Commemorative starter kits will soon be available in our retail shops — purchase as gifts for avid players or as souvenirs, so that you can always look back on your pickleball cruise memories.

Kids ages 3 to 17 can enjoy an array of activities. Registration required for children under 13.

Holland America Line's youth activities program, Kids Club, offers an array of entertaining events for kids and teens ages 3-17, supervised by a full-time, professionally trained staff. They'll have an opportunity to join other kids their age for arts and crafts, sports, video game competitions, scavenger hunts, challenging team games and themed parties. Note: Kids Club is not offered on cruises of 25-days or longer, including all Legendary and Grand Voyages. We will offer a selection of children’s activities throughout these longer voyages for any children who may be onboard.

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Cruises to Qaqortoq, Greenland

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• Qaqortoq Port Guide
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Qaqortoq Cruise Port Guide

Qaqortoq, Greenland is a place teeming with thousands of years of Nordic history, soothing hot springs, and water activities like exploring on a sailboat. On a transatlantic cruise that stops in Greenland, you’ll find yourself far from the ordinary. Traveling in an Arctic climate requires a certain level of curiosity and adventure, but you never have to sacrifice comfort while you explore the region on one of our luxury cruise ships. 

Only about 3,000 people live in Qaqortoq, which means it’s a cozy, tight-knit community. Take a dip in the hot springs of Uunartoq for complete rejuvenation and restoration. Discover the ruins of an ancient Viking settlement at Hvalsey Church. Experience authentic cuisine from the area, or simply walk around the colorful streets. On your Greenland cruise, this quirky colonial town will welcome you with open arms.

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Top sights & attractions for cruises to qaqortoq, lake tasersuaq.

The majestic beauty of this artsy Greenland town is best experienced on foot. A hike around Lake Tasersuaq promises incredible views of Qaqortoq and the mountain just beyond.

Hvalsey Church

The last evidence of the Vikings in Greenland can be found at Hvalsey Church, where the best-preserved Nordic ruins in the area overlook the waterfront. The isolated, commanding ruins showcase thousands of years of Nordic history. Guided tours are popular, and it takes about 25-30 minutes via boat to reach the ruins of Hvalsey Church.

Qaqortoq Museum

The Qaqortoq Museum is an ideal stop for history buffs during a Greenland cruise. The museum is cleverly located within an old blacksmith workshop. Here, you’ll find artifacts of both the Inuit and Norse populations from thousands of years ago.

Learn More About Transatlantic Shore Excursions

Top things to do in qaqortoq, enjoy the arts.

Take a tour called the Qaqortoq Art Walk, where you’ll experience an interactive, open-air art exhibition featuring the work of nearly 20 Nordic artists. Each of the 24 sculptures carefully cradles the city of Qaqortoq. Called “Stone and Man,” it’s a can’t-miss experience for Nordic history buffs and art lovers.

Nature Walks

Qaqortoq is best experienced on foot, whether you’re taking a nature tour through the foothills or gallivanting through the center of town. Qaqortoq’s hillsides lead to stunning fjord views, dramatic landscapes, and rows of colorful colonial homes in red, orange, and green everywhere you look.

Top Food & Drink Spots Near the Qaqortoq Cruise Port

The food scene in Qaqortoq is minimal, so don’t expect to find chain restaurants lining every street corner downtown. Stop in for drinks and live music at Arctic Cafe. When you see a yellow VW peeking from the wall, you’ll know you’re in the right place. Restaurant Napparsivik is popular for morning or afternoon coffee, fresh meat and fish dishes, and regional eats. Inside the Hotel Qaqortoq, enjoy a drink at Mikisoq, a local pub.

Culture & History of the Qaqortoq Cruise Port

Surviving in the frigid climate was no small feat for early residents, who were Paleo-Eskimo populations, Norse Vikings, and later, the Dorset people. Most of Greenland is occupied by arctic ice caps, so most people who settle down to live in the country gather in coastal cities and towns. By the 20th century, Greenland had established strong trade ties with North America and Denmark. The economy relies on natural resources, from whaling to fishing.

Qaqortoq Port Facilities & Location

Once you arrive, there is a tourist office with helpful city maps and free internet. You can get your bearings here before heading out to explore. Local maps detail the area’s hiking trails and the most popular attractions you can choose from on a Greenland cruise to Qaqortoq.

Transportation in Qaqortoq

Qaqortoq is fairly walkable, and there’s a ferry service that connects the city to other parts of the country. You can head into the center of town after a short tender ride while on cruises to Iceland and Greenland.

Shopping Near the Qaqortoq Cruise Port

Shopping near the Qaqortoq cruise port is fairly minimal since the town has a population of 3,000 people. Qaqortoq Souvenir Shop is a popular place to shop for keepsakes like handmade goods and authentic souvenirs.

Local Currency & Tipping Customs

The official currency of Greenland is the Danish krone (DKK), but you’ll find British pounds and U.S. dollars are accepted in some establishments. Credit and debit cards are less likely to be used in smaller shops, so be sure to ask when you arrive before trying to pay with a credit card. A service charge is typically included in your bill at restaurants.

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Greenland Cruises

Greenland, a formidable landscape with nearly 95% of the country covered by the Greenland Ice Sheet, is a destination well worth exploring on an MSC Northern Europe cruise . Greenland is the world’s largest island and it’s located between the Arctic and Atlantic Oceans. Roundtrip cruises to Greenland depart from Warnemunde and include sea days for scenic viewing, popular ports of call in Greenland and Iceland, as well as visits to the United Kingdom  and Denmark .    On your Greenland cruise you will visit the ports of Nuuk ,  Illulissat  and  Qaqortoq  and transit the beautiful Prince Christian Sound. Nuuk , the capital of Greenland is located on the southwest coast of the island. Home to a vibrant lifestyle with restaurants and boutiques, the port city is mix of old traditions and modern culture.  Illulissat , in the northern part of the country is the land of the icebergs, the crackling and rumbling sounds of which can be heard throughout the town, never letting you forget the beauty that surrounds it. The massive icebergs can best be seen while exploring Disko Bay. 

Qaqortoq , rises steeply above the fjords of the city and is the largest town in Southern Greenland. Visiting the hot springs is a popular attraction in Southern Greenland and it is here where you can find the only outdoor heated spa in the country. Relaxing in the warm waters surrounded by views of icebergs and mountain peaks may give new meaning to the “perfect beach day.”  In addition to these quaint ports of call where you can meander through fishing villages , explore the fjords , learn the traditional Inuit culture of the native people and hear stories from the Viking Age. Greenland cruises 2023-2024 also includes scenic sailing through Prince Christian Sound. This unmissable highlight can be observed from, from your cabin’s balcony or on the ship’s open decks. As you enter the waterway, your cruise ship will slowly navigate through the fjords system where steep mountains reaching over 1200 meters tower around you. There is one village located in the Prince Christian Sound, Aappilattoq, whose brightly coloured cottages stand out in contrast with the white icebergs that surround you. Start looking for your ideal Northern Europe itinerary to Greenland today, and enjoy a truly memorable cruising experience with MSC Cruises.

Greenland cruise deals

Greenland cruises: departure ports.

MSC Greenland cruises will take you to explore the unique nature and breathtaking landscapes of Greenland, Iceland and much more. Choose the best departure port for your cruise to Greenland and get ready to sail on your next dream adventure.

View all Greenland ports

• Akureyri, Iceland
• Copenhagen, Denmark
• Ilulissat, Greenland
• Invergordon, United Kingdom
• Isafjordur, Iceland
• Kirkwall (Orkney Is.), United Kingdom
• Nuuk, Greenland
• Qaqortoq, Greenland
• Reykjavik, Iceland
• Warnemunde (Berlin), Germany

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MSC Cruises

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Iconic Iceland, Greenland & Canada

• From $7,999
• 9 Guided Tours
• 4 Countries
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*All prices are per person based on double occupancy and reflect our Special Cruise Fare. Strikeout fares reflect our Standard Cruise Fare.

*All prices are per person based on double occupancy and reflect our Special Cruise Fare.

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One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call

Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)

Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner

24-hour specialty coffees, teas  & bottled water

Port taxes & fees

Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase

Visits to UNESCO Sites

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Complimentary access to The Nordic Spa & Fitness Center.

Self-service launderettes

Alternative restaurant dining at no extra charge

24-hour room service

Your Stateroom Includes:

King-size Viking Explorer Bed with luxury linen

42" flat-screen LCD TV with intuitive remote & complimentary Movies On Demand

Large private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, heated floor, anti-fog mirror & hair dryer

Premium Freyja® toiletries

Direct-dial satellite phone & cell service

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Ample USB ports

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2024–2026 OCEAN CRUISE AND AIR SAVINGS:  OCEAN CRUISE AND AIR FARES: Offer applies to bookings made from April 1-30, 2024. Terms & conditions for select promotions may vary. $25 deposit is applicable to all itineraries except World Cruise products. Special fares plus up to FREE roundtrip airfare valid on select departures of Canada & New England Scenic Shores; Eastern Seaboard Discovery; Grand Hawaii & Polynesia; Hawaiian Islands Sojourn; Panama Canal & Central America; Panama Canal & the Pacific Coast . Special fares plus up to FREE international airfare valid on select departures of China Discovery; Classic China & the Coast; Wonders of China; Best of China. Airfares may vary on other gateways & departures. Airfare does not have to be purchased to get cruise\cruisetour offer. All prices are in US dollars and for US residents only. Additional restrictions may apply. 2024: Pay in full by May 31, 2024 or at time of booking if within 120 days of departure. 2025: Pay in full by July 31, 2024. 2026: Pay in full by February 15, 2025. Offer may be withdrawn at any time without prior notice. Offers Expires April 30, 2024.

*$25 DEPOSIT:  For itineraries 35 days or less, a $25 deposit applies to September 2024 & onward departures; for itineraries greater than 35 days, a $25 deposit applies to November 2024 & onward departures; World Cruise products excluded; call for details.

GENERAL RESTRICTIONS Cruise fares listed are cruise only in U.S. dollars, per person, based on double occupancy. Single supplement savings are off applicable rates. Cruise fares listed are valid for U.S. residents only. Cruise ship fuel surcharge may apply. All fares and offers are for new bookings only and are subject to availability, may not combinable with other offers except Viking Explorer Society Travel Credits and Viking Referral Rewards, are capacity-controlled and may be withdrawn at any time without prior notice. Special fares are based upon published full brochure fares; cruise fares do not include pre-paid charges, optional facilities and service fees, and personal charges, as defined in the terms and conditions of the  Passenger Ticket Contract  which may be viewed elsewhere on this website. Full brochure fares may not have resulted in actual sales in all stateroom categories and may not have been in effect during the last 90 days. Promotional fares may remain in effect after the expiration date. Air promotion applies to roundtrip flights only from select Viking Cruises U.S. gateways and includes airport-to-ship or hotel transfers, air taxes and air fuel surcharges. Roundtrip airport transfers are included when air is purchased with a cruise or cruisetour package; if air is not purchased from Viking, transfers may be purchased separately. All transfers must be in conjunction with a Viking-purchased cruise, cruisetour, land extension or extra hotel nights. Viking reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares, fees and surcharges at any time. For up-to-date prices, please call Viking or your Travel Agent. The cruise ship fuel surcharge is additional revenue to Viking Cruises, as are any additional charges relating to currency fluctuation other than for fully paid cruise fares and full fares, which fluctuations are beyond our control. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Complete terms and conditions may be found in the  Passenger Ticket Contract  .

AIR UPGRADE:  Upgrade to Premium Economy air from $999 per person or Business Class air from $3,499 per person based on select gateways and dates. Premium upgrades may not be available on all departures. Additional airline-imposed baggage charges may apply; for more information visit  Airline Luggage Restrictions  . Air prices are per person based on cruise/cruisetour check-in date and include transfers plus all government taxes/fees of approximately $160 and air fuel surcharges. Air seats are limited; airfares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full payment of air is received. For more information about customized air services and US gateways, visit the  Viking Air Plus

NOTE:  International flights depart the U.S. one day prior to check-in date. Paid Business or Premium Economy Class may require travel in economy on flights within North America or Europe. Premium economy is limited to specific airlines and we may not be able to accommodate based on aircraft type and availability. Roundtrip airport transfers are included when air is purchased with a cruise or cruisetour package; if air is not purchased from Viking, transfers may be purchased separately. All transfers must be in conjunction with a Viking-purchased cruise, cruisetour, land extension or extra hotel nights.

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15 Night Iceland & Greenland Cruise

Your ship brilliance of the seas.

SEIZE THE SEA DAY

Adventure Ocean ®

Rock Climbing Wall

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Day 1: southampton, england.

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Day 8: Qaqortoq, Greenland

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Day 10: nuuk, greenland.

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'Flightseeing': Get a helicopter tour right from your cruise

S KJOLJUNGEN FJORD, Greenland – Zodiac rides, kayaks, paddleboards and e-bikes have long been part of the activities on expedition cruise ships.

But passengers on high-end ships are now asking for more expensive toys to play with – namely onboard submarines and helicopters.

Seabourn, Viking and Scenic are three cruise lines that recently added submarines to some of their expedition ships. The latter also has onboard helicopters complete with helipads on its two “ultra-luxury yachts” – Scenic Eclipse I and Eclipse II.

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Watching the scenery in a remote polar region slowly glide by from a ship’s deck can be captivating. Experiencing it at speeds exceeding 100 mph from the skies above is downright exhilarating.   

Indeed, a 30-minute “flightseeing” helicopter ride over a glacier and remote ice sheet in eastern Greenland was one of the highlights of my recent 12-day Arctic cruise on the Scenic Eclipse II, a 220-passenger ship that made its inaugural voyage in April. 

Bring the bikini, leave the kids: 4 things to know about sailing with Virgin Voyages

Here's what it costs to take a helicopter ride on a cruise

The Eclipse II’s sister ship, Scenic Eclipse I, debuted in 2019. It has a sub and two helicopters. The Eclipse II also has two helicopters – a sub will be brought on board in October, in time for its Antarctica sailings that begin in early December. The oceangoing ships are two of the newest additions to the Australia-based cruise line’s fleet, which also includes 15 riverboats.

Scenic bills itself as offering its passengers “all-inclusive luxury.” Sightseeing tours, all specialty restaurants, drinks, gratuities and airport transfers are included in the fare, which can exceed $1,000 per person per day, depending on the itinerary and choice of cabin. 

Submarine and helicopter rides are optional add-ons that cost more. A lot more.    

A half-hour helicopter ride costs $795 per person. Sub rides cost $350-$795, depending on the region and if it’s a 20- or 40-minute dive. 

Despite the hefty price tag, Jason Flesher, Scenic’s director of Discovery Operations, says the helicopters and subs have proven to be “extremely popular” with passengers.

“We have many guests fly and dive multiple times during their voyage,” he says, adding that the excursions “give our guests the full perspective of their surroundings.” 

Over half of the ship’s 140 passengers signed up for helicopter rides on my sailing. Our pilot, Pascal Fischer, told me that on Antarctic sailings, the percentage of passengers taking helicopter rides usually hovers around 80%.

“You can go 20 miles from the ship, and the world looks totally different, especially in places we go like the Arctic and Antarctica,” says Fischer. “You may even see places that no human ever saw before because we are in such remote areas.”

Exploring Greenland by cruise ship and helicopter

Greenland, the world’s largest island, is a semiautonomous territory of the Kingdom of Denmark. It’s three times the size of Texas, yet its population is only 56,000, making it the least densely populated territory in the world.   

You can’t get much more remote than eastern Greenland, where few cruise ships go, and there are only a handful of tiny fishing settlements. We saw no other signs of human civilization during our four days exploring that region.  However, we did see plenty of blue and humpback whales, seals and other marine life. 

On the gloriously sunny 50-degree day of my helicopter ride, the Eclipse II was anchored in the Skjoljungen Fjord in southeastern Greenland. I walked up to the ship’s helipad at the stern on Deck 8 – one floor above where I had eaten breakfast that morning in the Yacht Club restaurant – for a 10-minute safety briefing.  

Three fellow passengers and I were fitted with lifejackets and given noise-canceling headphones so we could hear Fischer’s descriptions of what we would be seeing during the flight. We were then escorted to one of the Eclipse II’s two $3.5 million Airbus H130 helicopters. Each helicopter can carry a maximum of six passengers and a pilot. I was in the middle seat but still enjoyed unobstructed views of the remote landscape.

We flew over the magnificent Thrym Glacier and then banked west between jagged peaks for a look at Greenland’s pristine ice sheet, which covers about 80 percent of the territory. With the noise-canceling headphones, the 40-mile trip was surprisingly tranquil and smooth. Never have 30 minutes passed by so quickly. 

As we landed back on the ship’s helipad, I wondered why the Eclipse II needs two helicopters instead of just one.  Fischer explained it’s primarily for safety reasons.

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“It could be you get a warning light that tells you you have to land now. And then you land. So we have a second helicopter that can pick up the passengers and bring them back to the ship,” says Fischer, who has been flying helicopters for 25 years, including seven years as an air ambulance pilot in Arizona. 

Additionally, the second helicopter helps ensure that every passenger who wants to fly has the opportunity. On a busy day – when the weather conditions are ideal for flying – Fischer says the two choppers can carry up to 96 people.  

“Normally, we are able to fly everyone who wants to go, unless we have a cruise that lasts 10 days, and we just have 10 days of bad weather,” says Fischer. “It’s not often that we aren’t able to fly everyone who wants to fly.”

As helicopters are so new on ships, the cruise lines are still figuring out how best to integrate them with on-land activities. For instance, Scenic recently started offering excursions that take passengers on helicopter rides to go skiing, hiking, fishing, or – in Mediterranean ports – play a round of golf. 

A helicopter excursion in Antarctica takes passengers to see 5,000 breeding pairs of emperor penguins on Snow Hill Island – a spot only accessible by helicopter. 

Some cruises also offer submarine rides

Scenic’s two submarines, named Neptune I and Neptune II, carry six to eight passengers plus a pilot. The U-Boat Worx sub on the Eclipse I is capable of submerging 984 feet, although it typically dives only about one-third of that depth for safety reasons and a better viewing experience. 

The Eclipse II will have a Triton sub, capable of submerging 600 feet. The cruise line says the battery-powered subs don’t emit hazardous substances and pose no danger to aquatic life.

Fittingly, the Eclipse II was christened in June by Kathy Sullivan, a geologist and oceanographer who was the first American woman to complete a spacewalk for NASA. She’s also traveled to the deepest depths of the ocean, earning her the title “World’s Most Vertical Person.”

We started the cruise in Reykjavik, Iceland, the world’s northernmost capital city, before sailing across the Denmark Strait to the southeastern coast of Greenland.  

Four days were spent exploring the region’s many fjords, glaciers and icebergs up close on eight-passenger Zodiacs driven by members of the ship’s 17-person expedition team, consisting of naturalists, botanists, marine biologists and a historian. The Eclipse II then transited the Prince Christian Sound in southern Greenland before cruising along the territory’s west coast. There, we visited Nuuk, Greenland’s largest town (population 20,000). 

All told, we covered 2,600 miles during the voyage.

It’s not easy to get to Greenland as there are no direct flights to/from North America. To get home at the end of the cruise, we took a four-hour Air Greenland flight from Kangerlussuaq Airport to Copenhagen for an overnight hotel stay before flying home to the U.S. the following day.

Needless to say, while the jets that took us home flew much higher and faster, they couldn’t come close to matching the thrill and excitement of a helicopter ride over one of the most remote places on the planet.  

Cruising Greenland and Iceland

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours:   www.scenicusa.com .

Visit Greenland: www.visitgreenland.com .

Dan Fellner of Scottsdale is a freelance travel writer. Contact him at  [email protected]  or visit his website at  DanFellner.com .   

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: 'Flightseeing': Get a helicopter tour right from your cruise