South Greenland Adventure: Majestic Alpine Arctic | Ultramarine
Up to 40% off valid for the 29 Jul 25 (13-Day) Departure Only
Applicable to all cabin types (subject to availability)
Available until 02 Dec 24 unless withdrawn prior
See Additional T&Cs Below
13 Days
Save Up To 40%
WAS From NZD 30,050 Now From NZD 18,970
STYLE: Luxury Small Ship Expedition Cruise
Trip Code: ACQESGA
DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)
Start: Reykjavík, Iceland
Finish: Reykjavík, Iceland
SHIP: Ultramarine
Destination
Greenland & Iceland
Meals
All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage. select beer and wine during dinner; and coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock
Transport
Charter flight from Nuuk, Greenland to Reykjavik, Iceland & group transfers to/from the ship
Accommodation
Cabin on board ship & Hotel
DEPARTURE DATES
Enquire Now
Included Sightseeing
Daily Arctic Excursions, Zodiac Cruising, Onboard Expert Lectures & Briefings By The Experienced Expedition Team
NOTE: Itinerary Is Subject To Change Depending On Weather & Ice Conditions
OVERVIEW
This route is intended for tourists who want to experience South Greenland's breathtaking fjords, glaciers, and highlands. This tour provides guests with unique experiences made possible by the state-of-the-art ship, Ultramarine, which has two twin-engine helicopters. You can choose more leisurely, deep experiences or be as busy as you like on this tour.
This itinerary, which was created in collaboration with local communities and is the first of its kind in expedition travel, provides a unique opportunity to experience the splendor of South Greenland's varied fjordlands. Particularly for off-ship excursions, Ultramarine's two helicopters will transport you to parts of South Greenland that others are unable to access. In addition to hiking, village visits, and zodiac cruises, some of these activities, like our Heli Hiking and the Greenland Ice Sheet Experience, are free for all visitors.
Whether you're interested in taking in the tranquil mountain views, sailing through the icebergs on a Zodiac cruise, or trying out optional activities like heli-hiking or luxurious camping on the shores of Tasermiut Fjord with local hosts, this trip has something to offer everyone, regardless of fitness level.
**PLEASE NOTE: 2025 departure is a day shorter, so 13 days instead of 14 days for the 2026 departures. Itinerary published is for the 2026 departures. Contact us for more information.
ITINERARY
When you get to the capital of Iceland, head to the hotel that is included in the package. The remainder of the day is yours to independently explore the city.
You'll board your ship in Reykjavik this afternoon to start your journey. Prepare yourself for an amazing journey on board the cutting-edge vessel, the Ultramarine. Equipped with 20 Zodiacs that can launch quickly and two twin-engine helicopters, it offers a variety of off-ship activities in South Greenland.
With a view of Greenland in the distance as we sail north across the Denmark Strait, your Expedition Team will get you ready for the experiences waiting ahead. Discover the amazing landscapes you will soon see, as well as the rich history, interesting animals, geology, glaciology, ecology, and climate of the Arctic. The crew will assist you in looking for whales that frequent the nearby waters as well as seabirds that are swooping about your ship.
The looming fjords with their sheer walls and hanging glaciers will be the first natural elements you will witness when we get closer to and land in Greenland. We'll investigate the unpopulated east shore. There's a chance to see animals in this area, possibly even polar bears and humpback whales. In this remote, ice-laden region with cascading glaciers, alpine panoramas, and wildlife, activities include shore landings, hiking, paddle trips, Zodiac cruises, and heli-landings. We headed for the deserted east coast's wild fjords, one of which being Lindenow Fjord, or Kangerlussuaq in Greenland. Long before European explorers arrived and repeated waves of migration led to major settlements, communities of PaleoInuit hunters and fisherman lived off the land and survived mostly on the resources offered by the sea thousands of years ago in these remote fjords. Against the backdrop of tumbling glaciers and towering mountains, remnants of these ancient occupants can still be found today.
There's a lot of wildlife to see in the fjords, particularly marine mammals. As polar bears travel southward on sea ice floes driven by the East-Greenland circulation, it is also possible to see them seldom. When approaching fjords, humpback whales are frequently seen because the shallowing waters cause an upwelling of nutrients to rise to the surface. The stunning alpine landscape beckons us to explore by air, sea, and land to fully immerse oneself in the isolated icescapes of the area while we keep an eye out for animals. For heli landings, shore landings, hikes, Zodiac cruises, and paddle trips, the wild east is perfect.
We'll sail into the Westlands along Greenland's breathtaking west coast—the same route the Greenlandic Norse took to get to the Western fjords. Especially at sites like the Kujataa UNESCO World Heritage site, you'll witness the contrast between the coast's verdant valleys, rich in Viking history, and the Greenland Ice Sheet, the second-largest sheet of ice on Earth. The latter offers a fantastic chance to discover the history, customs, and interactions between the Norse and Inuit cultures of the area.
We will go on a helicopter tour of the massive Ice Sheet, climb in the nearby foothills, take a cruise through ice-filled lakes, and interact with the local people. We will explore the little village of Qassiarsuk and the ruins of Erik the Red's estate at Brattahlíë, which provide more context for understanding the history and culture of South Greenland. When you see the spectacular views of blue, ice-strewn waters against a backdrop of lush, verdant valleys and green pastures bursting with blossoms, you'll quickly understand why Erik the Red selected this land as his home and gave Greenland its name.
Warm microclimates tucked away in the fjords, exclusive to Greenland and the Arctic as a whole, have produced an incredibly productive Arctic Garden of Eden. There are still farming customs in South Greenland that date back to the Viking era. Many families labour on their isolated sheep farms at the fjords' edges, living a life highly in sync with the seasons and growing a range of organically grown vegetables (like potatoes, turnips, and kale).
We locate excellent access spots to the Greenland Ice Sheet in the West as well, which we will fly to via helicopter. Enjoy the most breathtaking views of the greatest mass of ice in the northern hemisphere, which stretches from the arctic plateau's highest points to sea level. With our included Greenland Ice Sheet Experience, you can become one of the very few people to ever step foot on this amazing body of ice. During the most profound and in-depth community experiences offered on any voyage, you will have the chance to explore the Ice Sheet, hike the nearby foothills, cruise or paddle through the azure ice-filled waters, and interact with our local friends and partners over the course of these two days.
We'll travel across the picturesque 105-kilometer Prins Christian Sund (Ikerasassuaq) and discover South Greenland's breathtaking fjords. Our group has organised a trip to the village of Aappilattoq, where you may take in the customs, music, and culture of the area. The trip continues to the 70-kilometer Tasermiut Fjord, often known as "Arctic Patagonia," with its sheer walls. Here, visitors may enjoy camping overnight and a variety of adventures among breathtaking peaks and glaciers.
At the extreme southern tip of Greenland, at Cape Farewell (Nunap Isua), is a labyrinth of fjords, sounds, islets, inlets, and skerries (rocky islands), each with its own unique beauty. It will be genuinely unforgettable to traverse the Prins Christian Sund (Ikerasassuaq), one of the most picturesque fjords in the world. When the sun sets, visitors may anticipate breathtaking views around every bend as well as magnificent mountain and seascapes including glaciers plunging to the ocean. This domain is inhabited by Southern Greenlanders who are frontier people, a people as distinct as the environment they live in. The eastern hunting peoples who were migrating finally settled here, near the European commerce posts.
The small communities in this southern area have become somewhat famous because of their residents' unwavering devotion to their hunting and fishing traditions. As previously said, we would like to take you to Aappilattoq, which is situated on the banks of Prins Christian Sund, to meet our friends and partners in the area. We would like our visitors to be able to experience the local way of life through hearing their stories, tasting their cuisine, learning about their hunting customs, and maybe even participating in a friendly match of football as a player or spectator.
During your stay in Arctic Patagonia, you will have the opportunity to marvel at the enormous glacier at its head, which features rivers of ice that tumble towards the sea. Additionally, the imposing peaks of Ulamertorsuaq and Nalumasortoq dominate the skyline, providing the most picturesque backdrops for your helicopter tour or hike.
As your Arctic journey comes to an end, you can watch a movie, share your photos, enjoy an icy cocktail in the bar, or attend a polar presentation led by our onboard experts. This is an excellent chance for you to ask any last questions you may have concerning any part of your journey to members of the Expedition Team.
The adventure ends when you disembark in Iceland's capital, Reykjavik.
WHY CHOOSE THIS CRUISE?
-
Admire South Greenland's mountain tops and isolated ridges while participating in flightseeing and heli-hiking excursions.
-
Discover the cultural gems of Greenland with local partners.
-
Set foot on the world's second-largest ice sheet, the Greenland Ice Sheet.
-
Discover how Inuit and Viking cultures meet by visiting the Kujataa UNESCO World Heritage site.
Ultramarine
Step onboard the Ultramarine! This premium expedition vessel takes guests to the most isolated and breathtaking wildernesses on the planet. The ship has been purpose-built to meet the specific demands of the polar regions and is well appointed to let guests explore The Arctic and Antarctica safely and comfortably. It offers a robust portfolio of adventure activities. The mix of sustainability features create innovative operations to offer ultra-immersive polar experiences to guests on board .The vessel is one of the few to offer a suite of flight-seeing activities, travelling in one of the two twin-engine helicopters. This really opens up the possibilities to go further and see more. The Expedition Ship can accommodate a maximum of 199 passengers and offers the most spacious suites in its category . The cabins are all elegantly designed and feature oversized windows with sleeping views and spa-inspired bathrooms. Ultramarine offers breathtaking public spaces, and more outdoor wildlife viewing spaces than other expedition ships its size. It also features a best-in-class 70-day operational range, four embarkation points to load and embark zodiacs and get you to shore faster. The ship has a water level Zodiac hangar, which allows for more spontaneous off-ship adventures where the opportunity presents itself. This allows you to get off the ship in less than half the time of some other vessels.
Ice Class:
Length: 128m (420ft)
Breadth: 21.5m (70.5ft)Max
Draft: Cruising
Speed:
Electricity: Passenger
Capacity:199
View Ship Details
Accommodation
We believe that appropriate accommodation should add to the authentic travel experience, as well as providing utmost enjoyment. For that reason our accommodation is scrutinised by our staff on the ground frequently, ensuring the properties adhere to our high standards. This key will help you understand the levels of accommodation available on this tour.
Standard
Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.
Superior
Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.
Deluxe
Luxurious properties with impeccable facilities and service.
Pricing per person
 | Solo PanoramaFeatures:-
| 40 % off NZD 41,150 NZD 25,630Unavailable Enquire Now
|
 | Explorer TripleFeatures:-
| 40 % off NZD 23,250 NZD 14,890Unavailable Enquire Now
|
 | Explorer SuiteFeatures:-
| 40 % off NZD 30,050 NZD 18,970Available Enquire Now
|
 | Balcony SuiteFeatures:-
| 40 % off NZD 32,650 NZD 20,530Available Enquire Now
|
 | Deluxe Balcony SuiteFeatures:-
| 40 % off NZD 38,350 NZD 23,950Available Enquire Now
|
 | Terrace SuiteFeatures:-
| 40 % off NZD 39,650 NZD 24,730Unavailable Enquire Now
|
 | Penthouse SuiteFeatures:-
| 40 % off NZD 41,150 NZD 25,630Available Enquire Now
|
 | Owner's SuiteFeatures:-
| 40 % off NZD 52,150 NZD 32,230Available Enquire Now
|
 | Ultra SuiteFeatures:-
| 40 % off NZD 57,350 NZD 35,350Unavailable Enquire Now
|
| Solo PanoramaFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 44,895 NZD 36,253Available Enquire Now
|
| Explorer TripleFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 24,095 NZD 19,457Available Enquire Now
|
| Explorer SuiteFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 32,095 NZD 25,917Available Enquire Now
|
| Balcony SuiteFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 35,395 NZD 28,582Available Enquire Now
|
| Deluxe Balcony SuiteFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 41,795 NZD 33,750Available Enquire Now
|
| Terrace SuiteFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 43,395 NZD 35,042Available Enquire Now
|
| Penthouse SuiteFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 44,895 NZD 36,253Available Enquire Now
|
| Owner's SuiteFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 57,795 NZD 46,670Available Enquire Now
|
| Ultra SuiteFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 64,095 NZD 51,757Available Enquire Now
|
| Solo PanoramaFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 44,895 NZD 36,253Available Enquire Now
|
| Explorer TripleFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 24,095 NZD 19,457Available Enquire Now
|
| Explorer SuiteFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 32,095 NZD 25,917Available Enquire Now
|
| Balcony SuiteFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 35,395 NZD 28,582Available Enquire Now
|
| Deluxe Balcony SuiteFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 41,795 NZD 33,750Available Enquire Now
|
| Terrace SuiteFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 43,395 NZD 35,042Available Enquire Now
|
| Penthouse SuiteFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 44,895 NZD 36,253Available Enquire Now
|
| Owner's SuiteFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 57,795 NZD 46,670Available Enquire Now
|
| Ultra SuiteFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 64,095 NZD 51,757Available Enquire Now
|
Important Information
*Black Friday Sale - Save up to 40% Off Selected 24/25 Departures
Up to 40% off valid for the 29 July 25 Departure Only
**PLEASE NOTE: 2025 departure is 13 days instead of 14 days for the 2026 departures. Itinerary published is for the 2026 departures.
Discount applicable to All Available Cabin Types (subject to availability)
Not combinable with other promotions and valid on new bookings only.
Not applicable to transfer packages, adventure options, additional hotel accommodations, pre/post tours, insurance, flights, or group bookings.
Discount is valid until 02 December 24 unless withdrawn, sold out or varied prior
** Other Current Discounts, promotions and pricing are available until 02 December 2024, however discounts may be withdrawn or changed at any time and are subject to availability on selected cabins and departure dates. Some current in market offers may be combinable and Shackleton Club Past Passenger and multi trip discounts may be applied subject to confirmation at the time of booking. Prices are subject to change based on currency fluctuations, fuel surcharges, and other external factors. No discount applies to any transfer packages, additional activities or pre/post services. The advertised prices may also include a 'Pay in full at time of booking' which is a 5-10% early payment discount, which requires the full balance to be paid at the time of booking to apply. Further conditions may apply, contact us for more information.
NOTE: Pricing is subject to change, currency fluctuation and availability at the time of booking and may be varied without notice by us or any of the operators and partners we work with. It is only confirmed and guaranteed at the time of making a booking, agreeing to our terms and conditions and paying a deposit.
Prices are based on per person, and vary from single, quad, triple, and twin cabins.
Prices are correct at time of publishing but are subject to change at any time.
All entrance fees are subject to change without prior notice.
Includes return charter flights to/from Reykjavik to Nuuk.**PLEASE NOTE: 2025 departure is a day shorter, so 13 days instead of 14 days for the 2026 departures. Itinerary published is for the 2026 departures. Contact us for more information.
Please note this itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and ice conditions*
INCLUSIONS
Cabin accommodation on board ship.
All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage.
Select beer and wine during dinner; and coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock.
All scheduled landings and excursions.
Guiding and leadership by expert exploration team and crew.
A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions.
An Expedition parka (yours to keep).
Emergency Evacuation insurance for all passengers to a maximum benefit of USD $500,000 per person.EXCLUSIONS
Any other pre or post land arrangements not mentioned above.
Passport and visa expenses.
Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above.
Baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended.
Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned.
Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew.
Meals ashore unless otherwise specified.
Excess-baggage fees on international and domestic flights.
Laundry, bar and other personal charges unless specified.
Optional Adventure Activities.
- 2 (light adventure)
Available upon request. A supplement surcharge applies and is subject to availability. Please contact us for more information.
Departure date, fuel surcharges, cabin category, currency fluctuations, seasonality and availability.