Northeast Greenland’s Unexplored Sea Ice – Icebreaker Cruise

Nestled on the edge of an expansive bay in the western part of the country, Iceland's capital unfolds its charms. The "Pearl of Reykjavík," Perlan, stands as a museum situated atop 'Oskjuhlið hill, providing a sweeping vista of the verdant landscapes below. Not far away, a signpost guides you to the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church and the historic centre, inviting leisurely strolls along the vibrant Skólavördustígur and Laugavegur streets, adorned with charming boutiques. For a tranquil retreat just beyond the city, visitors can explore the Reykjanes peninsula and indulge in the renowned thermal lagoons of the Blue Lagoon.

Embarkation from 20:00 to 21:00

Departure at 22:00

Situated between Greenland and Iceland, the Denmark Strait holds historical significance as the Vikings first traversed it in the late 10th century during Erik the Red's expeditions. The waters of the strait were also a battleground during the Second World War, witnessing a clash between the Kriegsmarine and the Royal Navy on May 24, 1941. In winter, the Greenlandic coasts are enveloped by extremely dense pack ice, while the Transpolar Drift continues to transport icebergs throughout the year. However, during the summer, the strait generally remains clear of ice.

Embark on a voyage following the path of Jules Poret de Blosseville, a French explorer and sailor. In 1833, aboard La Lilloise, he embarked on a journey to unveil eastern Greenland's isolated and uncharted expanse, bestowing French names upon various coastal sites. Unfortunately, the adventure likely ended in tragedy, as the crew was never located. Now named after him, this desolate region stretches south of Scoresby Sund. Enveloped by ice, icebergs, and fragments of pack ice, Blosseville Coast is one of those rugged and challenging terrains that only a fortunate few can explore.

On Greenland's East coast, within the snow and ice-covered Ittoqqortoormiit region for nine months of the year, you'll encounter the rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart of an isolated territory and marvel at the beauty of its boundless polar expanse. The lofty alpine mountains pierce the sky, gradually revealing their dark rock edges beneath a layer of snow. Positioned at the entrance to the world's longest fjord system is the village of Ittoqqortoormiit, one of the northernmost inhabited places on the East Coast. Translating to 'great house' in Greenlandic, it serves as the home to the last hunters of the polar region, preserving their ancestral way of life.

Once the ice floe is thick, hunters embark on trails to pursue walruses, seals, narwhals, musk oxen, and polar bears, journeying via traditional dog sledges. Across these stretches of pristine snow, the only interruptions to the silence are the sounds of dogs, the creaking of a sledge returning from a run, or footsteps on the ice. You'll delve into Inuit traditions, sharing privileged and festive moments on the ice floe and within the village.

Embark on a journey towards North-East Greenland to delve deeper into the Arctic, reaching heights that conventional ships cannot traverse during this season. Navigate through the unexpected treasures concealed within the sea ice as the play of light and the ever-changing skies set the stage for a mesmerizing spectacle. Amidst the vast expanse of ice, where conventional vessels cannot venture, a breathtaking tableau unfolds, showcasing the myriad textures and states of the ice.

With a blend of patience and humility, your expedition will lead you through the pearly-white floating cathedrals and the ice carried by the Transpolar Drift. Witness icebergs brought to a standstill in their journey and pressure ridges unveiling their sharp edges. Within this frozen wilderness, beauty reveals itself in each moment's intricate details and enchantment.

In the domain of polar bears, find solace aboard Le Commandant Charcot— a specialized cocoon crafted for polar exploration. This vessel provides remarkable opportunities to observe these majestic rulers of the ice as you encounter them during your journey. Perhaps you might even witness the poignant sight of a mother polar bear and her cub traversing the pristine icy expanses, adding an extra layer of magic to your Arctic exploration.

Encircled by ice, icebergs, and various forms of pack ice stretching as far as the eye can discern, the Blosseville Coast is a remote and untamed expanse that grants access to very few. Delving into its depths entails a gradual immersion into the heart of a frozen and almost surreal wilderness, where the nuances in light play transformative roles in one's perception of the landscape. In the realm of polar bears, the open decks of Le Commandant Charcot promise extraordinary moments of observing Arctic wildlife through a series of unique encounters.

As we set sail for the return journey to Iceland, traversing the Denmark Strait became a compelling part of our voyage. Within the depths of the strait, an extraordinary natural wonder awaits—the world's largest waterfall, an undersea cataract created by the temperature disparity between the cold waters of the Greenland Sea and the warmer waters of the Irminger Sea. This phenomenon not only captivates with its uniqueness but also contributes to the strait's rich ecosystem, providing an ideal habitat for the flourishing of various cetacean species..

On the final day of your journey, as we return to Reykjavik, explore the captivating facets of Iceland's capital that extend beyond the charms previously mentioned. Nestled along the edge of an expansive bay in the western part of the country, Reykjavik unveils its distinctive allure. The city, pulsating with life and energy, offers an array of cultural and historical gems waiting to be discovered.

Amidst the cityscape, landmarks such as Harpa Concert Hall and Sun Voyager beckon, showcasing modern architectural marvels and artistic expressions. Delve into Reykjavik's rich history by visiting the National Museum or stroll around Tjörnin, the picturesque city pond. Explore the vibrant neighbourhoods, each with its unique character, and savour the culinary delights in the local eateries.

As the day winds down, perhaps consider a relaxing soak in one of Reykjavik's geothermal pools, such as the geothermally heated Vesturbæjarlaug, to unwind and reflect on the memories created during this unforgettable journey through the wonders of Iceland.

Arrival: early morning

Disembarkation: 08:00