Greenland to Newfoundland: Mountains, Wildlife and Viking History

Reykjavik - St, John's, Newfoundland

Arctic, Canadian Arctic, Greenland
Sep 14 2026 - Sep 27 2026
13 Nights
138 Guests

Starting from per person

£10,316

Select cruise date

This exclusive two-week expedition stands alone in our collection, taking you on an extraordinary journey from Greenland's pristine wilderness through Canada's remote northern territories to Newfoundland's historic shores. What makes this voyage truly exceptional is the remarkable transition you'll witness between two dramatically different ecosystems.

Your adventure begins in the stark beauty of Arctic landscapes—vast treeless expanses where hardy mosses and lichens carpet the ground, and iconic species like polar bears, seals, and countless migratory birds thrive in one of Earth's most challenging environments. As we sail southward, you'll witness a stunning transformation as we enter the boreal realm, where dense coniferous forests stretch endlessly across the landscape. Here, in these northern woodlands known as taiga, you'll encounter an entirely different cast of wildlife: majestic caribou herds, elusive black bears, both red and Arctic foxes, and soaring peregrine falcons.

Your journey commences with a charter flight from Reykjavik to Kangerlussuaq on Greenland's western coast. From there, we'll navigate across the Davis Strait into Canada's Nunavut territory before continuing south through Labrador and concluding in St. John's, Newfoundland.

This carefully crafted route offers an unparalleled cultural tapestry: discover Greenlandic traditions in communities like Sisimiut, connect with Inuit heritage throughout Nunavut and experience Nunatsiavut culture in Labrador. Step back in time at l'Anse Aux Meadows, where Viking explorers first set foot in North America, before ending your journey in St. John's—a vibrant city where East Coast warmth meets rich Celtic heritage, brought to life through traditional music and the enduring legacy of Irish settlers.

Cruise Highlights

Cruise Highlights

  • L'Anse aux Meadows UNESCO World Heritage Site The only authenticated Viking site in North America, where Vikings landed over 1,000 years ago. Experience reconstructed sod houses and discover what Viking life was like at this archaeological marvel representing the earliest European presence in the Americas.
  • Torngat Mountains National Park Dramatic Arctic wilderness in Labrador featuring some of North America's most spectacular mountain scenery. This remote region offers exceptional wildlife viewing and showcases ancient Inuit culture in one of Canada's most pristine landscapes.
  • Dual Ecosystem Experience Witness the remarkable transition from Arctic tundra to boreal forests in one journey. Experience Greenland's treeless landscapes with polar bears and seals, then enter Canada's dense coniferous forests where caribou, black bears, and Arctic foxes roam—two distinct ecosystems rarely seen together.

Itinerary

Itinerary

Reykjavik in Iceland in the winter
Day 1

Arrive in Iceland

Upon your arrival at Keflavik International Airport, make your way independently to your included hotel in downtown Reykjavik, approximately 45 minutes from the airport. If your arrival schedule allows, you’ll have time to explore the fascinating Icelandic capital on your own. Many major tourist attractions and historic sites are within walking distance of the city center.

 

cruising through ice in Greenland
Day 2

Fly to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland and embark on Ocean Explorer

This morning you’ll catch your charter flight to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, where you’ll board your vessel and begin your expedition. Get ready for great adventures ahead. Expect a welcome and safety briefing from your Expedition Leader.
Meeting locals in Greenland
Day 3

Explore Sisimut and Maniitsoq: Fjords, Mountains, and Glaciers

Today we’ll explore two towns in the Qeqqata Municipality on the west coast of Greenland along the Davis Strait. The first is Maniitsoq, which translates into “the place of rugged, uneven terrain.” That’s precisely what you see in the surrounding terrain: towering mountains, pristine rivers, seemingly endless glaciers and incredibly deep f jords. In fact, one of the day’s highlights is a journey along Eternity Fjord, which is 75 kilometers (47 miles) long and reaches a depth of 1,200 meters (3,937 feet). Later in the day you’ll have time to wander through the historic town of Sisimiut, where several 18th-century colonial buildings still stand, one of which is Bethel Church. Just look for the striking blue-and-red wooden place of worship. Today’s activities also include a demonstration of the traditional art of kayak making. Experiencing a cultural resurgence, the kayak is a symbol of Greenland and can be traced back over 4,000 years to the Inuit, who used the vessels for hunting and transportation. For those inclined to other modes of transport, mountain biking is another option during our visit to Sisimiut.
best places to visit in the Arctic Ilulissat town in Greenland with icebergs
Day 4

Ilulissat: Iceberg viewing at the UNESCO World Heritage site

Ilulissat, Greenlandic for icebergs, is one of the highlights of any journey along west Greenland. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004, Ilulissat Icefjord gives birth to countless icebergs. In fact, it’s home to one of the most productive glaciers in the northern hemisphere, Sermeq Kujalleq (also known as Jakobshavn Glacier). A Zodiac excursion is a unique way to enjoy the spectacle of enormous bergs floating out to Disko Bay. We plan to Zodiac cruise ashore to visit the nearby town of Ilulissat, and from there we’ll hike to the icefjord, where you can view this incredible parade of icebergs from the rocky shore. Expect to see a lot of dogs while you’re in town. There was a time when sled dogs actually outnumbered citizens in Ilulissat, which, unsurprisingly, is the birthplace of the first European to traverse the Northwest Passage by dogsled, explorer Knud Rasmussen. If time allows, you can visit a local museum dedicated to his memory.
East Greenland Glacier
Day 5

At Sea: Crossing the Davis Strait

As your ship navigates across the Davis Strait, onboard polar experts will present on a variety of topics to deepen your understanding of the places featured in the itinerary. Our experts include glaciologists, historians, wildlife specialists and other polar specialists.
Houses in Pond Inlet Nunavut Northwest Passage Canadian Arctic
Day 6

Pangnirtung: Stronghold of Inuit culture

Today is our first day exploring the Canadian Arctic as we arrive in Nunavut, Canada’s youngest territory. Nunavut, which means “our land” in the Inuktitut language, stretches north of the Arctic Circle and covers over 1.8 million square kilometers, and is considered the homeland of the Inuit in Canada. Guests will get to spend time in Pangnirtung, located at the mouth of Pangnirtung Fjord, which merges with Cumberland Sound. It’s a stronghold of the Inuit community, and an ideal place to learn about Inuit culture while admiring finely crafted traditional art, especially the textiles. You may want to purchase a famous Pang toque, a must-have knit cap for anyone visiting the community
Polar bear in the Northwest Passage
Day 7

Cape Mercy: A fascinating history lesson

History buffs will enjoy a visit to Cape Mercy, an isolated cove at the southern tip of Cumberland Sound in Nunavut. Cape Mercy was named by British explorer John Davis, who sailed through this part of the Arctic in 1585. Fastforward several centuries to the 1950s when Cape Mercy was selected as the site of a Distant Early Warning Line (DEW) installation, a system of radar stations set up during the Cold War to detect nuclear attacks. It should be noted that the Inuit hunted and fished in Cape Mercy and the surrounding area long before the arrival of European explorers. You can join a guided shore walk to enjoy incredible views of the vast Davis Strait, which connects Baffin Bay to the Labrador Sea.
Arctic Fox on the arctic ice with a sunset in the background
Day 8-9

Torngat Mountain National Park: Exploring the boreal wilderness

Torngat Mountains National Park will leave you awestruck. Within the 10,000 square-kilometer national park, established in 2008, are Canada’s highest mountains east of the venerable Rockies. The park is a wilderness landscape painting brought to life: breathtaking f jords, dramatic glacial formations, stunning landscapes, boreal woodlands and wildlife. For students of Indigenous history, Torngat Mountain National Park is especially meaningful: the park is located at the northern edge of autonomous Nunatsiavut territory, which was recognized as the homeland of the Labrador Inuit in 2005, operating under its own constitution and administration. In fact, these lands have been home to the Nunatsiavut and their predecessors for over 7,500 years. We are honored to explore this majestic wilderness territory with you. Torngat, in Inuktitut, means “place of the spirits,” which reflects the spiritual significance of the region to the Inuit communities. As a national park, this wilderness domain offers protection to boreal woodland caribou, black bears, Labrador wolves, red and Arctic foxes, polar bears, and peregrine falcons, among other species. You will have opportunities to explore this national wilderness area during Zodiac and kayaking excursions, as well as guided hikes.
Inuit lady in Arctic Canda
Day 10

Nain, Nunatsiavut: Home of the Labrador Inuit

Nain, which has a population of approximately 1,200, is the administrative capital of Nunatsiavut, the semi-autonomous region in northern Labrador claimed by the Inuit. Visitors can learn about Labrador Inuit heritage through interactive exhibits, artwork, and cultural programs at the very modern-looking Illusuak Cultural Centre. Then, to learn about the other cultural group that influenced the region, stroll through town to discover the historic Moravian Mission complex, established in 1771. The white-painted church and mission house bear witness to centuries of cultural exchanges between the Inuit and European missionaries. You’ll have time to engage with friendly locals to hear stories passed down through the generations, and sample traditional foods like arctic char and cloudberries. There will be a guided hike to take in breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and sea.
Quark Spa
Day 11

At Sea

As our ship heads south, enjoy the views of the southern coast of Baffin Island Labrador. While at sea for the day, join expedition staff out on deck as they look for whales and birdlife. This is also your chance to relax with a glass of wine or hot tea and simply take in the wondrous beauty around you.
Expedition guide
Day 12

L'Anse aux Meadows: Vikings in North America

Consider the wooden longboats that transported the Vikings an incredible 2,180 kilometers from Greenland to Newfoundland in 1000 AD. Today, you’re going to visit the archeological remains at the place they landed in their handhewn vessels. L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site (also a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site) is the only confirmed Norse or Viking settlement in North America. Join a guided tour to see where Norseman Leif Erikson, son of Erik the Red, is believed to have founded “Vinland” (the East Coast area including what would later be known as Newfoundland) around 1000 AD. Explore the reconstructed sod huts and Norse ruins throughout the historic site—proof that Vikings discovered North America 500 years before Christopher Columbus’ much-chronicled arrival.
Quark Spa
Day 13

At Sea

view of Greenland from window of plane
Day 14

Disembark in St. John's, Newfoundland

Your ship arrives at the pier in St. John’s for a morning disembarkation. After breakfast, you may make your way to St. John’s International Airport to connect with your onward flight, or stay longer if you have booked additional accommodation

Activities

Activities

Zodiac Cruising and Shore Landings

Zodiac Crusiing pas Iceberg

Zodiac inflatable boats are integral to every expedition and perfect for exploring the polar wilderness. Zodiacs are used to ferry you to the shore and mini explorations amidst icebergs, whales, and seabirds. Throughout your expedition, they enable you to reach secluded spots only accessible by these sturdy watercraft.

Driven by our expert team of knowledgeable polar guides, we will explore the Zodiac daily as part of your expedition.

Hiking

hiking Activity in Greenland on a cruise

Immerse yourself in the thrill of hiking across the polar wilderness, led by our seasoned polar guides. Wander the vast tundra, marvel at the majestic glaciers, and breathe in fresh air amongst the natural scenery. It's an adventure that brings you into the heart of the Arctic's untamed beauty.

Polar Plunge

polar plunge activity on an expedition cruise

During each voyage, we carve out a special moment for the Polar Plunge, a thrilling dive into the icy waters, scheduled just once for those daring enough to leap. Our Expedition Leader and Captain are always on the lookout, assessing the weather and sea conditions to pick the perfect spot and moment for this exhilarating experience. Whether it's from the shore, off the gangway, or the edge of a Zodiac, participants, clad in tethered harnesses for safety, leap into the chilly embrace of the polar sea amid the cheers and encouragement of their fellow adventurers and the Expedition Team.

Safety is our top priority during the Polar Plunge. The onboard physician is always present to oversee the event, ensuring everyone's well-being. Additionally, our guides, suited in survival gear, patrol the waters in Zodiacs, ready to assist as guests make their splash into the frigid waters, whether it's a bold jump or an adventurous cannonball.

Kayaking

Experience the beauty of the polar regions from the intimacy of a sea kayak. The onboard Sea Kayak Program gathers adventurers with a shared passion to explore the stunning landscapes of fjords, glacial fronts, or intricate sea ice formations together.

Mountain Biking

Feeling like a more active adventure? Our team has joined with local partners to identify incredible mountain biking routes through the stunning scenery just beyond the town boundaries of Sisimiut, Greenland. While others explore the community our expert guides and local partners will take you to the best terrain to start your adventure and be with you throughout the activity.

Paddling *

Paddling Quark

Our Paddle Excursion Program offers guests the opportunity to explore unforgettable Arctic and Antarctic locations from a water-level perspective using stable, two-person, inflatable kayaks. These rugged and comfortable crafts provide an intimate way to experience the polar regions like never before. Onboard, you will receive comprehensive instruction and equipment, including dry suits, personal flotation devices (PFDs), and waterproof gloves. Experienced guides will ensure a safe and enjoyable paddling experience, with each group accompanied by a safety driver in another kayak for added support.

Excursions typically last at least one hour and are available once per voyage. Each group consists of 10 paddlers, guided by one instructor and supported by a safety Zodiac driver. The timing and location of each Paddle Excursion are carefully selected based on wind, weather, and water conditions to optimize your adventure.

Your Ship

Your Ship

Ocean Explorer

Starting from per person

£10,316

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Choose Your Cabin

Choose Your Cabin

Studio Double

Deck 3

175-186 sq. ft. 1-2

One double bed made up of two twin berths

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Studio Single

Deck 3

177 sq. ft. 1

One double bed made up of two twin berths

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Deluxe Veranda Forward Stateroom

Deck 4

168-195 sq. ft. 1-2

One double bed made up of two twin berths

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Deluxe Veranda Middle Stateroom

Deck 4

203-272 sq. ft. 1-2

One double bed made up of two twin berths plus some with fold out sofa bed

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Deluxe Veranda Stateroom

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Deck 4

200-205 sq. ft. 1-2

One double bed made up of two twin berths plus fold out sofa bed

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Studio Veranda Stateroom

Deck 6

173 sq. ft. 1-2

One double bed made up of two twin berths

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Grand Veranda Stateroom

Deck 6

195-205 sq. ft. 1-2

One double bed made up of two twin berths plus fold out sofa bed

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Junior Suite

Deck 6

296-299 sq. ft. 1-2

Two rooms

One double bed made up of two twin berths fold out sofa bed

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Royal Veranda Stateroom

Deck 4

Deck 6

189-272 sq. ft. 1-2

One double bed made up of two twin berths plus fold out sofa bed

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Studio Veranda Single

Deck 7

238 sq. ft.

1 One twin single

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Explorer Suite

Deck 7

269 sq. ft. 1-2

Two rooms

One double bed made up of two twin berths fold out sofa bed

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Owners Suite

Deck 7

443 sq. ft. 1-2

Two rooms

One double bed made up of two twin berths fold out sofa bed

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Deck Plan

Ocean Explorer Deck Plan Deck 3

What's Included

Included

  • One night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Reykjavik
  • Leadership throughout your voyage by our experienced Expedition Leaders, including shore landings and other activities
  • All Zodiac transfers and cruising as per the daily program
  • All shore landings as per the daily program
  • Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping
  • All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage (Please inform us of any dietary requirements as far in advance as possible. Unfortunately, the ships’ galleys cannot prepare kosher meals.)
  • Select beer and wine during dinner; and coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock
  • Formal and informal presentations by our Expedition Team and guest speakers as scheduled
  • A photographic journal documenting the expedition
  • A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions
  • An official Expedition parka to keep
  • Hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin
  • All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program
  • Emergency Evacuation insurance for all passengers to a maximum benefit of USD $500,000 per person
  • Greenland voyages cruise passenger tax

Optional Extras

Important Information

  • This expedition involves travelling to lovely remote places with limited medical facilities. We ask you to be healthy and fit to participate. If you have a severe medical condition or have recently undergone surgery, please get in touch with us before making a reservation. Our Travel Experience Team will be happy to assist you with any questions.
  • Whilst our expeditions do not require exceptional fitness, you must be mobile enough to climb in and out of a Zodiac and undertake short walks.
  • Expedition programmes include zodiac outings and landings (sometimes with "wet landing"), moderate walks, and more active hikes, all accompanied by your expedition team of naturalist guides.
  • You must hold a passport with a minimum of 6 months validity beyond completing your trip. Please check to see if you require a visa to enter the countries of embarkation and disembarkation.
  • You must take out comprehensive travel insurance, which includes medical evacuation and cancellation at the time of booking.
  • To learn more, please see our guide to Travel Insurance For Expedition Cruises. If you have any questions, our Travel Experience Team is always on hand to answer them.
  • Ports of call, visited sites, outings and landings will depend on weather conditions, ice position, winds and the state of the sea. These can force a change of plans at any time. The Captain and the Expedition Leader may cancel or stop any activity or modify the itinerary. The final itinerary will be confirmed by the Captain, who will consider the touristic quality of the sites and, above all, the safety of the passengers. His decision will be based on advice from experts and authorities.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask our Travel Experience Team.

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