South Greenland Alpine Exploration by Helicopter

Greenland

Experience the rare thrill of landing on the massive Greenland ice sheet—an exclusive highlight of this itinerary. This activity-packed voyage includes time off-ship, hiking, cruising by Zodiac, visiting local communities, camping, kayaking icy waters, and soaring above fjords and mountaintops in a twin-engine helicopter. Suited to guests of all fitness levels, you can choose how adventurous you want to be or enjoy a slower pace on board—relaxing in the spa and gym, unwinding in spacious common areas, or indulging in our Tundra to Table culinary experience

Highlights

  • Soar over the massive Greenland Ice Sheet
  • Choose from unique off-ship excursions, such as helicopter landings, and camping alongside Tasermiut FJord
  • Experience Greenlandic cultural highlights with local partners
  • Visit the Kujataa UNESCO World Heritage site to learn about the intersection of Inuit and Viking cultures.

Ready for a little adventure beyond your ship? This voyage offers a variety of recreational activities to enhance your polar experience.

FLIGHTSEEING

Imagine soaring over the polar regions from the comfort of a helicopter and enjoying the most astounding aerial views imaginable of the frozen Antarctic Ocean, of snow-capped ice ridges, massive crevices, and of melt pools ranging from cerulean to deep, spectacular turquoise. Flightseeing on polar vessels like Ultramarine provides guests with an entirely different perspective of the polar regions. Helicopters take passengers to places Zodiacs and ships can’t reach. Helicopter flightseeing typically includes 7 to 9 passengers. No experience is necessary. Bring your camera—and enthusiasm.

ICE SHEET EXPERIENCE

Ascend high above the cascading coastal glaciers onto the immense polar plateau of the Greenland Ice Sheet (the second-largest ice mass in the world) and take in the immensity of this overwhelming landscape. An excursion on one of Ultramarine‘s two twin-engine helicopters means you’ll have a view of the Ice Sheet that very few other humans have ever experienced. You’ll learn about the dynamics of this environment from our team of glaciologists while you explore this vast, seldom-visited body of ice.

ZODIAC CRUISING

Zodiacs are the workhorses of polar expeditions, taking you to places the ships can’t access, allowing you to reach remote shorelines, explore shallow inlets and search for unique wildlife. Expedition staff make stepping in and out of them safe and comfortable, and your Zodiac drivers will provide active interpretation, making the landscape come even more alive.

HIKING

Led by experienced staff, exploring on foot is one of the best ways to appreciate the polar landscapes. The guides are able to accommodate a range of skill levels. Hiking in offers a variety of terrain, both off-trail and on established paths.

PRESENTATIONS

Enjoy daily chats with and presentations by our world-class onboard polar experts—expedition guides, specialists, photography guides and other special guests who will introduce you to the fascinating history, biology, ornithology, glaciology and geology of the region, and much, much more.

POLAR PLUNGE

This rite of passage, scheduled only once per expedition, gives you the chance to jump safely into the bracing polar waters under the watchful eye of our staff—and just about every single camera on board.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Documenting your voyage so you can take the memories home is a rewarding experience. Onboard photography guides will help you hone your skills to capture the beauty of the polar regions.

SCIENCE AND DISCOVERY

THE ONBOARD Science & Discovery program offers guests the unique opportunity to engage directly with scientists and researchers and participate in citizen science activities with the expedition team to collect and record data. Activities include conducting seabird surveys on deck, documenting whale sightings, and participating in interactive water sampling activities to measure environmental conditions. This program provides travellers with rare, first-hand experiences that contribute to global scientific research and deepens their understanding of and appreciation for the polar environment.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Documenting your voyage so you can take the memories home is a rewarding experience. The onboard photography guide will help you hone your skills to capture the beauty of the polar regions.

More information about your Included Activities and Adventure Options, including the necessary experience, physical requirements and cost, is available by contacting us!

On Sale

Discounted sale prices as shown. Additional 5% discount available if paid in full at time of booking. Contact us for details!

Stewart's Take

A spectacular and rare opportunity to witness a solar eclipse in the High Arctic!

Overview

Experience the rare thrill of landing on the massive Greenland ice sheet—an exclusive highlight of this itinerary. This activity-packed voyage includes time off-ship, hiking, cruising by Zodiac, visiting local communities, camping, kayaking icy waters, and soaring above fjords and mountaintops in a twin-engine helicopter. Suited to guests of all fitness levels, you can choose how adventurous you want to be or enjoy a slower pace on board—relaxing in the spa and gym, unwinding in spacious common areas, or indulging in our Tundra to Table culinary experience

Itinerary

DAY 1 Arrive in Reykjavik Arrive in Reykjavik and transfer independently to your hotel, which is included in the Charter Flight & Hotel Package. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to explore sites of the fascinating capital, which is known for its mix of modern architecture and Viking heritage. At 64°08’ north, Reykjavik is the world’s northernmost capital of an independent sovereign state. DAY 2 Embarkation in Reykjavik This afternoon, you’ll board your vessel and begin your expedition. Get ready for a great adventure ahead. DAY 3 & 4 At Sea As we cruise north across Denmark Strait, with views of Greenland in the distance, your Expedition Team will prepare you for the adventures ahead. Our polar presentations are an excellent way to learn about the storied history of the Arctic, its fascinating wildlife, geology, glaciology, ecology, and climate, and the incredible sights that await you. The team will also help you search for seabirds soaring around your ship, as well as whales that frequent the surrounding waters. DAY 5 & 6 The Wild East As we arrive in Greenland, towering f jords and hanging glaciers grab our attention, marking our first encounter with the remote east coast. This uninhabited region offers excellent opportunities for wildlife sightings, including humpback whales and the occasional polar bear. Depending on conditions, you may explore this iceshaped landscape by sea, land, and air— through Zodiac cruising, hiking, paddling, and heli-landings. Look forward to exploring the fjords of Greenland’s east coast, including Lindenow Fjord (Kangerlussuaq). Thousands of years ago, Paleo-Inuit hunters and fishermen lived in these isolated landscapes, sustained by the sea long before European explorers and mass settlements. Traces of their presence remain today, set against cascading glaciers and steep mountains. The fjords are where you can observe plenty of wildlife, especially marine mammals. Rare sightings of polar bears are also possible as they drift down from the north on sea ice floes propelled by the East Greenland Current. Humpback whales are often sighted when entering fjords as the shallowing seas bring an upwelling of nutrients to the surface. As we watch for wildlife, the alpine terrain invites exploration by sea, land, and air, offering a fully immersive experience of this remote icescape. Conditions permitting, activities may include heli-landings, hiking, paddling, Zodiac cruising, and shore landings. DAY 7 TO 9 Arctic Patagonia We’ll transit through the scenic 105-kilometer-long Prins Christian Sund (Ikerasassuaq), and explore the dramatic fjords of South Greenland. Our team plans a visit to the village of Aappilattoq, where you can experience local culture, music, and traditional foods. The journey continues to Tasermiut Fjord—a 70-kilometer, cliff-lined waterway known as “Arctic Patagonia”— where overnight camping and excursions unfold among glaciers and towering peaks. The maze of fjords, sounds, islets, inlets, and skerries around Cape Farewell (Nunap Isua), Greenland’s southernmost tip, has a distinct character. Transiting Prins Christian Sund (Ikerasassuaq)—one of the world’s most scenic fjords—is unforgettable. Expect dramatic mountain and seascapes, with glaciers tumbling to the sea and striking views at every turn. This region is home to Southern Greenlanders living on the frontier, where migrating hunting peoples from the east eventually settled near European trading posts. The few villages in this southern region are known for communities that remain closely tied to hunting and fishing traditions. We hope to visit Aappilattoq, a close-knit Greenlandic Inuit community on the shores of Prins Christian Sund, where you’ll meet local partners and residents. Guests may have the opportunity to hear stories and music, sample traditional foods, learn about hunting practices, and perhaps even join a friendly game of soccer. Your time in Arctic Patagonia will allow you to marvel at the impressive glacier at its head, with rivers of ice tumbling toward the sea, and the imposing peaks of Nalumasortoq and Ulamertorsuaq that dominate the skyline, making for the most scenic backdrops to your hike or helicopter excursion. DAY 10 TO 12 Westlands and the Greenland Ice Sheet Following in the footsteps of the Greenlandic Norse into the western fjords, it’s easy to see why Erik the Red chose this land and gave Greenland its name. In every direction, blue, ice-strewn waters meet lush valleys and blooming pastures. Warm microclimates deep within the f jords—rare across the Arctic—create surprisingly fertile landscapes. Farming traditions dating back to Viking times continue today, with families tending remote sheep farms and producing seasonal crops along the shores. This quiet, pastoral landscape is a sharp contrast to what comes next: the Greenland Ice Sheet. With an average thickness of 1,673 meters (5,489 feet) and a maximum depth of over 3,488 meters (11,444 feet) at its thickest point, the Greenland Ice Sheet covers approximately 80% of the island. You will enjoy sweeping aerial views of the world’s second-largest ice mass from your seat in one of our helicopters—and upon landing, experience something few others humans do: set foot on the Greenland Ice Sheet. Visitors often feel unprepared for the reality and scale of the Ice Sheet, where the absence of edges—as it stretches into the horizon—and the sheer physical presence of this ancient ice crackling underfoot transforms the abstract into something deeply tangible. Tamassa, meaning “Come in everyone” or “You are welcome,” is a unique onboard cultural exchange—offered on the same day as the Ice Sheet Experience—led by South Greenlanders themselves. Moving naturally through shared spaces onboard Ultramarine, local Greenlanders connect with guests through conversation, stories, hands-on workshops, food tastings, and performances. Tamassa, in this instance, invites Greenlanders into our home, the ship. You’ll also explore Kujataa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves a remarkable legacy of Norse and Inuit farming. We also hope to visit Qassiarsuk, a small settlement across the water from Narsarsuaq, where you can experience true South Greenland hospitality and gain insight into life at the edge of the Ice Sheet. Take time to visit the remains and reconstructions of Brattahlíð, Erik the Red’s estate and once the heart of the Norse Eastern Settlement. DAY 13 At Sea We’ll head north along the spectacular west coast of Greenland on our way to Nuuk. As your Arctic adventure winds down, you can take in a polar presentation by our onboard experts, share your photos, sip an icy cocktail in the bar, or watch a movie. This is a great opportunity to ask members of the Expedition Team any remaining questions you have about any aspect of your voyage. DAY 14 Disembarkation, visit Nuuk, flight to Reykjavik Upon arriving in Greenland’s capital, enjoy one more Zodiac ride to shore for the group transfer to the airport to catch your charter flight to Reykjavik, Iceland. Upon arrival in Reykjavik, we will transfer you to your hotel. Both your hotel and charter flight are included in the Charter Flight & Hotel Package. DAY 15 Depart Reykjavik After breakfast at your included hotel, make your way to Keflavik International Airport for your onward f light, or continue exploring Reykjavik at your leisure

Greenland Camp Experience

Join local hosts at one of the most exclusive camps in Greenland. Our local guides will lead you on an immersive experience through the wonders of their homeland. Spend ample time, in intimate groups, walking through the beautiful landscapes and remote fjords, roam the tundra with a local chef who will show you local ingredients and then prepare an incredible meal. Overnight at the camp and, if conditions are right, experience the magnificent colours of the polar twilight which will bring the beautiful mountainous surroundings into full effect. Accommodation at the camp is in shared two-person tents. Groups traveling together in pairs will share a tent, and individual travelers will be assigned to a tent with another guest of the same gender.

Tundra to Table Culinary Experience

Our ground-breaking Tundra to Table experience offers guests a one-of-a-kind adventure into the culinary traditions of the Inuit in Greenland and Nunavut. Guests who participate in this on-ship optional add-on will enjoy dishes from these Arctic regions prepared by Inuit chefs, and learn about local Inuit culture and culinary traditions. Guests will enjoy four courses of modern fusion-style cuisine during a dinner hosted by Inuit or Icelandic chefs, who will talk about the origins of the food and elements of Inuit cooking. The dinner, featuring regional tableware, will include cultural storytelling. Guests will join two tables at the front of Balena restaurant on Ultramarine. Participants will have a choice between meat or fish between two of four courses.

Vessel

Luxury Expedition Vessel: Ultramarine

Ultramarine

The newest ship in Quark's fleet, Ultramarine, is designed to go beyond the familiar in polar exploration, to discover new places, and to immerse you in the best the region has to offer. This outstanding vessel offers the widest range of adventure activities in the industry, the most spacious suites in its category, breathtaking public spaces, and more outdoor wildlife viewing spaces than other expedition ships its size. It also features an innovative mix of sustainability features that exceed all industry standards. With all this and more, Ultramarine is set to give you the ultimate polar expedition experience!

For full information about this vessel click here:

Booking Information

Essential Information

Rates and Share Bookings

Prices shown are per person on a shared basis. If you are travelling alone and wish to share, you will be matched with someone of the same gender at share rate. If desired, Single occupancy may be available in dedicated solo category cabins, or at 1.7 times the twin share rate for standard twin cabins (or twice the share rate for premium cabins or suites).

Deposit

Reservations require a deposit of 25% at the time you receive a booking confirmation from Expeditions Online. A payment link will be sent to you and this may be paid by major credit card. Bookings made within 90 days of departure require 100% payment.

Final Payment

Balances are due 90 days prior to departure and may be paid by bank transfer.

Cancellation

There is free cancellation if you change your mind within 15 days of booking. Should you need to cancel after this, the following cancellation fees apply - however these are eligible to be applied to a future voyage booked within 1 year of cancellation date. All requests for cancellation must be received in writing to Expeditions Online. Within (and including) 15 days after the date the Booking Confirmation is issued (where the booking is confirmed more than 180 days prior to Day 1 of the Expedition): Free cancellation save for any non-refundable items identified to you or set out in the Booking Confirmation 

From (and including) 16 days after the date the Booking Confirmation is issued up to (and including) 90 days prior to Day 1 of the Expedition: 25% of the total booking amount as specified in the Booking Confirmation or (as applicable) the New Booking Confirmation.

89 or less prior to Day 1 of the Expedition (including any cancellation after the Expedition has started): 100% of the total booking amount as specified in the Booking Confirmation or (as applicable) the New Booking Confirmation.

If full payment has not yet been received, the full penalty will still apply, and any unpaid balance is due immediately. To protect your investment, we highly recommend that you obtain adequate trip cancellation insurance!

Refund Guarantee.

We will of course refund all monies paid should the voyage itself be cancelled for any reason. All client monies paid to Expeditions Online are protected under consumer laws by a Travel Guarantee bond placed with the Swedish Legal, Financial and Administrative Services Agency (Kammarkollegiet). 

No surcharges - ever.

For peace of mind, the shipping company will not apply fuel or any other surcharges—for any reason—to a booking once it’s confirmed. The price you book, is the price you pay.

Booking Terms

Please read carefully the Terms and Conditions for Expeditions Online (link at the bottom of this page). This voyage is operated by Quark Expeditions and you additionally travel under their terms and conditions as the operator as well as of the Shipping Company/transport carrier. Details will be forwarded to you at the time of booking

Included

  • An expedition parka to keep
  • A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions
  • Two helicopter excursions: Flightseeing and Ice Sheet Experience
  • One 10-15 minute heli flightseeing excursion
  • One helicopter-supported Greenland Ice Sheet Experience
  • Leadership throughout your voyage by 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
  • Complimentary select beer, wines and cocktails during bar service hours and dinner
  • 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
  • Hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi service on one device permitting basic Internet browsing, email, posting on social media and voice applications. (Premium packages are available for more data-intensive applications.) Note: Internet access in the polar regions is subject to geography, climate, and other factors beyond control.
  • All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program
  • All luggage handling aboard the ship
  • Greenland voyages cruise passenger tax
  • One night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Reykjavik (breakfast included)
  • Charter flights between Nuuk and Reykjavik
  • Group transfers between the Reykjavik airport and the ship
  • Group transfer from Reykjavik airport to hotel on disembarkation day
  • One night’s post-expedition hotel (breakfast included)

Excluded

  • Charter Flight & Hotel Package*
  • International airfare
  • Arrival transfers in Reykjavik
  • Passport and applicable visa expenses
  • Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned
  • Baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended
  • Excess-baggage fees on international and domestic f lights
  • Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac landing and cruising excursions, or any other gear not mentioned
  • Laundry, bar, spa and other personal charges, unless specified
  • Phone charges may vary by location
  • Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for expedition staff and shipboard crew
  • Additional overnight accommodation
  • Adventure Options not listed in Included Activities
*CHARTER FLIGHT AND HOTEL PACKAGE $995 USD
  • One night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Reykjavik (breakfast included)
  • Charter flights between Nuuk and Reykjavik
  • Group transfers between the Reykjavik airport and the ship
  • Group transfer from Reykjavik airport to hotel on disembarkation day
  • One night’s post-expedition hotel (breakfast included)
Booking Request
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