From majestic glaciers and icebergs floating in deep-blue water to the island’s unique indigenous wildlife, the natural wonders of Greenland are the stars of this soft adventure voyage. Whales and seals often accompany the OCEAN DIAMOND, while musk oxen graze ashore.
Day 1 Reykjavik
Our optional Air & Ground package (prices for 2021 on request) provides a convenient arrival. Use your leisure time in Reykjavik to discover the unique charm of the world’s northernmost capital and book one of our pre-programs. Or explore the sights of south and west Iceland on a self-drive road trip (prices upon request). The OCEAN DIAMOND docks in Old Reykjavik Harbor in the heart of the city, a five-minute stroll from the main squares, shopping and dining. The ship departs in the evening.
Day 2 Day at Sea/Denmark Strait
Today we sail across the Denmark Strait towards Greenland, following the same maritime route used by Norse settlers more than 900 years ago. En-route you can attend fascinating presentations by our Expedition Team members to prepare for your visit to Greenland. Or of course, you can choose to just relax and watch whales, dolphins and seabirds from the deck of your cabin.
Day 3 Ammassalik Island
The island is characterized by several glaciers, jagged peaks, rivers, lakes and waterfalls. There are vast green valleys and deep fjords with newly calved icebergs dropping off the ice cap into the sea. Tasiilaq, the largest town in East Greenland, is located on Ammassalik Island. With its population of approximately 2,000 people, the town is the gateway to explore East Greenland.
Day 4 Skjoldungen Fjord
The Skjoldungen Fjord is bordered by towering mountains tipped with snow, ice-scraped valley sides with serpentine rivers of ice plunging into the sea. It is highly likely that the fjord was inhabited by Paleo-Eskimo (Inuit) nomadic people as early as 4,000 years ago. Surrounded by wild and pristine nature, it is quite common to see whales, bearded seals and various kinds of birds in the area.
Day 5 Day at Sea/Prins Christian Sound
When conditions are favorable we travel along the 70 mile (112 km) long Prins Christian Sound which connects the Labrador and Irminger Seas. In this narrow, often ice-choked channel, we come so close to icebergs you can almost reach out and touch one. The force of Greenland’s massive, inland ice cap pushes glaciers towards the sea, where large hunks of ice break off and become floating icebergs.
Day 6 Narsarsuaq
Very close to the town of Narsarsuaq lies the small settlement of Qassiarsuk, founded by the legendary Viking rebel and leader Erik the Red. He named this area “green land” because the landscape around Qassiarsuk is characterized by inviting fjords and green, fertile valleys. During this stop you have the opportunity to learn more about the lives of the early Norse settlers and visit the reconstructions of a Viking longhouse and a small turf church.
Day 7 Nuuk
With 16,000 inhabitants Nuuk is both the capital and the biggest city of Greenland. It combines Arctic traditions with European urbanity. Visit the city sights on a walking tour that ends at the National Museum, which exhibits the famous mummies of Qilakitsoq.
Day 8 Sisimiut
With approx. 5,600 inhabitants, Sisimiut is the second largest town in Greenland. It is a modern settlement that maintains ancient traditions. The fishing industry still plays an important role. The natural harbor remains ice-free throughout the year which made it an attractive location for European whalers in former times.
Day 9 Ilulissat
In the morning we reach Ilulissat village in fabled Disko Bay. Ilulissat is located beside the Ilulissat Icefjord. Delight in the thunderous spectacle when icebergs break off from Sermeq Kujalleq glacier and plunge into the fjord. Sermeq Kujalleq is one of the most productive glaciers in the northern hemisphere.
Day 10 Uummannaq
Uummannaq is considered one of the most beautiful towns in Greenland. Located on a small island about 300 miles (483 km) north of the Arctic Circle, this tiny, picturesque village lies at the foot of a heart-shaped mountain.
Day 11 Disko Bay/Qeqertarsuaq
The small settlement of Qeqertarsuaq is located on the South Coast off Disko Island. In 1773 the first whaling base was founded. Whaling has been of great importance to the town over the past two centuries. Hunting and fishing are still the primary occupations for the island’s inhabitants.
Day 12 Kangerlussuaq
In the morning we reach the 120-mile (190 km) Kangerlussuaq Fjord and the town of the same name. It’s time to say goodbye to the OCEAN DIAMOND. Take a look at our Air & Ground package or this tour to enjoy a comfortable journey home (prices for 2021 on request).
Please note: Please contact your Iceland ProCruises agent regarding flight arrival time from Kangerlussuaq before you book your return flight from Keflavik.
