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Greenland & Iceland Cruises

The land of fire & ice and greenland’s hinterlands inspire unforgettable arctic circle adventures.

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Majestic Landscapes

Our Greenland & Iceland cruises bring you to the edge of the Arctic Circle and fill your days with magnificent fjords, dramatic natural wonders and outdoor adventures on these remote North Atlantic island countries. Cruise Iceland, the Land of Fire and Ice, to experience the famed Blue Lagoon, the popular Golden Circle route, Reykjavik’s Viking Settlement Exhibition, stark lava fields, volcanoes, glaciers and much more. Meanwhile, the shores of Greenland give way to sparsely populated hinterlands, impressive fjord systems, the colonial harbor of Nuuk and Paamiut’s rich Inuit culture.

Greenland & Iceland Special Offers

From insider tours of this region’s boundless natural wonders and immersions in local communities to fascinating historical explorations, our Greenland & Iceland shore excursions bring you the best of the local attractions, culture and history. More extended evening stays across the region give you the chance to immerse yourself in Greenland & Iceland with in-depth explorations, adventures ashore and leisurely, meaningful touring.

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Baltic & Scandinavia Ports

Extend your stay before or after your Greenland & Iceland cruise at one of these luxurious hotels, carefully selected for their superb location, ambiance, world-class standards of service, cuisine and amenities. Our hotel packages include free air date changes up to 3 days before or after your cruise; free transfers between the airport, hotel and ship; and porterage. You’ll also enjoy the services of our exclusive Oceania Cruises hospitality desk at each hotel.

Featured Greenland & Iceland Hotels

Grand Hotel Reykjavik

Reykjavik, iceland.

Grand Hotel Reykjavik is a first-class hotel for travelers who demand excellent service and facilities. As the largest hotel in Iceland, Grand Hotel Reykjavik features more than 300 rooms and is situated in an ideal location in the city – a quiet area and yet close to services, restaurants and recreation. All of the hotel rooms are very spacious and equipped with desirable amenities. The hotel restaurant, Brasserie Grand, offers a varied menu to suit every need. The chefs create both international delights and mouth-watering, fresh Icelandic seafood specialties. The wine list includes a wide range of internationally recognized choices.

LOTTE NEW YORK PALACE

New york, united states.

With a nod to its illustrious past, Lotte New York Palace has taken an ambitious leap into the future by combining old-world elegance with present-day luxury. Lotte New York Palace turned an iconic New York City property from a historic Madison Avenue gem to Midtown’s premier modern hotel. This Midtown Manhattan hotel features 909 rooms and suites – including 176 spacious Towers accommodations – which provide the perfect setting for relaxation and inspired stays in New York City. Unique dining venues, such as the newly opened VILLARD Restaurant and Pomme Palais, offer everything from imaginative breakfast dishes to signature pastries and sandwiches. The hotel’s famed Villard Mansion built in 1882 is recognized as a New York City landmark and gracefully blends with a contemporary 55-story tower. The Madison Avenue Courtyard provides a dramatic entryway to the hotel’s grand lobby.

Our Iceland Pre- and Post-Cruise Land Programs invite you to immerse yourself in the culture and spectacular natural beauty of this region. These multi-day, in-depth Land Programs include exclusive tours, premium hotel stays, airport transfers when arriving and departing the day your program begins and ends, and often times locally inspired meals and porterage too.

Greenland & Iceland Land Programs

Super Jeep Adventure: The South Shore

Set off on a thrill-seeking exploration of the Icelandic wilds in a 4x4 Super Jeep and a snowmobile. This four-day adventure is punctuated with visits to hot springs, ancient glaciers, lagoons, roaring waterfalls and mountain lakes in Thingvellir National Park, Langjökull, Hafnarfjörður and several other unique locations in the Icelandic highlands.

• 2 nights at the Hilton Hotel or similar
• 1 night at the Land Hotel or similar (standard room)
• Lunches (1 drink included)
• Day tours and admission fees per the program itinerary
• Excess luggage storage in Reykjavik

Today’s Featured Greenland & Iceland Cruises

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From the Oceania Cruises Blog

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Greenland Cruises & Tours

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Greenland Travel Guide

• Aurora Borealis: Known also as "the Northern Lights," you'll have a front row seat to this natural marvel, as the neon rainbow dances across the Arctic sky.
• Whale watching : The majestic humpback and Greenland whales can be seen breaching here in these icy waters.
• Sailing past icebergs bigger than houses along the Coast of South Greenland.
• Trekking across glaciers that have helped form the country or exploring the Polar seas by Zodiacs  around the world's biggest fjord system in Scoresbysund .
• A visit to some of the most secluded parts of the northern hemisphere and expeditions to traditional fishing villages .
• A cruise through the legendary Northwest Passage .
• Discovery of the ancient ways of the Vikings, who made Greenland their base, just like you will.

Explore the World’s Largest Island on a Greenland Cruise!

The best times to visit greenland, arctic cruise: when to go, wildlife guide to polar regions, best greenland small ship cruise lines for 2024-2025.

• ​ Silversea Cruises  -  is a luxury cruise line owned by Royal Caribbean Group and headquartered in Monaco, pioneer of all-inclusive cruising. Tour Greenland’s most coveted destinations from Kangerlussuaq. Explore the uniquely Greenlandic character of the country’s capital, Nuuk, to the still waters and eerie silence of the Uumanaq Fjord, on a voyage aboard the  Silver Wind . 
• Ponant  - has purposefully designed ships to welcome a limited number of guests with 32 to 132 staterooms. Its nine ships offer comfort comparable to the finest luxury hotels. Discover the extreme northeast of Greenland on the liquefied natural gas (LNG) fueled  Le Commandant Charcot , the first hybrid electric polar exploration vessel.
• Oceanwide Expeditions   - aim   to take you off the ship and into action as often as possible. Its sea routes are short and direct, allowing for maximum shore time, and activities are designed to accommodate a wide range of experience and fitness levels. Join  Rembrandt van Rijn  on a cruise to Greenland to meet a world where European culture combines with the Inuit in a beautiful landscape of ice, rock, and the sea. 
• Quark Expeditions  -  has been a leader in polar adventure, forever driven to forge new paths in polar explorations. On the   Ultramarine , visit indigenous communities in Nunavut and Greenland for a richer and more intimate glimpse of what life in the Arctic is really like. 
• Adventure Canada  -  is   a leader in expedition cruising with a deep commitment to safety. Their staff is rigorously trained and certified for their roles, and crews have lifetimes of experience. Enjoy the stunning mountain scenery of Kangerlussuaq Fjord (Søndre Strømfjord) as you sail south from Kangerlussuaq to the Baffin Bay aboard the  Ocean Endeavour .
• Lindblad Expeditions  -  has   ships that feature comfortable cabins, a lounge, a library, and wellness services so that you can unwind after an active day. Chefs on board create delicious meals that reflect the cuisine of the regions we visit using fresh, local, and sustainable ingredients wherever possible. Embark the  National Geographic Resolution  for a true polar exploration to discover the Northeast Greenland National Park, West Greenland, and the towering icebergs of UNESCO World Heritage Ilulissat Icefjord.
• Aurora Expeditions  -  offers customizable itineraries. If weather or sea ice prevents travel, Plan B, C, and D are available. They are constantly on the hunt for new locations to explore and are not hesitant to adjust their schedules to take advantage of unexpected wildlife displays. On the  Greg Mortimer , encounter summer in Greenland when 24-hours of sunlight can still be experienced above the Arctic Circle where migratory birds arrive at nest and whale numbers are at their greatest.
• Hurtigruten  -  goes beyond the usual highlights and iconic cities, going further to remote communities, hidden vistas, and rare wildlife few get to see.  MS Fram  allows you to experience places few others ever visit, whether that’s the silent vastness of Northeast Greenland National Park, on an island beach in remote Disko Bay, or deep within a mist-shrouded fjord. 
• Iceland Pro Cruises  -  is part of the   Iceland ProTravel Group, the leading tour operator in Europe, specializing in Iceland. The  MS Seaventure  has been assigned the highest ice class for passenger ships. A greater density of steel plates in the hull and a massive stem are just two elements that allow the expedition ship to glide safely through the waters.
• Poseidon Expeditions  -  is a leading provider of polar expeditions in the cruise business, founded in 1999. The   Sea Spirit  offers 114 guests large cabins and the friendliness of small ships. An ice-hardened hull, Zodiacs, and retractable fin stabilizers make this ship a breeze to sail.

Greenland Travel FAQs & Tips

Greenland travel reviews & stories, expedition to the top of the world, mary's mother-daughter greenland tour, top greenland travel destinations, greenland trips by departure date.

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Stretching approximately 2,800 kilometres (1,750 miles) from north to south and approximately 1,000 kilometres (625 miles) from east to west, Greenland is the world’s biggest island. Some do claim that Australia is a bigger island, but according to international definitions, Australia is regarded as a continent. East Greenland is just a short flight from Iceland, but its culture and landscapes are a world away. In a land dominated by the Ice Cap and impossibly steep mountain ranges, 3,500 people have made it their home. Their culture is born from myths and legends, often expressed in bone and rock carvings, but at the same time it is a globally connected culture with strong hunting roots and an everyday spirit of adventure. Discover Scoresbysund where you can paddle and Zodiac cruise along one of the world’s longest, largest and deepest fjord systems. At Ittoqqortoormiit, visit Greenland’s most remote settlement, home to approximately 450 mostly Inuit, people.South Greenland lives up to its name as it is truly a ‘green land’. It is a land of jagged mountains and green pastures where sheep farms directly border ice fjords, and Norse settlement history intertwines with modern fishing and hunting communities. Natural hot springs on a remote island, big wall climbing, and fjord kayaking abound in South Greenland.

Greenland’s capital, Nuuk, located in West Greenland is an arctic metropolis with a small-town feel, shaped by nature and known for its cultural diversity. While Nuuk is the colourful heart of this nation, the smaller communities of Paamiut south of the capital and Kapisillit in the Nuuk Fjord, are places to kick back and spend time in the outdoors. From the Disko Bay area in central West Greenland to the polar extremes of the far north, the scale of North Greenland is hard to fathom. Along a coastline stretching thousands of miles lie small communities based on hunting and fishing, in a land ruled by the Polar Night in winter and the summer’s Midnight Sun. From the strange volcanic rocks along the hiking trails on Qeqertarsuaq, the constant flow of massive icebergs from one of the world’s fastest flowing glaciers in Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Listed site, the diverse landscapes and superb whale and bird-watching opportunities in Disko Bay, makes West Greenland an ideal place to experience an expedition cruise.

At Aurora Expeditions, we have many Greenland cruises for you to explore Greenland in-depth, including West Greenland Explorer as voted by you! Explore the real world.

Greenland Cruises & Expeditions

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Greenland Cruises

Embark on a cruise adventure to the remote coastal regions of Greenland, where you will experience a pristine natural environment that is uniquely Arctic . Situated between the Arctic and Atlantic oceans, east of the Canadian Arctic Archipelago and a part of the Arctic Circle, Greenland is an exciting destination for adventurous travellers.

Aurora Expeditions’ cruises are made for rugged explorers who are excited to experience the magic of the Greenland wilderness. Our Expedition Team provides Greenland tours for those with a keen sense of adventure and a desire to immerse themselves in the natural environment.

• Expeditions

Destination Highlights

Wild Landscapes of West Greenland

USD $ 19,436.00

Southern Greenland: On the Trail of the Vikings

USD $ 14,956.00

Traversing the Northwest Passage

USD $ 35,005.50

Northern Lights Explorer

USD $ 17,815.50

Northwest Passage

USD $ 19,970.75

Greenland Odyssey

USD $ 16,716.00

Jewels of the Arctic

USD $ 14,190.75

Arctic Complete – Svalbard, Greenland & Iceland

USD $ 22,435.75

Why Join a Greenland Expedition Cruise?

As one of the best known Arctic islands, Greenland is a remarkable destination that leaves its imprint in ways not entirely explainable. Whether you’re exploring the East, West or South, our Greenland Expeditions reveal the beauty of the world’s largest island.

Many people still have misconceptions about this alluring Arctic nation. For one, despite being almost completely covered by the Greenland Ice Sheet, there is more to Greenland than glaciers and ice. It is a nation with layers of culture and history that will unfold before you. Greenland has one of the world’s smallest populations, with approximately 56,500 inhabitants. Today, 88% of Greenland’s population is Inuit (predominantly Kalaallit) or a mix of Danish and Inuit. The remaining 12% are of European descent, mainly Danish.

A trip to Greenland takes you to one of the planet’s last great wildernesses, a remote land of ice and snow. Offering remarkable landscapes, exceptional wildlife, iceberg-filled fjords, majestic peaks, vast tundra, Viking history and contemporary Inuit culture, Greenland is truly unlike anywhere else in the world. The fjords and mountains of Greenland are where life is concentrated. Summer is the best time to visit Greenland – when wildflowers are in full bloom, birds start breeding and wildlife sightings are most common. If you’re lucky you can observe bands of caribou, musk oxen, Arctic foxes and polar bears. Seals, walruses and many species of whales including humpbacks, orcas and white belugas also gather near its shores.

In Greenland, tiny, isolated communities are scattered among the fjords, accessible only by small plane (or helicopter when there is no room for a runway), boat, kayak, afoot or by dogsled in winter. Discover this fascinating country’s hidden secrets as you traverse its waters and embark on unforgettable adventures.

Greenland Wildlife Encounters

Greenland is a biodiversity hotspot, and wildlife encounters are expected throughout the cruise. The rugged terrain and sea ice you’ll enjoy panoramic views of throughout our Greenland Arctic expedition provide a unique habitat for the wildlife that lives here. Our Expedition Team includes onboard naturalists that will educate and guide you through your wildlife encounters both on land and at sea.

A largely remote wilderness, Greenland’s unique natural habitats provide a home for a plethora of captivating wildlife. Some highlights for lucky travellers include polar bears, Arctic foxes, reindeer, Arctic hares, humpback whales, blue whales, fin whales, narwhals, ringed seals, countless Arctic bird species and one of the largest populations of muskoxen.

Visit Greenland on an Aurora Expeditions cruise for whale watching, opportunities to see the majestic polar bear and much more.

Unique Greenland Experiences

Being polar expeditions, our Greenland tours include truly once-in-a-lifetime experiences. A cruise in the Arctic Circle around Greenland provides a rare opportunity to take a polar plunge, embark on Zodiac cruises through the ice sheet, and observe unique geological formations and breathtaking scenery on trips ashore.

Our Greenland expedition experts can also take you on optional excursions via our comprehensive activity program . You might want to try an unforgettable journey on our sea kayaks, rock climbing the rugged cliffs of one of the national parks or scuba diving in the polar regions of the Arctic. If you would like to learn more about the included or optional activities, please contact us , we’re here to help!

Greenland Tour Regions

East Greenland

East Greenland is one of the most isolated areas in Greenland and offers fantastic possibilities for big adventures. In East Greenland jagged mountains rise from the sea and giant white and blue icebergs float in deep fjords. Only 120 years ago, there was no connection between West and East Greenland. Therefore, culture and traditions are different to the ones in the west and it is also why East Greenlanders speak a different language. Discover the fascinating geology of the Skaergaard Intrusion, enjoy Zodiac cruises among icebergs and hike through one-of-a-kind tundra.

South Greenland

South Greenland travel also provides opportunities for adventure. Temperatures in southern Greenland are higher than in the rest of the country, sometimes even reaching up to 20° Celsius during summer. The landscapes are greener and the ground more fertile, with many farms along its coast. The area is full of contrasts between the green shades of the landscape and the myriad of blues that paint the ice. The region is popular for those keen on an adventure. Experience hiking tours or go kayaking to see whales and other wildlife. It is easy to take individual trips because the settlements are close to each other with great boat connections. See for yourself when you cruise Prince Christian Sound (Prins Christian Sund), flanked by imposing mountains, where the Viking ruins of Erik the Red still stand from the Middle Ages.

West Greenland

West Greenland is the most populated region of the country, containing the nation’s capital, Nuuk, the starting point for most travellers’ on their Greenland adventures. Here, you can visit the largest ice cap in the northern hemisphere, Ilulissat Icefjord. This UNESCO-listed 55km-long natural sculpture park boasts countless jaw-dropping icebergs. Explore untamed nature on foot or from water level in a kayak or Zodiac. Stop at remote villages along the West Greenland coastline to learn about the traditional lifestyle. Historically West Greenland was known for its fishing and hunting industries, which are still an integral part of the local way of life.

West Greenland is also home to Disko Bay, a large and significant bay on the west coast, steeped in history. Its nutrient-rich waters have made it the perfect home for a wide range of species. Disko Bay is a great place for whale watching and kayaking, with a number of different species of whales visiting the bay during the springtime. Disko Bay also attracts migratory seals that use the teaming waters of the bay to feed.

North Greenland

North Greenland is home to the harsh realities of the Arctic Islands. It’s the land of the polar nights in the winter and of the midnight sun in the summer. The midnight sun is a natural phenomenon in the Arctic Circle where the sun remains visible throughout the night and day. During the winter months however, North Greenland is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights because of the long nights, with the dark skies making the perfect backdrop to showcase the lights in all their colours. The area is also known for its dog sledding which is common amongst the locals and a fun experience for tourists.

Greenland Expedition Cruise Activities

Visit Greenland with Aurora Expeditions and our Expedition Team will take you on excursions unique to the High Arctic, fully included in the cost of your expedition. For those interested in a little extra excitement, there are optional activities* designed to get you closer to the action.  Our Greenland expeditions provide a mix of comfort and adventure; for those willing to explore this incredible Arctic destination the memories will last a lifetime.

Bird Watching

Photography

Polar plunge

Trips ashore

Whale and mammal spotting

Zodiac cruises

Lecture on wildlife, our environment, history and destinations

Add-on Activities

Sea Kayaking

Sea Kayaking is one of the most exhilarating ways to experience Antarctica, the Arctic and beyond. Sea kayaking holidays in the humbling…

*Optional add-on activities are available on select voyages. They are listed on each itinerary page and additional fees apply. 

Greenland Cruises FAQs

The cost of a cruise to Greenland with Aurora Expeditions varies based on factors such as the duration of the expedition, the type of cabin chosen and the specific itinerary. Prices generally start from US $17,595 per person – please check our expeditions listed above for more pricing information. Each expedition includes various inclusions like meals, excursions and expert guides, adding value to the overall experience. Plan and explore our expeditions to find a cruise that suits your preferences and budget.

The duration of a cruise to Greenland with Aurora Expeditions varies depending on the specific itinerary chosen. Expeditions to Greenland typically range from 13 to 17 days, allowing travellers to immerse themselves in the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of the region. Our itineraries are carefully crafted to include highlights such as fjords, glaciers and cultural sites, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of this enchanting Arctic destination. For precise information on the duration of a specific cruise, we recommend that you refer to our detailed itineraries on our official website or contact our friendly team directly.

For a Greenland cruise with Aurora Expeditions, packing essentials include layered clothing for varying temperatures, waterproof outerwear, sturdy and comfortable walking shoes, gloves and a hat. Remember essentials like sunglasses, sunscreen and a camera for capturing the stunning Arctic landscapes. Packing formal wear for onboard events and considering bringing binoculars for wildlife observation is advisable. Check our guide here on what to pack for a trip to the polar regions. Aurora Expeditions also provides a detailed packing list for each specific voyage, so it’s recommended to check their guidelines. Additionally, packing adaptable clothing for the dynamic weather conditions ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience while exploring Greenland’s unique and remote environments.

A Greenland cruise with Aurora Expeditions features Arctic landscapes, colossal glaciers and vibrant wildlife that offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. These expeditions provide opportunities for close encounters with polar bears, whales and other unique species. Aurora Expeditions ensures expert guides, immersive cultural experiences and comfortable accommodations on ice-strengthened vessels. The carefully crafted itineraries showcase Greenland’s awe-inspiring beauty, including fjords and historical sites. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, adventure seeker, or cultural explorer, a Greenland cruise promises an unforgettable journey, making it a truly worthwhile and enriching expedition into one of the world’s most pristine and captivating destinations.

Depending on your chosen voyage, there are several starting points for our Greenland expeditions, including Norway, Iceland and Canada. Be sure to check each specific expedition for more information.

The optimal time for a Greenland cruise or expedition is during the Arctic summer, generally from June to August. This period offers milder temperatures, wildlife activity and optimal conditions for exploring Greenland’s stunning landscapes. The midnight sun ensures extended daylight hours, enhancing the overall experience. While each month has its unique charm, early summer may provide access to more ice-covered areas, while late summer showcases vibrant flora. Aurora Expeditions carefully plans its itineraries to align with the best seasonal conditions, offering an unforgettable adventure during the warmer months when Greenland’s beauty is in full bloom.

Travellers visiting Greenland should consider several health factors . Consult with a healthcare professional before the expedition to ensure vaccinations are up-to-date. Cold temperatures and potential exposure require appropriate clothing and gear. Travel insurance covering medical evacuation is advisable. Aurora Expeditions prioritises passenger safety and their experienced team guides health and safety measures. It’s crucial to disclose any medical conditions to the expedition staff for proper assistance. Ultimately, thorough preparation and adherence to recommended health guidelines contribute to a safe and enjoyable journey to Greenland.

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Greenland Cruises

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Discover Natural Wonders on a Greenland Cruise

Lying between the North Atlantic and Arctic oceans , much of Greenland’s surface is covered in ice, with its sparse populace nestled on the ice-free, fjord-lined coast to the southwest. Situated largely above the Arctic Circle, the island offers stunning landscapes and natural phenomena such as the summer’s midnight sun. There's nothing more spectacular than a Greenland cruise.

The old saying goes, “When you've seen the world, there's always Greenland,” but there are many reasons to make the trip much sooner. Greenland may be remote, but it's a natural masterpiece ideal for an Arctic cruise. Cruise to Iceland and Greenland, where dramatic fjords, imposing mountains and majestic icebergs are a feature of the unspoilt landscapes here, providing a haven for an amazing array of wildlife such as whales, seabirds, seals and reindeer.[ReadMoreDesk][ReadMoreMob]

Greenland's history and culture

Cruise to Greenland from UK and explore one of the world’s smallest capitals: cosmopolitan Nuuk. The city offers a mix of intriguing museums and more history can be found at the Viking ruins in Narsarsuaq and Qassiarsuk, and at Qaqortoq’s small Inuit (Eskimo) Museum.

The unique blend of Inuit and Danish ancestry has produced a Greenlandic culture all of its own. Experience the ways of traditional life, which are still well and truly present in some areas. A cruise to Greenland offers a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture. Dog sledding and fishing are still typically used in some areas whilst Greenlandic art and handicrafts, such as carvings, prints, and textiles, are highly valued around the world. Cruises to the fjords of Greenland are something special and time in each destination should be taken to unwind and witness some of this land’s most dazzling natural experiences.

Cruises to Greenland

Scenic Wonders & Wildlife of Canada & Greenland • T2417

• Experience icebergs and glaciers in Greenland
• Perhaps spot a polar bear in Nunavut
• Learn about the Olsen family links with L'Anse aux Meadows
• 2 offers available

Exploring Rugged & Remote Greenland & Iceland • T2518

• Discover the wild and rugged landscapes of Iceland and Greenland
• Experience the Inuit community tradition of kaffemik
• Enjoy scenic cruising of Tasermiut and Tunulliarfik fjords
• 1 offer available

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15 Night Greenland Cruise

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Solarium Bar

Day 1: boston, massachusetts.

Time Travel

Two If By Sea

Steeped In History

Local Cuisine

Day 2: Cruising

Sports Court

Spa & Fitness Center

Day 3: sydney, nova scotia.

popular Shore Excursions

Amazing experiences coming soon..

Answer the Call

Dance Like It's 1744

Celtic Sojourn

Day 4: Halifax, Nova Scotia

Hit the High Seas

Light It Up

Titanic Adventure

Day 5 - 6: Cruising

Main Dining Room

Café Latte-tudes

Room Service

Day 7: nanortalik, greenland.

Dive Into Adventures

Take a Warm Bath

Discover Greenland's Past

LOCAL CUISINE

Day 8: Qaqortoq, Greenland

Take Your Bath Outside

Norse Knowledge

Art, On The Rocks

Day 9: Cruising

West End to Broadway

Outdoor Movie Nights

Day 10: Nuuk, Greenland

Step Back in Time

Aging Architecture

Day 11 - 12: Cruising

Day 13: st. john's, newfoundland.

Hit the Bay

Put On Your Walking Shoes

Quench Your Thirst

Day 14 - 15: Cruising

Day 16: boston, massachusetts.

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Greenland Cruises

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Explore our list of 34 cruises

If it is a magical experience, it's definitely a cruise to Greenland . Majestic icebergs, glaciers and iconic fjords, exceptional fauna, visits to traditional villages and meeting Inuits all will contribute to the complete relaxation and enchantment of the trip. 

All about cruises Greenland

Inuit spring of Ammassalik

Inuit spring at the edge of Scoresby Sound

Northeast Greenland's unexplored sea ice

Greenland of Great Explorers

In the ice of the Arctic, from Greenland to Svalbard

Baffin Bay Secrets

Expedition to the Thule Region

Expedition from Greenland to Canada via Saint Pierre and Miquelon

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Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.

1 888 400 1082 or contact your travel advisor

Highlights - Greenland

This is a land where time seems to hold no sway. It's a land that seems forgotten, an inaccessible corner of the world. For centuries, however, it has been the land of the Inuits and refuge for rich wildlife. Immense landscapes where the icebergs cut through the waters with their changing colours and spectacular fjords complete these wonderful scenes. Here are the experiences not to be missed during a cruise in Greenland . .

Essential - Greenland

What essential information do you need when visiting Greenland ? Here is a practical guide to help your exploration of this vast region and familiarise you with the customs of the inhabitants.

Explore Greenland

Introducing the Inuit

Polar sea kayaking

The History of the Polar Practice of Dog Sledding

This is a land where time seems to hold no sway. It's a land that seems forgotten, an inaccessible corner of the world. For centuries, however, it has been the land of the Inuits and refuge for rich wildlife. Immense landscapes where the icebergs cut through the waters with their changing colours and spectacular fjords complete these wonderful scenes. Here are the experiences not to be missed during a cruise in Greenland .

Meet Inuits

A stop at the museum of the history of the Inuit people in the charming village of Sisimiut takes the visitor back 4,000 years in time. Archaeological digs, crafts and collections of tools and objects from daily life take you back through history. An essential glimpse before meeting these people with their age-old culture . Skilled artisans and outstanding hunters, they continue their traditional way of life in the heart of these extreme lands.

Watch whales

The mirror surface of the water trembles. A fin appears. Then a jet of water. The humpback whales are here. In Disko Bay where they come to eat, they slalom between the icebergs and other ice blocks, offering a graceful spectacle. The strength of this aquatic ballet is emphasised by the unique landscape, where the spectacular Qeqertarsuaq cliffs rise to 1,000m above sea level.

Visit Qaanaaq

Small blocks of ice collapse on the coast. Low houses in blue, yellow or red, stand out from the hillside. The sled dogs await the next trip onto the ice floe. In Qaanaaq , Greenland's northernmost town, time seems to be on pause. Hunting is the main source of subsistence for the some 600 inhabitants, who have lived here since the 1950s. For centuries, they lived 100km further south in the village of Umanaq. But the American established an air base here during the Cold War, forcing the communities to leave their ancestral lands.

Admire the biggest icebergs in the world

It is a sea of ice, where sky blue melts into sparkling white on the horizon. Where the silence is only broken by the cracking of the icebergs . Because it is the icebergs that reign here. With UNESCO world heritage status since 2004, Ilulissat Icefjord includes the largest icebergs in the world, including in the Antarctic. A record made possible by the position of the fjord, at the sea mouth of the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier. This drains 6.5% of the Greenland ice sheet.

Explore immense landscapes

Although Ilulissat icefjord is one of the most outstanding examples of the iconic Greenland landscapes, other glaciers and ice formations have also made this a legendary polar region . Eqi glacier, the immense volcanic rocks of Kuannit, Lyngmark glacier, Evighedsfjorden (the fjord of Eternity) and Upernavik fjord: the crystal ice that stretches on for kilometres, the cliffs that rise steeply up to dizzying heights towards the sky, the serrated profiles… Some are also home to various bird species.

Helpful tips

Don't be surprised to witness a whale or seal hunt. Greenland is one of the regions in the world where hunting by natives is allowed, according to quotas. It allows the local populations to continue their centuries-old tradition and to eat protein without depending on imports. Being offered seal meat during a meal is a real honour.

Every year, between March and April, the Uummannaq ice golf world championship competition is held. For two days, at 600 kilometres north of the Arctic circle, competitors gather on a course carved into the ice in the middle of the ice floe.

Essential phrases

Hello / Good evening: Kutaa Goodbye: Inuulluarit Please: Ikinngutinnersumik Thank you: ujan Yes / no: Aap / naamik You're welcome, with pleasure: Illillu How are you?: Qanoq ippisi ? Very well thank you and you?: Ajunngilanga, qujanaq, ippit ? My name is...: ...imik ateqarpunga

Seal is cooked in various ways. It is included in suassat , the national dish. This is a soup in which the seal meat is garnished with onions, potatoes and rice. Another authentic dish, Kiviak consists of seal stuffed with gutted Little Auk (small birds living in the Arctic). It is hung to mature for several months.

Myths and legends

Tupilaks are statuettes carved into animal bones. They represent polymorphic figures, sometimes taking a human form, sometimes animal (walrus, bear, seal...). The sculptures created today by craftspeople are for the tourist market but, according to legend, these sinister statues were made to bring death. The shaman who sculpted them breathed the name of the victim into them and threw them into the water so that they could accomplish their mission.

In the spotlight

With the Greenlandia expedition planned for 2022, the French photographer and explorer Vincent Hilaire wants to collect the testimony of communities, as well as observing and studying the impact of climate change on the native peoples and, more widely, on humankind.

Book. In 1955, Jean Malaurie published The Last Kings of Thule , an account of his scientific mission to the north of Greenland in 1950-51. Aged 28, the young geologist went alone to winter with the 34 inhabitants of the village of Siorapaluk, whose way of life he adopted. It is this daily life, along with the origins and culture of the “Polar Eskimos”, that Jean Malaurie recounts in his book. Accessible data, colourful characters and dense information have made this book an international reference in ethnology.

Music. The composer of electronic music Romain Delahaye, aka Molécule, goes to extreme places to record sounds and create “a sensory soundtrack ” , as he calls it. In 2018, Molécule spent 36 days with his recording equipment in the village of Tiniteqilaaq, in the south-east of Greenland. The result was his latest work -22,7°C (the lowest temperature he experienced there), a poetic symphony full of nostalgia, hope and magic.

Film. Released in 2016, Journey to Greenland by Sébastien Betbeder traces the adventure of Thomas and Thomas, two thirty-somethings whose problems in Paris brought them to... Kullorsuaq, a village with fewer than 450 inhabitants, one of the most isolated in Greenland. This is where Nathan, the father of one of them chose to come to live twenty years earlier. A real journey of intiation for the two young men who discover the Inuit world among immense landscapes.

Facts and figures

20 billion tonnes : this is the weight of the icebergs produced by the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier, in the Ilulissat fjord, with UNESCO world heritage status since 2004. This matches the quantity of freshwater used in France in one year!

• Aappilattoq (Augpilatok) (Greenland)
• Akpatok Island, Nunavut (Canada)
• Akulleq (Greenland)
• Alkefjellet Cliff, Spitsbergen (Norway)
• Ammassalik Region (Greenland)
• At sea aboard Le Commandant Charcot
• At sea along Spitsbergen (Norway)
• Baffin Bay exploration
• Banks Island (Canada)
• Battle Harbour (Canada)
• Beechey Island, Nunavut (Canada)
• Bellot Strait (Canada)
• Blosseville Coast (Greenland)
• Boltodden, Spitsbergen (Norway)
• Cap-aux-Meules, Magdalen Islands (Canada)
• Cape Farvel Passage (Greenland)
• Cape York (Greenland)
• Coningham Bay, Nunavut (Canada)
• Corner Brook (Canada)
• Crossing Belle Isle Strait (Canada)
• Crossing the Bering Strait
• Devon Island, Nunavut (Canada)
• Disko Bay (Greenland)
• Edinburgh Island, Nunavut (Canada)
• Evighedsfjorden (Greenland)
• Exploration of Ammassalik Region (Greenland)
• Exploration of Ittoqqortoormiit Region (Greenland)
• Exploration of North-East Greenland (Greenland)
• Exploring sea ice in Beaufort Sea
• Exploring sea ice of Northwest Passage
• Exploring the Blosseville Coast (Greenland)
• Fury Beach, Nunavut (Canada)
• Gaspé (Canada)
• Geographic North Pole
• Gjoa Haven, Nunavut (Canada)
• Gnalodden, Spitsbergen (Norway)
• Grinnell Glacier, Nunavut (Canada)
• Holman (Ulukhaktok)  (Canada)
• Hornsund (Norway)
• Hvalso (Greenland)
• Icy Arm Fjord (Canada)
• Igaliku (Greenland)
• Ikka Fjord (Greenland)
• Isabella Bay, Ninginganiq National Wildlife Area (Canada)
• Isafjördur (Iceland)
• Itilleq (Greenland)
• Ittoqqortoormiit Region (Greenland)
• Ivigtut (Greenland)
• Jan Mayen Island, Svalbard (Norway)
• Jesse Harbour (Canada)
• Kangerlussuaq (Greenland)
• King Frederick VI Coast (Greenland)
• King Island, Alaska (United States)
• King Point, Yukon (Canada)
• Kuannit Coast (Greenland)
• Kujalleq Glacier (Greenland)
• Kullorsuaq (Greenland)
• L'Anse aux Meadows, Newfoundland (Canada)
• Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen (Norway)
• Melville Bay (Greenland)
• Miquelon Island, Saint Pierre and Miquelon (France)
• Montreal (Canada)
• Nachvak Fjord, Torngat Mountains National Park (Canada)
• Nain (Canada)
• Nanortalik (Greenland)
• Narsalik (Greenland)
• Narsaq (Greenland)
• Narsaq Fjord (Greenland)
• Navigating through the sea ice
• Newfoundland (Canada)
• Nome, Alaska (United States)
• Nordaust-Svalbard Nature Reserve (Norway)
• North Arm fjord, Nunavut (Canada)
• Nuuk (Greenland)
• Orpit (Greenland)
• Paul-Émile Victor Base Camp, Eqi Glacier (Greenland)
• Pond Inlet, Nunavut (Canada)
• Prins Christian Sund (Greenland)
• Qaqortoq (Greenland)
• Qeqertarsuaq (Greenland)
• Qikiqtarjuaq, Nunavut (Canada)
• Reykjavík (Iceland)
• Rigolet (Canada)
• Sailing River Saint Lawrence and going through its locks (Canada)
• Sailing Saint Lawrence Gulf (Canada)
• Sailing in Beaufort Sea
• Sailing in the Hinlopen Strait (Norway)
• Sailing in the Lancaster Sound (Canada)
• Sailing through the Denmark Strait
• Saint Pierre Island, Saint Pierre and Miquelon (France)
• Saint-John's, Newfoundland (Canada)
• Sam Ford Fjord, Nunavut (Canada)
• Savissivik (Greenland)
• Scoresby Sound (Greenland)
• Sermilik Fjord (Greenland)
• Sisimiut (Greenland)
• Skjoldungen (Greenland)
• Smoking Hills (Canada)
• Soraust-Svalbard Nature Reserve (Norway)
• Storoya, Svalbard (Svalbard)
• Tadoussac (Canada)
• Tasermiut Fjord (Greenland)
• Tasiilaq (Greenland)
• Thule Region (Greenland)
• Toronto (Canada)
• Uummannaq (Greenland)
• Wahlbergoya (Norway)

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Want to find out more about our unique and exceptional destinations?

What will your next trip look like Greenland ?

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Discover our brand new itineraries

• Expeditions
• Complimentary Brochures
• Toronto, Ontario to Nuuk
• Nuuk to Toronto, Ontario

NEW! Canada & Greenland Explorer

• From $15,995
• 11 Guided Tours
• 2 Countries
• Dates & Pricing
• Toronto, Ontario to Nuuk Nuuk to Toronto, Ontario

NEW! Canada & Greenland Explorer Map

Remote outposts and Inuit lands

Explore Canada and Greenland’s rugged shores on an awe-inspiring journey through one of the most fascinating corners of the world. Sail amid floating icebergs as they drift in blue-tinged waters and witness the wonders of Mother Nature as you immerse yourself in dramatic landscapes. Learn about the Inuit traditions that still thrive in remote communities and experience the stark beauty of the Arctic, glistening in the rays of the midnight sun.

SPRING SALE

Viking Inclusive Value

We include more features & services than others

To learn more about each port of call and our included as well as optional excursions, click on the individual days below.

Itinerary and shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure.

More features, services and excursions included

One complimentary landing or shore excursion in every port of call

Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)

Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner

24-hour specialty coffees, teas  & bottled water

Port taxes & fees

Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase

Visits to UNESCO Sites

Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances

Complimentary access to The Nordic Spa & Fitness Center.

Self-service launderettes

Alternative restaurant dining at no extra charge

24-hour room service

Kayaks, Zodiacs & Special Operations Boats — A Viking Expedition Kit with a variety of equipment to explore at no extra charge

Keepsake Viking expedition jacket (on polar itineraries)

All Viking excursion gear needed for any relevant excursions

Your Stateroom Includes:

King-size bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows

55" OLED flat-screen TV featuring CNN, CBC, MBC2, beIN Sports

Interactive TV with complimentary movies and documentaries, as well as Viking.TV proprietary content, lectures and expert interviews

Personal coffee machine with premium coffee & tea selections

Floor-to-ceiling heated drying closets for expeditions gear

Spacious glass-enclosed shower

Heated bathroom floor

Anti-fog mirrors

Premium Freyja® toiletries

110/220 volt outlets & USB ports

Meopta Optika MeoPro 8x42 binoculars

Pre & Post Cruise Extensions

Explore more before or after your expedition. Ask your Viking Expert for more information. Pre & Post Cruise Extensions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.

Pre: Toronto

From $1,099 | 2 Nights

Pre: Georgian Bay

From $2,799 | 3 Nights

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Suites & Staterooms

Please select your stateroom or suite type and room category from the available options.

• Daily housekeeping
• Complimentary 24-hour room service
• Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
• Luxurious bathrobes
• Generous storage
• Fresh fruit upon request
• Ice service
• TV with On Demand movies, programming

Two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads and a host of amenities are featured in these comfortable staterooms.

• Hair dryers, makeup mirrors

These expansive staterooms include two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our Signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads, a host of amenities and an ocean view.

Filled with light from floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these staterooms include a sitting area, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and shower with premium massage showerheads.

Vista Suite

With a verandah, floor-to-ceiling windows and comfortable sitting area, these comfortable suites are filled with light. They include two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, plus a shower, mini-bar and refrigerator.

Signature Suite

These large, comfortable suites feature a spacious sitting area with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and one murphy bed for one person. The bathroom includes a dual-sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath and shower, and an additional shower stall.

Neptune Suite

• Premium bathrobes, slippers
• Fresh flowers
• One-Touch concierge service
• Whirlpool bath (suite dependent)
• In-suite coffee, espresso
• Complimentary laundry
• Pre-dinner hors d'oeuvres served in suite
• Welcome glass of sparkling wine
• Priority boarding for tender ports, priority dining/seating requests, special disembarkation service
• High tea in suite on request
• Exclusive tote bag

With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these spacious suites are flooded with light. They feature a large sitting area and two lower beds convertible to one king-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses. The bathroom comes with a dual-sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath and shower, plus additional shower stall. Amenities include use of the exclusive Neptune Lounge, a private concierge and an array of complimentary services.

Your Ship: Nieuw Statendam

Fluid lines and dramatic spaces make the Holland America Nieuw Statendam a modern beauty. The second in the line of our Pinnacle Class ships, her design draws inspiration from the elegant curves of musical instruments. When not relaxing in well-appointed suites or staterooms, guests will have many innovative dining and entertainment options—from Rudi’s Sel de Mer to Nami Sushi to the Rolling Stone Lounge, B.B. King’s Blues Club, and the visually stunning two-level World Stage. 

• 975 ft. Length
• 114.8 ft. Width

Dining & Onboard Activities

Each day on board offers delicious dining options, world-class entertainment and enriching activities

Pinnacle Grill

The ultimate steakhouse at sea, with an exceptional menu of Prime steaks, seafood and wine.

Pinnacle Grill is the ultimate steakhouse at sea, where an exceptional menu and impeccable service make for one of finest meals you’ll ever have. The refined menu features a selection of 28-day wet-aged USDA Prime steaks — meticulously chosen to guarantee the finest quality — as well as classic steakhouse dishes and innovative recipes from James Beard Award-winning chef and Culinary Council® member, David Burke. Every dish is exquisitely prepared, beautifully plated and complemented by a vast collection of award-winning wines. Here, your meal is an event unto itself, a celebration of fine dining and a triumph of flavor.

*Meals at Pinnacle Grill are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Canaletto is a relaxed setting with authentic Italian cuisine that is best enjoyed when shared.

In Italy, there’s nothing more important than coming together to celebrate the joy of great food. This is the inspiration for our onboard Italian restaurant, Canaletto. Enjoy amazing Italian classics like braised chicken cacciatore al forno, branzino ai ferri or garlic shrimp ravioli. And for dessert: tiramisù, cannoli alla Siciliana, gelato, and more. Including pasta made fresh daily. Buon Appetito!

Meals at Canaletto are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Explore traditions of Southeast Asia, China and Japan with cuisine praised by Condé Nast Traveler as rivaling the top restaurants on land.

Praised by  Condé Nast Traveler  for cuisine “that rivals the top restaurants on land,” Tamarind is the perfect place to explore the culinary traditions of Southeast Asia, China and Japan. The menu, which honors the elements of water, wood, fire and earth, features such exotic fare as wok-seared lobster, barramundi (Asian sea bass) in banana leaf and sushi, accompanied by chilled or heated sake. 

Meals at Tamarind are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Rudi's Sel De Mer

Master Chef Rudi Sodamin’s award-winning, lively brasserie offers a modern twist on classic French dishes and seafood.

Named for Master Chef Rudi Sodamin, Rudi’s Sel de Mer is an intimate brasserie featuring classic French dishes reimagined with contemporary flair. Menu selections include whole Dover sole meunière with shaved pink Himalayan sea salt, oysters on the half shell, fruits de mer, and salt-crust baked branzino, as well as favorites such as steak frites, duck cassoulet and coq au vin. Conclude your dinner with a classic dessert and fine French cheeses.  

Meals at Sel de Mer are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Rudi’s Sel de Mer restaurant is available on  Rotterdam ,  Koningsdam  and  Nieuw Statendam , but on other ships, the Rudi’s Sel de Mer menu is available on select evenings in Pinnacle Grill.

Grand Dutch Cafe

Enjoy a savory snack, a pint of lager or a traditional Dutch coffee in a space that exudes Dutch heritage from the moment you walk in.

Looking for a refreshing pick-me-up on an adventure-filled day? The Grand Dutch Cafe is for you. Located just off the atrium area, it’s the perfect spot to connect with friends over a cold beer, coffee or other Dutch specialty beverages, such as Genever and Advoccaat, and a snack. Choose from among 16 Belgian and Dutch beers (four on tap) and a variety of spirits or enjoy your favorite coffee beverage with complimentary Dutch snacks. For heartier appetites, there are made-to-order Dutch specialties from open-faced herring sandwiches to apple and bacon pancakes. Just place your order at the counter; anything we prepare will be brought to your table.

Lido Market

A casual, modern marketplace, Lido Market offers the widest range of food options on board for breakfast, lunch, dinner and a late-night snack.

Explore a world of intriguing culinary possibilities in the Lido Market. Steps from the Lido pool, this modern marketplace includes a curated selection of delicious options that you can grab on the go or have made to order: Breadboard, with freshly baked breads and pastries; Wild Harvest, offering a bountiful selection of hearty salads; Homestead, serving up comfort classics; Distant Lands, featuring global cuisine; Sweet Spot, for ice cream creations and desserts; Roasting Pan, hand-carved meats, fish and other hearty entrees; Perk, freshly brewed beverages and chilled juices; Quench, premium coffee, beer, wine, and soda available for purchase; Rise, savory quiches, croissants and sandwiches, and more.

This casual poolside grill serves up the best burgers at sea, Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dogs, golden French fries and more.

Dive-In offers a variety of casual culinary classics, using the highest quality ingredients. Enjoy a burger, grilled to perfection and served on a toasted brioche with our own trade-marked secret sauce. Savor a succulent Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dog with golden French fries. Or choose a grilled chicken breast sandwich or juicy portabella mushroom stack. Dive-In is the perfect spot to dine poolside on the best burgers at sea.

New York Pizza

Our poolside pizzeria has fresh Italian salads and authentic thin-crust personal pizzas with savory toppings.

At New York Pizza, choose from a variety of scrumptious, 9-inch, thin-crust pies. Named for New York’s famed five boroughs, our signature pizzas are made to order and topped with only the finest ingredients. Enjoy your pizza by day while overlooking the Lido pool, and into the night. This venue is New York Deli & Pizza on  Koningsdam ,  Rotterdam  and  Nieuw Statendam , offering made-to-order deli sandwiches in addition to pizza.

24-Hour Room Service

Enjoy breakfast in bed or an early dinner on your verandah — entrées and more are available whenever you wish.

Sleep in and have breakfast delivered. Enjoy an early dinner on your verandah before an evening excursion. Order a salad, sandwich or entrée any time. Room Service is only a phone call away. All selections are included in your cruise fare unless otherwise noted on the in-room menu.

Explorations Cafe

Our relaxing café with panoramic views is your home for handcrafted espresso drinks during the day and refreshing cocktails in the evening.

At Explorations Café, sink into plush chairs and sofas in a comfortable environment. Sip elegantly prepared espresso drinks and nosh on fresh pastries from the coffee bar. You can also take in fantastic views, catch up on your favorite book or browse the web. 

Dine on delectable sushi and sip Asian-inspired spirits at Nami Sushi, a sushi bar within Tamarind offering stunning ocean views.

Nami Sushi offers a tempting array of the sushi rolls he’s created. Choose from such delectable selections as Tempura Lobster Roll with soft shell crab tempura; Dragon Roll with tempura shrimp, unagi sauce and avocado; Tsutsumi Roll with snapper, green olive, caper and avocado; Futomoki Roll with crab, yamagobo, avocado and cucumber; Volcano Roll with sesame-marinated salmon and Thai chilis; Nigiri sushi with tuna, salmon and ebi shrimp; and more. The word “nami,” Japanese in origin, means “wave” and is an homage to the ocean views you’ll enjoy as you dine on the freshest, tastiest and most inventive sushi at sea.

With many flavors to choose from and ingredients like Sicilian pistachios and amarena cherries, each frozen spoonful transports you to Italy.

At “G” Gelato, you can indulge your sweet tooth with a classic European gelato (ice cream), made fresh on board each day by chefs trained at the Carpigiani Gelato University. Choose from among 12 delightful flavors, two of which are rotated daily. Smooth, creamy and refreshing, this tasty treat is served in a variety of ways, including gelato popsicles and the flavors of G, composed shots with layers of caramel, nuts and gelato. Love pistachio?  Select ingredients like Sicilian pistachios make our pistachio gelato out of this world!

Club Orange Program Benefits

Club Orange offers an added level of luxury on Holland America with expanded dining menus, special events and priority access. Learn more about Club Orange.

See the  full Club Orange benefits  (PDF)

Join Club Orange to experience a new level of luxury, from priority check-in and disembarkation to premium dining amenities. Club Orange benefits include a complimentary stateroom upgrade, a special event chosen by the captain and priority check-in and disembarkation. Read on for a full list of Club Orange benefits.

Please  contact us  for Club Orange pricing and availability or to enroll.

The Dining Room

Our flagship dining experience is a welcoming and sophisticated setting for an exquisite breakfast, lunch or superb multicourse dinner.

For an elegant breakfast, leisurely lunch or unforgettable multi-course dinner, The Dining Room is your destination. For dinner, choose from classics such as Boneless Lamb Loin en Croute, Rosemary Roasted Chicken, as well as regionally inspired cuisine and artfully prepared vegetarian dishes. 

Crow's Nest

BARS AND LOUNGES

Enjoy cocktails and sunsets in this lounge, featuring panoramic views.

Holland America Line offers you a wide selection of lounges onboard. The panoramic view takes center stage in The Crow's Nest at the top of the ship, where you can relax just about any time of day and enjoy your favorite drink.

Enjoy cocktails and ocean views while listening to live music.

Holland America Line offers you a wide selection of lounges. This popular bar is at the top of the atrium and is the perfect locale for cocktails and dancing.

Tamarind Bar

Partake in exotic cocktails and sakétinis amid wraparound ocean views.

Which is more delightful: the apple-pear saketini in your chilled glass or views of the sun going down in a crimson blaze? Enjoy both in this stylish hideaway – your destination for panoramic views and exotic cocktails, and just one of the wide selection of lounges and gathering places on board.

For aficionados, this is truly your whisk(e)y wonderland. At NOTES, a dedicated whisk(e)y bar guests can gaze in awe at the more than 120 labels on display.

For aficionados, this is truly your whisk(e)y wonderland. At NOTES, a dedicated whisk(e)y bar guests can gaze in awe at the more than 120 labels on display — and sample some of the rarest whisk(e)y selections in the world. An interactive menu board and multiple tasting options are designed to identify uniquely personalized flavor profiles for every guest.

Billboard Onboard

ENTERTAINMENT

Sing along, test your music trivia knowledge, or sit back and enjoy as chart-topping hits fill the room each night.

2 pianos - 60 Years of Chart Toppers - 100s Of Songs.  Sing along, test your music trivia skills or just sit back and enjoy as the hits fill the room each night.

World Stage

World Stage features innovative cruise ship shows and a two-story LED screen that creates a vivid wraparound display.

World Stage, the largest theater on board is home to a variety of performances day and night. Our exclusive EXC® Talk lecture series features captivating regional stories told by local experts and narrated by your Cruise & Travel Director. In the evenings, Step One Dance Company, vocal sensation Cantaré, BBC Earth in Concert and more take the stage.  Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam  and  Rotterdam  bring the World Stage experience to the next level by surrounding you in spectacular sight and sound with a two-story, panoramic LED screen.

Onboard Shopping

Enjoy a wide variety of duty-free shopping onboard.

Enjoy a wide variety of duty-free shopping in such signature shops as The Vault, Diamonds and Gemstones by Merabella, which offers the best diamonds at sea, brought to you by Effy.

Fitness Center

Take a class in our professionally staffed Fitness Center.

Stop by the professionally staffed Fitness Center equipped with the latest cardio and weight machines. Try one of our classes on indoor cycling, Pilates and more or work out at your own pace. You can also head out for fresh air and exercise on deck, where you'll find basketball and volleyball courts, and two refreshing pools (available on select ships). Some classes may have a nominal fee.

Holland America Line Navigator

Personalize your cruise experience with our free mobile-friendly tool.

Personalize your cruise experience once you’re on the ship with our free mobile-friendly tool. Plan your daily activities, browse and purchase shore excursions, view restaurant menus, make dining reservations, check your account balance and more. 

Casino Action

The Casino offers games for all levels.

Your Holland America Line ship’s Casino offers a wide array of gaming options. Whether you prefer slot machines or want to try your hand at blackjack or poker, our dealers and staff are available to provide complimentary instruction — and we offer many engaging tournament options. The Casino is only open at sea.

Movies On Board

Enjoy recent-release films in the movie theater on select ships or in the comfort of your stateroom.

Screening nightly in the movie theatre (on select ships) are recent-release films and perennially popular classics. You can also watch movies any time in your stateroom or suite. And aboard  Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam  and  Rotterdam , watch your favorite stars light up the night on a giant outdoor LED movie screen by the Lido Pool.

Pickleball at Sea

Enjoy complimentary lessons, tournaments, and courts with amazing top-deck views.

Play the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. with Holland America Line, the exclusive cruise line partner of the Professional Pickleball Association. All our cruise ships feature pickleball courts with amazing top-deck views. The equipment and courts are available for a match anytime, so long as the weather allows. Frequent pickler? Join a pickleball tournament at sea and put your dink shot to the test. Hesitant amateur? Learn the basics at complimentary beginner’s lessons, starting in spring 2023. Commemorative starter kits will soon be available in our retail shops — purchase as gifts for avid players or as souvenirs, so that you can always look back on your pickleball cruise memories.

Kids ages 3 to 17 can enjoy an array of activities. Registration required for children under 13.

Holland America Line's youth activities program, Kids Club, offers an array of entertaining events for kids and teens ages 3-17, supervised by a full-time, professionally trained staff. They'll have an opportunity to join other kids their age for arts and crafts, sports, video game competitions, scavenger hunts, challenging team games and themed parties. Note: Kids Club is not offered on cruises of 25-days or longer, including all Legendary and Grand Voyages. We will offer a selection of children’s activities throughout these longer voyages for any children who may be onboard.

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Greenland Cruises

Greenland, a formidable landscape with nearly 95% of the country covered by the Greenland Ice Sheet, is a destination well worth exploring on an MSC Northern Europe cruise . Greenland is the world’s largest island and it’s located between the Arctic and Atlantic Oceans. Roundtrip cruises to Greenland depart from Warnemunde and include sea days for scenic viewing, popular ports of call in Greenland and Iceland, as well as visits to the United Kingdom  and Denmark .    On your Greenland cruise you will visit the ports of Nuuk ,  Illulissat  and  Qaqortoq  and transit the beautiful Prince Christian Sound. Nuuk , the capital of Greenland is located on the southwest coast of the island. Home to a vibrant lifestyle with restaurants and boutiques, the port city is mix of old traditions and modern culture.  Illulissat , in the northern part of the country is the land of the icebergs, the crackling and rumbling sounds of which can be heard throughout the town, never letting you forget the beauty that surrounds it. The massive icebergs can best be seen while exploring Disko Bay. 

Qaqortoq , rises steeply above the fjords of the city and is the largest town in Southern Greenland. Visiting the hot springs is a popular attraction in Southern Greenland and it is here where you can find the only outdoor heated spa in the country. Relaxing in the warm waters surrounded by views of icebergs and mountain peaks may give new meaning to the “perfect beach day.”  In addition to these quaint ports of call where you can meander through fishing villages , explore the fjords , learn the traditional Inuit culture of the native people and hear stories from the Viking Age. Greenland cruises 2023-2024 also includes scenic sailing through Prince Christian Sound. This unmissable highlight can be observed from, from your cabin’s balcony or on the ship’s open decks. As you enter the waterway, your cruise ship will slowly navigate through the fjords system where steep mountains reaching over 1200 meters tower around you. There is one village located in the Prince Christian Sound, Aappilattoq, whose brightly coloured cottages stand out in contrast with the white icebergs that surround you. Start looking for your ideal Northern Europe itinerary to Greenland today, and enjoy a truly memorable cruising experience with MSC Cruises.

Greenland cruise deals

Greenland cruises: departure ports.

MSC Greenland cruises will take you to explore the unique nature and breathtaking landscapes of Greenland, Iceland and much more. Choose the best departure port for your cruise to Greenland and get ready to sail on your next dream adventure.

View all Greenland ports

• Akureyri, Iceland
• Copenhagen, Denmark
• Ilulissat, Greenland
• Invergordon, United Kingdom
• Isafjordur, Iceland
• Kirkwall (Orkney Is.), United Kingdom
• Nuuk, Greenland
• Qaqortoq, Greenland
• Reykjavik, Iceland
• Warnemunde (Berlin), Germany

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MSC Cruises

Northwest Passage—Across the Top of the World

Alaska to greenland.

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Cruise Overview

Northwest passage cruise | northwest passage—across the top of the world (alaska to greenland).

Witness incredible beauty and experience the thrill of exploration as we sail through the fabled Northwest Passage from Nome, Alaska to Nuuk, Greenland. 

Discover UNESCO-listed sites, spectacular scenery, abundant wildlife and Inuit settlements, all while guided by your expert Expedition Team. 

Sail down the west coast of Greenland, with its stunning coastal panoramas and pretty settlements of colorful houses.

Sail along the top of the world through the Northwest Passage

Sailing through the Northwest Passage on a state-of-the-art ice-class expedition ship is a captivating journey that blends natural wonders, culture and history. The passage, once an elusive route for explorers, now offers intrepid travelers a chance to witness breathtaking Arctic landscapes and learn about indigenous communities through first-hand experiences. On this adventure, we’ll attempt to traverse the entire route and beyond, going from Nome, Alaska to Nuuk, Greenland.  

The breathtaking beauty of the High Arctic and Greenland

Our 26-day voyage takes us “above” the North American continent to the frozen far north. As we head up from Alaska through the famed Beaufort Sea and Bering Strait, we pass into Western Arctic Canada, where we’ll explore the western section of the Northwest Passage. From here on in, it’s pure expedition as we transit to Eastern Arctic Canada, where you’ll experience a pristine and remote wilderness featuring surreal vistas of frozen sea ice. We then emerge into Baffin Bay and sail to West Greenland, where you’ll encounter natural beauty like nowhere else.

Know before you go

Practical information you need to know

• Expedition Health & Safety
• Travel Entry Requirements
• What to pack?
• Frequently Asked Questions About Life on Board

Health and Safety

Health & Safety Onboard

The safety of our guests, our employees, and the communities we visit is our top priority.  This is why we have partnered with leading experts in health and safety to design and implement protocols/procedures across our expedition fleet.

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Available dates.

We'll help you plan where to go, when to visit and how long to stay

Setting Out from Scenic Seattle

Enjoy the city before your expedition cruise begins

The adventure begins in the Emerald City of Seattle, on the Pacific coast of the United States.  

Why not arrive early and head to the Seattle Aquarium to see sea otters and a giant Pacific octopus? Or, for incredible views of Puget Sound and the surrounding mountains, take a stroll through the nine-acre Olympic Sculpture Park, admiring the work of renowned artists as you go. And for a feast of the senses, visit the famous Pike Place Market. Operating for over a century, this lively farmer’s market boasts everything from buskers and bars to salmon-throwing fishmongers! 

You’ll spend the night here in Seattle before your connecting flight to Alaska the next day.

There's no place like Nome

Setting off on your adventure

Today you’ll take an early flight from Seattle to Nome, Alaska, where your state-of-the art expedition ship awaits to take you on a journey through the famed Northwest Passage and beyond. 

Prospectors first came to Nome in 1898, and people still hunt for gold here today. You'll see evidence of the Gold Rush era all around, including abandoned dredges, turn-of-the century steam engines and old railroad tracks, lending the town a unique and intriguing atmosphere. 

You’ll be in good company as you explore the town. Wyatt Earp, the famous sheriff, opened a saloon here. Nome was also the end point of three of Roald Amundsen's great polar expeditions. 

Upon boarding the ship and after collecting your complimentary expedition jacket, it's time to check out your cabin, meet the Expedition Team and explore your new home-away-from-home. Your adventure has truly begun!

Along the Alaskan Coast

Science and wildlife watching at sea

Join your Expedition Team for insightful lectures as we journey through the Beaufort Sea towards Amundsen Gulf, the gates to the Northwest Passage, on this eastbound transit. Topics might include subjects such as wildlife, tectonic activity, glaciology and local history, which will prepare you for the adventures ahead. 

 The highlights of this transit include: 

The Bering Strait  

The International Date Line  

Sailing across the Beaufort Sea  

Wildlife watching  

For more detailed information about each of these, along with our explorer's guide to the Northwest Passage, see our Travel Guide.

Exploration and Adventure

Spend eight days exploring the Western section of the fabled Northwest Passage

Our excursions begin on Day 7 as we enter the Western Canadian Arctic. Over the next eight days, in this section of our voyage we’ll transit through three distinct regions—Nunavut, Northwest Territories and Yukon—and two traditional Inuit Territories—Inuvialuit and Nunavut. 

During our time here, we anticipate up to five days of shore excursions and four transit days. Excursion stops and local highlights we hope to be able to visit include: 

Herschel Island  

Smoking Hills  

Ulukhaktok  

Coronation Gulf  

Cambridge Bay (Iqaluktuuttiaq)  

Gjoa Haven (Uqsuqtuuk)  

For more detailed information about each of these places, along with our explorer's guide to the Northwest Passage, see our Travel Guide .

Into Bellot Strait

Navigate the dividing line between west and east

The “Rubicon” of the Canadian Arctic that divides west from east is the infamous Bellot Strait. This narrow body of water separates the northernmost part of mainland North America from Somerset Island, one of the largest islands in the Canadian Arctic archipelago.  

Bellot Strait is approximately 15 nautical miles long and just over half a mile wide at its narrowest point. Our ability to navigate this passage will be determined by ice and weather conditions.

The Eastern Canadian Arctic

Explore the eastern stretch of the Passage

On the eastern shores of Somerset Island, we find ourselves in the Eastern Canadian Arctic. The main waterway of this area is Lancaster Sound (Tallurutiup Imanga), the eastern gates to the Northwest Passage. 

This chapter of our exploration is likely to be action-packed, with excursions planned on each of the five days we hope to spend in and around this area. Remember: all our excursion plans depend on the weather and ice but, conditions permitting, our days will be filled with excitement and discovery.  

Excursion stops and local highlights we hope to share with you include:  

Fort Ross  

Prince Leopold Island (Appait)  

Beechey Island (Iluvilik)  

Croker Bay  

Dundas Harbour  

Pond Inlet (Mittimatalik)   

For more detailed information about each of these places, along with our explorer’s guide to the Northwest Passage, see our Travel Guide .

Crossing Baffin Bay

Watch for wildlife and get involved in Citizen Science

Leaving Nunavut behind, our expedition cruise continues to Greenland across Baffin Bay. The Expedition Team will continue their on-board lectures on topics such as the wildlife of the Arctic, Inuit culture and the history of exploration in this region.  

Why not take part in one of our Citizen Science projects? You can help photograph and track whales, or observe the clouds to help scientists study our climate by contributing to the GLOBE Program.

The Wonders of West Greenland

Discover the magical beauty of Greenland

The final chapter of our journey encompasses the majestic coast of West Greenland.  

We will begin by sailing into Disko Bay—a haven for whales and seals. Over the next three days, you’ll experience some of the most iconic sites in all of Greenland. Our objectives include: 

  Ilulissat  

Nestled at the edge of the magnificent Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is Ilulissat. Here you’ll find an ever-changing gallery of passing icebergs set against a backdrop of colorful houses. In town you can visit a multitude of shops selling local crafts, and on the outskirts walking trails take you along the epic icefjord.  

  Sisimiut  

Sisimiut is Greenland’s second city and is situated in a spectacular location just above the Arctic Circle. This area has history spanning more than 4,500 years, and old traditions are alive and well.  

Learn more about ancient Saqqaq artifacts in the local museum, or stretch your legs on a hike.  If you're looking for a special souvenir, pick up a scarf, hat or mittens made of qiviut , the inner wool of the musk ox that’s said to be 10 times warmer than sheep’s wool.   

Evighedsfjord  

As we head north, we plan to offer an exploration day in the magical and pristine Evighedsfjord near Maniitsoq. Each day, we’ll determine which adventures we can take part in. 

 The “Fjord of Eternity” is fed by an ice cap that calves huge icebergs into its 2,300 ft-deep waters. It's surrounded by mist-cloaked mountains with beautiful white ridges, punctuated by crystal blue ice caves.

Old and New in Nuuk

End your voyage in colorful Nuuk

Today we arrive in Nuuk, Greenland’s colorful capital. It has a population of 18,000 and boasts a striking mix of old and new buildings.  

We’ll explore this fascinating city, comparing the old buildings—such as Hans Egede House and Nuuk Cathedral—with the ultra-modern architecture of the Parliament of Greenland.  

Your voyage ends with a flight from Nuuk to Reykjavík and an overnight stay.

Cosmopolitan Reykjavík 

Discover Iceland's modern capital

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and discover the city before connecting to your onwards flight home.  

Packed full of art, culture and history, Iceland’s capital is a delight to explore. Visit Laugavegur, the main shopping street, and head towards the striking Hallgrímskirkja church. Or why not explore the many galleries and museums dotted around the city? 

If you have the time, we recommend booking a Post-Program with us and discovering some of Iceland’s natural highlights.

- - - Attempted route, ice conditions dependent

Our Attempts are voyages where we challenge the elements in true expedition style. As we explore these remote and captivating areas in a safe way, our adventure will ultimately be guided by nature. If weather, sea or ice conditions do not allow our planned navigation, our experienced crew will deliver an adapted itinerary. Flexibility and our deep knowledge of the area combine to give you an amazing exploration experience.

What's included

• Overnight in Seattle before the expedition cruise, including breakfast
• Overnight in Reykjavík after the expedition cruise, including breakfast
• Economy class flight from Seattle to Nome before the expedition cruise
• Economy class flight from Nuuk to Reykjavik after the expedition cruise
• Transfer from the hotel to the airport in Seattle
• Transfer from the airport to the ship in Nome
• Transfer from the airport to the hotel in Reykjavík after the expedition cruise

Expedition Cruise

• A stay in a cabin of your choice
• Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Wine, beer and spirits available at meals and throughout the day and evening (subject to licensing laws, excludes premium drinks)
• All day coffee, tea and soft drinks
• Meals and take-away available throughout the day during Fredheim restaurant opening hours
• Fine dining in restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests
• A complimentary water bottle to refill on board and take home
• A polar expedition jacket, a backpack, or another piece of HX kit
• Professional photos from your trip taken by our onboard photographer
• Complimentary Wi-Fi. Please note, streaming is not supported
• Use of sauna, hot tubs, pool, fitness room, lounges and more
• Gratuities included. Fantastic service is standard at HX – though if you’d like to leave something extra, it’s always appreciated
• Range of included activities 

Onboard Activities

• In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team
• Full access to the ship’s Science Center
• Citizen Science Programme allows guests to assist with ongoing scientific research
• Professional onboard photographer gives tips and tricks for the best landscape and wildlife photos
• Informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings

Landing Activities

• Escorted landings with small expedition boats
• Loan of boots, trekking poles and all equipment for activities
• Expedition photographers on hand to assist you
• All planned activities are subject to weather and ice conditions
• Excursions and activities are subject to change
• Please make sure you meet all entry and boarding requirements 
• Depending on your flight times, an additional overnight might be needed (not included)

What's not included

International flights 

Additional overnight stay(s) may be required due to the timing of international flights  

Travel insurance 

Luggage handling 

Optional shore excursions with our local partners 

Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Team 

Optional treatments in the on-board wellness and spa area

Special offers

Expedition exclusive cost savings and rare opportunities.

* Certain offers may not be combinable, up to two savings opportunities except where noted otherwise

Book now and save up to 40% on 2025-2026 cruises

Get a jump start on an all-inclusive adventure with the comfort of our Price Promise*

70 days left to take advantage of our best price guarantee

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Cruises to Iceland and Greenland

Tabs view cruises.

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Discover Arctic vistas and marvel at dramatic scenery on one of our cruises to Greenland and Iceland, where you’ll be surrounded by natural wonders and quaint colonial towns at every turn. These twelve-night journeys are a once-in-a-lifetime experience that sail across the Atlantic Ocean. Combine quiet days at sea with exciting stops in breathtaking ports of call like Akureyri in Iceland and Greenland’s Qaqortoq, where you’ll experience adventure, beauty, and relaxation like never before.

Itineraries

Departure ports for greenland & iceland cruises.

Begin or end your cruise in Iceland’s capital of Reykjavik, a fascinating city that is at the top of the bucket list for adventurous travelers. Depending on your itinerary you’ll either depart or disembark in this stunning port, where you should make sure to spend an extra day or two exploring its endless natural wonders, including the towering Gullfoss Waterfall, the Vatnajokull Ice Caves, and Reykjavik’s famous Blue Lagoon.

Cape Liberty

On cruises to Greenland and Iceland, you can depart from the port of Cape Liberty, New Jersey, which is located near Newark airport and less than an hour’s drive away from Manhattan. Plan on getting there a few days early and discover everything the Big Apple has to offer, including its world-class restaurant scene, Broadway shows, and top-notch shopping. Then set sail from this convenient port and soak in unrivaled views of the New York City skyline and the iconic Statue of Liberty before heading out on your vacation across the Atlantic. 

Ports of Call

Mother Nature’s beauty is on full display in Isafjordur, a small, scenic town in the Westfjords that serves as a gateway to Iceland’s unspoiled terrain. Take a walk around its picturesque old town, where you’ll find cute shops and local restaurants. Visit the Dynjandi Waterfalls, known as “the jewel of the Westfjords.” Or go on a hike up Kaldbakur, the tallest mountain in the Westfjords, where you’ll enjoy majestic landscapes. 

You’ll get even more of a taste of Iceland’s stunning nature in Akureyri, a small town with impressive mountainscapes that is known for being one of the best places to catch the Northern Lights. Head to the lava fields of Dimmuborgir and take photos amongst the unusual formations. Travel to Godafoss, a towering cascade that is also known as the “waterfall of the gods.” Or relax and soak in the healing properties of the mud baths at Lake Myvatn or the hot springs of Hverir.  

Explore the tiny town of Qaqortoq during one of our cruises to Greenland and Iceland, where you’ll get a sense of the Arctic climate and wilderness. Admire the serene beauty of Lake Tasersuaq, where you’ll see unbeatable views of Qaqortoq and the mountains beyond. Learn about Nordic history at Hvalsey Church, ancient ruins that span back thousands of years. Or go on a reinvigorating nature walk through Qaqortoq’s hillsides, where you’ll marvel at scenic fjord views and charming colonial homes in bright colors. 

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• Nuuk Airport expansion paves the way for Greenland expedition...

Nuuk Airport expansion paves the way for Greenland expedition cruises in 2025

An expansion project underway at the airport of Nuuk, Greenland's capital , is poised to transform the region's expedition cruise landscape in 2025, with leading cruise lines Viking , Silversea , and HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions) charting new courses.

Scheduled for completion later this year, the airport expansion includes a lengthened runway and a modernized terminal, facilitating increased air travel access to Greenland. Icelandair and Air Greenland have confirmed plans to offer flights to Nuuk from Reykjavik and Copenhagen , respectively, with future aspirations for U.S. connections.

This infrastructure enhancement is reshaping Nuuk into a pivotal embarkation and disembarkation point for expedition voyages, replacing Reykjavik as the primary departure hub.

Viking is unveiling 4 new itineraries from Nuuk aboard the Viking Octantis , ranging from 13 to 27 days and traversing the polar landscapes of Greenland and Canada. These journeys position Nuuk as a focal point for voyage commencement or conclusion.

Silversea Cruises is introducing a 15-day route departing from Churchill, Manitoba , on July 25 aboard the Silver Endeavour . The voyage explores Canada's northern territories and Greenland, with Nuuk featuring prominently as a port of call.

Similarly, HX is expanding its Greenland program, offering nine itineraries, including new Grand Greenland sailings departing from Nuuk. These routes, aboard the Fridtjof Nansen , highlight the awe-inspiring natural beauty and cultural heritage of Greenland's western coast.

All three cruise lines are capitalizing on Nuuk's enhanced aviation infrastructure to provide travelers with immersive expedition experiences, showcasing the remote wilderness and rich cultural tapestry of the Arctic region.

How to experience the ultimate adventure in South Greenland

From kayaking across vast, petrol-blue fjords to tasting locally foraged delicacies, these seven South Greenland adventures reveal a country ripe for adventure.

Nature pulls out all the stops in South Greenland. Glaciers crash into fjords where whales often feed, icebergs tower like the ruins of fairytale castles and remote sheep farms nod to a rich Norse and Inuit history. On the fringes of the second-largest body of ice in the world, the Greenland ice sheet, this fjord-woven region will blow you away with raw beauty, heritage and season-led cuisine using ingredients from land and sea.

Cruise ships only give you a taste of what’s out there. To properly venture into the wilds and get a feel for the Arctic, fly in and stay a while. You need time, peace and space to find your own adventure — whether hiking, kayaking, exploring Norse ruins or bathing in hot springs. With luck, you’ll have the Northern Lights for company already in late summer and early autumn.

1. Taste Greenlandic flavours  

Using Arctic ingredients, incorporating Inuit heritage with agricultural tradition and adding a pinch of creativity, South Greenland is a rising star in new-Nordic cooking, bringing hyperlocal ingredients to the plate. Whether you’re digging into a leg of lamb, newly cultivated grass-fed beef or locally grown root vegetables, this is food with heart. For an immersive experience, join locals for a private dinner — one of the best is ByNanna, where Nanna Høegh and her husband talk art and Viking ruins over a multi-course feast in their beautiful home in Qaqortoq. At fjordside Tasermiut Camp , help the chef forage for herbs and flowers to pep up dinner, where storytelling and — if you’re lucky — a Northern Lights show join, too.

2. Immerse yourself in Inuit history at Kujataa

For millennia, humans have eked out a living on the edge of the ice cap. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kujataa   brings to light a rich thousand-year-old subarctic farming culture, taking you back to the Norse farmer-hunters of the 10th century, who reared cattle, sheep and goats; and to the Inuit farming, fishing and seal-hunting communities that sprung up here in the 18th century. With the ruins of farms and churches spread across the World Heritage Site, often right next to present-day working farms, Kujataa offers a fascinating window into the hard work, resilience and pioneering spirit of the Indigenous people, and those that came to settle on their land.

3. Boat along the Tasermiut Fjord

Home to one of South Greenland’s most photographed glaciers, Tasermiut Fjord , with its lush forest and sheer walls of granite, is jaw-droppingly beautiful. This 44-mile-long fjord is a taste of the Arctic proper. To get a true sense of scale, and for closer encounters with the nature and wildlife, nothing beats exploring Tasermiut Fjord by boat. With stops along the way including the only settlement in the entire fjord or a sheep farm, you can get a feel for life in the fjord. Continue onward to the great lake, the forest and then the innermost reaches of the fjord, which is often called the Patagonia of the Arctic.

4. Unwind at a sheep farm

If you want to give civilisation the slip and tune into the quiet beauty of South Greenland’s fjords, fields and mountains, stay on one of eight sheep farms that offer guest accommodation. Norse settlers first grazed sheep in these lush pastures 1,000 years ago, a tradition revived 100 years ago by an Inuit couple in Qassiarsuk. Affording an insight into traditional Arctic life, the farms are ideal for embracing the outdoors, whether on foot or by horseback. Favourite escapes include Pioti Igaliku , with a summer lake cottage where you can peer up at gliding sea eagles; Sermilik Hostel , where sheep paths lead to the Greenland ice sheet; and idyllically rustic Kangerluarsorujuk Cabin , where your host family will prepare delicacies like smoked lamb leg and marinated salmon. Just be sure to follow the cardinal rules of traversing farm country — leave gates as they are found (open or closed); walk on roads whenever possible; do not give working dogs attention; and never walk on the green grass fields.

5. Bathe al fresco at Uunartoq Hot Springs

You’ll find hot springs bubbling up all over the Arctic, but there’s something special about Uunartoq’s. This uninhabited island, a breezy boat ride away from Qaqortoq, Nanortalik or Alluitsup Paa, is a vivid green speck of land, ringed by mountains and petrol-blue waters glinting with icebergs. Here, you can ditch your clothes and slip into your bathers to wallow in the 38C natural pool. Enjoyed by Norsemen and Inuit alike for many centuries and heated by geothermal subsoil, these are the most accessible hot springs in Greenland warm enough to bathe in.

6. Embrace adventure in Nanortalik

Where fjord meets sea, the town of Nanortalik — meaning the place with polar bears — is beautiful, with a sprinkling of brightly painted timber cottages amidst a rocky landscape with direct views of the mountains. After roaming the old town and open-air museum that delves into Greenlandic history and heritage, you’ll be itching to head out into the wilds. This is South Greenland’s adventure hub, where you can trek into the mountains with a backpack, scale near-vertical cliffs (the 2,010-metre peak of Ulamertorsuaq, also known as Ketil, is the ultimate challenge) or get a guide who’ll take you kayaking, sailing or fishing for trout, salmon and cod. Staying at the locally-owned and operated Tasermiut Camp or NTS Cabins is highly recommended to fully connect with the backcountry.

7. Press the pause button in Igaliku

It’s oh so quiet in Igaliku, an isolated Inuit settlement of just over 30 people sitting on on a thin 2.5-mile wide isthmus, tucked between two fjords. Green and gold pastures north of the town slope down to iceberg-filled waters, Qooqqut Glacier shimmers in the distance at the top of Illerfissalik mountain and, in summer, the fields erupt with wildflowers. But Igaliku is more just a pretty face — this is one of the central grounds for Greenland’s 12th-century Norse culture, home to the well-preserved ruins of Gardar, seat of the Norse bishop. Getting there is part of the magic: arriving via Tunulliarfik Fjord includes a 2.5-mile traverse along the King’s Road from Itilleq, open for walking, driving or UTV-ing.

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Fjords, Pharaohs or Koalas? Time to Plan for Your Next Eclipse.

If you can’t get enough of totality, or missed out this time, you’ll have three more chances in the next four years in destinations like Iceland, Spain, Egypt and Australia.

• Share full article

By Danielle Dowling

Are you still a little giddy from the magical moments of totality during Monday’s solar eclipse? Or did clouds swoop in to block your view? Maybe you just couldn’t make it to the path of totality this time. No matter what, the question now is “ Where and when will it happen again?”

“People who have never seen it before, the first words out of their mouth after the totality ends is ‘I’ve got to see another one, this is incredible, this is unbelievable.’ That is when you become addicted to these things and end up traveling no matter where the next one is,” said Joseph Rao, an eclipse chaser and guest lecturer at the Hayden Planetarium.

So, if like Mr. Rao, you’ve developed a raging case of umbraphilia — the love of eclipses — you’ll have three chances over the next four years to see the moon blot out the sun. The first, on Aug. 12, 2026, will start above Greenland, then strafe the west coast of Iceland and move along the Atlantic Ocean and over Spain. Almost a year later, on Aug. 2, 2027, another will skirt the Mediterranean coast of North Africa then cross Egypt and part of the Arabian Peninsula. The third, on July 22, 2028, will cut across Australia and the southern tip of New Zealand.

Future Eclipses

Eclipse chasers will have several more chances this decade to view a total solar eclipse .

Last week, as Victoria Sahami , the owner of Sirius Travel , was preparing to guide a group of tourists in Mazatlán, Mexico, for Monday’s big event, she was also planning for these other upcoming eclipses. Ms. Sahami joined the ranks of the eclipse-obsessed when she witnessed one in Venezuela in the 1990s. “Like many people, I was hooked. There was no going back,” she said.

Total solar eclipses happen fairly regularly — about every one to two years — in locations scattered around the world. “That’s the great thing about them: You wind up in places that you don’t normally go,” Ms. Sahami said.

A major spoiler is weather, which will be a big variable in the 2026 eclipse — one Greenland, Iceland and Spain will see.

“Iceland normally has a lot of cloud during that time of year,” said Paul Maley , who runs Ring of Fire Expeditions . “The data shows Spain to have the higher good-weather prospects of all three. However, the sun is low in the sky and the eclipse ends as the sun hits the horizon at sunset.”

Because of Iceland’s mercurial meteorology, Ring of Fire Expeditions is going all in on Spain, with a 10-day excursion on the mainland. Sirius Travel is offering not only a five-day trip to Majorca but also an eight-day tour around Iceland. It will be based in Reykjavik, and the itinerary will remain flexible on the day of the eclipse so the tour can easily pivot toward the location with the least cloud cover. Ms. Sahami recommends the trip for those who already have a few eclipses under their belt and would be happy just to take in the sights of Iceland if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

The 2027 eclipse, on the other hand, promises to be truly stellar: Luxor, Egypt — the site of numerous ancient temples as well as the Valleys of the Kings and Queens — sits right in the middle of the path of totality and will be bathed in darkness for a full 6 minutes 23 seconds. Weather-wise, it is what Ms. Sahami called “a slam dunk.” “You know you’re going to see it. You know that you’re not going to get any clouds,” she said.

But for all its potential, those considering Egypt should be aware that the State Department has a Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” warning for the country because of the risk of terrorism.

The 2028 eclipse will darken the skies over Sydney, Australia, for 3 minutes 49 seconds. It will be the first time the city has experienced a total solar eclipse since 1857. Ms. Sahami has her eyes on a trip based out of there, while Mr. Maley has chartered a cruise ship off the northwest coast of Australia. It will be winter there, he said, but that isn’t likely to mean bad eclipse-viewing weather.

If you want to see any (or all) of these eclipses, you should get started on planning and booking now, particularly if you want to sign up for a trip organized by a tour company. One of Sirius Travel’s excursions to Luxor is already full.

Scrutinize refund policies and look into insuring your trip. Several companies will fully refund your deposit if you cancel a year in advance. A lot can happen, Ms. Sahami said, “but if you think you’re going to go, why not?”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Already planning to see the next solar eclipse in 2026? What travelers need to know.

Umbraphiles feeling the post-eclipse blues should start checking the expiration date on their passports.

The next total solar eclipse is set to happen on Aug. 12, 2026, over Greenland, Iceland, Spain, Russia and a small part of Portugal, according to NASA . 

In North America, only a partial eclipse will be visible, so if April’s event made you an eclipse chaser and you want to see totality, you’ll need to head overseas.

Start the day smarter. Get all the news you need in your inbox each morning.

Here’s what you’ll need to know before packing your bags:

Do you need a passport or visa for the best destination?

The path of totality for the 2026 eclipse mostly goes through places Americans can travel visa-free with their passport, so long as they’re planning to stay for less than 90 days.

Spain, Portugal, Iceland and Greenland all allow visa-free tourist travel for U.S. passport holders.

Spain, Portugal and Iceland are also members of the Schengen Area, which allows for visa-free travel in much of Europe, meaning if you decide to make a multi-country trip out of your eclipse adventure, you won’t need to clear customs if you’re coming from much of the rest of Europe, either.

One major change for travelers to Europe from the U.S., however, is that electronic preauthorization will become a requirement beginning in mid-2025. The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) requirement will apply to all four open countries in the path of totality. 

Depending on the state of the Ukraine war, travel to Russia may or may not be an option for most Americans by 2026, so it’s unclear what the paperwork requirements will be by then.

Is it better to see it from the beach?

Beaches can be a great place to see the eclipse because there are few natural obstacles blocking observers’ views of the sky. The 2026 path of totality passes over beaches on Spain’s northern and southeastern coasts, as well as over islands in the Mediterranean Sea including Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza. The eclipse will also pass over coastal areas in Greenland and Iceland, according to the National Solar Observatory . 

Cruising Altitude: What it was like to see the eclipse from a plane

Will there be eclipse cruises or flights?

Almost certainly, although most operators have not announced specific plans yet. 

Cruise lines will also offer more viewing opportunities. Princess Cruises “has created a bespoke itinerary aboard Sky Princess to position the ship near Spain on that date,” according to a spokesperson for the line. The cruise will open for bookings on Princess’s website on May 23.

Cunard Line has sailings on its Queen Mary 2 , Queen Victoria and Queen Anne vessels that will put passengers in prime spots to watch .

'The ship can move': Why you should watch next solar eclipses from a cruise ship

Holland America Line is also planning multiple sailings around the event, though details are still to be announced. “Guests have reacted positively to our 2024 eclipse cruises and with the next full eclipse in 2026 we plan to have three sailings in Europe that will align with the path of the eclipse,” Paul Grigsby, the line's vice president of Deployment & Itinerary Planning, previously told USA TODAY in an email.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Already planning to see the next solar eclipse in 2026? What travelers need to know.

Eclipse 2026: The next total solar eclipse will be Europe's 1st in 27 years

The next total solar eclipse will occur on Aug. 12, 2026.

• Why so special?

Path of totality

• Where and when will it be visible?
• Partial solar eclipse viewing locations
• Upcoming total solar eclipses

Additional resources

It's been a long time since a total solar eclipse passed through Europe, but on Aug. 12, 2026, totality will come to the extreme northwest and southwest of the continent. 

Visible in Greenland, western Iceland and northern Spain, the 2026 total solar eclipse will bring a maximum of 2 minutes, 18 seconds of totality the day before the peak of the annual Perseid meteor shower . 

However, this solar eclipse will be about weather and sight lines, as it will occur over potentially cloudy regions and will be relatively low in the sky. At its highest point, the eclipsed sun will be just 26 degrees above the horizon. 

Related: What's the difference between a total solar eclipse and an annular solar eclipse?

What's special about the Aug. 12, 2026, total solar eclipse?

In Iceland — in the auroral zone — the sun won't set until midnight, but the sky will get dark enough in the middle of the night for any faint auroras to become visible. In rural Spain, the skies will get much darker, making it the perfect destination to enjoy the peak night of the Perseid meteor shower, the strongest meteor shower of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, the night after the eclipse. 

The 182-mile-wide (293 kilometers) moon's shadow will take around 96 minutes to cross the planet. Touching down in Russia, it will pass across Greenland, touch western Iceland, cross the Atlantic Ocean and cover northern Spain, departing just east of the Balearic Islands. 

Cruise ships will either visit Scoresby Sund in Greenland or catch the longest possible totality just west of Iceland during a circumnavigation of the island nation. The country's capital and largest city, Reykjavik, will be a hive of activity for this eclipse, though it will pay to be mobile, with the Reykjanes Peninsula and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula both potential viewing regions. 

Spain is a risky viewing location for different reasons. The eclipse will arrive on the country's northwest coast very close to sunset, so it will be important to be somewhere with a clear view low to the western horizon. 

"Some parts of Spain have high mountains that can prevent us from seeing the sun during totality, so it is very important to select the location carefully," Oscar Martín Mesonero, an eclipse chaser and astronomer at Startrails in Salamanca, Spain, told Space.com. "On the east coast, the sun will be only 4 degrees high, so any building or small mountain could ruin the view — and traffic there will be very bad."

From Mallorca, the eclipse will occur almost on the horizon, and sight lines will be tricky. 

"Mallorca is a touristy place, and prices will be very high," Mesonero said. "There are few roads and lots of mountains, so you will have to choose the site very carefully — any small obstacle could cause you to miss the eclipse — but if you succeed, you will have a spectacular view of the eclipsed sun over the sea with a golden corona!" 

Ibiza, Formentera and Menorca may be easier and more affordable options, but totality there will be much shorter.

Where and when can I see the August 2026 total solar eclipse?

Here are some of the places eclipse chasers will gather for the total solar eclipse on Aug. 12, 2026:  

What will the weather be like for the Aug. 12, 2026, eclipse?

This is an eclipse with a dilemma. "In a way, Iceland is better because the sun will be higher in the sky," Graham Jones, an astrophysicist and science communicator at Time and Date , told Space.com. "By the time it reaches Spain, it's very low, which can be problematic." However, Iceland has a much higher chance of clouds. "It's a question of higher altitude and more clouds versus lower altitude and less clouds," Jones said. 

The coasts of Greenland and Iceland and the north coast of Spain are the most likely to have clouds. There are some potential bright spots — Scoresby Sund in Greenland, according to Eclipsophile — while the cooling of the land during the partial phases could cause convective clouds to dissipate across the path. 

To maximize the chance of clear skies, head for north-central Spain; the Castilla-La Mancha and Castilla y León regions are least likely to have clouds (but the most likely to have crowds). "It is possible that due to the day's heat, clouds form that affect the afternoon at the time of the eclipse," Mesonero said. "Having a vehicle to move around will be very important."

However, many eclipse chasers don't mind taking risks. "For people who have seen a lot of eclipses but never seen Iceland, a 40% chance of seeing it is a reasonable risk," said Victoria Sahami, owner and founder of Sirius Travel . "It was a no-brainer to put together an eclipse tour to Iceland — it's also where the longest totality is — but the best chance of clear skies will be in the Mediterranean off Mallorca." 

Where to see the partial solar eclipse on Aug. 12, 2026

A partial solar eclipse will be seen across Europe and some other Northern Hemisphere locations. Here's what will be seen from major cities and destinations in the partial eclipse zone:  

After August 2026, when is the next total solar eclipse?

After the total solar eclipse on Aug. 12, 2026, these are the dates and locations for the next total solar eclipses: 

• Aug. 2, 2027 : Spain, Gibraltar, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Somalia, British Indian Ocean Territory
• July 22, 2028 : Christmas Island, Cocos Islands, Australia, New Zealand 
• Nov. 25, 2030 : Namibia, Botswana, South Africa, Lesotho and Australia 
• Nov. 14, 2031 : Pacific Ocean (totality), Panama (annularity) 
• March 30, 2033 : Russia, U.S. (Alaska) 
• March 20, 2034 : Benin, Nigeria, Cameroon, Chad, Sudan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, India and China 
• Sept. 2, 2035 : China, North Korea, Japan 

Want to look further ahead? You can find a concise summary of solar eclipses out to 2030 on NASA's eclipse website . Read more about solar and lunar eclipses on EclipseWise.com , a website dedicated to predictions of eclipses, and find beautiful maps on eclipse cartographer Michael Zeiler's GreatAmericanEclipse.com and interactive Google Maps on Xavier Jubier's eclipse website. You can find climate and weather predictions by meteorologist Jay Anderson on eclipsophile.com . 

Bibliography

Anderson, J. (February 2024). Total Solar Eclipse

2026 August 12. Retrieved March 4, 2024 from https://eclipsophile.com/tse2026/

Bakich, M. and Zeiler, M. (2022). Atlas Of Solar Eclipses 2020-2045. 

https://www.greatamericaneclipse.com/books/atlas-of-solar-eclipses-2020-to-2045

Espenak, F. Solar Eclipse Prime Page: Total Solar Eclipse of 2026 August 12. Retrieved March 4, 2024 from: https://eclipsewise.com/solar/SEprime/2001-2100/SE2026Aug12Tprime.html

Jubier, X. (n.d.). Solar eclipses: Interactive Google Maps. Retrieved March 4, 2024 from http://xjubier.free.fr/en/site_pages/SolarEclipsesGoogleMaps.html

Time and Date. (n.d.). August 12 2026 Total Solar Eclipse. Retrieved March 5, 2024 from https://www.timeanddate.com/eclipse/solar/2026-august-12

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Jamie is an experienced science, technology and travel journalist and stargazer who writes about exploring the night sky, solar and lunar eclipses, moon-gazing, astro-travel, astronomy and space exploration. He is the editor of  WhenIsTheNextEclipse.com  and author of  A Stargazing Program For Beginners , and is a senior contributor at Forbes. His special skill is turning tech-babble into plain English.

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