The world’s largest island provides the prologue to your expedition. The HANSEATIC inspiration begins its explorer route in Sisimiut on Greenland’s western coast. Follow in the footsteps of the Saqqaq culture and visit the old town, which resembles a museum village. Hike from Ilulissat to the ice fjord, where glistening ice formations gather. This is just a taste of what awaits in Disko Bay, where glittering sculptures drift slowly through the water – with you at the centre as you cruise or take a Zodiac ride. With its octagonal church and the museum, the settlement of Qeqertarsuaq, which was founded in 1773, tells stories of modern life and the former whaling centre on Disko Island. Your ship will chart a flexible course through the fjords of Greenland amid majestic mountain ranges and the deeply carved coastline. The Zodiacs are put to good use here again. With a little luck, you might spot whales, surrounded by the colossal scenery.

Qassiarsuk has an interesting history – this is where Erik the Red founded Greenland’s first Viking settlement in around 985. In Unartoq, round off your experiences by bathing in the hot springs as you watch the icebergs drift by.

Away from the usual routes, Canada’s sparsely populated east coast is a real insider’s tip. Newfoundland is an open book of eventful history, ranging from the indigenous people and the Vikings to European explorers. Trace the Icelandic/Greenlandic settlers as you explore the excavations at L’Anse aux Meadows independently. This is followed by a premiere destination for Hapag-Lloyd Cruises: Port au Choix, where you can explore the remnants of ancient cultures with your experts and hike through superb nature. The small town of Norris Point describes itself as a photographers’ paradise. Hiking in Gros Morne National Park* between the mountains and coastline also reveals an array of varied sights with glaciers, fjords and lakes.

And then a gigantic lifeline stretches out before you: the St Lawrence River, North America’s mighty river system between the Atlantic and the Great Lakes at a length of almost 3,000 km (1,864 mi.). As you travel along the river, the experts on board will tell you all about the history – from the early Woodland period and the First Nations to the current economic significance.

With a little luck, you’ll spot beluga, blue, humpback or fin whales whilst whale watching* off Tadoussac.

Dramatic nature shapes your visit in Saguenay (La Baie), a hiker's paradise surrounded by rugged mountains almost 400 m (1,312 ft) high. The HANSEATIC inspiration will again take its time when cruising on the Saguenay Fjord to allow for potential whale sightings.

Untouched wilderness meets savoir vivre in Quebec, Enjoy the contrasts of the French roots and Canadian sense of freedom on a city walk with tea at Chateau Frontenac*. The 80 m (262 ft) high Montmorency Falls and Ile d’Orleans* are also something to look forward to.

If you’re looking to take things up a notch, an adventure through the locks on the St Lawrence River is just the ticket. The HANSEATIC inspiration negotiates seven locks with a height difference of up to 15 m (49 ft) – and you can watch this exciting manoeuvre from the spacious decks during the day.

After passing through the maze of the Thousand Islands and cruising on Lake Ontario, your cruise of rich contrasts comes to an end in Toronto – but your experiences will stay with you forever.