This expedition is a very special combination of Greenland’s west and east coasts
Marvel at nature from the deck and the Zodiacs: towering mountains, deep fjords and mighty ice
Fascinatingly remote: hike in the tundra and visit remote settlements
Chances of spotting musk oxen, whales, Arctic foxes and polar bears
A relaxed way of travelling: from far-fetched icy coasts to the home port of Hamburg
At anchor
Further informations
From the Arctic to Hamburg – quite unusual for a polar cruise but highly convenient for you and, above all, one thing: spectacular. On a flexible course, the small HANSEATIC nature connects the west and east coasts of Greenland. A region that appears so untouched and pristine as if no human being had ever set eyes on it. The fascination of remoteness lies over Sisimiut right from the start, its old town resembling a museum village. You can marvel at one of the northernmost UNESCO World Heritage Sites on a hike with your experts to the ice fjord of Ilulissat, “birthplace” of many icebergs. These will draw everyone’s attention in Disko Bay as well. Both while cruising and riding in the Zodiacs, watch the mighty ice formations that drift through the bay.
In the Arsukfjord, cast your gaze over the vast tundra where musk oxen might make an appearance. Peer in wonder at the beautiful shimmering turquoise on a cruise through Prince Christian Sound with extraordinary views of waterfalls, steep rock faces and glaciers.
Those who want to get to know the remote east of Greenland now have the best opportunity to do so. Only in late summer are the waters considered navigable, when the thick belt of pack ice opens up to reveal a hidden world. Mountains up to 1,000 m (3,281 ft) high define Skjoldungen Sound – ideal for hiking with your experts. The small settlement of Tasiilaq lies in the middle of virtually untouched nature. Dog sledding and the Inuit drum dance are a living tradition here. It is even more isolated to live in Ittoqqortoormiit in the midst of endless wilderness. Your impressions of nature will probably only be surpassed by Scoresbysund, the largest fjord system in the world. Greenland’s highest mountains, impressive glacier landscapes and icebergs shape the region. Awe-inspiring rock faces rise up steeply before you, forming a rugged background for the scene of bizarre ice sculptures. Enjoy extensive hikes surrounded by these wonderful views. With a little luck, you will be able to see the Northern Lights at this time of year. One particular highlight of your expedition awaits you in Northeast Greenland National Park, the largest national park on the planet covering an area of around 970,000 km2 (375,000 mi.2) – only accessible with a small expedition ship. Deserted aside from the traditional Sirius Dog Sled Patrol, its alpine landscape, granite cliffs and glaciers redefine the feeling of isolation. Enjoy a series of overwhelming views in the realm of polar bears and Arctic foxes from the Zodiacs and on deck, such as when the mountain flanks of the Alpefjord tower up to 3,000 m (9,843 ft) above you. Equally majestic, the King Oscar Fjord will complete your unforgettable impressions – perhaps even with polar bear sightings.
After the isolation, the route slowly brings you back to civilisation. Iceland does not dare compare itself with Greenland, but rather provides deep insights into Nordic life. With its colourful wooden houses, the small town of Seydisfjordur, situated on a fjord, are a reminder of the riches brought by the herring boom.
Rough, wild and full of ancient history, the Orkney Islands welcome you when you discover the historical treasures1 starting in Kirkwall. Skara Brae, the best-preserved prehistoric village in northern Europe, and the Ring of Brodgar, dating back to around 2700 BC, are fascinating sights here.
1 The shore activities are not included in the cruise price and are in the planning stage. Subject to change. 2 Connecting flights at an extra charge.
---- The ice conditions determine the course here (see map).
The itinerary depends on official approval, weather and ice conditions. The natural experiences and wildlife sightings described are possibilities on this expedition and are not guaranteed.
At anchor
When the ship is anchored, there is no pier and the ship anchors in open water. The transfer to land is carried out using tender boats or zodiacs.
Golf
You head for the best and most beautiful greens in the world and are looked after by a PGA golf professional
Zodiac
Where even our small and few ships can't get any further, you can continue your adventures safely in robust inflatable boats (weather permitting).
Music
In an almost private atmosphere you can experience artists up close on the high seas or in front of the most beautiful places in the world.
Extend your trip
Explore your cruise destinations on a more personal basis as a couple – ideal for all those who don’t want to be part of a group. The excursions in the programmes are accompanied by a local tour guide who will be happy to attend to your individual wishes. There will also be enough time and space for your own activities. Transfers are exclusively by private car with private drivers. Prices for solo travellers or groups of three or more are available on request.
Our travel concierge will be happy to put together tailor-made travel arrangements for you according to your wishes. From design hotels to luxurious beach resorts to ticket reservations for theater visits or restaurant recommendations for the most exciting cities. The Travel Concierge is available to you before your trip and of course on board.
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Greenland, the largest island in the world, is a multifaceted treasure trove for explorers. Imposing icebergs drifting through Disko Bay will leave you speechless, as will the contrasts of flourishing tundra and mighty mountain ranges. Inuit settlements such as Sisimiut on the west coast set cultural accents. Pure solitude, on the other hand, can be found in the seclusion of the North-East Greenland National Park, where man is only a marginal phenomenon.
Price special
Limited offer: Travel for the best price in the SILVER fare
For this cruise, offers in the SILVER fare are available. You will find these under "Prices & Booking" after selecting the respective suite/cabin.
Attractive combination discount
Extend your stay with the previous cruise NAT2515 and save € 1,000 per person (applies to PLATINUM fare).
Included Services
Expedition and information
All landings and rides in the ship’s own Zodiacs (Use of the Zodiacs depends on the destination and on official permits)
Experienced experts from various disciplines accompany every cruise, give presentations and multimedia lectures, provide well-informed answers to questions about the cruising area and take part in the Zodiac landings/rides and hikes from/to ship
Use of the interactive Ocean Academy with individual knowledge formats
Comprehensive information before the cruise – for example about the Arctic, Antarctic, the South Seas and the Amazon, as well as expedition maps
Cabin
In every cabin: champagne to welcome you, mini bar restocked daily with non-alcoholic beverages (additional selection in Grand Suites and Junior Suites), coffee machine (tea on request), 24-hour cabin service
Equipment for loan: one pair of binoculars and two sets of Nordic Walking poles in the cabin itself, furthermore warm parkas, rubber boots, snorkelling equipment
Flat-screen TV with information and entertainment programme, personal email account and Internet access via Wi-Fi (free of charge for one hour per guest and day, satellite-dependent especially in polar areas)
Information about harbours and destinations (where available) in the cabin
Restaurants
International gourmet cuisine – full board: breakfast (early-bird and late riser breakfast), bouillon, afternoon coffee/tea time, lunch and dinner (three restaurants to choose from in the evening with flexible opening hours)
All around carefree
German ship and expedition management as well as a mostly German-speaking service crew
Harbour and airport fees
Cancellation fee insurance (20% excess) in the fares PLATINUM and GOLD
Spa and fitness
Extensive sports programme: fitness area with ocean view, course programme, additional sports activities on shore depending on the destination (Personal training for an additional charge)
OCEAN SPA with Finnish sauna with an ocean view, steam sauna, indoor and outdoor relaxation area (spa treatments and hairdresser at a surcharge)
