ARCTIC 2026
Iceland to Greenland
Mountains, Glaciers and the Westfjords
Contents
Overview Itinerary
1 2 5
Arrival and Departure Details, and International Flight Planning Your Ship
8 9 11 12 13 14 15 16 19
Included Activities Adventure Options Departure Dates Inclusions and Exclusions Your Expedition Team Meals on Board Possible Excursions Packing Checklist
Photos captured with a telephoto lens from a responsible distance, following regulatory/AECO guidelines.
Overview
Iceland to Greenland: Mountains, Glaciers and the Westfjords
EXPEDITION IN BRIEF
Our 15-day Iceland to Greenland: Mountains, Glaciers and the Westfjords itinerary explores iconic destinations in Iceland and Greenland with a special focus on a hidden gem of Iceland, the Westfjords. We’ll also journey above the Arctic Circle to visit Kangerlussuaq. It’s not often that you’ll get to explore all these areas of Iceland and Greenland in one trip. The other appeal of this itinerary is the mix of Arctic wilderness, stunning landscapes, wildlife, ancient ruins and modern-day culture. Our team curated this expedition to resonate with nature seekers, birding enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers and history-lovers. In the seldom-visited Westfjords in the western part of the island nation—“Iceland’s best-kept secret”—you’ll get to explore the rugged peninsula that’s renowned for its fjords, towering mountains, bird-
Venture into the Westfjords, Iceland’s hidden gem
Sail the length of scenic Prins Christian Sund
Learn about Greenlandic fishing heritage at Aappilattoq
Experience Arctic Patagonia along the 70-km long Tasermiut Fjord
Visit Norse ruins at Hvalsey
Explore Nuuk, the charming capital of Greenland.
dwelling cliffs, gushing waterfalls and rolling green hills. We aim to visit the private island sanctuary of Vigur—which is home to 7,000 eider ducks and 100,000 puffins. In remote Southeast Greenland, we’ll explore glaciers, steep mountains and breathtaking fjords. After sailing the length of Prins Christian Sund (Ikerasassuaq)—one of the world’s most scenic fjords—we’ll immerse ourselves in spectacular glaciers, mountainous landscapes, culturally-rich communities, and visit Nuuk, the capital of Greenland. Our expedition team will ensure you witness the wonders of some of the longest fjords in Greenland, such as Eternity Fjord, Kangerlussuaq and Tasermiut Fjord. You will explore these natural wonders by ship, Zodiac, kayak and on foot. On the cultural front, you will learn about Norse and Viking cultures, traditional Icelandic ways of life, as well as contemporary Greenlandic customs in settlements such as Nuuk.
Call your Travel Professional or a Quark Polar Travel Adviser at 1.888.892.0073 | Visit QuarkExpeditions.com for additional details
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Itinerary
DAY 3 | EXPLORING WESTFORDS, ICELAND’S HIDDEN GEM Each region of Iceland has its own appeal for nature seekers, birding enthusiasts and history-lovers, and the seldom-visited Westfjords, where the land meets the sea in the most dramatic fashion, is no exception. Often referred to as “Iceland’s best-kept secret,” this rugged peninsula at the country’s remote northwestern tip is rife with fjords, and mountains that slope gracefully down to the sea. We spend our time exploring the fjords and shores of Iceland’s oldest region, enjoying its kaleidoscope of diverse land and seascapes. Here, tumbling cliffs and gushing waterfalls alternate with colorful beaches, and rolling green hills lead up to high moorlands dotted with rocky outcrops, small lakes, and the occasional shaggy
DAY 1 | ARRIVE IN ICELAND Arrive at the international airport in Keflavik and transfer independently to your included hotel in Reykjavik. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to explore Iceland’s fascinating capital. Many cultural and historical landmarks are located in or near the walkable city center. DAY 2 | EMBARKATION Enjoy your complimentary breakfast at the hotel. Your transfer to the ship is scheduled for the afternoon, leaving you time to explore Reykjavik in the morning and have lunch on your own before you rendez-vous back at the hotel for the bus transfer to the port. Embarkation is scheduled for 4 pm. You’ll be notified of official welcome and safety briefings as we set sail for the Westfjords.
Ba n Bay
GREENLAND
Kangerlussuaq
Eternity Fjord
TO REYKJAVIK
Nuuk
Kvane Fjord
Denmark Strait
Hvalsey
West Fjords
Lindenow Fjord
ICELAND
Reykjavik
Atlantic Ocean
ICELAND TO GREENLAND: Mountains, Glaciers and the Westfjords
Onboard Ocean Explorer Flight to/from Reykjavik
Call your Travel Professional or a Quark Polar Travel Adviser at 1.888.892.0073 | Visit QuarkExpeditions.com for additional details
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Icelandic sheep or pony grazing in the distance. A few modest outposts of civilization, in the form small fishing communities nestled along the fjords and shores of the Denmark Strait, face out into the mighty Atlantic—keeping alive a maritime heritage that dates back to the Viking days. One of today’s highlights is a chance to visit Vigur, a private island that provides guests with unique opportunities to delve into Icelandic culture and heritage as early as the 11th century. Vigur is widely regarded as a capsule of Icelandic heritage.” Upon arriving on shore by Zodiac, we will be welcomed by the people who own this incredible island. One of the co-owners is polar explorer Felicity Aston, the first woman to ski solo across Antarctica. You’ll learn about the Icelandic tradition of eiderdown harvesting, and the wide array of Arctic birdlife and seals that are found in Vigur. It’s estimated that the island is home to over 7,000 breeding ducks, 100,000 puffins, Europe’s largest colony of black
Guillemot, and huge flocks of Arctic terns. You’ll also have opportunities to ramble about the island, taste local food and visit the island café. Today’s adventure options include Zodiac cruising, sea kayaking, paddle excursion program, and, potentially, a guided shore hike. Right across the bay is Mongufoss, one of Iceland’s most remote and beautiful waterfalls, which we’ll visit by ship after our onboard lunch.
ARCTIC PATAGONIA DAYS 6 – 10 | EXPLORING SOUTHEAST GREENLAND
Your exploration of Greenland begins with East Greenland, one of the least- visited and most remote parts of the world’s largest island. Our journey along the coast will be influenced by weather and ice conditions, with each day—and each off-ship excursion—presenting new adventures. Expect glaciers, steep mountains and breathtaking fjords. Transiting the 100–km long Prins Christian Sund (Ikerasassuaq)—one of the world’s most scenic fjords—will reveal incredible views. Guests can expect dramatic mountain and seascapes with glaciers tumbling down to the sea, and capitivating vistas stretching along the entire fjord. The South Greenlanders who live on this frontier are as unique as the region they inhabit. This is where the migrating hunting people from the east eventually settled around the European trading posts.
DAYS 4 & 5 | AT SEA: CROSSING THE DENMARK STRAIT
As we sail southwest across the Denmark Strait toward Greenland, your Expedition Team will prepare you for the exciting adventures ahead—both on and off-ship. Our team of polar experts will present on a wide range of topics, including the geology, wildlife, climatology and enthralling history of Greenland. The team will also search for (and identify) the seabirds soaring about the ship—and they’ll most certainly alert you whenever there’s a whale sighting.
The handful of villages in this region are
EXPEDITION SPIRIT Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy—and excitement—of expedition travel. When traveling in extremely remote regions, your Expedition Team must consider the sea, ice and weather to guide the route and itinerary details. This itinerary is a tentative outline of what you may experience on this voyage; please be aware that no specific itinerary can be guaranteed. By the same token, wildlife encounters as described are expected, but not guaranteed. Your Expedition Team will use their considerable experience to seek out wildlife in known habitats, but the presence of any particular species of bird or marine wildlife is not guaranteed.
Call your Travel Professional or a Quark Polar Travel Adviser at 1.888.892.0073 | Visit QuarkExpeditions.com for additional details
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renowned for their inhabitants’ strong commitment to traditional hunting and fishing practices. We hope to visit Aappilattoq, perched on the shores of Prins Christian Sund (Ikerasassuaq), to introduce you to some of our local partners, listen to their stories, hear their music, taste local food, learn about the fishing and hunting heritage, and perhaps even join a friendly game of soccer—as a player or spectator. If you are looking for the most iconic peaks of South Greenland, you’ll be in your glory when we reach Tasermiut Fjord in the heart of what’s known as “Arctic Patagonia.” We’ll offer Zodiac excursions and guided on-shore hikes (tailored for different levels of ability and interest) to view the jagged peaks, tumbling glaciers, ice-laden landscapes, alpine vistas and wildlife. Tasermiut Fjord is ideal for our sea kayaking and paddling programs, as well. We continue on our quest to explore the wild fjords of the uninhabited southeast coast, one of which is Lindenow Fjord,
also known by its Greenlandic name, Kangerlussuatsiaq. Thousands of years ago, groups of Paleo-Inuit hunters and fish harvesters settled in these isolated fjords, living off the land, and surviving on food from the sea. This preceded the arrival of European explorers and the establishment of settlements whch prompted one of the biggest waves of migration in Greenland. Marine mammals frequent the many fjords in this region. Humpback whales are often observed in the shallow waters at the entrance to the fjords where nutrients are drawn up to the surface. Rare sightings of polar bears are possible as they drift down from the north on sea ice floes propelled by the East- Greenland current. We’ll keep our eyes peeled for other wildlife as we continue to explore the remote icescapes of the wild southeast, which is also ideal for hiking, paddle excursions, Zodiac cruises and shore landings. The southern coast of Greenland is steeped in Norse history. We anticipate
a visit to Hvalsey (Qaqortukulooq), the site of Greenland’s largest and best-preserved Norse ruins. Exploring the remains of the church (circa 14th- century) will make you feel like you’re stepping back in time, as the building appears much as it did when it was abandoned in the 15th century. The surrounding fells and fjords remain similarly untouched. Also on our planned itinerary is charming Qassiarsuk, one of the five sites that make up the Kujataa World Heritage Site. It’s a small sheep farming settlement where you can experience true South Greenland hospitality and gain insight into the fascinating lives of sheep farmers living at the edge of the massive Greenland Ice Sheet. We suggest you take time to explore the remains and replicas of Brattahlíð, Erik the Red’s estate, once the epicenter of the Greenland Norse Eastern Settlement. During or time in Qassiarsuk, guests will have opportunities to sample local food, enjoy a hike, and, if time and weather allow, we may take a Zodiac cruise amidst towering icebergs.
Call your Travel Professional or a Quark Polar Travel Adviser at 1.888.892.0073 | Visit QuarkExpeditions.com for additional details
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DAY 11 | AT SEA As our ship makes its way up the coast from South Greenland, we set our sights on the endless natural wonders—and small communities— along the rugged west coast of Greenland. We invite you to use this time to attend one of the expert-led polar presentations to learn more about this region of Greenland. DAYS 12 – 13 | VENTURING INTO WEST GREENLAND The sheer beauty of West Greenland can overwhelm first-time visitors: spectacular glaciers, mountainous landscapes, and thriving, culturally-rich communities. As we head north, we hope to embark on Zodiac daily excursions to explore local bays, channels and select landing sites. We’ll also explore some of the quaint settlements throughout the picturesque islands and fjords. Nuuk, the charming Greenlandic capital, is a must-visit destination on the west
coast. You’ll have time to wander the streets of the historic Old Nuuk neighborhood and see the Hans Egede Church and Hans Egede statue near the waterfront, both named after the 18th-century missionary who founded the settlement. History buffs will make haste to the national museum to view the famous Greenlandic mummies, which were found under a rock outcrop in 1972. The remarkably preserved mummies of six women and two children date back to the 15th century. Pride of place for our seasoned expedition team is Eternity Fjord, which is home to the tallest mountains in all of West Greenland. This a favorite spot for us to launch our Zodiacs into the water to explore in-depth—where larger vessels can’t navigate. There are few settlements in this long fjord—but you will quickly appreciate nature in its rawest form as you hike among the towering mountains, and photograph the colorful tundra and other dramatic landscapes.
DAY 14 | EXPLORING KANGERLUSSUAQ AND DISEMBARKATION Today we’ll explore 50 km (31 miles) above the Arctic Circle. Our destination is Kangerlussuaq, which is Greenlandic for “the long fjord.” At the end of this 180-km long fjord is a settlement bearing the same name. Fishing boats based in the town of Kangerlussuaq sail the full length of the fjord to access the ocean. The town is known for its stunning natural beauty— and for being the home of the largest airport in Greenland. You will be ferried from ship to shore on one last Zodiac ride, then transferred to the airport where you will board your charter flight to Iceland’s Keflavik International Airport, approxmately 45 minutes from Reyjkavik. Upon arrival at the airport, you will be transferred to your included hotel for the night. DAY 15 | DEPARTING ICELAND After breakfast in your included hotel in Reykjavik, transfer independently to the Keflavik International Airport for your onward journey.
Call your Travel Professional or a Quark Polar Travel Adviser at 1.888.892.0073 | Visit QuarkExpeditions.com for additional details
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Arrival and Departure Details, and International Flight Planning
DAY 1
DAY 2
EXPEDITION DAYS
FINAL DAY
DISEMBARKATION DAY
Leave hotel International flight onward
International flight in* Arrival and hotel night
Disembarkation, charter flight and hotel night
Embarkation
On ship or landing days
* Arrive anytime on Day 1 or earlier. Day 1 includes an optional briefing. International flights are not included in the cost of the voyage.
As you prepare for your journey, you may be interested in your arrival and departure details. Since international air transportation is not included in the cost of your expedition, you have some flexibility in planning your flights. Arrival Day and Embarkation DAY 1 — ARRIVING AND HOTEL NIGHT IN REYKJAVIK You may arrive at any time during Day 1 of the itinerary and make your way to the included hotel in Reykjavik. DAY 2 — EMBARKATION IN REYKJAVIK On the morning of Day 2, your luggage will be collected from the lobby of your hotel, transferred to the ship and stored in your cabin. Ship embarkation will occur on Day 2 of your itinerary, usually around 4 pm. You and your shipmates will meet in the lobby of your hotel and board the waiting buses for transfer to the ship. Information about transfer timing will be posted in your Reykjavik hotel.
PLEASE NOTE There is a strict luggage weight limit on checked luggage and cabin baggage on the flights between Reykjavik and Kangerlussuaq. There is NO option to pay for additional luggage. You will find in your final documents: Luggage weight restrictions on charter flights. Hotel information and check in time Charter flight time to embarkation point Embarkation plan Departure charter flight time
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Final Day and Departure DISEMBARKATION IN KANGERLUSSUAQ AND CHARTER FLIGHT
PLEASE NOTE Included Hotel Accommodations: Your final night’s included accommodation will be provided at a hotel close to Keflavik International Airport, outside the city of Reykjavik. If you are arriving prior to Day 1 of your expedition or are staying after the disembarkation day and would like to extend your stay, you can book directly with the hotel or through a third party.
Your ship is scheduled to arrive in Kangerlussuaq where you will disembark after breakfast. The disembarkation process takes about an hour. After disembarkation, you will be transferred to the airport for the return charter flight to Iceland. DEPARTING FROM REYKJAVIK Upon arrival in Iceland, there will be a group transfer to your included post- expedition hotel in Reykjavik. After breakfast the following morning, you may make your way to the airport to connect with your onward flight, or stay longer if you have booked additional accommodation. Arrival and Departure Transfers REYKJAVIK AIRPORT TRANSFERS An arrival transfer to Reykjavik is not included in the expedition; If you require a transfer, you will need to arrange your own transportation. Most airports we travel in and out of have good taxi ranks in the arrivals area, or you can often pre-book a transfer online. Your final night’s included accommodation will be provided and a transfer to the airport will be available on the final day of the itinerary. A transfer to the city is not included if you are extending your time in Reykjavik after the expedition; be sure to make the appropriate arrangements.
Call your Travel Professional or a Quark Polar Travel Adviser at 1.888.892.0073 | Visit QuarkExpeditions.com for additional details
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Ultramarine
Our Fleet of Small Polar Vessels Quark Expeditions boasts the most diverse polar-class fleet of any polar operator, and the ability to offer you this incredible voyage on one of our ice strengthened vessels. The entire Quark Expeditions fleet is built for comfort—and for challenging polar environments, allowing us to take you to places ordinary cruise companies wouldn’t dream of going.
Plus, you'll do so while enjoying excellent amenities and superbly comfortable cabins.
Ocean Explorer
Call your Travel Professional or a Quark Polar Travel Adviser at 1.888.892.0073 | Visit QuarkExpeditions.com for additional details
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Your Ship
Ocean Explorer Owner’s Suite Penthouse Suite Studio Veranda Single Junior Suite Veranda Suite
OCEAN EXPLORER Ocean Explorer , the newest addition to our fleet, is modern, elegant and purpose-built for polar exploration. The 138-passenger vessel has been designed with the latest in expedition ship technology. One of the ship’s key features is the ULSTEIN X-BOW ®, a marine engineering innovation that ensures a comfortable and smooth sailing experience thanks to the inverted bow. Located at the bow is the two-story, light-filled library, which introduces a welcome airiness to the expedition ship. Spacious cabins feature a modern, bespoke Scandinavian design and almost all have verandas. Guests can relax and find comfort in the spacious gym, sauna with large windows, and two outdoor Jacuzzis. Ocean Explorer features ample outdoor viewing areas and multi-height outer decks, which are ideal for long-view photography and wildlife viewing. The vessel is equipped with a fleet of 15 Zodiacs that enable guests to get off the ship quickly and safely for off-ship adventures. In addition to the well-appointed and spacious public areas, Ocean Explorer has an industry-leading mix of sustainability systems, including fuel-efficient Rolls Royce engines.
Top Deck
Deck 9
Veranda Stateroom Deluxe Veranda Fwd Studio Single Balcony Jacuzzi
Observation Lounge & Bar ou ge & Bar
E
WC WC
Observation
Accessibility modified cabin; please speak to your travel professional for details Interconnecting Suites
Deck 8
Gym
Polar Deck and Bar
Bridge
E
Tundra Spa & Sauna p
Deck 7
E
Deck 6
n Reception
ng Room Private Dining Room
Explorer Lecture Lounge
E
WC WC
Polar Boutique
Deck 5
Expedition Desk
WC WC
E
Ocean Explorer Owner’s Suite Penthouse Suite Studio Veranda Single Junior Suite Veranda Suite Deck 4
SHIP SPECIFICATIONS: Staff and Crew: 105
Zodiac Embarkation
Top Deck
Ocean Explorer Owner’s Suite Penthouse Suite Studio Veranda Single Junior Suite Veranda Suite Deck 9 Observation Lounge & Bar ou ge & Bar E Medical Facilities
Guests: 138 Lifeboats: 2 Ice Class: 1A, PC6 Visit QuarkExpeditions.com to view deck plan details.
WC
Ready Room
WC
Deck 3
Veranda Stateroom Deluxe Veranda Fwd Studio Single Balcony Jacuzzi
Zodiac Embarkation
Top Deck
Ocean Explorer Owner’s Suite Penthouse Suite Studio Veranda Single Junior Suite Veranda Suite Deck 9 Observation Lounge & Bar ou ge & Bar E WC WC Observation
Veranda Stateroom Deluxe Veranda Fwd Studio Single Balcony Jacuzzi Deck 8
Top Deck
Accessibility modified cabin; please speak to your travel professional for details Interconnecting Suites
Deck 9
E
WC WC
Observation
Gym
Interconnecting Suites Veranda Stateroom Deluxe Veranda Fwd Studio Single Balcony Jacuzzi Deck 8 E
Accessibility modified cabin; please speak to your travel professional for details Interconnecting Suites Bridge
Polar Deck and Bar
E Call your Travel Professional or a Quark Polar Travel Adviser at 1.888.892.0073 | Visit QuarkExpeditions.com for additional details WC WC
9
Observation Lounge & Bar ou ge & Bar
Observation
Tundra Spa & Sauna p
Gym
Deck 7
Deck 8
Polar Deck
Included Activities
All of these activities are included in the price of your trip.
Ready for a little adventure beyond your ship? Each Quark Expeditions voyage offers a variety of recreational activities to enhance your polar experience. HIKING Led by experienced staff, exploring on foot is one of the best ways to appreciate the polar landscapes. Our guides are able to accommodate a range of skill levels to suit every guest. PRESENTATIONS Enjoy daily presentations by our world- class onboard polar experts—expedition guides, specialists, photography guides and other special guests who will introduce you to the fascinating history, biology, ornithology, glaciology and geology of the region, and much, much more. PHOTOGRAPHY Documenting your voyage so you can take the memories home is a rewarding experience. Our photography guides will help you hone your skills to capture the beauty of the polar regions.
ZODIAC CRUISING Zodiacs are the workhorses of polar expeditions, taking you to places the ships can’t access, allowing you to reach remote shorelines, explore shallow inlets and search for unique wildlife. Expedition staff make stepping in and out of them safe and comfortable, and your Zodiac drivers will provide active interpretation, making the landscape come even more alive. POLAR PLUNGE This rite of passage, scheduled only once per expedition, gives you the chance to jump safely into the bracing Arctic waters under the watchful eye of our staff—and just about every single camera on board. Contact your Polar Travel Adviser or your Travel Professional for more information about your Included Activities and Adventure Options, including the necessary experience, physical requirements and cost.
Call your Travel Professional or a Quark Polar Travel Adviser at 1.888.892.0073 | Visit QuarkExpeditions.com for additional details
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Adventure Options
All of these activities cost extra and should be booked in advance of your trip.
PADDLING EXCURSION If you’re interested in kayaking but would like to try something a bit less demanding than Sea Kayaking, you’re the perfect candidate to sign up for a one-time paddle on our stable sit-on- top kayaks—perfect for anyone with minimal or no kayaking experience. Small groups of passengers will be taken out on calm days, with our expert guides always present to provide instruction and help you connect with the polar sea. Two groups of 10 will be pre-booked, and once successfully completed, any subsequent outings will be offered via lottery on board.
SEA KAYAKING Imagine gliding across the surface of a bay in the presence of icebergs and glaciers. Our Sea Kayaking program is a great way to intimately explore your surroundings. A small group of kayakers will plan to go out multiple times per voyage as an alternative to shore landings or Zodiac cruises. The number of opportunities to kayak is weather dependent, and will be conducted only during calm conditions. Prior kayaking experience is required, and you must be able to do a wet exit to participate. Beginners interested in kayaking should consider participating in the Paddling Excursion.
PLEASE NOTE For all paid activities pre-booking is required. We recommend booking early as spaces fill quickly.
Call your Travel Professional or a Quark Polar Travel Adviser at 1.888.892.0073 | Visit QuarkExpeditions.com for additional details
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Departure Date Iceland to Greenland: Mountains, Glaciers and the Westfjords
OCEAN EXPLORER
Days
Start / End
Dates
Paddling Excursion
Sea Kayaking
ARCTIC 2026 JUL 26 – AUG 9, 2026
15
Reykjavik
$
$
Paid Activities $
Call your Travel Professional or a Quark Polar Travel Adviser at 1.888.892.0073 | Visit QuarkExpeditions.com for additional details
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Raise a Glass and Stay Connected. See below for specifics on our complimentary Wi-Fi and bar service, which takes effect November 2024.
Inclusions and Exclusions
Inclusions RATES INCLUDE: • Leadership throughout your voyage by our experienced Expedition Leaders, including shore landings and other activities • An official Quark Expeditions® parka to keep • All Zodiac transfers and cruising as per the daily program • All shore landings as per the daily program • Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping • All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage (Please inform us of any dietary requirements as far in advance as possible. Unfortunately, the ships’ galleys cannot prepare kosher meals.) • NEW Free beer, standard wines, spirits, and cocktails during bar service hours and dinner • Complimentary coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock
Exclusions RATES SPECIFICALLY DO NOT INCLUDE: • Mandatory Transfer Package * • International airfare
• Formal and informal presentations by our Expedition Team and guest speakers as scheduled • A photographic journal documenting the expedition • A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for
• Arrival transfers in Reykjavik • Passport and visa expenses • Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above • Meals ashore unless otherwise specified • Baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended • Excess-baggage fees on international and domestic flights • Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned • Laundry, bar and other personal charges unless specified • Phone charges may vary by location • Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew • Additional overnight accommodation • Adventure Options not listed in Included Activities
landings and Zodiac cruising excursions • Hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin
• NEW Complimentary Wi-Fi service on one device permitting basic Internet browsing, email, posting on social media and voice applications. (Premium packages are available for more data-intensive applications.) • All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program • All luggage handling aboard the ship • Emergency Evacuation insurance for all passengers to a maximum benefit of USD $500,000 per person • Greenland voyages cruise passenger tax
*MANDATORY TRANSFER PACKAGE INCLUDES: • One night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Reykjavik • Group transfer from the Reykjavik hotel to the ship on embarkation day • Group transfer from the ship to the Kangerlussuaq airport on disembarkation day • Charter flight from Greenland to Iceland • Group transfer from Iceland’s Keflavik International Airport to hotel • One night’s post-expedition hotel accommodation in Keflavik
Call your Travel Professional or a Quark Polar Travel Adviser at 1.888.892.0073 | Visit QuarkExpeditions.com for additional details
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Your Expedition Team
Our Expedition Leaders and their teams bring diverse expertise in subjects as varied as polar history, marine biology, glaciology, ornithology and photography. Their knowledge and enthusiasm will greatly enhance your immersion into the polar environment and further deepen your connection to the Arctic. With over 30 years of experience bringing passengers to remote polar regions and an industry-leading staff-to-guest ratio, we know how to safely handle the unexpected. Ensuring this hard earned experience is passed on, our expedition staff receive comprehensive training in Quark Academy, which provides hands-on polar expedition training prior as part of our onboarding process as well as ongoing training for experienced staff.
Call your Travel Professional or a Quark Polar Travel Adviser at 1.888.892.0073 | Visit QuarkExpeditions.com for additional details
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Raise a Glass and Stay Connected. See below for specifics on our complimentary Wi-Fi and bar service, which takes effect November 2024.
Meals on Board
If there is one constant on board, it is that you’ll enjoy delicious meals daily. While meal times may change due to landings and wildlife encounters, you’ll always be served three well-prepared meals per day. Most dietary restrictions can be accommodated by letting us know prior to your expedition. Breakfasts and lunches are normally served buffet style, while dinners are served plated. À la carte meals are made at the time of your order, allowing our chefs to prepare each dish to your individual needs, ensuring you receive top-quality meals during the course of your expedition. Complimentary coffee, tea, cocoa and water stations are available around the clock, while soft drinks and juices are available during meals and when the bar is open—all included in the cost of your package. NEW Enjoy free beer, standard wines, spirits, and cocktails during bar service hours and dinner as part of our new “Raise a Glass and Stay Connected Free” program. Premium wines and champagne are available at extra cost and can be billed to your shipboard account. The well-stocked bars on the ship are open late morning, afternoon and evening, though hours may occasionally change to accommodate the expedition schedule.
Call your Travel Professional or a Quark Polar Travel Adviser at 1.888.892.0073 | Visit QuarkExpeditions.com for additional details
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Possible Excursions
Greenland AAPPILATTOQ Aappilattoq is home to about 100
HERJOLSFNESS The Norse settlement of Herjolsfness, near the town of Narsaq in southwestern Greenland, was founded in the late 10th century and lasted as a community until the 15th century. As with many Norse Greenlanders, the inhabitants’ fate is unknown. Archeologists have discovered remnants of ancient churches and farmsteads that provide a glimpse into Viking life in the Middle Ages. HVALSEY Also known as Qaqortukulooq, Hvalsey is the site of Greenland’s best-preserved Norse ruins. Built around 1300, the medieval church attracted people from near and far to attend Christian festivals throughout the year. The last written record of the Norse in Greenland recounts the wedding of an Icelandic couple in 1408. Surrounding the church are the ruins of a farmstead, including stables and a banquet hall. The site is part of the Kujataa UNESCO World Heritage Area.
people, many of whom rely on fishing and hunting for their livelihood. It’s the only settlement in the remote Kujalleq region of South Greenland. While the area has been inhabited since the 19th century, Aappilattoq was only founded in 1922. Its name derives from the Greenlandic word for “red,” inspired by the red mountain that towers above the settlement—which offers some of the most picturesque views in Greenland.
KANGERLUSSUATSIAQ FJORD (ETERNITY FJORD) Eternity Fjord stretches for 75
kilometers (47 miles), making it one of the longest in Greenland. With its towering cliffs rising up from the water, massive glaciers and remote wilderness, Eternity Fjord is one of Greenland’s most popular natural wonders.
Call your Travel Professional or a Quark Polar Travel Adviser at 1.888.892.0073 | Visit QuarkExpeditions.com for additional details
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KANGERLUSSUATSIAQ (LINDENOW FJORD) Ships rarely venture into
2017. Featuring archeological sites and agricultural lands, the site reflects the cultural histories of Norse and Greenlandic farmer-hunters. Visitors can explore ancient Norse farmsteads and early Inuit camps. NUUK With a population of 18,800, Nuuk is one of the world’s smallest capital cities. It’s a wonderful and curious mix of the traditional and the new. One of the must-visit highlights is the Greenland National Museum, which offers insight into social change affecting the country from the 1950s onwards. Other exhibits feature some of the world’s oldest rocks (including some discovered close to Nuuk that
date back 3.8 billion years), and the Qilakitsoq exhibit which displays the mummified remains of 15th-century Inuit women and children. If time permits, the Katuaq Culture Centre and Nuuk Art Museum merit a visit.
Kangerlussuatsiaq (Lindenow Fjord), one of the most beautiful fjords in Greenland. With your Expedition Team in the lead, you may cruise by Zodiac into an arm of the fjord while our expert guides search for wildlife. You may enjoy a hike amongst waterfalls, flowers and blueberry fields. KUJATAA The Kujataa heritage site reflects the early days of Norse farming in the Arctic region. This sub-Arctic farming landscape—the earliest example of agriculture in the Arctic—was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Area in
IKERASASSUAQ (PRINS CHRISTIAN SUND)
The massive tidewater glaciers and dramatically steep cliffs that dominate this picturesque fjord system have earned South Greenland the informal
designation “Arctic Patagonia.” Aappilattoq is one of only two
settlements in this remote region. This area is also known for its variously- shaped icebergs.
EXPEDITION SPIRIT Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy—and excitement—of expedition travel. When traveling in extremely remote regions, your Expedition Team must consider the sea, ice and weather to guide the route and itinerary details. This itinerary is a tentative outline of what you’ll experience on this voyage; please be aware that no specific itinerary can be guaranteed. By the same token, wildlife encounters as described are expected, but not guaranteed. Your Expedition Team will use their considerable experience to seek out wildlife in known habitats, but the presence of any particular species of bird or marine wildlife is not guaranteed.
Call your Travel Professional or a Quark Polar Travel Adviser at 1.888.892.0073 | Visit QuarkExpeditions.com for additional details
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Iceland
QASSIARSUK The small sheep-farming settlement at charming Qassiarsuk enables guests to visit remains of Erik the Red’s onetime home (formerly Brattahlíð). You can also get a taste of the welcoming South Greenland hospitality and gain insight into the fascinating lives of sheep farmers at the edge of the ice sheet. TASERMIUT FJORD Paddling and Zodiac excursions into the 70-km steep-walled Tasermiut Fjord allow for a closer connection to nature in one of the most beautiful parts of Arctic Patagonia—dominated by dramatic cliffs and towering peaks.
the North Atlantic Ocean, and wildlife scenes featuring puffins and seals. The Westfjords is also home to geothermal hot springs, vibrant fishing villages and scenic hiking trails. VIGUR Vigur is the second-largest island in the Ísafjarðardjúp fjord in Westfjords. Located just south of the Arctic Circle, this privately-owned island sanctuary measures two kilometers long and only 400 meters wide. Visitors can explore traditional Icelandic farmsteads, photograph puffins, or simply enjoy the tranquility of this small-town oasis next to the choppy waters of the North Atlantic. One of the co-owners is polar explorer Felicity Aston, the first woman to ski solo across Antarctica.
MONGUFOSS WATERFALLS Mongufoss is one of Iceland’s most remote and beautiful waterfalls, where torrents of glacial meltwater cascade down a 60-meter drop. We’ll approach this coastal waterfall by Zodiac, and get a much closer look at the falls during a guided hike.
WESTFJORDS The Westfjords region, in the
northwestern part of Iceland, astounds visitors with its dramatic landscapes and unspoiled natural beauty: jagged coastlines, abundant fjords, towering cliffs, rocky peninsulas that jut out into
Call your Travel Professional or a Quark Polar Travel Adviser at 1.888.892.0073 | Visit QuarkExpeditions.com for additional details
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What to pack on your expedition
WHAT TO BRING. Packing for the Polar Regions doesn’t have to be daunting, and to make it easier for you, all Quark Expeditions voyages include a Quark parka to keep, and a loan of insulated waterproof boots. Additional suggested items include:
BY SEA AND AIR All transfers ship to shore and Zodiac/ship cruising. Waterproof pants (mandatory for every Zodiac ride) Base-layer wool or synthetic top* Mid-layer warm or fleece bottom* Base-layer wool or synthetic bottom* Mid-layer warm or fleece top* Warm hat that covers ears (bring an extra) Scarf, buff, or other face protection Warm wool or synthetic socks (keep a dry pair in your bag, and bring extras for layering) Waterproof gloves or mitts (bring an extra, lighter pair for hiking) Glove liners* Hand and feet warmers* Binoculars Polarized sunglasses with UV protection (consider bringing an eyewear retainer: string/clip etc.) Sunscreen Ski goggles (for Zodiac cruising on snowy or windy days) Waterproof, lightweight backpack or dry sack and/or rain sleeve for camera or a waterproof phone case (to keep camera & gear dry)
TO WEAR ON BOARD Comfortable casual clothing like lighter shirts, pants or jeans, etc. (in case the ship gets warm) Comfortable non-slip closed-toed, heelless shoes (flip flops, sandals or slip-on shoes should not be worn on board due to safety concerns) Workout attire (for the fitness center and other indoor activities) Swimsuit (for the Polar Plunge. Some vessels may also have a pool, hot tub, sauna and/or steam room. See your ship book for details.) Just a reminder: No formal evening wear required on our voyages but if you would like to bring something a little more dressy for the Captain’s welcome and farewell cocktails you may certainly do so. ADDITIONAL ITEMS Passport, visas, immunization records, travel documents, etc. as required Camera gear—complete with charger, storage medium, transport & cleaning kit (lens cloth etc.) and extra batteries Waterproof cell phone case or rain sleeve for camera Earplugs and eye masks for sleeping Voltage converters and plug adapters (see ship book for details) Moisturizer for face and hands (skin dryness due to wind and temperature changes) Seasickness, indigestion, headache, or other medications Small amount of local currency (see pre-departure book for more details) Insect repellant Mosquito netting
*recommended layering depending on the conditions of the day and reflecting your personal thermo-regulation comfort levels.
BY LAND (Shore Excursions and Hiking) In addition to the gear requirements (as above) mandatory for the transit from ship to shore, it is recommended to bring: Worn-in Hiking footwear: While Muck-boots are provided and encouraged for most shore excursions, additional hiking footwear (Goretex-lined boots or similar water-proof hiking boots) can add to your hiking comfort, especially if you are a keen hiker (Smart) Wool or synthetic hiking socks for above footwear (bring an extra pair) Lightweight and quick-dry, trekking pants that may or may not convert to zip-off shorts* (*depending on your thermo-regulation) Breathable waterproof pants* and rain jacket** for outdoor activities in inclement weather (*can be the same pair you use for Zodiac operations / ** can be outer shell of complimentary Quark 3in1 Parka) Comfortable long or short-sleeve shirt for hiking either synthetic/quick- dry or merino (smart) wool (Hiking) gloves (medium thickness, waterproof preferred) Hat, buff or scarf (for wind and weather protection) UV protection (hat, polarized sun glasses, sun block, lip balm) Collapsible walking sticks for hikes (if required) Quantities are available to borrow on every vessel Additional reusable thermos or water bottle (in addition to the reusable collapsible water bottle provided)
Scan this QR code or click here to watch our video on what to pack before you go.
To view our packing checklist online, visit: QuarkExpeditions.com/What-to-Pack/Greenland Related topics are covered on our Frequently Asked Questions page: QuarkExpeditions.com/Frequently-Asked-Questions
WEATHER CONDITIONS & TEMPERATURES Polar weather is extremely variable; temperatures may hover around the freezing mark and winds can be strong. The extended daylight warms sheltered areas so that you may sometimes find it warm enough for t-shirts. However, you may encounter rain, snow squalls, fog and white-outs during an expedition and should be ready for any conditions.
TO BOOK YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE Contact your Travel Professional
or a Quark Expeditions® Polar Travel Adviser
TOLL FREE AND LOCAL NUMBERS: North America (Toll Free) 1 888 332 0008 U.K. Tel +44 203 514 2712 U.K. (Toll Free) 0 808 120 2333 Australia Tel +61 2 72580333 Australia (Toll Free) +61 1800 953518 France Tel +33-1 80 14 01 05 France (Toll Free) 08 05 08 66 46 QuarkExpeditions.com
Photos captured with a telephoto lens from a responsible distance, following regulatory/AECO guidelines.
PHOTO CREDITS: (over all Expedition Brochures for the Arctic 2026 season) : Acacia Johnson; David Merron; Nicky Souness; Samantha Crimmin; Sam Edmonds; Michelle Sole; Cindy Miller Hopkins; Sue Flood; Hugo Perrin; Peter Lindstrom; Visit Greenland; Nicolas Singh; Rogelio Espinosa; Grange Productions; Fokus Productions; Adobe Stock; iStock
December 11, 2024 EXPEDITION BROCHURE
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