Arctic & Alaska

West Greenland – Discovering Massive Icebergs and Inuit Communities, Northbound

11 Days aboard Ocean Explorer. From AUD $21,895$17,395pp.
Small Ship Expeditions
Details

Overview

Our 11-day West Greenland: Discovering Massive Icebergs and Inuit Communities, Northbound itinerary is designed for travelers who want the most immersive journey possible into West Greenland—where tidewater glaciers, storied fjords, colossal icebergs, and picturesque coastal communities bring the spirit of the region to life. You will journey deep into both Eternity Fjord—and the rarely-visited Itilleq Fjord. You’ll also explore Ilulissat, Eqip Sermia and Uummannaq—West Greenland’s crown jewels of ice and stone—all in one seamless trip. And thanks to our partnerships with locals, we’ll take you beyond the guidebooks, connecting you with Greenland through those who call it home. Plus, you’ll cross the iconic Arctic Circle.

Save up to A$1550 pp

Book by 31 December 2025

Itinerary Highlights

  • Dive deep into Eternity and Itilleq fjords
  • Cross the Arctic Circle by ship
  • See three of West Greenland’s most spectacular wonders on one epic trip: Ilulisat, Eqip Glacier and Uummannaq
  • Experience authentic Greenlandic culture through the eyes of our local partners
  • Join unique off-ship activities such as sea kayaking and mountain biking.

Itinerary in Brief

  • Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavik, Iceland
  • Day 2: Fly to Nuuk, Greenland and Embark
  • Day 3: Eternity Fjord: Towering cliffs and glaciers
  • Day 4: Sisimiut: First stop above the Arctic Circle
  • Day 5: Eqip Sermia: Epic Tidewater Glacier
  • Day 6: Uummannaq: Mountains, ice, and Greenlandic smiles
  • Day 7: Disko Bay & Illulisat: Explore a UNESCO World Heritage site
  • Day 8: Itilleq Fjord: Glaciers, snowfields, picturesque valleys, and jagged peaks
  • Day 9: Itilleq Town: A Greenlandic Welcome
  • Day 10: Disembark at Kangerlussuaq and fly to Reykjavik
  • Day 11: Depart Reykjavik

This itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather, sea state and other conditions beyond control.

Ship Information

For more information on the Ocean Explorer please view the ship page.

View Ocean Explorer

Travelling with Eclipse

Peace of Mind
  • Eclipse Travel is Australian owned and run, and an ATAS accredited travel agent.
  • 24/7 emergency numbers and local contacts provided for support while you’re abroad.
  • We provide all the information you need to organise your visas and vaccinations, making travel preparation stress-free.
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Specialists
  • Our consultants are true destination experts, with firsthand experience and extensive travel in the regions we offer.
  • Expect quick, professional responses and dedicated service from our knowledgeable team.
  • We conduct regular checks on destinations, hotels, and services to ensure quality for every trip.
Authentic Travel
  • Tailor-made itineraries designed around your unique requirements.
  • Freedom to select your preferred style and standard of accommodation.
  • Unique itineraries that take you beyond the major highlights, immersing you in each location.
  • Committed to responsible travel: we reinvest in the environment and local communities across our destinations.

Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavik, Iceland

Arrive in the Icelandic capital and make your way to the group hotel near Keflavik Airport. You will have the rest of the day to explore this fascinating city, known for its Norse history,and stunning architecture. If you plan to visit the city of Reykjavik, allow for a one-hour transfer between Keflavik and Reykjavík.

Day 2: Fly to Nuuk, Greenland and Embark

After an early breakfast at the hotel, the group will transfer to the airport and board our private charter flight to Nuuk, Greenland. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to a central downtown location to enjoy time on your own to explore this quaint port town—which is the capital of Greenland—before making your way to the pier for a lateafternoon embarkation.

Breakfast and Dinner included.

Day 3: Eternity Fjord: Towering cliffs and glaciers

Eternity Fjord lives up to its name—its beauty feels endless. You will be surrounded by precipitous mountains rising straight out of the sea and glaciers spilling down deepcut valleys. Within the fjord, you may explore by Zodiac or foot—or both—with the potential to cruise the coastlines and floating glacial ice. You can anticipate a range of hiking or on-shore walks—always accompanied by our seasoned team, whose expertise bring the world’s largest island into focus. Transiting the fjord by ship will provide excellent opportunities for you to soak in the scenery from the outer decks of the vessel.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 4: Sisimiut: First stop above the Arctic Circle

Congratulations, you’ve crossed 66°33° north latitude. On our firstoff ship excursion in the Arctic, we’ll visit Sisimiut, a community rich in Greenlandic history and culture. As we approach via the inner harbor, you’ll spot locals coming and going from the marina, bringing halibut, shrimp and other seafood freshly harvested from Baffin Bay. Upon reaching shore, we’ll walk winding roads past colorful homes and Arctic cotton grass blooming under the summer sun. While the waterfront may be lively with boat traffic, life uphill moves at a relaxed pace. You may hear children laughing, sled dogs barking, and locals exchanging greetings—sounds that often bring smiles to both visitors and residents. Greenlandic dogs, often seen in kennels throughout town, reflect the deep bond between owners and their canine teams. As in any Arctic community, always ask before petting or approaching these working dogs. During our visit, we aim to team up with our local mountain-biking partners in Sisimiut, exploring trails that lead outside the town limits. Our expedition team and local partners will lead guided walks and provide insight into daily life in Greenland—and you will be able to share your own story with locals, who will be eager to learn about your part of the world. One scenic walk leads to the Taseralik Cultural House, beside Nalunnguarfiup Tasia, a small tranquil lake at the base of a 780-meter (2,560 mile) Nasaasaaq mountain. You’ll walk the same paths locals use every day, experiencing not just the look of Sisimiut, but its rhythm, sounds and genuine sense of place.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 5: Eqip Sermia: Epic Tidewater Glacier

Today you’ll visit Eqip Sermia, also known as Eqi Glacier. This wide-faced tidewater glacier is renowned for its frequent calving, sending chunks of ice crashing into the sea. You’ll likely see icebergs drifting in the bay, accompanied by smaller chunks called brash ice. On quiet days, listen for the soft crackle of those floating shards, and, if you’re lucky, the thunderous roar of calving ice from the glacier’s face. While the glacier is the main attraction, the surrounding landscape is perfect for shore excursions. You can wander the tundra, photographing the summer vegetation and stunning Arctic scenery, or hike farther (and a little uphill) for an elevated view of the glacier and bay. The terrain, a mix of rock and vegetation, allows for various hiking options. We’ll take care not to disturb the delicate plant life that flourishes during Greenland’s brief summer. Following an invigorating morning ashore—perhaps hiking across ancient tundra—you’ll return to the ship, where warmth, a freshly prepared lunch, and a chance to reset await. But the wild Arctic experience isn’t over for the day. From the outer decks, you can watch as icebergs drift by like sculpted monuments, seabirds trace circles overhead, and the vast silence of the Arctic settles around you Humpback whales are known to frequent the area on their annual return to the Arctic, lured by rich feeding opportunities, so you may spot them through your binoculars as they swim among the drifting icebergs. This is what we call the quiet middle—where comfort meets wilderness—as the ship carries you steadily toward your next experience.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 6: Uummannaq: Mountains, ice, and Greenlandic smiles

We arrive in Uummannaq Fjord in the morning and cruise toward the community of Uummannaq. In Greenlandic, Uummannaq translates to “heart-shaped,” inspired by the dramatic mountain that rises above the town. Visiting this remote community is a rare privilege. We reach town by Zodiac and may be greeted by locals— and the ever-smiling chief of police. It’s said that smiles here are as common as drifting icebergs. Winding roads take you past colorful homes before reaching a meadow of turf houses beside a stone church. You can visit the local museum and artisan market for a glimpse of life in northern Greenland. Another nearby museum honors artist Rockwell Kent, who was inspired by the landscapes of Uummannaq Fjord and Disko Bay. You may choose to join a guided walk or explore on your own. Several homes may open for kaffemik—a social gathering with warm drinks, light snacks, and a chance for locals and visitors to connect. Rest assured, the people of Uummannaq will be curious about your part of the world. Shy smiles and translated conversations are natural parts of these authentic cultural exchanges—and often become some of the most memorable moments of visiting this remote Greenlandic community. A parting gift from one local fisherman: “Keep life simple—simple is beautiful.”

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 7: Disko Bay & Illulisat: Explore a UNESCO World Heritage site

Ilulissat, located in Disko Bay, is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ilulissat Icefjord, which serves as the thoroughfare for countless icebergs calved from the world’s fastest-moving glacier, Sermeq Kujalleq. A small boardwalk leads to an elevated overlook, where you can view bergs of all sizes spread out before you. From this vantage point, it feels as though you’re standing where the town ends and the wilderness begins—where the sweeping view of ice evokes a humbling sense of scale. You will also notice the Arctic cotton grass and summer wildflowers thriving in the long daylight hours. The inner harbor often holds evidence of the icefjord’s reach, with drifting icebergs mingling among fishing boats and skiffs. The town itself is well worth exploring, and has become one of Greenland’s top destinations. Recent years have brought growth— colorful homes now sit beside new restaurants, boutique hotels and small businesses. History buffs will be excited to know Ilulissat is the birthplace of Arctic explorer Knud Rasmussen, who traveled by dog sled from Greenland to Alaska (and briefly Siberia) during the Fifth Thule Expedition (1921–1924). Fluent in Kalaallisut, he learned from and documented the Circumpolar Inuit he met—considered one of the Arctic’s greatest expeditions. The dramatic landscapes around Ilulissat inspired Rasmussen’s life of exploration. As we approach town, watch out for whales, which occasionally frequent the icebergladen waters.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 8: Itilleq Fjord: Glaciers, snowfields, picturesque valleys, and jagged peaks

We will spend the afternoon in Itilleq Fjord, a place that feels both beautifully raw and peaceful at the same time. Elevation rises in all directions, and from the right vantage point, the mountain ranges seem to continue in layers, endlessly into the horizon. A visitor to Itilleq Fjord once said, “I’m not quite sure where Earth stops and heaven begins, but it seems to be somewhere right out there.” Conditions permitting, your Expedition Team will help you explore the shorelines by Zodiac, on foot—or perhaps both. Rivers wind between jagged peaks, descending picturesque mountain valleys and providing several hiking options. In summer, the shorelines and valleys come alive with grasses, wildflowers, succulents, lichens, and even mushrooms. Small glaciers and snowfields linger year-round at higher elevations, completing this striking mountainous coastal landscape. You may spot the occasional small boat in the fjord—likely belonging to a local f isherman from the nearby town of Itilleq. Moments like these often leave our guests reflecting on this life—one shaped by the tides, weather, and the rhythms of land and sea.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 9: Itilleq Town: A Greenlandic Welcome

The small settlement of Itilleq has always been a favorite among guests and Expedition Team members, thanks to the warm welcome we’ve received over the years. The 100 residents live among brightly painted homes—greens, pinks, purples, baby blues, mustard yellows, and chocolate browns—and many people earn their living at sea, as evidenced by the small seafood processing building near the pier. Despite its size, the village is full of life, from respected elders to playful children. You may be invited to a kaffemik, where people socialize over coffee and cake, or follow a short dirt road to a viewpoint overlooking the f jord and surrounding mountains. Watch your step—lichens, succulents, and mushrooms thrive underfoot. A longstanding tradition features a friendly football (soccer) match with locals, including guests, staff, crew and residents. It’s a fun, memorable experience—whether you’re on the field or cheering from the sidelines.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 10: Disembark at Kangerlussuaq and fly to Reykjavik

Today, we disembark in Kangerlussuaq, formerly known as Søndre Strømfjord, and transfer you to your charter flight to Reykjavik, where you’ll spend the night in your included hotel, both of which are included in your Charter Flight & Hotel Package.

Breakfast included.

Day 11: Depart Reykjavik

Today, after breakfast, make your way independently to the airport for your f light home, or continue your personal travel plans as prearranged.

This itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather, sea state and other conditions beyond control.

Breakfast included.

Next Departure Date: 17 Aug 2027
DatesCabinFromAdditional
17 Aug 2027 - 27 Aug 2027 AUD$17395ppExpand to view prices - Includes specials!
Deluxe Veranda FwdAUD $21895pp AUD$17395ppSave up to A$1550, Pay in full at the time of booking and save extra 5%, Save 10%
Veranda StateroomAUD $22995pp AUD$18336ppSave up to A$1550, Pay in full at the time of booking and save extra 5%, Save 10%
Veranda SuiteAUD $24395pp AUD$19533ppSave up to A$1550, Pay in full at the time of booking and save extra 5%, Save 10%
Junior SuiteAUD $28595pp AUD$23124ppSave up to A$1550, Pay in full at the time of booking and save extra 5%, Save 10%
Studio SingleAUD $28595pp AUD$23124ppSave up to A$1550, Pay in full at the time of booking and save extra 5%, Save 10%
Studio Veranda SingleAUD $30995pp AUD$25176ppSave up to A$1550, Pay in full at the time of booking and save extra 5%, Save 10%
Penthouse SuiteAUD $33195pp AUD$27057ppSave up to A$1550, Pay in full at the time of booking and save extra 5%, Save 10%
Owner's SuiteAUD $35495pp AUD$29023ppSave up to A$1550, Pay in full at the time of booking and save extra 5%, Save 10%

*CHARTER FLIGHT & HOTEL PACKAGE INCLUDES:

  • One night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation Reykjavik, near Keflavik airport (breakfast included)
  • Charter flight from Reykjavik to Nuuk
  • Group transfer from the ship to the Kangerlussuaq airport on disembarkation day
  • Charter flight from Kangerlussuaq to Reykjavik
  • One night’s post-expedition airport hotel accommodation Reykjavik, near Keflavik airport (breakfast included)

Package Price: $1,495 USD

**Prices are per person based on twin / shared accommodation.
**Single supplements may apply

Cabin Details

Studio Single

Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 166 sq. ft. (15,4 sq. m,) in size, with one double bed and a porthole view. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

Studio Single
Studio Single
Deluxe Veranda Fwd

Located on Deck 4 and approximately 182 sq. f. (16.9 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

Deluxe Veranda Fwd
Deluxe Veranda Fwd
Veranda Stateroom

Located throughout the ship and approximately 208 sq. f. (19.3 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with two club chairs and a reading table. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. Note: 611 and 612 do not have the club chairs and a reading table.

Veranda Stateroom
Veranda Stateroom
Veranda Suite

Located throughout the ship and approximately 205 sq. ft. (19.2 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with a sofa-bed. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

Veranda Suite
Veranda Suite
Junior Suite

Located on Deck 6 and approximately 298 sq. f. (27.7 sq. m,) in size. These 2-room suites have one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom and an outer sitting room furnished with a sofa-bed, and activity table for two. From the bedroom there a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a double sized walkout balcony. There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with bathtub, vanity and heated floor.

Junior Suite
Junior Suite
Studio Veranda Single

Designed for one. This unique cabin is located on Deck 7 and approximately 162 sq. f. (15.1 sq. m.). It has one twin bed with a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a generous walkout balcony. There is also TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

Studio Veranda Single
Studio Veranda Single
Penthouse Suite

This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 269 sq. f (25.0 sq. m.) in size. It has one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom.and the outer sitting area is furnished with a sofa-bed. Walk-out from either room to a double sized balcony . There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. And an additional powder room in the outside sitting area.

Penthouse Suite
Penthouse Suite
Owner's Suite

This massive 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 443 sq. f (41.2 sq. m.) in size. It has one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom. The inner bedroom has a private en-suite with a bathdub, vanity and heated floor. The outer room is furnished with a sofabed, club chair and 4-seat dining table. Walk-out from either room to a triple sized balcony . There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and an additional private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor for the outer room.

Owner's Suite
Owner's Suite

Ocean Explorer Deckplan

deck plan

Specifications

  • Infinity class vessel delivered in 2021 by SunStone Maritime Group, the largest expedition-only shipbuilding provider in the world. 
  • 138-passengers. 
  • Built for polar expeditions with an Ice Class 1A and PC6 rating. 
  • Staff and Crew: 105
  • Length: 342 ft (104.4m)
  • Draft: 17.3ft (5.3m)
  • Lifeboats: 2
  • Ice Class: 1A, PC6
  • Registration: Bahamas
  • Zodiacs: 15
  • Cruising Speed: 16.5 knows, in open water

Ocean Explorer is among the most technologically-advanced ships in the industry—it features: 

  • Ulstein X-Bow - a unique inverted bow design to slice through rough seas, minimizing vibration for faster transits with lower fuel consumption. 
  • Zero-speed stabilizers that keep things smooth while sailing, but also level and steady when at rest. 
  • Safe Return to Port system, providing duplicate power to keep the operating and comfort systems working even in cases of engine failure 
  • Dynamic positioning is a computer-controlled system to automatically maintain a vessel's position and heading by using its own propellers and thrusters. 

What's included?

  • Parka to keep
  • Leadership throughout your voyage by our experienced Expedition Leaders, including shore landings and other activities
  • 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.)
  • Complimentary select beer, wines and cocktails during bar service hours and dinner
  • Complimentary coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock
  • 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 landings and Zodiac cruising excursions
  • Hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin
  • 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.) Note: Internet access in the polar regions is subject to geography, climate, and other factors beyond our control.
  • All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program
  • All luggage handling aboard the ship
  • Greenland voyages cruise passenger tax

What's not?

  • Charter Flight & Hotel Package*
  • International airfare
  • Arrival transfers in Reykjavik
  • Passport and visa expenses
  • Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above
  • 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, spa 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

Important notes and additional information

*CHARTER FLIGHT & HOTEL PACKAGE INCLUDES:

  • One night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation Reykjavik, near Keflavik airport (breakfast included)
  • Charter flight from Reykjavik to Nuuk
  • Group transfer from the ship to the Kangerlussuaq airport on disembarkation day
  • Charter flight from Kangerlussuaq to Reykjavik
  • One night’s post-expedition airport hotel accommodation Reykjavik, near Keflavik airport (breakfast included)

Package Price: $1,495 USD

Adventure Options

  • Sea Kayak: $1,795 USD
  • Paddling Excursion: $295 USD
  • Mountain Biking: $195 USD

Price Assurance

At Eclipse Travel, our expert destination knowledge and decades of travel planning experience come at no extra cost to you. While many think booking through a tour operator is more expensive than planning a trip independently, that’s not the case. We’re paid by our travel partners—such as hotels, activity operators, and cruise providers—via commissions, not by our clients.

Our team negotiates the best rates for you and ensures you receive unbiased advice, with no preference for any particular supplier. In fact, where we secure higher commissions, we often pass the savings on to you, giving us a competitive price edge.

Additionally, we lock in exchange rates at the time of your deposit, ensuring no surprise costs when it’s time for final payment. You can rest easy knowing we’ll handle the details with our suppliers. The only exceptions are national park fee increases or fuel surcharges imposed after your booking, though these are rare.

Take advantage of our team’s expertise and let us help you plan the perfect holiday—hassle-free!

Destination: Arctic

Viking history, Inuit villages and an abundance of wildlife are just some of the wonders you’ll discover in the Arctic. You’ll be amazed by the natural beauty that surrounds you. Search for Polar Bears while cruising through breathtaking fjords or around the nature lovers dream, Spitsbergen.

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West Greenland – Discovering Massive Icebergs and Inuit Communities, Northbound

11 Days aboard Ocean Explorer. From AUD $21,895$17,395pp.