Arctic & Alaska

South Greenland – Alpine Exploration by Helicopter

15 Days aboard Ultramarine. From AUD $18,649pp.
Small Ship Expeditions
Details

Overview

Experience the rare thrill of landing on the massive Greenland ice sheet—an exclusive highlight of our 15-day South Greenland: Alpine Exploration by Helicopter itinerary. This activity-packed voyage is perfect for travelers who love spending time off-ship, hiking, cruising by Zodiac, visiting local communities, camping, kayaking icy waters, and soaring above fjords and mountaintops in one of our twin-engine helicopters. Suited to guests of all fitness levels, you can choose how adventurous you want to be or enjoy a slower pace on board—relaxing in the spa and gym, unwinding in spacious common areas, or indulging in our Tundra to Table culinary experience.

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Prices shown are after discount.
Subject to availability.

Itinerary Highlights

  • Soar over the massive Greenland Ice Sheet
  • Choose from unique off-ship excursions, such as helicopter landings, and camping alongside Tasermiut FJord
  • Experience Greenlandic cultural highlights with local partners
  • Visit the Kujataa UNESCO World Heritage site to learn about the intersection of Inuit and Viking cultures.

Itinerary in Brief

  • Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavik
  • Day 2: Embarkation in Reykjavik
  • Day 3 & 4: At Sea
  • Day 5 & 6: The Wild East
  • Day 7 to 9: Arctic Patagonia
  • Day 10 to 12: Westlands and the Greenland Ice Sheet
  • Day 13: At Sea
  • Day 14: Disembarkation, visit Nuuk, flight to Reykjavik
  • Day 15: 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 Ultramarine please view the ship page.

View Ultramarine

Travelling with Eclipse

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  • Committed to responsible travel: we reinvest in the environment and local communities across our destinations.

Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavik

Arrive in Reykjavik and transfer independently to your hotel, which is included in the Charter Flight & Hotel Package. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to explore sites of the fascinating capital, which is known for its mix of modern architecture and Viking heritage. At 64°08’ north, Reykjavik is the world’s northernmost capital of an independent sovereign state.

Day 2: Embarkation in Reykjavik

This afternoon, you’ll board your vessel and begin your expedition. Get ready for a great adventure ahead.

Breakfast and Dinner included.

Day 3 & 4: At Sea

As we cruise north across Denmark Strait, with views of Greenland in the distance, your Expedition Team will prepare you for the adventures ahead. Our polar presentations are an excellent way to learn about the storied history of the Arctic, its fascinating wildlife, geology, glaciology, ecology, and climate, and the incredible sights that await you. The team will also help you search for seabirds soaring around your ship, as well as whales that frequent the surrounding waters.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 5 & 6: The Wild East

As we arrive in Greenland, towering fjords and hanging glaciers grab our attention, marking our first encounter with the remote east coast. This uninhabited region offers excellent opportunities for wildlife sightings, including humpback whales and the occasional polar bear. Depending on conditions, you may explore this iceshaped landscape by sea, land, and air— through Zodiac cruising, hiking, paddling, and heli-landings. Look forward to exploring the fjords of Greenland’s east coast, including Lindenow Fjord (Kangerlussuaq). Thousands of years ago, Paleo-Inuit hunters and fishermen lived in these isolated landscapes, sustained by the sea long before European explorers and mass settlements. Traces of their presence remain today, set against cascading glaciers and steep mountains. The fjords are where you can observe plenty of wildlife, especially marine mammals. Rare sightings of polar bears are also possible as they drift down from the north on sea ice floes propelled by the East Greenland Current. Humpback whales are often sighted when entering fjords as the shallowing seas bring an upwelling of nutrients to the surface. As we watch for wildlife, the alpine terrain invites exploration by sea, land, and air, offering a fully immersive experience of this remote icescape. Conditions permitting, activities may include heli-landings, hiking, paddling, Zodiac cruising, and shore landings.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 7 to 9: Arctic Patagonia

We’ll transit through the scenic 105-kilometer-long Prins Christian Sund (Ikerasassuaq), and explore the dramatic fjords of South Greenland. Our team plans a visit to the village of Aappilattoq, where you can experience local culture, music, and traditional foods. The journey continues to Tasermiut Fjord—a 70-kilometer, cliff-lined waterway known as “Arctic Patagonia”— where overnight camping and excursions unfold among glaciers and towering peaks. The maze of fjords, sounds, islets, inlets, and skerries around Cape Farewell (Nunap Isua), Greenland’s southernmost tip, has a distinct character. Transiting Prins Christian Sund (Ikerasassuaq)—one of the world’s most scenic fjords—is unforgettable. Expect dramatic mountain and seascapes, with glaciers tumbling to the sea and striking views at every turn. This region is home to Southern Greenlanders living on the frontier, where migrating hunting peoples from the east eventually settled near European trading posts. The few villages in this southern region are known for communities that remain closely tied to hunting and fishing traditions. We hope to visit Aappilattoq, a close-knit Greenlandic Inuit community on the shores of Prins Christian Sund, where you’ll meet local partners and residents. Guests may have the opportunity to hear stories and music, sample traditional foods, learn about hunting practices, and perhaps even join a friendly game of soccer. Your time in Arctic Patagonia will allow you to marvel at the impressive glacier at its head, with rivers of ice tumbling toward the sea, and the imposing peaks of Nalumasortoq and Ulamertorsuaq that dominate the skyline, making for the most scenic backdrops to your hike or helicopter excursion.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 10 to 12: Westlands and the Greenland Ice Sheet

Following in the footsteps of the Greenlandic Norse into the western fjords, it’s easy to see why Erik the Red chose this land and gave Greenland its name. In every direction, blue, ice-strewn waters meet lush valleys and blooming pastures. Warm microclimates deep within the fjords—rare across the Arctic—create surprisingly fertile landscapes. Farming traditions dating back to Viking times continue today, with families tending remote sheep farms and producing seasonal crops along the shores. This quiet, pastoral landscape is a sharp contrast to what comes next: the Greenland Ice Sheet. With an average thickness of 1,673 meters (5,489 feet) and a maximum depth of over 3,488 meters (11,444 feet) at its thickest point, the Greenland Ice Sheet covers approximately 80% of the island. You will enjoy sweeping aerial views of the world’s second-largest ice mass from your seat in one of our helicopters—and upon landing, experience something few others humans do: set foot on the Greenland Ice Sheet. Visitors often feel unprepared for the reality and scale of the Ice Sheet, where the absence of edges—as it stretches into the horizon—and the sheer physical presence of this ancient ice crackling underfoot transforms the abstract into something deeply tangible. Tamassa, meaning “Come in everyone” or “You are welcome,” is a unique onboard cultural exchange—offered on the same day as the Ice Sheet Experience—led by South Greenlanders themselves. Moving naturally through shared spaces onboard Ultramarine, local Greenlanders connect with guests through conversation, stories, hands-on workshops, food tastings, and performances. Tamassa, in this instance, invites Greenlanders into our home, the ship. You’ll also explore Kujataa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves a remarkable legacy of Norse and Inuit farming. We also hope to visit Qassiarsuk, a small settlement across the water from Narsarsuaq, where you can experience true South Greenland hospitality and gain insight into life at the edge of the Ice Sheet. Take time to visit the remains and reconstructions of Brattahlíð, Erik the Red’s estate and once the heart of the Norse Eastern Settlement.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 13: At Sea

We’ll head north along the spectacular west coast of Greenland on our way to Nuuk. As your Arctic adventure winds down, you can take in a polar presentation by our onboard experts, share your photos, sip an icy cocktail in the bar, or watch a movie. This is a great opportunity to ask members of the Expedition Team any remaining questions you have about any aspect of your voyage.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 14: Disembarkation, visit Nuuk, flight to Reykjavik

Upon arriving in Greenland’s capital, enjoy one more Zodiac ride to shore for the group transfer to the airport to catch your charter flight to Reykjavik, Iceland. Upon arrival in Reykjavik, we will transfer you to your hotel. Both your hotel and charter flight are included in the Charter Flight & Hotel Package.

Breakfast included.

Day 15: Depart Reykjavik

After breakfast at your included hotel, make your way to Keflavik International Airport for your onward f light, or continue exploring Reykjavik at your leisure.

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: 04 Aug 2027
DatesCabinFromAdditional
04 Aug 2027 - 18 Aug 2027 AUD $18,649ppExpand to view prices
Explorer TripleAUD $18,649ppContact us
Explorer SuiteAUD $21,960ppContact us
Balcony SuiteAUD $24,140ppContact us
Deluxe Balcony SuiteAUD $28,501ppContact us
Terrace SuiteAUD $29,550ppContact us
Penthouse SuiteAUD $31,811ppContact us
Solo Panorama CabinAUD $33,749ppContact us
Owner's SuiteAUD $39,402ppContact us
Ultra SuiteAUD $43,843ppContact us

Not included in the above prices. This is an optional package but recommended: Charter Flight and Hotel Package

  • One night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Reykjavik (breakfast included)
  • Charter flights between Nuuk and Reykjavik
  • Group transfers between the Reykjavik airport and the ship
  • Group transfer from Reykjavik airport to hotel on disembarkation day
  • One night’s post-expedition hotel (breakfast included)

Package Price: USD 995

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

Cabin Details

Solo Panorama Cabin


- Located on Deck 6
- Approx. 132 square-feet
- Floor-to-ceiling windows
- Single bed
- Desk
- Refrigerator
- Television
- Private bathroom with shower and heated floors

Solo Panorama Cabin
Solo Panorama Cabin
Explorer Triple


- Located on Deck 3
- Approx. 285 square-feet
- Three separate single beds
- Sitting area
- Picture window
- Desk
- Refrigerator
- Television
- Private bathroom with shower and heated floors

Explorer Triple
Explorer Triple
Explorer Suite


- Located on Deck 3
- Approx. 285 square-feet
- One double or two single beds
- Sitting area with sofa bed
- Picture window
- Desk
- Refrigerator
- Television
- Private bathroom with shower and heated floors

Explorer Suite
Explorer Suite
Balcony Suite


- Located on Decks 4 and 6
- Approx. 226 square-feet of indoor living space
- Approx. 52 square-foot balcony
- Connecting cabins available
- One double or two single beds
- Sitting area with sofa bed
- Private balcony
- Desk
- Refrigerator
- Television
- Private bathroom with shower and heated floors

Balcony Suite
Balcony Suite
Deluxe Balcony Suite


- Located on Decks 4 and 6
- Approx. 299 square-feet of indoor living space
- Approx. 70 square-foot balcony
- One double or two single beds
- Sitting area with sofa bed
- Private balcony
- Desk
- Refrigerator
- Television
- Private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors

Deluxe Balcony Suite
Deluxe Balcony Suite
Terrace Suite


- Located on Deck 6
- Approx. 350 square-feet of indoor living space
- Approx. 100-square-foot balcony
- One double or two single beds
- Sitting area with sofa bed
- Private extra-wide balcony
- Desk
- Refrigerator
- Television
- Private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors

Terrace Suite
Terrace Suite
Penthouse Suite


- Located on Deck 7
- Approx. 369 square-feet of indoor living space
- Approx. 67 square-foot balcony
- One double or two single beds
- Sitting area with sofa bed
- Private balcony
- Desk
- Refrigerator
- Television
- Private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors

Penthouse Suite
Penthouse Suite
Owner's Suite


- Located on Deck 6
- Approx. 446 square-feet of indoor living space
- Approx. 46.3 square-foot balcony
- One double or two single beds in a private bedroom
- Walk-in closet
- Sitting area with sofa bed and additional closet
- Private balcony
- Desk
- Refrigerator
- Television
- Private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors
- Separate powder room

Owner's Suite
Owner's Suite
Ultra Suite


- Located on Deck 6
- Approx. 563 square-feet of interior living space
- Approx. 46 square-foot balcony
- One double or two single beds
- Walk-in closet
- Sitting area with sofa bed and additional walk-in hallway closet
- Private balcony
- Desk
- Refrigerator
- Television
- Private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors
- Separate powder room

Ultra Suite
Ultra Suite

Ultramarine Deckplan

Ultramarine deck plan

Specifications

  • Staff and Crew: 140
  • Guests: 199
  • Ice Class: 1A+, PC6
  • Length: 420 ft (128m)
  • Draft: 16.4ft (5.1m)
  • Cruising Speed: 16 knots, in open water
  • Registration: Marshall Islands
  • Lifeboats: 4, fully enclosed

What's included?

  • Two helicopter excursions: Flightseeing and Ice Sheet Experience
  • One 10-15 minute heli flightseeing excursion
  • One helicopter-supported Greenland Ice Sheet Experience
  • 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 domestic and international 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 in Reykjavik (breakfast included)
  • Charter flights between Nuuk and Reykjavik
  • Group transfers between the Reykjavik airport and the ship
  • Group transfer from Reykjavik airport to hotel on disembarkation day
  • One night’s post-expedition hotel (breakfast included)

Package Price: USD 995

Adventure Options

  • Paddling Excursion: $295 USD
  • Tundra to Table - Inuit Culinary Experience: $125 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.

Downloadable travel guide

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South Greenland – Alpine Exploration by Helicopter

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