Expedition Itinerary - East Greenland Explorer Expedition

(September 1 - 8, 2010) Kayaking in the world’s largest fjord complex, Scoresbysund, is an option during this cruise itinerary along the eastern Greenland coast. The 47-passenger Polar Adventure Ship Akademik Shokalskiy will be your floating base-camp for 7 nights. The opportunity to take outstanding photographs and hike dramatic terrain is excellent during this expedition itinerary.

  1. Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland is built over geothermal springs.

    Day 1 - Reykjavik to Ammassalik for Embarkation

    Join adventurers from around the world at the Reykjavik airport (RKV) to board our group flight to Kulusuk, Ammassalik's airport, off the eastern coast of Greenland. Akademik Shokalskiy, equipped with a fleet of Zodiacs and kayaks, lies at anchor in the harbor ready for embarkation.

  2. Greenland's vibrant sunset tempts a photographer.

    Day 2 - Denmark Strait

    As we sail toward Danmark Island, the Expedition Team delivers illustrated presentations about Greenland's wildlife, history or geography. A range of activity levels are offered on every shore landing, so if you prefer a spirited hike to a leisurely stroll that is accommodated.

  3. Hiking across tundra is part of the experience.

    Day 3 - Danmark Island and Hall Bredning

    The Danmark Island landing offers beautiful, lush tundra with excellent hiking and fantastic views over Scoresbysund and Fohn Fjord. There are excellent photographic opportunities for Arctic flora and fauna. An Expedition Team member leads a visit to an archaeological site of traditional Inuit homes. In the afternoon, Akademik Shokalskiy cruises Hall Bredning. The ship is the best platform from which to enjoy the splendor of this "iceberg alley." Navigate among majestic icebergs, some over 100 meters (328 feet) high and a kilometer (sixth of a mile) long.

  4. Cruise in Zodiacs past icebergs and wildlife.

    Day 4 - Rypefjord and Rodefjord

    The tundra of Rypefjord is habitat for musk oxen. Birders can watch for Wheatears, Snow Buntings and Ravens. Proceeding through Rodefjord, the Zodiacs are lowered to cruise among grounded icebergs, surrounded by towering mountains. On the western edge of the fjord there is a geological wonder of sandstone colored by hematite. Hence the name Rodefjord or "red fjord".

  5. A hike with a stunning views

    Day 5 - Frederiksdal

    The route to Frederiksdal could offer the most spectacular ice and mountain scenery of the voyage. The ship is near the southern entrance of the East Greenland National Park, the largest national park in the world. Hike the dry valley tundra looking for musk oxen. If you prefer, join a Zodiac cruise among the massive icebergs that are packed into the fjord. Later in the day, we cruise in Zodiacs to Sydkap, weaving around castles of ice. We land at an old Thule site that was a winter camp. Thule people were the ancestors of the indigenous people of Greenland. The area was chosen for the abundant wildlife in the region, as indicated by the whale bones and middens filled with marine mammal remains. The surroundings vistas are extraordinary: Hundreds of icebergs as large as apartment buildings fill your field of vision. The rich tundra supports herds of musk oxen.

  6. Like seabirds, Greeland villages cling to rock faces.

    Day 6 - Ittoqqortoormiit

    You will visit Ittoqqortoormiit, the most northerly community in East Greenland during this cruise itinerary. There are approximately 500 inhabitants in this village that rarely receives visitors. Local guides offer a glimpse into the lifestyle of the residents of this remote outpost. From Ittoqqortoormiit you can send mail home and purchase handicrafts from locally harvested materials made by artisans. Expect to see sledge dog demonstrations and visitthe "women's house" where crafts are made by hand.

  7. Pack ice sparkles like diamonds.

    Day 7 - Denmark Strait

    Cruising south on our way back to Ammassalik, the Expedition team continues the illustrated presentations. Undoubtedly, you will spend time in the bar and on the Bridge, exchanging impressions of the voyage with fellow travelers.

  8. Reykjavik is situated below the Arctic Circle.

    Day 8 - Ammassalik to Reykjavik

    Disembark in the morning to transfer to the Kusuluk airport where you board the group flight to Reykjavik. Extend your stay. We have a selection of packages in Iceland from which to choose.

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