Arctic

When most travelers dream of an Arctic cruise, they picture towering glaciers, dazzling icebergs, and the chance to photograph rarely-seen wildlife­—such as Polar Bears—in their natural habitat. Just as extraordinary is the opportunity to experience the rich cultures of the Arctic and connect with Inuit who have called these regions home for centuries. A visit to an Inuit community, for instance, offers a window into the lives of Inuit people, their deep respect for nature, and their enduring traditions. Whether it’s listening to stories passed down through generations or witnessing daily practices shaped by centuries of adaptation, these cultural experiences bring to life the human story behind the landscape. Upernavik: A Rare Glimpse of Greenland’s Far North West Greenland: Exploring the Far North is currently the only Quark Expeditions itinerary that visits the remote community of Upernavik, offering guests a rare opportunity to experience life in one of Greenland’s northernmost towns with deep connections to Inuit culture through sustainable hunting, ice fishing, and dog sledding. Set amid an archipelago in northwest Greenland, Upernavik is a colorful community where brightly painted homes climb rocky hillsides above the sea. Home to just over 1,000 people, the town feels both vibrant and peaceful, with daily life shaped by a connection to the ocean. In the harbor, fishing boats come and go while sled dogs, seabirds, and the gentle sounds of the shoreline provide the soundtrack to life in the High Arctic. Despite its remote location, Upernavik has long served as a gateway to the Arctic. Positioned between Baffin […]