Arctic From 14 days From $14,153 USD

Greenland to Newfoundland Mountains, Wildlife and Viking History

Starting from

  • Reykjavík, Iceland

Ships

  • Ocean Explorer

Departures

1 Departure in September 2026

Expedition Overview

Our 14-day Greenland to Newfoundland: Mountains, Wildlife and Viking History is our only itinerary that features Greenland, the Canadian High Arctic and the East Coast of Canada. This brand-new itinerary is also unique because it enables you to explore both Arctic and boreal environments. This means you’ll have the opportunity to experience boreal biomes— also known as taiga—which are cold, dense forests dominated by coniferous trees, boreal woodlands and boreal wildlife such as caribou, black bears, red and Arctic foxes, and peregrine falcons. This is a sharp contrast to what you’ll experience in Arctic biomes, treeless regions marked by extreme winters, low vegetation consisting mostly of mosses and lichens, and wildlife species such as polar bears, seals and migratory birds call home.

“Greenland to Newfoundland” starts with a charter flight from Reykjavik, Iceland, to your embarkation port in Kangerlussuaq, West Greenland. Within a few days we’ll cross the Davis Strait to Nunavut, then south to Labrador, and ultimately to St. John’s, Newfoundland. Our team designed this itinerary so guests could immerse themselves in a cross-section of cultural traditions: Greenlandic culture in places like Sisimiut; Inuit and Nunatsiavut culture in Nunavut and Labrador; Viking history at l’Anse Aux Meadows in Newfoundland; then the welcoming East Coast hospitality of St. John’s, famously steeped in Celtic music and history thanks to its vast population of Irish descendants.

On this voyage you’ll get to visit three UNESCO World Heritage sites: Greenland’s Ilulissat Icefjord, home to some of the most active glaciers on the planet; Red Bay Basque Whaling Station in Labrador; and the 11th century Viking ruins at l’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site.

Greenland to Newfoundland: Mountains, Wildlife and Viking History will deliver one of the most diverse adventures of a lifetime as you journey from the Arctic to the Atlantic.

Highlights

Experience the unique features of both Arctic and boreal environments

Witness countless icebergs at Ilulissat Icefjord

Visit the Viking ruins at l’Anse aux Meadows UNESCO World Heritage Site

Explore the unrivalled wilderness of Torngat Mountains National Park

Experience northern Indigenous cultures in Greenland and Labrador

End your voyage in St. John’s, Newfoundland, one of the oldest cities in North America.

Find Your Ideal Itinerary

From Reykjavík, Iceland, 14 days, on Ocean Explorer

Duration
14 days
Departing from
Reykjavík, Iceland
Ship
Ocean Explorer
Learn more about the ship
Starting from
$14,153 USD per person
Download Brochure
Upon your arrival at Keflavik International Airport, make your way independently to your included hotel in downtown Reykjavik, approximately 45 minutes from the airport. If your arrival schedule allows, you’ll have time to explore the fascinating Icelandic capital on your own. Many major tourist attractions and historic sites are within walking distance of the city center.
This morning you’ll catch your charter f light to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, where you’ll board your vessel and begin your expedition. Get ready for great adventures ahead. Expect a welcome and safety briefing from your Expedition Leader.
Today we’ll explore two towns in the Qeqqata Municipality on the west coast of Greenland along the Davis Strait. The first is Maniitsoq, which translates into “the place of rugged, uneven terrain.” That’s precisely what you see in the surrounding terrain: towering mountains, pristine rivers, seemingly endless glaciers and incredibly deep f jords. In fact, one of the day’s highlights is a journey along Eternity Fjord, which is 75 kilometers (47 miles) long and reaches a depth of 1,200 meters (3,937 feet). Later in the day you’ll have time to wander through the historic town of Sisimiut, where several 18th-century colonial buildings still stand, one of which is Bethel Church. Just look for the striking blue-and-red wooden place of worship. Today’s activities also include a demonstration of the traditional art of kayak making. Experiencing a cultural resurgence, the kayak is a symbol of Greenland and can be traced back over 4,000 years to the Inuit, who used the vessels for hunting and transportation. For those inclined to other modes of transport, mountain biking is another option during our visit to Sisimiut.
Ilulissat, Greenlandic for icebergs, is one of the highlights of any journey along west Greenland. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004, Ilulissat Icefjord gives birth to countless icebergs. In fact, it’s home to one of the most productive glaciers in the northern hemisphere, Sermeq Kujalleq (also known as Jakobshavn Glacier). A Zodiac excursion is a unique way to enjoy the spectacle of enormous bergs floating out to Disko Bay. We plan to Zodiac cruise ashore to visit the nearby town of Ilulissat, and from there we’ll hike to the icefjord, where you can view this incredible parade of icebergs from the rocky shore. Expect to see a lot of dogs while you’re in town. There was a time when sled dogs actually outnumbered citizens in Ilulissat, which, unsurprisingly, is the birthplace of the first European to traverse the Northwest Passage by dogsled, explorer Knud Rasmussen. If time allows, you can visit a local museum dedicated to his memory.
As your ship navigates across the Davis Strait, onboard polar experts will present on a variety of topics to deepen your understanding of the places featured in the itinerary. Our experts include glaciologists, historians, wildlife specialists and other polar specialists.
Today is our first day exploring the Canadian Arctic as we arrive in Nunavut, Canada’s youngest territory. Nunavut, which means “our land” in the Inuktitut language, stretches north of the Arctic Circle and covers over 1.8 million square kilometers, and is considered the homeland of the Inuit in Canada. Guests will get to spend time in Pangnirtung, located at the mouth of Pangnirtung Fjord, which merges with Cumberland Sound. It’s a stronghold of the Inuit community, and an ideal place to learn about Inuit culture while admiring finely crafted traditional art, especially the textiles. You may want to purchase a famous Pang toque, a must-have knit cap for anyone visiting the community.
History buffs will enjoy a visit to Cape Mercy, an isolated cove at the southern tip of Cumberland Sound in Nunavut. Cape Mercy was named by British explorer John Davis, who sailed through this part of the Arctic in 1585. Fastforward several centuries to the 1950s when Cape Mercy was selected as the site of a Distant Early Warning Line (DEW) installation, a system of radar stations set up during the Cold War to detect nuclear attacks. It should be noted that the Inuit hunted and fished in Cape Mercy and the surrounding area long before the arrival of European explorers. You can join a guided shore walk to enjoy incredible views of the vast Davis Strait, which connects Baffin Bay to the Labrador Sea.
Torngat Mountains National Park will leave you awestruck. Within the 10,000 square-kilometer national park, established in 2008, are Canada’s highest mountains east of the venerable Rockies. The park is a wilderness landscape painting brought to life: breathtaking f jords, dramatic glacial formations, stunning landscapes, boreal woodlands and wildlife. For students of Indigenous history, Torngat Mountain National Park is especially meaningful: the park is located at the northern edge of autonomous Nunatsiavut territory, which was recognized as the homeland of the Labrador Inuit in 2005, operating under its own constitution and administration. In fact, these lands have been home to the Nunatsiavut and their predecessors for over 7,500 years. We are honored to explore this majestic wilderness territory with you. Torngat, in Inuktitut, means “place of the spirits,” which reflects the spiritual significance of the region to the Inuit communities. As a national park, this wilderness domain offers protection to boreal woodland caribou, black bears, Labrador wolves, red and Arctic foxes, polar bears, and peregrine falcons, among other species. You will have opportunities to explore this national wilderness area during Zodiac and kayaking excursions, as well as guided hikes.
Nain, which has a population of approximately 1,200, is the administrative capital of Nunatsiavut, the semi-autonomous region in northern Labrador claimed by the Inuit. Visitors can learn about Labrador Inuit heritage through interactive exhibits, artwork, and cultural programs at the very modern-looking Illusuak Cultural Centre. Then, to learn about the other cultural group that influenced the region, stroll through town to discover the historic Moravian Mission complex, established in 1771. The white-painted church and mission house bear witness to centuries of cultural exchanges between the Inuit and European missionaries. You’ll have time to engage with friendly locals to hear stories passed down through the generations, and sample traditional foods like arctic char and cloudberries. There will be a guided hike to take in breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and sea.
As our ship heads south, enjoy the views of the southern coast of Baffin Island Labrador. While at sea for the day, join expedition staff out on deck as they look for whales and birdlife. This is also your chance to relax with a glass of wine or hot tea and simply take in the wondrous beauty around you.
Consider the wooden longboats that transported the Vikings an incredible 2,180 kilometers from Greenland to Newfoundland in 1000 AD. Today, you’re going to visit the archeological remains at the place they landed in their handhewn vessels. L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site (also a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site) is the only confirmed Norse or Viking settlement in North America. Join a guided tour to see where Norseman Leif Erikson, son of Erik the Red, is believed to have founded “Vinland” (the East Coast area including what would later be known as Newfoundland) around 1000 AD. Explore the reconstructed sod huts and Norse ruins throughout the historic site—proof that Vikings discovered North America 500 years before Christopher Columbus’ much-chronicled arrival.
Your final at-sea day is a great opportunity for you to ask any lingering questions you have for our team of onboard experts, attend one last polar presentation, relax in Tundra Spa & Sauna or in one the outdoor Jacuzzis.
Your ship arrives at the pier in St. John’s for a morning disembarkation. After breakfast, you may make your way to St. John’s International Airport to connect with your onward flight, or stay longer if you have booked additional accommodation

Your Life Onboard

This is polar exploration at its finest. Our ships are intimate, luxurious floating hotels, packed with exciting experiences.
Several guests standing on the deck of a ship, wearing their Quark Expedition Parks, looking out onto a polar landscape

Enjoy panoramic views while you mingle in our comfy lounges, or head outside and chat with fellow adventurers on the wraparound deck. Our social spaces foster connections & shared experiences.

Engage with world-class experts in our auditorium. Presentations cover wildlife, history, marine biology, ecology, & geology, to enhance your polar knowledge & excitement for exploration.

Enjoy onboard amenities, attend lectures, or watch for wildlife from our observation decks. Sea days offer a perfect blend of education, relaxation, and anticipation.

Find tranquility in our well-stocked library, perfect for reading or quiet contemplation. The glass-domed Observation Lounge offers a peaceful retreat to reflect & enjoy awe-inspiring polar views.

Prepare for off-ship excursions in our spacious mudroom. Kayak, paddleboard, or take a plunge in polar waters. Stay active onboard with our gym, outdoor track, and pool facilities.

What’s Included

Specialist Expedition Leaders

Our team is comprised of the most professional and passionate Expedition Leaders in the world, who bring a wide range of experience and expertise to every adventure.

Immersive Off-ship Activities

Itineraries are packed with adventure options designed to immerses travelers in the polar wilderness, enabling them to connect with the natural wonders of their surroundings.

On-Ship Experiences & Facilities

Designed for comfort and adventure, each ship accommodates no more than 200 guests. Facilities include comfortable cabins, exceptional dining options, wellness treatments, and breathtaking panoramic views of the polar landscape.

Food & Beverages

Premium dining, with a wide selection of options that accommodate a variety of dietary preferences.

Quark Expedition Perks

Complementary Wi-Fi, alcohol on all voyages, and the Official Quark Expeditions parka to take home.

Transfers

Select voyages include essential transportation and accommodation arrangements for guests, ensuring seamless travel to and from the expedition starting point.

International airfare & visa expenses, travel insurance, mandatory expedition gear, on-ship expenses, adventure options and trip extensions are not included.

Ocean Explorer

Ship Amenities

  • Main Dining Room
  • Private Dining Room
  • The Latitude Bar
  • Library
  • Dry Sauna
  • Fitness Center
  • Jacuzzis
  • Observation Lounge

Ship Features

  • Two Story Library
  • Leading Edge Sustainability
  • Ulstein X-Bow
  • High Observation Outdoor Decks
  • Quiet and Comfortable
  • Stunning Interior Design

Deck Plans & Cabins

Deckplan 3
Deckplan 3

Cabin Options

Studio Single

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.
Size
146 – 186
Occupancy
1
Bed Config.
One double bed made up of two twin berths
Class
Standard
Location
Deck 3
Deckplan 4
Deckplan 4

Cabin Options

Veranda Stateroom

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.

Size
173 – 272
Occupancy
1 – 2
Bed Config.
One double bed made up of two twin berths
Class
Standard
Location
Deck 4, Deck 6, Deck 7
Deluxe Veranda Fwd

Deluxe Veranda Forward

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.

Size
182 – 195
Occupancy
1 – 2
Bed Config.
One double bed made up of two twin berths
Class
Standard
Location
Deck 4
Veranda Suite

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.

Size
200 – 205
Occupancy
1 – 2
Bed Config.
One double bed made up of two twin berths and fold out sofa bed
Class
Standard
Location
Deck 4, Deck 6, Deck 7
Ocean Explorer Deck 5
Ocean Explorer Deck 5

Public Spaces & Amenities

Deckplan 6
Deckplan 6

Cabin Options

Junior 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.

Size
296 – 299
Occupancy
1 – 2
Bed Config.
Two rooms. One double bed made up of two twin berths fold out sofa bed
Class
Premium
Location
Deck 6
Veranda Stateroom

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.

Size
173 – 272
Occupancy
1 – 2
Bed Config.
One double bed made up of two twin berths
Class
Standard
Location
Deck 4, Deck 6, Deck 7
Veranda Suite

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.

Size
200 – 205
Occupancy
1 – 2
Bed Config.
One double bed made up of two twin berths and fold out sofa bed
Class
Standard
Location
Deck 4, Deck 6, Deck 7

Public Spaces & Amenities

Ocean Explorer - Deck 7
Ocean Explorer - Deck 7

Cabin Options

Owners Suite

Owners Suite

This palatial, airy apartment offers stunning views from its large private veranda on the highest cabin level. The luxurious suite features a large master bedroom, living room and dining area and two large master bathrooms, among other amenities. 

Size
443
Occupancy
1 – 2
Bed Config.
Two rooms. One double bed made up of two twin berths fold out sofa bed
Class
Premium
Location
Deck 7
Explorer Suite

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. 

Size
269
Occupancy
1 – 2
Bed Config.
Two rooms. One double bed made up of two twin berths fold out sofa bed
Class
Premium
Location
Deck 7
Veranda Stateroom

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.

Size
173 – 272
Occupancy
1 – 2
Bed Config.
One double bed made up of two twin berths
Class
Standard
Location
Deck 4, Deck 6, Deck 7
Studio Veranda Single

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.

Size
162
Occupancy
1
Bed Config.
One twin single
Class
Premium
Location
Deck 7
Veranda Suite

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.

Size
200 – 205
Occupancy
1 – 2
Bed Config.
One double bed made up of two twin berths and fold out sofa bed
Class
Standard
Location
Deck 4, Deck 6, Deck 7

Public Spaces & Amenities

Ocean Explorer - Deck 8
Ocean Explorer - Deck 8

Public Spaces & Amenities

Deckplan 9
Deckplan 9

Included Activities

Upgrade Your Expedition

Find out what add-on options are available for your expedition.

Adventure Options

These can be booked in advance at an extra cost. Activities vary by itinerary, destination and are weather permitting.

Trip Extensions

Possible Excursions

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Polar Expedition Team Leader, dressed in warm outdoor gear, with a friendly expression

Ready For Your Expedition?

Our Polar Travel Advisor will recommend the best expedition itinerary to suit your requirements.

Know Before You Go

For your personal safety—and to ensure you get the most enjoyment out of your polar adventure—please assess your mobility and medical requirements before booking. It is essential that guests have a high level of mobility to get in and out of Zodiac boats, and for off-ship activities such as hiking on uneven terrain. Our destinations are remote. Apart from our basic ship infirmary, it could take up to 72 hours to reach adequate medical facilities. For more details to help you assess your mobility and medical requirements before booking your voyage, please review Health & Safety.

Some of our expeditions have included transfers and these will be detailed in your Invoice and Trip Brochure.

Please note that if you have an airport transfer included in your trip, it is only available if you arrive on Day 1 of the itinerary. Please ensure your flight information on your Passenger Forms is up to date so our ground crew know when to expect you. There will be someone with a sign in Arrivals waiting for you. Please look for them and they will direct you to our group shuttle.

If you do not have included transfers, or you are arriving before Day 1, you will need to make your own way to the hotel. Most airports we travel in and out of have good taxi ranks in the Arrivals area, or you can often prebook a transfer online.

Packing is an exciting part of the trip for many of us. You will find a handy packing list towards the end of your Trip Brochure. You will have received a copy of this when you first booked. We also have two excellent videos, which you can check out here: What to Pack

Our Protection Promise allows you to make a purchase decision that will leave you worry-free in the event your plans change down the road. Please review details for each term in our Quark Expeditions Protection Promise.

Whether you are thinking of an expedition, or you’ve booked the trip of a lifetime with Quark Expeditions, review all our FAQs for comprehensive tips to help you prepare for the Polar Regions and how to make the most out of your voyage with the most experienced expedition team in the industry. If your specific question isn’t covered below, please reach out to your Polar Travel Advisor or helpful Client Experience Team at guest@quarkexpeditions.com.

Your Expedition Team