©ponant_julien_
©ponant_julien_fabro
©PONANT-Sue-Flood
©Studio PONANT:Nathalie Michel
©PONANT:Daniel Ernst
©PONANT-Ian-Dawson

Disko Bay: Meeting the Inuit & Discovering the Unknown

From

A$35,710 per person

Routes

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  • Depart

Route information

Embark: Reykjavik, Iceland

Disembark: Nuuk, Greenland

Destinations: Nanortalik, Baffin bay, Disko Bay, Qeqertarsuaq

Ships: Le Commandant Charcot

Duration: 16 days

Additional Information:  Flight from Nuuk to Paris included.

Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1 Embark Reykjavik, Iceland

Iceland’s capital stretches along the edge of a vast bay in the west of the country. Perlan, the “Pearl of Reykjavík,” is a museum perched on Oskjuhlið hill, offering a panoramic view of the lush, green landscapes. A little further, you’ll easily spot the signpost directing you to the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church, as well as the historical center where you can stroll along Skólavördustígur and Laugavegur, two lively streets filled with charming small shops. For a relaxing escape just outside the city, visitors can explore the Reykjanes peninsula and its renowned Blue Lagoon thermal springs.

Late afternoon embarkation from Reykjavik port.

Day 2 At Sea

Experience the unique adventure of sailing on Le Commandant Charcot, the world’s first luxury polar ship. Explore frozen seas, attend expert lectures, and participate in furthering scientific research.

Day 3 King Frederick VI Coast

As you sail along the King Frederick VI Coast, you’ll encounter icebergs in striking, sculpted forms. Northern waters here are scattered with floating ice, creating a dreamlike panorama. Snowy mountains, ice-covered fjords, and small islands lining Greenland’s coast enhance this extraordinary voyage. The ship glides silently towards Greenland, amidst pointed peaks and majestic glaciers. Soon, you’ll cross the Prins Christian Sund, a narrow, winding channel stretching over 100 kilometres between Greenland’s south-east and south-west. Be captivated by the raw beauty of rocky cliffs, waterfalls fed by the ice sheet, and bearded seals basking on the ice.

Day 4 Pins Christian Sund & Aappilattoq

The ship glides silently towards Greenland, amidst pointed peaks and majestic glaciers. Soon, you’ll cross the Prins Christian Sund, a narrow, winding channel stretching over 100 kilometres between Greenland’s south-east and south-west. Be captivated by the raw beauty of rocky cliffs, waterfalls fed by the ice sheet, and bearded seals basking on the ice.

Aappilattoq (Augpilatok) is a remote Inuit village of about 100 people, its name meaning “sea anemone” in Greenlandic. Nestled in a mountainous area with no road access, its colourful houses stretch along the southern tip of Greenland, by the breathtaking Prince Christian Sound. This sound, roughly 100 kilometres long, links the Labrador Sea to the Irminger Sea, winding through striking landscapes of glaciers, rugged peaks, and rocky cliffs with waterfalls from the ice sheet. The village, established in the 1920s in a once uninhabited region, thrives on hunting, fishing, and livestock farming.

Day 5 Nanortalik

In the municipality of Kujalleq, visit Nanortalik, an Inuit village located a few hundred kilometres from Greenland’s southernmost point. Fishing is the primary livelihood here, and visitors can share memorable moments with the locals. As snow blankets the landscape, immerse yourself in winter activities and explore Inuit traditions.

Day 6 Narsaq Fjord

At winter’s end, journey to the ice-covered shores of the Inuit village of Narsaq a small, quintessentially Greenlandic community. Nestled amidst majestic snowy mountains, it offers a warm welcome in a striking setting. The vibrant, multicoloured houses create a magical atmosphere, sure to captivate you. Explore the village, embark on polar walks, and experience local performances, immersing yourself in the lives of its inhabitants and embracing the Greenlandic way of life.

Days 7 - 9 Baffin Bay

In the icy waters of Baffin Bay, sail into the heart of scattered sea floes, where dreamlike icebergs captivate as the ship ventures into the Far North. Everything here is in shades of white, and with keen eyes, you might spot the polar bear, ruler of this frozen realm, wandering in search of food. The polar light casts a glow on the water and ice, leaving you with unforgettable memories as you explore Baffin Bay.

Days 10 - 11 Disko Bay

East of Baffin Bay lies Disko Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where icebergs from the Ilulissat Icefjord are trapped in the northern winter ice. From the ship, witness the majestic dance of these frozen ice giants, sculpted into extraordinary, dreamlike shapes. This natural wonder of Greenland is also a prime spot for observing humpback whales. Encounters with wildlife and breathtaking landscapes in this spectacular, fragile environment promises moments of pure awe.

Days 12 - 13 Qeqertarsuaq

On the southern coast of Disko Island lies Qeqertarsuaq, one of just two small villages on this island. Its remote location has made it a favoured spot for naturalists since the early days of polar exploration and the establishment of the Arctic Centre in 1906. Adventurers can explore Greenland’s natural wonders, encounter wildlife like humpback whales, and marvel at the striking basaltic organ landscapes. Amidst this stunning and fragile environment, enjoy the breath-taking views of Disko Island and Disko Bay’s grand and diverse landscapes.

Days 14 - 15 Baffin Bay

Further exploration of Baffin Bay before heading out to sea towards Nuuk, Greenland.

Day 16 Disembark in Nuuk, Greenland

On arrival in Nuuk, disembark and transfer to the Airport for your flight to Paris.

Activities

    ©PONANT:Sue Flood

    Dog Sledding

    Dog Sledding – Arctic Only Experience a 6,000-year-old tradition with sled dogs guiding you through enchanting landscapes. Led by experts, this magical journey across the ice floe offers serene adventure amidst stunning Arctic beauty. Available early Arctic season only.

    ©StudioPONANT-Olivier Blaud

    Ice Fishing

    Experience ice fishing in the Arctic, guided by naturalists, discovering techniques on ice floe or frozen lakes while enjoying this unique and thrilling activity.

    ©PONANT:Ragnar Axelsson

    Hiking or Snowshoeing

    Explore the untouched wilderness with varied hikes, guided by expert naturalists. From coastal strolls to snowshoe adventures, discover remote viewpoints, embracing the challenges of weather and ice.

    ©StudioPONANT:Romain Farge

    Kayaking

    Glide through polar waters and ice in a kayak, guided by experts, for an unforgettable Arctic adventure. Embrace this ancient Inuit craft for exploration.

    ©StudioPONANT:Olivier Blaud

    Zodiac Cruising

    Zodiac cruising offers thrilling exploration of icy landscapes, allowing travellers to navigate through ice floes and wildlife-rich waters, experiencing the breathtaking beauty of the polar regions up close.

    Dates and rates

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    • Dates

      Mar 3 – Apr 5, 2025

    • Embark

      Reykjavik / Nuuk

    • Ship

      Le Commandant Charcot

    • Price range (per person)
      A$35,710 - $80,660
    • Dates

      Apr 17 – May 2, 2025

    • Embark

      Nuuk / Reykjavik

    • Ship

      Le Commandant Charcot

    • Price range (per person)
      A$35,710 - $80,660

    Meeting the Inuit & Discovering the Unknown

    What's included

    Inclusions

    Flight from Nuuk to Paris included.
    An official expedition parka to keep.
    Leadership throughout the voyage by an experienced Expedition Team, including shore landings, presentations and other activities.
    Shipboard accommodation in your chosen room with private facilities.
    All meals, snacks and unlimited complimentary drinks throughout the cruise including minibar (excludes premium alcoholic drinks served a la carte).
    Waterproof expedition boots to borrow for landings and Zodiac cruising. Snowshoes and walking poles are also provided.
    Complimentary Wi-Fi.
    Group transfers mentioned through the itinerary.

    Exclusions

    International airfare to join in Iceland.
    Passport and applicable visa expenses.
    Meals unless otherwise specified.
    Waterproof pants for Zodiac landing and cruising excursions, or any other gear not mentioned.
    Laundry, bar, spa services and other personal charges, unless specified.
    Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for expedition staff and shipboard crew.
    Additional overnight accommodation.