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HX Hurtigruten Expeditions offers an extraordinary 20-night Arctic journey aboard the MS Roald Amundsen, commencing and concluding in Reykjavík, Iceland. This expedition invites adventurers to explore the wild beauty and cultural richness of the Arctic regions of Canada and Greenland. With a route that circumnavigates Baffin Bay, participants visit iconic locations such as Nuuk, Qikiqtarjuaq, and Gibbs Fjord, where dramatic landscapes of towering peaks and lush glacial fjords present spectacular photo opportunities.
Passengers have the chance to discover historic sites like Beechey Island, renowned for its association with Sir John Franklin's ill-fated Northwest Passage expedition, as well as unique cultural hubs like Ilulissat, known for its majestic icebergs and heritage museum dedicated to famed polar explorer Knud Rasmussen. The expedition underscores the profound connection between the harsh yet sublime environment of the Arctic and its resilient indigenous cultures. This comprehensive exploration not only provides an adventure into unspoiled natural wonders but also an insightful look into the history and traditional lifestyles that have thrived in these remote territories.
Reykjavík, Iceland: Sprawling Reykjavík, the nation's nerve centre and government seat, is home to half the island's population. Overlooked by proud Mt. Esja with its ever-changing hues, Reykjavík presents a colourful sight with its concrete houses painted in light colours and topped with vibrant red, blue, and green roofs. Despite the almost treeless countryside, Reykjavík boasts many tall, native birches, rowans, and willows, mingled with imported aspen, pines, and spruces. The city's name derives from the Icelandic words for smoke, 'reykur', and bay, 'vík'. In AD 874, Norseman Ingólfur Arnarson landed ashore at a bay shrouded in steam plumes from nearby hot springs. Today, many houses in Reykjavík are heated by near-boiling water from these springs, which avoids air pollution despite a slight sulphur smell in the bathroom. Prices here are comparable to other major European cities. A Reykjavik City Card from the Tourist Information Centre or Reykjavík Youth Hostel offers unlimited bus usage and access to activities and museums. With this card, a day in Reykjavík becomes affordable after only a couple of uses.
Nuuk (Godthaab), Greenland: Nuuk, meaning 'the cape,' was Greenland’s earliest town, established in 1728. Originating as a fort, the town evolved into a mission and trading post south of the Arctic Circle, now serving as the capital and home to almost 30% of Greenland's population. The city's vicinity showcases great natural beauty, Inuit ruins, Hans Egede’s home, the parliament, and the Church of our Saviour. The Greenlandic National Museum boasts a remarkable collection of traditional dresses and the renowned Qilakitsoq mummies. The city's architecture, including the Katuaq Cultural Centre, echoes the splendour of the Northern Lights.
Qikiqtarjuaq, Nunavut, Canada: Situated on Broughton Island, Qikiqtarjuaq is often referred to as the 'Iceberg Capital of the World'. This small Inuit community enjoys spectacular natural surroundings, including a rich array of wildlife and the nearby Auyuittuq National Park known for its rugged mountain scenery.
Isabella Bay, Baffin Island, Nunavut, Canada: Renowned for its thriving population of bowhead whales, Isabella Bay serves as a key conservation area. With sweeping views of icebergs and pristine waters, this location offers a rare glimpse into the Arctic's marine haven.
Gibbs Fjord, Nunavut, Canada: Gibbs Fjord captivates with its simple grandeur that towers over ships below. Encompassing giant peaks, steep cliffs, and glacial rivers, Sillem Island reveals itself as an impenetrable fortress with walls that split the dark, profound fjord waters. This geological marvel invites photographers to capture its uncharted, breathtaking terrain.
Dundas Harbour, Devon Island, Nunavut, Canada: Dundas Harbour is a starkly beautiful spot in the south-east of Devon Island, Canada's sixth-largest island. Sighted by Europeans in 1616, it bears historical significance, including remains of a Thule settlement and a now-abandoned RCMP outpost. Named after Devon, England by William Edward Parry, it features deep crevasses and streaks, akin to traditional tattoos, in the local Inuktitut language.
Beechey Island, Nunavut, Canada: Beechey Island is known for its historical significance in Arctic exploration. It served as a winter camp during Sir John Franklin's ill-fated expedition of 1845-46. The mummified remains of three crew members found here provide insights into the expedition’s tragic fate. Declared a Territorial Historic Site in 1975, it remains a poignant testament to the enduring spirit of exploration.
Croker Bay, Nunavut, Canada: Nestled between towering cliffs and glacial formations, Croker Bay offers a serene setting to observe gigantic glaciers calving into icy waters. Rich in wildlife, this picturesque bay is a magnet for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.
Cobh, Ireland: Just a stone's throw from Cork City, Cobh is a historical harbour steeped in tales of maritime history. The adjacent Fota Island boasts an arboretum, wildlife park, and estate, adding allure to Cobh's charm.
Qaanaaq, Greenland: Steeped in history dating back to AD 850, Qaanaaq blends breathtaking natural beauty with rich cultural traditions. Once a prominent Viking hub, this town offers intriguing cultural remnants against a backdrop of majestic landscapes, including opportunities to explore timeworn fishing and hunting traditions amidst thriving modernity.
Buenos Aires, Argentina: Glamorous and gritty, Buenos Aires showcases a dual heritage with its roots part European, part Latin American. Argentina's capital city blends grand squares akin to those in Madrid with cobbled streets bursting with Latin charm. Indulge in limited-production wines, savour juicy steaks, and sample countless flavours of ice cream as you soak in the rhythm of impromptu celebrations.
Uummannaq, Greenland: Surrounding the remote community of Uummannaq, iceberg-laden waters unveil scenes of captivating beauty, often frequented by whales. Known for Uummannaq mountain's seal heart shape, this village of over 1200 people thrives on a halibut/fish-processing economy amidst breathtaking scenery.
Vaigat Sound, Greenland: Vaigat Sound is a narrow waterway bordered by towering peaks. Icebergs gracefully navigate the channel, providing a stunning display in this remote corner of Greenland's Arctic wilderness.
Ilulissat (Jakobshavn), Greenland: Renowned as the birthplace of icebergs, Ilulissat Icefjord spews nearly 20 million tons of ice daily. Despite its cold climates, this third-largest town in Greenland enjoys settled, calm weather. It proudly hosts a local museum commemorating renowned polar explorer Knud Rasmussen.
Sisimiut (Holsteinsborg), Greenland: North of the Arctic Circle, Sisimiut distinguishes itself as the most northerly Greenlandic town with an ice-free port year-round. Enriched by 4,500 years of history, the modern town thrives on commercial fishing, facilitating a burgeoning industrial economy.
Nuuk (Godthaab), Greenland: The journey comes full circle to Nuuk, Greenland’s historic capital. Hosting 30% of the population, Nuuk teems with natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural centres, inviting explorers to delve deeper into its vibrant past and promising future.
We endeavour to ensure that the information provided on our website regarding itineraries and schedules is accurate and up-to-date. Please be aware, however, that this information is offered in good faith and may be subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances or events beyond our control. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility in this regard.
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