Disko Bay: Meeting the Inuit & Discovering the Unknown

Reykjavík -> Nanortalik -> Narsaq -> Baffin Bay, Nunavut -> Sisimiut (Holsteinsborg) -> Sisimiut (Holsteinsborg) -> Disko Bay -> Disko Bay -> Qeqertarsuaq (Godhavn) -> Qeqertarsuaq (Godhavn) -> Baffin Bay, Nunavut -> Baffin Bay, Nunavut -> Nuuk (Godthaab)
Nights
15
Departing
Reykjavík
Returning
Nuuk (Godthaab)

Disko Bay: A Spring Journey Through Greenland With Ponant

Ponant offers a captivating 16-day expedition aboard Le Commandant Charcot, where guests explore the breathtaking icy landscapes of Greenland's Disko Bay during springtime. Esteemed explorer George Kourounis joins the journey, sharing his experiences documenting extreme natural phenomena, and Ian Dawson, the British Photo Ambassador, accompanies passengers on this unique excursion. As the ship navigates towards Baffin Bay, guests witness the majestic beauty of the largest icebergs in the Northern Hemisphere and visit remote Inuit villages only accessible in early spring. The journey transitions from Reykjavík on 01 May 2023 12:00 to Nuuk on 16 May 2023 10:00, allowing guests to engage with local communities. Through polar hikes, ice fishing, and dog sledding, the expedition offers an immersive understanding of Inuit traditions and the stark beauty of Greenland. Le Commandant Charcot's onboard laboratories provide insights into ongoing scientific research within these dynamic polar environments, promising each day to be uniquely memorable and educational.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Reykjavík

Reykjavík, Iceland: Sprawling Reykjavík, the nerve centre of the nation and seat of government, is home to half the island's population. Overlooked by the majestic Mt. Esja (pronounced eh-shyuh) with its ever-changing hues, Reykjavík is a colourful sight with its concrete houses painted in light colours topped by vibrant red, blue, and green roofs. In contrast to its almost treeless countryside, Reykjavík boasts many tall, native birches, rowans, and willows, alongside imported aspen, pines, and spruces. The name Reykjavík derives from the Icelandic words for smoke (reykur) and bay (vík). In AD 874, when Norseman Ingólfur Arnarson arrived, the bay was shrouded in plumes of steam from nearby hot springs. Most houses are now heated by near-boiling water from these springs, which avoids air pollution although a slight sulphur smell may linger in bathrooms. Prices are comparable to major European cities, but purchasing a Reykjavík City Card can provide unlimited bus access and admission to city pools, the Family Park, Zoo, and museums, proving economical with regular usage.

Day 2 - At Sea

At Sea: Spend the day enjoying the facilities on board, as we sail towards our next destination.

Day 3 - At Sea

At Sea: Continue to explore and enjoy the myriad of activities and relaxation opportunities available aboard the ship as we traverse the expansive seas.

Day 4 - At Sea

At Sea: Take this opportunity to unwind and make use of the on-board amenities, as we set course for our next port of call.

Day 5 - Nanortalik

Nanortalik, Greenland: Nestled in a picturesque area surrounded by steep mountainsides, Nanortalik is Greenland’s tenth-largest town and its most southerly, with fewer than 1,500 inhabitants. Its name, meaning the “place of polar bears”, harks back to when polar bears were seen drifting on the summer ice floes offshore. The town is known for its excellent open-air museum, which provides a comprehensive view of the region from the time of the Inuit to today, including a summer hunting camp where traditionally clothed Inuit describe their ancestors’ customs and lifestyle.

Day 6 - Narsaq

Narsaq, Greenland: Narsaq is a charming town in the southern part of Greenland, renowned for its colourful wooden houses and the lush surroundings that give the area its name, which means "plain" or "meadow" in Greenlandic. Known for its sheep farms and historical significance, including Norse ruins, Narsaq offers a glimpse into the traditional Greenlandic lifestyle.

Day 7 - Baffin Bay

Baffin Bay, Nunavut, Canada: Spend a tranquil day navigating the majestic waters of Baffin Bay, with potential sightings of marine wildlife amidst the breathtaking backdrop of glacial formations and vast open sea.

Day 8 - Sisimiut

Sisimiut (Holsteinsborg), Greenland: Located just north of the Arctic Circle, Sisimiut is the furthest town in Greenland where the port remains ice-free in winter, while still witnessing enough snow and ice for dogsledding during winter and spring. This town, whose history stretches back approximately 4,500 years, remains an integral business centre in the north of Greenland, with commercial fishing forming the backbone of its burgeoning industrial economy.

Day 9 - Sisimiut

Sisimiut (Holsteinsborg), Greenland: Further explore Sisimiut, the ultimate fusion of Greenlandic tradition and modernity. With a rich cultural heritage dating back millennia, its vibrant community and thriving industries encapsulate the spirit of contemporary Greenland. Delve deeper into its history, natural surroundings, and unique winter sports traditions.

Day 10 - Disko Bay

Disko Bay, Greenland: As we journey through Disko Bay, experience the awe-inspiring scenery of icebergs and the splendour of this ethereal Arctic paradise. Known for its rich marine biodiversity, Disko Bay offers a chance to witness the interplay between sea, ice, and sky.

Day 11 - Disko Bay

Disko Bay, Greenland: Continue our exploration of the magnificent Disko Bay, whose icy waters are known for their vibrant glacial activity and diverse Arctic wildlife, offering unparalleled opportunities for breathtaking natural views and encounters.

Day 12 - Qeqertarsuaq

Qeqertarsuaq (Godhavn), Greenland: Qeqertarsuaq, on Disko Island, is a charming town where Greenlandic traditions and stunning natural landscapes merge. Known for its geological wonders and striking black sand beaches, this area showcases the remarkable beauty and unique composition of Greenland.

Day 13 - Qeqertarsuaq

Qeqertarsuaq (Godhavn), Greenland: Explore further the serene beauty and cultural richness of Qeqertarsuaq, a town offering glimpses into both the vibrant Greenlandic community life and the striking natural phenomena that embody this unique region.

Day 14 - Baffin Bay

Baffin Bay, Nunavut, Canada: Revisit the serene and expansive waters of Baffin Bay as we traverse this magnificent area once again, basking in its tranquil beauty and the incredible Arctic landscapes that surround us.

Day 15 - At Sea

At Sea: Reflect on the myriad of experiences and breathtaking sights you've encountered as we journey back across the open waters towards our final destination.

Day 16 - Nuuk

Nuuk (Godthaab), Greenland: Nuuk, meaning "the cape", is Greenland’s capital and first town, established in 1728. Located over 240 kilometres south of the Arctic Circle, Nuuk is not only a hub of government, education, and culture but also a site of striking natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural vivacity. The Greenlandic National Museum houses outstanding artefacts, including the renowned Qilakitsoq mummies. The Katuaq Cultural Centre is a modern architectural masterpiece, blending seamlessly with the captivating landscapes around, inspired by Greenland's extraordinary natural phenomena.

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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Disko Bay Meeting the Inuit and Discovering the Unknown

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