Gems of West Greenland: Fjords, Icebergs, and Culture

Day 1 - Reykjavík

Reykjavík, Iceland: Sprawling Reykjavík, the nation's nerve centre and governmental hub, hosts half the island's population. Overlooked by the majestic Mt. Esja with its dynamic hues, Reykjavík offers a picturesque view – concrete houses painted in light colours and crowned with vibrant red, blue, and green roofs. Unlike the almost treeless countryside, the city boasts tall native birches, rowans, and willows, along with imported aspens, pines, and spruces. The name Reykjavík, meaning 'smoke bay', originates from Norseman Ingólfur Arnarson's landing in AD 874, when he saw Iceland rising out of a misty sea, surrounded by hot spring steam. Even today, most houses are naturally heated with near-boiling spring water, eliminating smoke pollution, though a faint sulphur scent may linger. Reykjavík's prices match major European cities'. Economical exploring could involve purchasing a Reykjavík City Card at the Tourist Information Centre or the Reykjavík Youth Hostel, which offers unlimited bus travel, entry to pools, the Family Park and Zoo, and city museums. Valid for one (ISK 3,300), two (ISK 4,400), or three days (ISK 4,900), the card quickly pays off after three or four daily uses. Without the card, admission to one art museum provides free same-day access to the others.

Day 2 - Kangerlussuaq Havn

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland: Known as "Big Fjord" in Kalaallisut, Kangerlussuaq is a small settlement of around 500 inhabitants located in western Greenland. Positioned on a flat terrain at the fjord's head, it houses Greenland's main commercial airport. The local economy heavily relies on this air hub and tourism. The surrounding rugged territory is a haven for terrestrial Arctic wildlife, such as muskoxen, caribou, and Gyrfalcons.

Day 3 - At Sea

North Atlantic Ocean: Take a day to unwind and enjoy the onboard amenities as you sail through the captivating North Atlantic Ocean, offering endless vistas and the chance to spot marine life.

Day 4 - Uummannaq

Uummannaq, Greenland: Amidst the iceberg-rich waters around the remote Uummannaq community, whales are a common sight. The area's striking landscape is renowned for its massive basalt mountains. This small hunting and fishing village nestles at the heart-shaped Uummannaq Mountain, fittingly named for its resemblance to a seal's heart. With a population of over 1,200, Uummannaq features a beautiful granite church and Greenland's most northerly ferry terminal. The locale largely thrives on its halibut and fish-processing industry.

Day 5 - Uummannaq

Uummannaq, Greenland: The iceberg-strewn waters surrounding Uummannaq frequently witness whales. Known for colossal basalt formations, the village rests at the foot of heart-shaped Uummannaq Mountain, aptly translating to