Greenland: West Coast Gay Cruise

Aluu – as they say in Greenlandic (even though we’re beginning in Canada, it may come in handy to practice Greenlandic greetings). Feel free to explore this vibrant metropolis known for being one of the world’s largest cultural melting pots. Kensington Market, The Distillery District, and Yonge-Dundas Square offer unique flavours of big-city life, or you can explore the trendy gayborhood located around Church & Wellesley. At 6PM, we’ll begin with a welcome meeting at our host hotel. After everyone has gotten acquainted, we’ll delight our taste buds at a Welcome Dinner at one of our favourite restaurants.

This morning we’ll catch a charter flight to Kangerlussuaq, board the Ultramarine ship, and head north on our adventure. Expect a warm welcome and safety briefing from our Expedition Leader.

PLEASE NOTE: Unlike our typical offerings, an expedition cruise is not only more exciting, but also less predictable. We must factor in ever-changing sea, ice, wildlife and weather conditions in a remote part of the world. Therefore, the itinerary is less specific than usual. Still, the days will be full of adventure.

Today we’ll continue sailing north along the west coast. The Expedition Team will prepare us for the adventures ahead with activity and excursion briefings. There will also be presentations on the wildlife and history of Greenland including its geology, ecology and climate.

Welcome to the second-largest fjord system in Greenland. Enjoy this rare opportunity to explore the cultural and natural wonders of the area. Potential excursions include a visit to the town of Uummanaq, a venture into Qilakitsoq (where the famous Greenland Mummies were discovered) and excursions focused on Store Glacier and its immense discharge zone.

At this point we’ll explore the largest open bay in western Greenland, where whales are often spotted. We’ll aim to visit Illulissat, the community near the head of Sermeq Kujalleq (Jakobshavn Glacier), which discharges 35 billion tons of ice every year. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004, the fjord is immensely beautiful and full of hiking trails that you can explore. 

We may also visit Equip Sermia or Torsukatak Fjords in Disko Bay’s northeast corner. They offer fantastic glacial views and more opportunities for hiking, paddling, and Zodiac cruising. We may even board the helicopters to fully appreciate this immense region.

Qeqqata (meaning centre) municipality is Greenland’s second smallest administrative region, and home to 20% of Greenland’s people. We are likely to visit Sisimiut where you can wander the open-air museum, participate in local tastings or join a hiking group to explore the trails. You may also join an optional mountain biking excursion. 

We may additionally visit Manitsoq, home to the alpine lake Innussuit Tasersuat. The fjord systems beyond are deep, seldom visited, and include the tallest mountains in Greenland. Venturing here is a truly exceptional experience.

This morning we bid farewell to our faithful crew as we board our flight back to Canada. Flight times back to Toronto can vary greatly, so there are no planned activities this evening. We will dine together for an optional dinner if timing allows.

PLEASE NOTE: The default flight out of Greenland will return to Toronto, however, some guests have opted into a flight to Copenhagen instead. The flight availability to Copenhagen is very limited and could sell out anytime. If you prefer to finish the trip in Copenhagen please advise our sales team and they can look into availability.

This morning you may opt to fly home or spend a couple of days exploring Canada’s largest city.

PLEASE NOTE: A departure transfer is not included, but your group leader will provide clear instructions on getting to the airport.