Aurora Expeditions

Wild Landscapes of West Greenland

Start date:

15 Aug 2025

Return date:

29 Aug 2025

Duration:

15

days

Embarkation:

Toronto

Disembarkation:

Toronto

Ship:

Sylvia Earle

Activities offered:

MORE INFORMATION

Trip Details

Your journey begins in Toronto, where you’ll meet your fellow expeditioners at a welcome briefing and overnight at a hotel near the airport. The following day, fly to Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, and board the Sylvia Earle. From there, explore the Arctic beauty of Sisimiut and the basalt landscapes of Disko Island’s Qeqertarsuaq. Over the next several days, you’ll cruise through ice-laden waters to visit remote settlements like Uummannaq and Upernavik, kayak among icebergs, and immerse yourself in Greenland’s deep history. At sea, enjoy lectures by your expedition team while surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Return to Disko Island for a Zodiac cruise and then witness the awe-inspiring Ilulissat Icefjord and Jakobshavn Glacier. Explore the rich Inuit heritage at the Aasivissuit-Nipisat UNESCO World Heritage Site before journeying through Eternity Fjord’s majestic glacial landscapes. Disembark in Nuuk and return to Toronto, where the adventure ends with a final night’s stay near the airport.

Day 1- Toronto

Having made your way to Toronto, check in at our group hotel located near the airport for an overnight stay. At our welcome briefing this evening, enjoy a drink and meet fellow expeditioners. Please visit the Aurora Expeditions hospitality desk to collect your luggage cabin tags and to speak with our ground operations team, who may have information to share with you about pre-embarkation procedures and also the charter flight to Nuuk tomorrow. You will receive Aurora Expeditions cabin tags for your luggage. Please clearly label the tags with your name and ship cabin number.

Accommodation: Westin Toronto Airport Hotel

 

Day 2- Embarkation, Nuuk

Please ensure that your luggage is fitted with cabin tags clearly labelled with your name and cabin number. Any valuables or personal items should be kept on you throughout the day. Your luggage will be delivered to your cabin ahead of your arrival on board.

After breakfast at the hotel, board our charter flight to Nuuk, where the Sylvia Earle awaits. After boarding, there is time to settle into your cabin before our important safety briefings. This evening, meet your expedition team and crew.

 

Day 3- Sisimiut

Greenland’s second largest town, Sisimiut is located approximately 54 kilometres (33.5 miles) north of the Arctic Circle, meaning that during summer, you can experience the midnight sun here. The town is famous for the old blue church with the gate made of whale bone. In the cosy museum next door to the church, you will find an excellent reconstruction of an Inuit turf house as well as exhibits of local history and early life in Greenland.

Sisimiut offers hiking trails with various degrees of difficulty. The easier trails take you through the town itself, its outskirts and into the mountains, where you will find spectacular vantage points.

Some 4,500 years ago, the Saqqaq culture arrived from Canada and settled in the area. They lived here for approximately 2,000 years, after which they mysteriously disappeared from the area. The Dorset culture arrived around 500 CE and stayed until the 1200s until they were replaced by the Thule culture, and today, most of the population of Sisimiut are descendants of the Thule culture.

 

Day 4- Qeqertarsuaq, Godhavn, Disko Island

This compelling island seems to have more in common with Iceland than Greenland. While most of the interior is mountainous and glaciated, its beautiful shorelines boast black sandy beaches, unusual basalt columns, hot springs and dramatic lava formations. We plan to appreciate the colourful flowers on the Kuannit Hike, where you can walk stunning landscapes, see ancient basalt columns and perhaps spot whales in Disko Bay.

 

Days 5-7 – Expedition cruising

Note: In genuine expeditionary style, our itinerary for the following days is heavily dependent on weather conditions and unpredictable sea ice. The following places are some that we hope to visit.

Uummannaq

Set on an island of the same name, Uummannaq is located 600 km (373 mi) above the Arctic Circle and is famous for its heart-shaped mountain. It’s also well-known for the Qilakitsoq mummies, Greenland’s oldest, that were discovered in nearby. Kayakers can enjoy paddling among the icebergs and keeping watch for whales that frequent the area.

Upernavik

Set amid a labyrinth of small islands, Upernavik is home to traditional settlements and enormous icebergs that Greenland is famous for. Kayakers can paddle in the serene bay among the glittering icebergs while other expeditioners can discover the town on walks or hike in the surrounding area. Upernavik is the world’s northernmost open-air museum. A walk through the old part of town, which encompasses the original colonial buildings, tells the cultural history of the area, including the colonial and Viking periods. Keep a look out for a traditional old kayak and umiaq boat, which highlights the main mode of transport used by locals to navigate the archipelago during summer.

 

Day 8- At Sea

Find a spot in one of our many observation lounges and enjoy the spectacular surrounding landscapes. Our talented and knowledgeable expedition members will present informative and entertaining talks about the region that you’re travelling through.

 

Day 9- Qeqertarsuaq, Disko Island

In Qeqertarsuaq, we enjoy a Zodiac excursion in Disko Bay that’s often filled with icebergs and is a hotspot for marine life including humpback, fin, minke and bowhead whales. Enjoy a walk through the settlement, perhaps try some local tea made from fresh local herbs, learn about the history of Qeqertarsuaq at the museum before walking along the black sand beach towards the colourful colonial buildings.

 

Days 10-11 – Ataa Sund, Ilulissat

Known as the ‘birthplace of icebergs’, this region produces some of the most dazzling icebergs found anywhere on earth. We explore ice-filled Ataa Sund and hope to experience a few of the active glaciers from a safe distance. In Ilulissat, we visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Icefjord and stand in awe at its immensity. Sermeq Kujalleq, also known as Jakobshavn Glacier, is the most productive glacier – not only in Greenland but the entire Northern Hemisphere. It produces 20 million tonnes of ice each day, all floating into the Ilulissat Icefjord and Disko Bay.

 

Day 12- Aasivissuit- Nipisat UNESCO World Heritage site

We hope to visit a Greenlandic settlement located near the Aasivissuit-Nipisat UNESCO World Heritage Site, a place where the local inhabitants live a traditional fishing and hunting lifestyle that dates back 4,000 years. The settlement also features the remarkable Qaammat Pavilion, built on the ridge at the top overlooking the Ikeertoq fjord. This stunning architecturally designed and award-winning crystal structure was created by Swedish architect, Konstantin Ikonomidis, in cooperation with the local community and the UNESCO team. It is a tribute to nature, the land and cultural traditions of the indigenous Inuit people.

 

Day 13- Eternity Fjord

Evighedsfjorden, or Eternity Fjord, is one of the more spectacular fjord complexes in west Greenland due to its forested landscape. Hike through a forested valley, witness hills become towering snow-capped mountains as countless glaciers pour down from sheer cliff walls. Occasionally, the thunderous sound of a calving glacier breaks the silence in a place where you are unlikely to see another soul.

 

Day 14- Disembark in Nuuk, Fly to Toronto

During the early morning, we cruise into Nuuk and disembark at approximately 8.00 am. Farewell your Expedition Team before transfer to the airport for a charter flight to Toronto for an overnight stay.

Accommodation: Westin Toronto Airport Hotel

 

Day 15- Depart Toronto

After breakfast, check out of your room and continue your journey with a transfer to the airport.

INCLUSIONS

• All airport transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
• One night’s hotel accommodation including breakfast, in Punta Arenas on Day 1.
• Charter flight from Punta Arenas to King George Island.
• Onboard accommodation during voyage, including daily cabin service.
• All meals, snacks, tea and coffee during voyage.
• Soft drinks and juices throughout all meals. Beer and house wine with dinner.
• Captain’s Farewell reception including four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic beverages.
• All shore excursions and Zodiac cruises.
• Educational lectures and guiding services provided by Expedition Team.
• Complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consultation).
• One 3-in-1 waterproof, polar expedition jacket.
• Complimentary use of Muck Boots during the voyage.
• Comprehensive pre-departure information.
• Port surcharges, permits and landing fees.
• Wi-Fi*.
* Please note we travel to remote regions and therefore the connection can be unreliable.

EXCLUSIONS

• International or domestic flights – unless specified in the itinerary.
• Transfers – unless specified in the itinerary.
• Airport arrival or departure taxes.
• Passport, visa, reciprocity and vaccination fees and charges.
• Travel insurance or emergency evacuation charges.
• Hotel accommodation and meals – unless specified in the itinerary.
• Optional excursions and optional activity surcharges.
• All items of a personal nature, including but not limited to alcoholic beverages (outside of dinner service), soft drinks/juices (outside of meal service), gratuities, laundry services, personal clothing, medical expenses or phone charges.

Note: A $15 USD per person per day gratuity for the crew is automatically added to your onboard account. It is at your discretion if you would like to remove the tip (or adjust the amount) when you settle your bill. It is not necessary to tip the expedition team members. This gratuity amount is included for suites as part of their ‘Suite Benefits’.

A non-refundable deposit of US $2,500 per person is required within 7 working days of booking. Final payment is due at least 90 days prior to the departure date of the expedition

CABIN DETAILS

Rates Per Person

Aurora Stateroom Triple Share

Aurora Stateroom Triple Share

Experience comfort and convenience in our Aurora Stateroom Triples, featuring porthole views and private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, these rooms offer easy access to the mudroom and loading platforms, ensuring a seamless adventure.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

3

Size

22.67m2 (244ft2)

View

Porthole

U$ 16,195
U$ 10,956
Aurora Stateroom Superior

Aurora Stateroom Superior

Situated on Deck 7, the Staterooms boast French balconies, floor-to-ceiling windows, private en-suite bathrooms, and a cozy desk area.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

2

Size

19.9m2 - 20.8m2(214.2ft2 - 223.9ft2)

View

French Balcony

U$ 17,595
U$ 12,076
Balcony Stateroom Category C

Balcony Stateroom Category C

Our 11 Balcony Stateroom C rooms are the most budget-friendly option, equipped with essential amenities and comfortably accommodating up to two guests. These staterooms are conveniently located across Decks 4 and 6.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

2

Size

19.5m² - 28.7m² (209.9ft² - 308.9ft²)

View

Private balcony

U$ 17,995
U$ 12,396
Balcony Stateroom Category B

Balcony Stateroom Category B

Our 17 Balcony Stateroom B rooms are our standard option, with many featuring interconnecting doors—perfect for families or groups. These staterooms are located at the front and rear of Decks 4 and 6.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

2

Size

19.5m² - 28.7m² (209.9ft² - 308.9ft²)

View

Private balcony

U$ 18,895
U$ 13,116
Balcony Stateroom Category A

Balcony Stateroom Category A

Our 23 Balcony Stateroom A rooms are our premium and most abundant option on board. Conveniently located in prime areas on Decks 4 and 6, they offer easy access to other levels via internal stairs or the elevator.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

2

Size

19.5m² - 28.7m² (209.9ft² - 308.9ft²)

View

Private balcony

U$ 20,295
U$ 14,236
Balcony Stateroom Superior

Balcony Stateroom Superior

Offering extra space to unwind, the Balcony Stateroom Superiors are ideal for polar adventurers traveling with plenty of gear.

Located on Decks 4 and 6, these staterooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms, and a comfortable desk area. Select rooms also include wheelchair-accessible bathrooms.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

2

Size

29.2m² - 35.2m² (314.3ft² - 378.9ft²)

View

Private balcony

U$ 22,095
U$ 15,676
Junior Suite

Junior Suite

Perched on Deck 7, the four Junior Suites offer stunning views. When not out exploring, unwind in the private lounge area or take in the scenery from your own balcony.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

2

Size

41.6m² (447.8ft²)

View

Private balcony

U$ 29,995
U$ 21,996
Captain’s Suite

Captain’s Suite

The largest and most luxurious accommodation on board, the Captain’s Suite offers the perfect blend of elegance and comfort for your polar adventure. Featuring a spacious lounge area, private balcony, walk-in wardrobe, and en-suite bathroom, this exclusive suite provides the ultimate retreat. With only one available, booking early is essential.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

2

Size

43.8m² (471.5 ft²)

View

Private balcony

U$ 38,995
U$ 29,196 (Sold Out)
Aurora Stateroom Triple Share

Aurora Stateroom Triple Share

Experience comfort and convenience in our Aurora Stateroom Triples, featuring porthole views and private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, these rooms offer easy access to the mudroom and loading platforms, ensuring a seamless adventure.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

3

Size

22.67m2 (244ft2)

View

Porthole

U$ 16,195
U$ 10,956
Aurora Stateroom Superior

Aurora Stateroom Superior

Situated on Deck 7, the Staterooms boast French balconies, floor-to-ceiling windows, private en-suite bathrooms, and a cozy desk area.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

2

Size

19.9m2 - 20.8m2(214.2ft2 - 223.9ft2)

View

French Balcony

U$ 17,595
U$ 12,076
Balcony Stateroom Category C

Balcony Stateroom Category C

Our 11 Balcony Stateroom C rooms are the most budget-friendly option, equipped with essential amenities and comfortably accommodating up to two guests. These staterooms are conveniently located across Decks 4 and 6.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

2

Size

19.5m² - 28.7m² (209.9ft² - 308.9ft²)

View

Private balcony

U$ 17,995
U$ 12,396
Balcony Stateroom Category B

Balcony Stateroom Category B

Our 17 Balcony Stateroom B rooms are our standard option, with many featuring interconnecting doors—perfect for families or groups. These staterooms are located at the front and rear of Decks 4 and 6.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

2

Size

19.5m² - 28.7m² (209.9ft² - 308.9ft²)

View

Private balcony

U$ 18,895
U$ 13,116
Balcony Stateroom Category A

Balcony Stateroom Category A

Our 23 Balcony Stateroom A rooms are our premium and most abundant option on board. Conveniently located in prime areas on Decks 4 and 6, they offer easy access to other levels via internal stairs or the elevator.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

2

Size

19.5m² - 28.7m² (209.9ft² - 308.9ft²)

View

Private balcony

U$ 20,295
U$ 14,236
Balcony Stateroom Superior

Balcony Stateroom Superior

Offering extra space to unwind, the Balcony Stateroom Superiors are ideal for polar adventurers traveling with plenty of gear.

Located on Decks 4 and 6, these staterooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms, and a comfortable desk area. Select rooms also include wheelchair-accessible bathrooms.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

2

Size

29.2m² - 35.2m² (314.3ft² - 378.9ft²)

View

Private balcony

U$ 22,095
U$ 15,676
Junior Suite

Junior Suite

Perched on Deck 7, the four Junior Suites offer stunning views. When not out exploring, unwind in the private lounge area or take in the scenery from your own balcony.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

2

Size

41.6m² (447.8ft²)

View

Private balcony

U$ 29,995
U$ 21,996
Captain’s Suite

Captain’s Suite

The largest and most luxurious accommodation on board, the Captain’s Suite offers the perfect blend of elegance and comfort for your polar adventure. Featuring a spacious lounge area, private balcony, walk-in wardrobe, and en-suite bathroom, this exclusive suite provides the ultimate retreat. With only one available, booking early is essential.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

2

Size

43.8m² (471.5 ft²)

View

Private balcony

U$ 38,995
U$ 29,196 (Sold Out)

MORE INFORMATION

Adventure Options

$830 Per Person

Designed by kayakers for kayakers, this small-group program maximizes time on the water while exploring remote coastlines. Led by expert polar guides, you’ll paddle 5–15 km per outing (2–4 hours), often combining kayaking with shore landings for the ultimate expedition experience. All gear, including dry suits and booties, is provided. Weather permitting, this unforgettable adventure runs alongside standard land excursions—giving you a truly immersive journey.

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Ship Details

The Sylvia Earle, a purpose-built expedition ship, connects travelers on life-changing journeys to the world’s most remote and spectacular places. Its Ulstein X-BOW® design ensures a smoother voyage while reducing environmental impact.

Honoring Dr. Sylvia Earle and six pioneering women in conservation, the ship’s public decks celebrate their contributions and raise awareness for their vital work.

With a Citizen Science Center, expert lecturers, and an interactive science program, the Sylvia Earle enriches every journey with knowledge and deeper connections to the natural world.

Type

Small ship

Capacity

130

Year Built

2022
Bars & Lounges
Dining
Gym & Sauna
Jacuzzis & Sun Deck
Mudroom
Library
Science Centre & Lounge
State of the Art Lecture Facilities

The Sylvia Earle is designed for immersive exploration, carrying a maximum of 130 expeditioners to ensure small, intimate group experiences. Every feature of the ship is crafted to enhance discovery, comfort, and sustainability.

Innovative Design & Comfort

  • Ulstein X-BOW® & Lounge – The streamlined Ulstein X-BOW® ensures a smoother ride while reducing fuel consumption. Inside, the Glass Atrium Lounge offers panoramic views from the bow.
  • Gym, Sauna & Jacuzzis – Stay active with the onboard gym and Wellness Centre, or unwind in the sauna, heated pool, or one of two jacuzzis with breathtaking views.

Safety & Sustainability

  • Advanced Safety Features – Equipped with world-class return-to-port technology and a fully equipped medical clinic, the ship exceeds industry safety standards.
  • Responsible Travel – The Sylvia Earle is 100% climate neutral, operating with high fuel efficiency and low energy consumption. Virtual anchoring protects marine ecosystems by eliminating the need for traditional anchors.

Seamless Exploration

  • Efficient Zodiac Access – With 15 Zodiacs and four dedicated boarding doors, expeditions are swift and hassle-free.
  • Activity Preparation Area – Designed for adventure, the spacious prep areas, dedicated lockers, and rapid-drying mudroom ensure smooth transitions from ship to sea, whether for kayaking, diving, or ski touring.

Every detail of the Sylvia Earle is built for exploration, ensuring you experience the natural world up close while traveling in comfort and sustainability.

MORE INFORMATION

FAQ

Explore the vast, breathtaking landscapes of the polar regions with the best travel options tailored to your preferences.

Yes!!! Once we arrive in Greenland, it will be the ultimate goal of the Captain, Expedition Leader, and the Expedition Team to make sure we get off the ship as much as possible. You’ll participate in landings, zodiac cruises, and any additional activities you’ve signed up for.

The price shown is the “all-in” price after all taxes, fees, port fees, and permits required; which are handled by the tour operator. The only main additional costs will be mandatory travel insurance, optional gratuity, and additional activities.

Not necessarily, no! Our trips are usually made up of around 50% solo travelers! Prices are always per person, per bed. If you’re a solo traveler, we will match you with a same-gender roommate from our group to share your cabin with. There is also the option for solo cabin availability on certain trips. Please send us a message about solo cabins if that’s your preference.

MORE INFORMATION

Trip Request Form

Explore the vast, breathtaking landscapes of the polar regions with the best travel options tailored to your preferences.

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