days
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Arriving in Reykjavik, you begin your journey in Iceland’s northern capital before boarding your expedition ship and sailing across the Denmark Strait toward Greenland, with time at sea to learn about Arctic wildlife, landscapes, and history while spotting seabirds and whales. Reaching East Greenland, you encounter remote fjords, glaciers, and rugged alpine scenery, with chances to explore by Zodiac, hiking, and even helicopter, while watching for wildlife such as humpback whales and occasional polar bears. The journey continues south through the spectacular Prins Christian Sund and into South Greenland, where dramatic peaks and glacier-filled fjords create the region known as “Arctic Patagonia,” alongside visits to small Inuit communities like Aappilattoq to experience local culture and traditions. Moving into West Greenland, the landscape shifts to greener valleys and historic farming areas tied to Norse settlements, leading to the immense Greenland Ice Sheet, where you can view it from above and even step onto its vast surface, while also experiencing cultural exchanges with local Greenlanders and visiting heritage sites like Kujataa and Qassiarsuk. Sailing north along the west coast, the expedition concludes in Nuuk before flying back to Reykjavik, where the journey comes to an end.
Arrive in Reykjavik and transfer independently to your hotel, which is included in the Charter Flight & Hotel Package. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to explore sites of the fascinating capital, which is known for its mix of modern architecture and Viking heritage. At 64°08’ north, Reykjavik is the world’s northernmost capital of an independent sovereign state.
On the morning of Day 2, your luggage will be collected from the lobby of your hotel, transferred to the ship and stored in your cabin. Ship embarkation will usually occur around 4 p.m. You and your shipmates will meet in the lobby of the hotel and board the waiting buses for transfer to the ship. Information about transfer timing will be posted in your Reykjavik hotel.
As we cruise north across Denmark Strait, with views of Greenland in the distance, your Expedition Team will prepare you for the adventures ahead. Our polar presentations are an excellent way to learn about the storied history of the Arctic, its fascinating wildlife, geology, glaciology, ecology, and climate, and the incredible sights that await you. The team will also help you search for seabirds soaring around your ship, as well as whales that frequent the surrounding waters.
As we arrive in Greenland, towering fjords and hanging glaciers grab our attention, marking our first encounter with the remote east coast. This uninhabited region offers excellent opportunities for wildlife sightings, including humpback whales and the occasional polar bear. Depending on conditions, you may explore this ice-shaped landscape by sea, land, and air—through Zodiac cruising, hiking, paddling, and heli-landings. Look forward to exploring the fjords of Greenland’s east coast, including Lindenow Fjord (Kangerlussuaq). Thousands of years ago, Paleo-Inuit hunters and fishermen lived in these isolated landscapes, sustained by the sea long before European explorers and mass settlements. Traces of their presence remain today, set against cascading glaciers and steep mountains. The fjords are where you can observe plenty of wildlife, especially marine mammals. Rare sightings of polar bears are also possible as they drift down from the north on sea ice floes propelled by the East Greenland Current. Humpback whales are often sighted when entering fjords as the shallowing seas bring an upwelling of nutrients to the surface. As we watch for wildlife, the alpine terrain invites exploration by sea, land, and air, offering a fully immersive experience of this remote icescape. Conditions permitting, activities may include heli-landings, hiking, paddling, Zodiac cruising, and shore landings.
We’ll transit through the scenic 105-kilometer-long Prins Christian Sund (Ikerasassuaq), and explore the dramatic fjords of South Greenland. Our team plans a visit to the village of Aappilattoq, where you can experience local culture, music, and traditional foods. The journey continues to Tasermiut Fjord—a 70-kilometer, cliff-lined waterway known as “Arctic Patagonia”—where overnight camping and excursions unfold among glaciers and towering peaks. The maze of fjords, sounds, islets, inlets, and skerries around Cape Farewell (Nunap Isua), Greenland’s southernmost tip, has a distinct character. Transiting Prins Christian Sund (Ikerasassuaq)—one of the world’s most scenic fjords—is unforgettable. Expect dramatic mountain and seascapes, with glaciers tumbling to the sea and striking views at every turn. This region is home to Southern Greenlanders living on the frontier, where migrating hunting peoples from the east eventually settled near European trading posts. The few villages in this southern region are known for communities that remain closely tied to hunting and fishing traditions. We hope to visit Aappilattoq, a close-knit Greenlandic Inuit community on the shores of Prins Christian Sund, where you’ll meet local partners and residents. Guests may have the opportunity to hear stories and music, sample traditional foods, learn about hunting practices, and perhaps even join a friendly game of soccer. Your time in Arctic Patagonia will allow you to marvel at the impressive glacier at its head, with rivers of ice tumbling toward the sea, and the imposing peaks of Nalumasortoq and Ulamertorsuaq that dominate the skyline, making for the most scenic backdrops to your hike or helicopter excursion.
Following in the footsteps of the Greenlandic Norse into the western fjords, it’s easy to see why Erik the Red chose this land and gave Greenland its name. In every direction, blue, ice-strewn waters meet lush valleys and blooming pastures. Warm microclimates deep within the fjords—rare across the Arctic—create surprisingly fertile landscapes. Farming traditions dating back to Viking times continue today, with families tending remote sheep farms and producing seasonal crops along the shores. This quiet, pastoral landscape is a sharp contrast to what comes next: the Greenland Ice Sheet. With an average thickness of 1,673 meters (5,489 feet) and a maximum depth of over 3,488 meters (11,444 feet) at its thickest point, the Greenland Ice Sheet covers approximately 80% of the island. You will enjoy sweeping aerial views of the world’s second-largest ice mass from your seat in one of our helicopters—and upon landing, experience something few others humans do: set foot on the Greenland Ice Sheet. Visitors often feel unprepared for the reality and scale of the Ice Sheet, where the absence of edges—as it stretches into the horizon—and the sheer physical presence of this ancient ice crackling underfoot transforms the abstract into something deeply tangible. Tamassa, meaning “Come in everyone” or “You are welcome,” is a unique onboard cultural exchange—offered on the same day as the Ice Sheet Experience—led by South Greenlanders themselves. Moving naturally through shared spaces onboard Ultramarine, local Greenlanders connect with guests through conversation, stories, hands-on workshops, food tastings, and performances. Tamassa, in this instance, invites Greenlanders into our home, the ship. You’ll also explore Kujataa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves a remarkable legacy of Norse and Inuit farming. We also hope to visit Qassiarsuk, a small settlement across the water from Narsarsuaq, where you can experience true South Greenland hospitality and gain insight into life at the edge of the Ice Sheet. Take time to visit the remains and reconstructions of Brattahlíð, Erik the Red’s estate and once the heart of the Norse Eastern Settlement.
We’ll head north along the spectacular west coast of Greenland on our way to Nuuk. As your Arctic adventure winds down, you can take in a polar presentation by our onboard experts, share your photos, sip an icy cocktail in the bar, or watch a movie. This is a great opportunity to ask members of the Expedition Team any remaining questions you have about any aspect of your voyage.
Upon arriving in Greenland’s capital, enjoy one more Zodiac ride to shore for the group transfer to the airport to catch your charter flight to Reykjavik, Iceland. Upon arrival in Reykjavik, we will transfer you to your hotel. Both your hotel and charter flight are included in the Charter Flight & Hotel Package.
After breakfast at your included hotel, make your way to Keflavik International Airport for your onward flight, or continue exploring Reykjavik at your leisure.
*CHARTER FLIGHT & HOTEL PACKAGE INCLUDES:
Package valued at $1,045 USD is included in the expedition
RATES SPECIFICALLY
DO NOT INCLUDE:
To confirm reservations, a deposit of 25% (unless indicated otherwise at time of booking) of the net, discounted rate (minimum US$1000 per person) of the total invoice amount is required at time of booking. The deposit must be paid by major credit card, wire transfer, check or money order. For any bookings within 120 days of departure full payment is required. Deposit amounts may vary for special promotions and are subject to the promotion terms and conditions. Balances are due 120 days prior to departure.
All late payments are subject to a penalty of 1.5% interest per month, or 18% per annum. QEI reserves the right to cancel any booking that is not paid within 120 days of departure or deny boarding on any unpaid balances.
Rates per person
Located on Deck 6 and approximately 132 sq. ft. (12 sq. m) in size, this cabin has a single bed,and floor-to-ceiling windows. Other amenities include a refrigerator, safe, TV, and a private bathroom with shower and heated floors.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ultramarine are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
1
132 ft2 (12 m2 )
Floor to ceiling windows
Located on Deck 3 and approximately 285 sq. ft. (26.5 sq. m) in size, this suite has three single beds, two of which can be combined into a double bed, and a picture window. Other amenities include a refrigerator, safe,TV, and a private bathroom with shower and heated floors.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ultramarine are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
3
285 ft2 (26.5 m2)
Picture windows
Located on Deck 3 and approximately 285 sq. ft. (26.5 sq. m) in size, this suite has one double or two single beds, and a picture window. Other amenities include a refrigerator, safe, TV, and a private bathroom with shower and heated floors. Suites 319 and 322 offer modified layouts and bathrooms for wheelchair accessibility.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ultramarine are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
285 ft2 (26.5 m2)
Picture windows
Located on Decks 4 & 6 and approximately 226 sq. ft. (21 sq. m) in size, this suite has one double or two single beds, and a 52 sq. ft. (4.8 sq. m) balcony*. The balconies in suites 421, 422, 423, and 424 are partially enclosed. Other amenities include a refrigerator, safe, TV, and a private bathroom with shower and heated floors. Some suites in this category offer interconnecting rooms.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ultramarine are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
226 ft2 (21 m2 )
Walk out balcony
Located on Decks 4 & 6 and approximately 299 sq. ft. (28 sq. m) in size, this suite has one double or two single beds, and a 70 sq. ft. (6.5 sq. m) balcony*. Other amenities include a refrigerator, safe, TV, and a private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ultramarine are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
299 ft2 (28 m2 )
Walk out balcony
Located on Deck 7 and approximately 369 sq. ft. (34 sq. m) in size, this suite has one double or two single beds, and a 67 sq. ft. (6.2 sq. m) balcony *. Other amenities include a refrigerator, safe, TV, and a private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ultramarine are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
369 ft2 (34 m2)
Walk out balcony
Located on Deck 6 and approximately 350 sq. ft. (32.5 sq. m) in size, this suite has one double or two single beds, and a 100 sq. ft. (9.3 sq. m) balcony*. Other amenities include a refrigerator, safe, TV, and a private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ultramarine are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
350 ft2 (32.5 m2 )
Walk out balcony
Located on Deck 6 and approximately 446 sq. ft. (41 sq. m) in size, this suite has one double or two single beds, and a 46 sq. ft. (4.3 sq. m) balcony*. Other amenities include a refrigerator, safe, TV, private bedroom with walk-in closet, sitting area with sofa bed and additional closet, two separate living spaces, powder room, and a private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ultramarine are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
446 ft2 (41 m2 )
Walk out balcony, Floor to ceiling windows
Located on Deck 6 and approximately 563 sq. ft. (52 sq. m) in size, this suite has one double or two single beds, and a 46 sq. ft. (4.3 sq. m) balcony*. Other amenities include a refrigerator, safe, TV, private bedroom with walk-in closet, sitting area with sofa bed and additional walk-in hallway closet, two separate living spaces, powder room, and a private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ultramarine are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
563 ft2 (52 m2 )
Walk out balcony, Floor to ceiling windows
Located on Deck 6 and approximately 132 sq. ft. (12 sq. m) in size, this cabin has a single bed,and floor-to-ceiling windows. Other amenities include a refrigerator, safe, TV, and a private bathroom with shower and heated floors.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ultramarine are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
1
132 ft2 (12 m2 )
Floor to ceiling windows
Located on Deck 3 and approximately 285 sq. ft. (26.5 sq. m) in size, this suite has three single beds, two of which can be combined into a double bed, and a picture window. Other amenities include a refrigerator, safe,TV, and a private bathroom with shower and heated floors.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ultramarine are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
3
285 ft2 (26.5 m2)
Picture windows
Located on Deck 3 and approximately 285 sq. ft. (26.5 sq. m) in size, this suite has one double or two single beds, and a picture window. Other amenities include a refrigerator, safe, TV, and a private bathroom with shower and heated floors. Suites 319 and 322 offer modified layouts and bathrooms for wheelchair accessibility.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ultramarine are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
285 ft2 (26.5 m2)
Picture windows
Located on Decks 4 & 6 and approximately 226 sq. ft. (21 sq. m) in size, this suite has one double or two single beds, and a 52 sq. ft. (4.8 sq. m) balcony*. The balconies in suites 421, 422, 423, and 424 are partially enclosed. Other amenities include a refrigerator, safe, TV, and a private bathroom with shower and heated floors. Some suites in this category offer interconnecting rooms.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ultramarine are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
226 ft2 (21 m2 )
Walk out balcony
Located on Decks 4 & 6 and approximately 299 sq. ft. (28 sq. m) in size, this suite has one double or two single beds, and a 70 sq. ft. (6.5 sq. m) balcony*. Other amenities include a refrigerator, safe, TV, and a private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ultramarine are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
299 ft2 (28 m2 )
Walk out balcony
Located on Deck 7 and approximately 369 sq. ft. (34 sq. m) in size, this suite has one double or two single beds, and a 67 sq. ft. (6.2 sq. m) balcony *. Other amenities include a refrigerator, safe, TV, and a private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ultramarine are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
369 ft2 (34 m2)
Walk out balcony
Located on Deck 6 and approximately 350 sq. ft. (32.5 sq. m) in size, this suite has one double or two single beds, and a 100 sq. ft. (9.3 sq. m) balcony*. Other amenities include a refrigerator, safe, TV, and a private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ultramarine are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
350 ft2 (32.5 m2 )
Walk out balcony
Located on Deck 6 and approximately 446 sq. ft. (41 sq. m) in size, this suite has one double or two single beds, and a 46 sq. ft. (4.3 sq. m) balcony*. Other amenities include a refrigerator, safe, TV, private bedroom with walk-in closet, sitting area with sofa bed and additional closet, two separate living spaces, powder room, and a private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ultramarine are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
446 ft2 (41 m2 )
Walk out balcony, Floor to ceiling windows
Located on Deck 6 and approximately 563 sq. ft. (52 sq. m) in size, this suite has one double or two single beds, and a 46 sq. ft. (4.3 sq. m) balcony*. Other amenities include a refrigerator, safe, TV, private bedroom with walk-in closet, sitting area with sofa bed and additional walk-in hallway closet, two separate living spaces, powder room, and a private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ultramarine are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
563 ft2 (52 m2 )
Walk out balcony, Floor to ceiling windows
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Imagine soaring over the polar regions from the comfort of a helicopter and enjoying the most astounding aerial views imaginable of the frozen Antarctic Ocean, of snow-capped ice ridges, massive crevices, and of melt pools ranging from cerulean to deep, spectacular turquoise.
Flightseeing on polar vessels like Ultramarine and Kapitan Khlebnikov provides guests with an entirely different perspective of the polar regions. Helicopters take passengers to places Zodiacs and ships can’t reach.
Helicopter flightseeing typically includes 7 to 9 passengers. No experience is necessary. Bring your camera—and enthusiasm.
Zodiacs are used for transferring you ashore, transporting your luggage when necessary and for taking you ocean-level cruising among icebergs, whales and seabirds. During the expedition, you will visit remote and isolated sites that are accessible only by Zodiac.
These large, heavy-duty inflatable vessels are extremely safe and were specially designed for expedition work. Zodiacs are the workhorses of Polar expeditions. Separate air compartments retain a large reserve of buoyancy even if these sturdy boats are damaged. Their flat bottom design permits the craft to land directly onto the cobble and ice-strewn beaches that you will encounter on your Polar expedition.
Hiking in the polar regions differs from your typical trail experience. Here, in a tree-less terrain, you are the tallest figure on the landscape as you walk over spongy tundra, crusty snow or sandy beaches in remotes parts of the Arctic and Antarctica. Stepping ashore anywhere in the polar regions means you’re not a distant observer.
Our organized hikes range from short jaunts to the top of lookouts or visits to see wildlife or longer walks of several kilometers over ice and rock and snow. Hiking excursions may last from two to three hours with plenty of time for photographs of wildlife, learning moments from your experienced guides, or just time to stand back and admire the incredible polar surroundings.
No experience is necessary but participants should be able to get in and out of a Zodiac and walk on uneven terrain. Hiking options are tailored to all interests and abilities, from those who want to contemplate the landscape in silence to photographers who want that perfect image to energetic travelers who want to summit a peak in the hopes of seeing wildlife in their natural habitat.
The Polar Plunge is scheduled once during each voyage. Throughout the journey, the Expedition Leader and Captain constantly monitor conditions in order to choose the optimal time and location. The Polar Plunge sometimes takes place onshore or, in many cases, from the gangway or Zodiac. All participants wear a tethered harness and plunge into the polar waters from the side of Zodiac or safety of the gangplank cheered on, of course, by fellow passengers and Expedition Team.
Safety is paramount—the onboard physician always attends the Polar Plunge. Guides in survival gear circle the area in Zodiacs as guests take their turn jumping or cannon-balling into the polar waters.
Documenting your voyage so you can take the memories home is a rewarding experience. Our photography guides will help you hone your skills to capture the beauty of the polar regions.
U$ 295 per person
Every sweep of the paddle as your craft glides through the pristine polar waters creates an incredible soundtrack: the jostle of glacial ice, the lapping of waves against the rocky shore, the perpetual drip from your paddle, the call of seabirds, and the occasional splash as wildlife break the surface of the water.
Our Paddle Excursion Program provides sit-on-top, two-person, inflatable kayaks that provide guests with an intimate, water-level experience in unforgettable locations in both the Arctic and Antarctica. These stable, rugged and comfortable crafts are an ideal way to see the polar regions from a different perspective. On-ship, you’ll be provided with instruction and equipment including dry suits, personal flotation devices (PFDs), and waterproof gloves. Experienced guides will lead you safely throughout the paddling excursion. Your group will always be escorted by a safety driver in another kayak who will stay close by to provide additional support.
Excursions last a minimum of one hour and are offered to participants once per voyage. Each group includes 10 paddlers, 1 guide and 1 one safety Zodiac driver. The wind, weather and water conditions determine the timing and location of Paddling Excursions
Ascend high above the cascading coastal glaciers onto the immense polar plateau of the Greenland Ice Sheet (the second-largest ice mass in the world) and take in the immensity of this overwhelming landscape. An excursion on one of Ultramarine‘s two twin-engine helicopters means you’ll have a view of the Ice Sheet that very few other humans have ever experienced. You’ll learn about the dynamics of this environment from our team of glaciologists while you explore this vast, seldom-visited body of ice.
U$ 1,395 per person
Join local hosts at one of the most exclusive camps in Greenland. Our local guides will lead you on an immersive experience through the wonders of their homeland. Spend ample time, in intimate groups, walking through the beautiful landscapes and remote fjords, roam the tundra with a local chef who will show you local ingredients and then prepare an incredible meal. Overnight at the camp and, if conditions are right, experience the magnificent colours of the polar twilight which will bring the beautiful mountainous surroundings into full effect.
Accommodation at the camp is in shared two-person tents. Groups traveling together in pairs will share a tent, and individual travelers will be assigned to a tent with another guest of the same gender.
U$ 125 per person
The Tundra to Table experience by Quark Expeditions offers guests a rare culinary journey into the traditions of the Inuit people of Greenland and Nunavut. Hosted aboard the Ultramarine ship in its main restaurant, Balena, this on-ship Adventure Option allows participants to savor authentic Arctic dishes prepared by expert Inuit chefs. Featuring ingredients like fresh-caught seafood and free-roaming game, the menu highlights dishes such as beer-braised muskox, South Greenlandic lamb, honey-glazed ptarmigan, and pickled halibut. Guests enjoy a four-course modern Inuit fusion dinner while learning about the cultural significance of each dish through storytelling by the chefs. This exclusive experience, available only on select Arctic voyages, showcases the rich culinary heritage of the Inuit in a setting that emphasizes purity, tradition, and cultural connection.
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Ultramarine is designed to go beyond the familiar in polar exploration, to discover new places, and to immerse you in the best the region has to offer.
Equipped with two twin-engine helicopters, Ultramarine offers the most robust portfolio of adventure activities in the industry, the most spacious suites in its category, breathtaking public spaces, and more outdoor wildlife viewing spaces than other expedition ships its size. It also features an innovative mix of sustainability features that exceed all industry standards.
With all this and more, Ultramarine is set to deliver the ultimate polar expedition experience.
Ultramarine is designed to go beyond the familiar in polar exploration, to discover new places, and to immerse you in the best the region has to offer and relies on its best-in-class 40-day operational range to do so.
Embarkation points on the starboard, port, and stern of the ship mean we can load and embark Zodiacs faster, safer and easier than ever before.
Micro Auto Gasification System (MAGS) is the industry-leading system that converts waste into energy at the site that it’s generated. MAGs eliminates the environmental impact of waste transportation, offering an innovative sustainability feature that exceed all industry standards.
Two twin-engine helicopters operated from two helidecks allow more passengers to simultaneously experience new destinations accessible only by air, and to enjoy more unique aerial perspectives of the polar regions than on any other ship.
An internal Zodiac hangar quickly and safely deploys Ultramarine’s twenty Zodiacs, allowing for more spontaneous off-ship adventures and more intimate wildlife engagement. This unique design allows guests to get off the ship in half the time of other vessels.
The wraparound deck located on Deck 5 of Ultramarine offers generous outdoor viewing opportunities to take in the polar landscapes and seize the moment when wildlife encounters occur.
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Yes!!! After leaving Reykjavík, 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. Check the “Detailed trip itinerary” below for more details on each outing.
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 group 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.
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We send deals when we get them, and some never reach the site at all.
