8-day Sailing Expedition to Scoresby Sound | East Greenland

8-day Sailing Expedition to Scoresby Sound | East Greenland - Image 4

8-day Sailing Expedition to Scoresby Sound | East Greenland - Image 5

Tour Type

Vacation Package

Available

August - September

Duration

8 days

Difficulty

Moderate

Tour start

From Iceland

Description

Daily itinerary

Included

Useful information

FAQ

Discover the remote Arctic wilderness of East Greenland on an 8-day Scoresby Sound sailing expedition. Departing from Reykjavík, Iceland, this small-group adventure takes you through one of the world’s most spectacular fjord systems, surrounded by towering mountains, immense icebergs and dramatic glaciers.

Sail aboard a traditional wooden vessel, explore remote coastlines by Zodiac, hike through pristine Arctic landscapes and visit historic Inuit sites and the isolated settlement of Ittoqqortoormiit. With seven nights aboard and a maximum of 12 passengers, this expedition offers an immersive way to experience Greenland’s extraordinary nature and wildlife.

Highlights of the tour:

Discover the historic Inuit settlement and expedition camp at Hekla Havn.
Visit Ittoqqortoormiit, a remote settlement on Greenland’s east coast.
Look for Arctic wildlife, including muskoxen, seals and polar bears.
Explore the remote wilderness of Harefjord on guided hikes and wildlife excursions.
Visit the picturesque anchorage of Jyttes Havn in the Bear Islands.
Sail between the Bear Islands and Milne Land through breathtaking archipelagos and iceberg-filled channels.
Explore Red Island’s famous Iceberg City by Zodiac.
Get off the grid to experience real connection with nature
Experience a traditional sailing boat in one of the world’s most spectacular fjord systems.

Book this once-in-a-lifetime experience now!

Please note: This tour has very limited availability, which changes quickly.

Activities

Boat Tour

Glacier Views

Greenlandic Culture

Iceberg Views

Settlement Visit

Whale Watching

Wildlife

Day 1

Fly from Reykjavik to Constable Point in Greenland

We recommend you arrive in Iceland at least the day before your departure to Greenland, rather than on the day of your departure, to give you enough time for your airport transfers.

Fly from the capital of Iceland - domestic airport in Reykjavik (not Keflavik) to a remote airstrip in Greenland.

Flight time is about 2 hours, and you need to check in at Reykjavík Domestic Airport at least 90 minutes before departure.

We’ll pick you up at the airport, and we will have 20 min walk to the ship (our luggage will be transferred).

The guide will take you to the ship by zodiac, where you’ll meet the captain and crew for a safety briefing.

Day 2

Start of the journey

Today and the following days we’ll just focus on getting the best opportunities for visiting and photographing this rarely visited and incredible landscape.

We will be seeing icebergs, glaciers, mountains, wildlife and one of the most remote settlements in the world through zodiac trips, landings with hikes and many more all with the safety of a polar bear guard.

While the map provides an approximate route for the week-long sailing, please keep in mind that the exact path may vary due to natural conditions

Exploring Scoresby Sound is a unique experience in a remote Arctic environment, where nature plays an important role in shaping each journey. Although weather conditions are generally stable, it can change unexpectedly due to sea ice, wave activity, strong winds, and other natural factors.

As a result, the planned itinerary may need to be adjusted throughout the journey.

Day 3

Discover Greenland’s Arctic Wildlife in Scoresby Sound

Explore Greenland’s remarkable Arctic wildlife as we sail through the spectacular fjords of Scoresby Sound or venture ashore. Polar bears have been spotted during expeditions in every season, while muskoxen are frequently encountered and seals are often seen along the coastline. Every journey offers a unique opportunity to experience East Greenland’s extraordinary wildlife in its natural habitat, although sightings can never be guaranteed.

Day 4

Discover the Historic Inuit Settlement at Hekla Havn, East Greenland

Located on Danmark Ø in Scoresby Sound, Hekla Havn offers a fascinating glimpse into Greenland’s cultural and exploration history. During our visit, we will explore the remains of an historic Inuit settlement and the former wintering site of an early scientific expedition to Scoresby Sound more than a century ago. This remarkable location provides a unique opportunity to connect with the region’s Inuit heritage and Arctic exploration history.

Preserve and leave no trace:

Historic Inuit settlements and former exploration camps in Scoresby Sound are important parts of East Greenland’s cultural heritage. Please leave all artifacts, stones, and structures exactly as you find them. Do not touch, move, or remove anything, helping preserve these historic sites for future generations.

Day 5

Towering Mountains of Føhnfjord, East Greenland

Sailing through the narrow Føhnfjord in East Greenland reveals a breathtaking Arctic landscape. On one side, the striking basalt mountains of Gåseland rise above the fjord, while the opposite shore is dominated by the dramatic granite cliffs of Milne Land, reaching heights of around 2,000 metres. This spectacular passage through Scoresby Sound offers unforgettable views of Greenland’s rugged mountains and pristine wilderness.

Day 6

Red Island and the Iceberg City of East Greenland

At the entrance to Rødefjord in Scoresby Sound, Red Island stands out with its distinctive red sandstone coastline. The surrounding waters are often dotted with enormous icebergs and floating sea ice, creating a spectacular Arctic panorama. A Zodiac excursion through this natural maze of ice offers an unforgettable opportunity to experience the beauty and scale of East Greenland’s icy wilderness.

Day 7

Last day of exploration and visit the remote settlement of Ittoqqortoormiit

We'll visit one of the most remote villages in the world on our last day of exploration

Day 8

Back to Iceland

We’re ending the trip back at Constable Point with a bunch of unimaginable photos, but also new friendships and unforgettable memories.

We recommend leaving Iceland after your trip in Greenland a day or two after you arrive back in Reykjavík. This is to be sure you will make your flight home, in case of delays.

Frequently asked questions

How cold is it in East Greenland?

Temperatures typically range from 0°C to 12°C during the expedition. Sunny, calm days can feel warmer, while wind, rain and occasional snow can bring colder conditions. We recommend bringing warm layers, waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear.

How physically fit do I need to be?

Some hikes involve uneven terrain and require a reasonable level of fitness. Our guides will advise on suitable activities based on the group and local conditions. All shore excursions are optional, and you are welcome to relax aboard the boat at any time.

What wildlife might I see in Scoresby Sound?

East Greenland is home to muskoxen, seals, polar bears, Arctic hares and Arctic foxes. Wolves and narwhals also inhabit the region. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but keeping an eye on the surrounding landscape and waters may reward you with memorable encounters.

Can I buy souvenirs in Ittoqqortoormiit?

We aim to visit Ittoqqortoormiit during many expeditions. If the local souvenir shop is open, you may be able to purchase a memento of your Arctic adventure. A small souvenir shop is also available at Constable Point Airport.

What is included in the 8-day Scoresby Sound sailing expedition?

The 8-day Scoresby Sound sailing expedition includes flights between Reykjavík Domestic Airport in Iceland and Constable Point in East Greenland, seven nights aboard a traditional wooden sailing vessel, full board with breakfast, lunch and dinner, tea and coffee, crew services, guided hiking excursions, Zodiac transfers for shore landings, bedding, towels and polar bear protection guides during shore excursions. The group is limited to a maximum of 12 passengers.

Where does the Scoresby Sound expedition start?

The expedition starts in Reykjavík, Iceland, with a flight from Reykjavík Domestic Airport to Constable Point in East Greenland. From there, guests transfer to the sailing vessel by Zodiac. Arrive in Iceland at least one day before the scheduled departure to allow sufficient time for transfers and to reduce the risk of missing the expedition due to flight delays.

What accommodation is provided during the sailing expedition?

You will spend seven nights aboard a traditional wooden sailing vessel, with cabin accommodation and shared bathroom facilities. Cabins typically have twin bunks, a simple style, small but cozy.

Solo travellers must share a cabin with another passenger of the same gender. An upgrade to a cabin with a private shower may be available on request, subject to availability.

Can you see polar bears during the Scoresby Sound sailing expedition?

Polar bears inhabit the region and have been spotted during expeditions, but sightings are never guaranteed. You may also encounter muskoxen, seals, Arctic hares, Arctic foxes and whales. Wildlife observations depend on natural conditions and animal movements. Polar bear protection guides accompany shore landings to help manage safety in this remote environment.

How difficult is the 8-day Scoresby Sound sailing expedition?

The expedition is rated moderate. You should have a reasonable level of fitness for hikes over uneven Arctic terrain and be comfortable boarding and leaving the vessel by Zodiac. Shore excursions are optional, and you can remain aboard the boat if you prefer not to participate in a particular hike.

Is travel insurance required for the Scoresby Sound expedition?

Yes, you need to have your own travel insurance. Travel and cancellation insurance are not included in the tour price.

Because this is a remote Arctic expedition, arrange suitable insurance before travelling and confirm that your policy covers the activities, emergency assistance and evacuation provisions relevant to your trip.

Is airfare to Iceland included in the tour price?

Flights between Reykjavík and Constable Point in Greenland are included, but international flights to and from Iceland are not. You are responsible for arranging your travel to Reykjavík Domestic Airport and any accommodation or additional transfers required before or after the expedition.

82 100 DKK