Imagine stepping into one of the most remote and untouched regions of the world—Greenland, a vast and wild expanse that lies between the Americas and Europe. As the world’s largest island, Greenland is a unique territory of Denmark that offers a thrilling mix of raw natural beauty, icy landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. My recent experience on a luxury expedition cruise with Ponant, a French company known for its exclusive voyages, offered me a front-row seat to this enchanting Arctic wonderland.
The Journey Begins: Ponant’s Luxury Icebreaker Cruise
The cruise aboard Ponant’s one-of-a-kind icebreaker ship was a 13-day journey that promised adventure and luxury. Ponant’s vessel is the only icebreaker in the world that accommodates up to 180 guests, offering award winning menus of a renowned Michelin Star chef, elegant suites with private balconies and a team of expert explorers who guide guests through remote experiences in the far-flung corners of East Greenland. Our itinerary included exploring the Blosseville Coast, the Ammassalik region and the isolated town of Ittoqqortoormiit, home to only 360 inhabitants.
Our journey began and ended in Reykjavík, Iceland’s vibrant capital. We set sail in mid-May, a time known for the Midnight Sun—a phenomenon that bathes the Arctic landscape in a surreal golden glow, making it a must-see for travelers venturing this far north. The ship’s welcoming atmosphere, coupled with luxurious amenities, set the tone for an extraordinary adventure ahead.
Into the Arctic: Navigating Ice and Unraveling Greenland’s Mysteries
The first leg of the voyage took us across the Denmark Strait, a relatively calm stretch of sea, toward the rugged east coast of Greenland. As we approached the coastline—known for its dramatic glaciers and fjords—we entered the realm of ice navigation. Massive sheets of ice surrounded us, yet the icebreaker maneuvered seamlessly through this challenging terrain. This region is home to the Inuit people, who have thrived in these harsh conditions for centuries.
It is fascinating to note the irony in the names of Greenland and Iceland. Despite what their names suggest, Iceland is greener, while Greenland is cloaked in ice. The Vikings, who first settled in Iceland, deliberately chose these names to keep this picturesque land a secret, reserving it for themselves. Greenland, on the other hand, with its formidable ice fields, was labeled “green” despite its inhospitable climate.
Arctic Adventures: Exploring Beyond the Ship
The expedition was packed with a range of outdoor adventures, catering to both thrill-seekers and those preferring more relaxed exploration. The extreme Arctic climate requires preparation and this is where expert travel planners like Namaste Tourism come in—ensuring you have the right gear, from high-performance sunglasses to insulated attire.
Our first encounter with Greenland’s icy wilderness was at the Edge of Scoresby Sound, an awe-inspiring region stretching 350 kilometers, filled with colossal coastal mountains, glaciers and towering icebergs. As climate change accelerates, this fragile environment is under threat, making it all the more urgent to witness its wonders before they fade.
Guests could choose from activities like snowshoeing, snow skiing on the frozen Arctic Sea and even a short acclimatization hike across the ice. Ponant’s highly-trained exploration team ensured these experiences were conducted with the utmost safety, adding to the cruise’s world-class reputation. The group was divided into smaller teams, allowing personalized attention during the outings. A memorable experience was our visit to the isolated town of Ittoqqortoormiit, accessed via a 3.5-kilometer dog sledge ride over frozen terrain. Here, we observed how the resilient Inuit community lives with modern amenities like schools, hospitals and a supermarket too, despite the brutal winters.
Kayaking through partially frozen Arctic waters was another highlight, offering close encounters with native birds, marine life and breathtaking views of glaciers and icebergs. For the daring, the polar plunge—diving into subzero waters—was an exhilarating experience, made bearable with a quick follow-up of hot chocolate or a warming drink.
Life Onboard: Luxury and Learning
While the outdoor activities were exhilarating, life onboard the ship was just as captivating. The culinary experience was nothing short of world-class, with gala dinners hosted by the captain and opportunities to dine with the exploration team. Guests could learn more about the roles of the crew, share stories and deepen their understanding of the Arctic environment.
The ship’s eco-friendly design was a standout feature. Powered primarily by LNG and electricity, it is one of the few green-certified vessels in the world, with diesel used only as a backup. Its ability to cut through 15 meters of thick ice makes it a true marvel of engineering and watching the ice navigation from the observation deck or the comfort of your cabin was mesmerizing.
Evenings were filled with entertainment, from dance sessions to photography contests, providing ample opportunities to bond with fellow travelers. On our return journey, we were treated to sightings of humpback whales, schools of dolphins and even the elusive orcas—a fitting end to an incredible Arctic adventure.
An Urgent Call: Preserve and Protect
This is one of the few ships with an experiential lab, where scientists from HULL University were on board to conduct climate change research. During their studies, they discovered microplastics in the sea, highlighting the powerful impact on the environment. The harsh reality of climate change was evident throughout the trip. Greenland’s ice sheets and wildlife are under threat and it is uncertain how much longer these pristine landscapes will remain accessible.This emphasizes the importance of exploring these regions now, as the effects of global warming could lead to certain areas becoming endangered or even facing extinction if not addressed properly.
During our cruise, we were fortunate to spot five or six polar bears—a thrilling experience. However, just two weeks later, another group on the same ship witnessed an unprecedented gathering of 68 polar bears in a single area. This unusual occurrence, likely driven by the shifting environment, underscores the need to act now to protect these fragile ecosystems.
Reflections on a Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience
The voyage through Greenland’s icy wilderness offered more than just adventure—it was a spiritual experience that highlighted the urgent need for environmental conservation. Among the most striking moments were the mirror-like reflections of fjords and icebergs bathed in sunlight, creating images so surreal that no photograph can truly capture their magic.
If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring Greenland and Iceland, now is the time. From the thrill of spotting polar bears to the tranquility of Arctic birdlife, this expedition offers an adventure like no other—one that will stay with you for a lifetime. Don’t just read about it—go out and experience the wonders of Greenland and Iceland yourself.