Greenland Cruise from Kangerlussuaq to Reykjavík — 12 Days

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Kangerlussuaq is Greenland’s unlikely gateway: a small settlement set 190 kilometres inland at the head of a long fjord. Once a U.S. air base, it offers access to the ice sheet and guided excursions onto its immense white surface. Beyond town, tundra supports musk oxen and reindeer; nearby Russell Glacier reveals Greenland’s moving ice. Weather and distance shape every outing, so plan for conditions.

Kangaamiut, Akulleq Island Greenland

Kangaamiut is a small Greenlandic settlement set among steep mountains and waterways on the country’s west coast. Fishing remains central to local life, while brightly painted homes cluster above a harbor facing the Davis Strait. Come ashore to see a community shaped by the sea and the striking Arctic scenery beyond. On a clear day, surrounding channels and peaks make a memorable setting for a walk or boat excursion.

• Coastal Cruising (Coastal Cruising)

Nuuk, Greenland

Nuuk is Greenland’s capital, where Arctic scale meets the pace of a working town. Set beside the vast Nuuk Fjord, it pairs brightly painted houses with modern architecture and a lively harbor. Visit the Greenland National Museum to see the 500-year-old Qilakitsoq mummies and objects tracing Inuit life. Then look toward Sermitsiaq, the landmark mountain rising beyond the water. Nuuk rewards travelers seeking Greenlandic culture alongside its dramatic landscapes.

Paamiut, Greenland

Paamiut lies on Greenland’s southwest coast, between Nuuk and Qaqortoq, beneath steep mountains. Founded in 1742, this small fishing town remains shaped by the sea. Brightly painted homes rise above the harbor, while a handsome wooden church anchors the centre. Watch for whales offshore, then look inland to the fjords and peaks of Sermersooq. Greenland’s towns have no road links, so arrival by ship offers a close-up encounter with life on this remote coast.

Qaqortoq, Greenland

Qaqortoq is southern Greenland’s largest town, set around a sheltered harbor beneath steep, bare hills. Colorful houses climb the slopes, while fishing boats give the waterfront its working rhythm. Follow the town’s Stone and Man carvings, then visit the museum for insight into Greenlandic life and Norse history. Boat trips can take you to nearby Norse ruins or Uunartoq’s natural hot springs.

Prince Christian Sound Greenland (Scenic Area)

Skjoldungen Island Greenland

Skjoldungen Island rises from southeast Greenland’s remote coast, where steep mountains meet deep fjords. There is no road access or permanent settlement; visitors arrive by expedition vessel, weather permitting. On shore, look for traces of former Inuit life and watch the changing light on dark rock, ice and water. This is Greenland at its most elemental: a place to explore slowly, with expert guides and sturdy footwear.

Tasiilaq, Ammassalik Island Greenland

Tasiilaq is East Greenland’s largest town, set on Ammassalik Island beneath steep, snow-streaked mountains. Its harbor faces the Denmark Strait, with Sermilik Fjord nearby and icebergs drifting through its waters. Colorful homes and the local museum offer glimpses of Inuit life and history. Come ashore for Arctic scale, clear light and a community shaped by sea, weather and distance.

At Sea (At Sea)

Isafjordur, Westfjords Iceland

Ísafjörður is the Westfjords’ principal town, set between a sheltered harbor and steep, often snow-streaked mountains. Walk its compact center to see colorful timber houses, then visit the Westfjords Heritage Museum in the historic harbor district. Its exhibits trace the fishing trade that shaped life along Iceland’s remote western coast. Beyond town, dramatic fjord scenery unfolds along winding roads. With a full day ashore, consider the drive to Dynjandi, one of the region’s most striking waterfalls.

Grundarfjordur, Iceland

Grundarfjörður sits on the north shore of Iceland's Snæfellsnes peninsula, a fishing village beneath steep mountains. Its signature sight is Kirkjufell, a 463-metre peak shaped like an arrowhead. Walk or drive to Kirkjufellsfoss, where cascades frame the mountain. Further west, Snæfellsjökull glacier crowns a volcano and the national park around it. Weather changes quickly here, so bring warm, waterproof layers. Come for scale, silence and light.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavík is a capital with one foot in the wild. The Atlantic frames the city, volcanic mountains rise on the horizon, and geothermal water warms its pools. Start at Hallgrímskirkja, whose tower commands broad views, then walk down to the harbor and Harpa concert hall. Cafés, design shops, and museums make the compact center easy to explore on foot. Beyond town, geysers and waterfalls make a striking day trip; return for a soak in a neighborhood pool.