Polar Regions Arctic Cruise

Le Commandant Charcot Inuit Spring in Ammassalik

Cruise round-trip from Reykjavik, Iceland, to explore the hypnotic and icy landscapes of the Ammassalik and Blosseville regions, and meet the local Inuit people. After the long winter, a thick coat of ice preserves the shores of the East coast of Greenland. These shores have long been coveted by the great explorers and are inaccessible to traditional ships during the spring. Among the first outside visitors of the season, you will be warmly welcomed by the community.

The colorful traditional houses make the isolated villages stand out in the surrounding whiteness. The Inuit (menin Inuktitut) follow the rhythm of the changing seasons and the ice, as they perpetuate their traditions, such as hunting on dog sleds. Enjoy an outing alongside the last hunters of the polar region, plus privileged exchanges mixed with joyful and authentic moments. Learn about the village customs on the ice floe.

As the midnight sun illuminates the white desert and the calving glaciers, you will walk through different states and forms of ice, a constantly evolving spectacle. On the ice floe, appreciate opportunities for exploration among the fields of ice and the scenery of the hummocks that are as sublime as they are chaotic. You will enjoy an outing by kayak or Zodiac in a polynya (area of open water surrounded by ice), or a polar hike to approach the icebergs caught in the ice floe. From the ship, watch for eiders flying above the horizon, a majestic blue whale hugging the waves, or the great nanuk–the polar bear–and its impressive silhouette.

The alternative, 13-day Inuit Spring at the Edge of Scoresby Sound itinerary uniquely adds time exploring the Ittoqqortoormiit region, where the cruise is focused. Get to know the people in the village of Ittoqqortoormiit, one of the northernmost inhabited places along Greenland’s East coast. Situated at the entrance to the longest system of fjords in the world, this region will impress with cultural traditions such as dog sledding and other activities both in the village and out on the springtime ice floes.

Cruise aboard the sophisticated and sustainability-minded Le Commandant Charcot. This spacious 245-guest hybrid electric ship features French-inspired luxury and a focus on food, wellness, onboard engagement and active programming. Participate in citizen science with Le Commandant Charcot’s onboard research laboratory.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Arctic cruisesArctic trips and Greenland cruises.