The striking columns of Hallgrímskirkja Church tower over Reykjavík, a vibrant Scandinavian capital. With delicious Nordic cuisine, great shopping, exciting excursions, and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s a city that warmly welcomes visitors.

In the afternoon, the expedition team will greet you aboard the Ocean Albatros. After a mandatory safety drill, relax with dinner and a glass of champagne as the ship set sail across the Denmark Strait, heading for Greenland.

Enjoy a variety of activities onboard, including lecturers in the Theatre to hear specially-crafted lectures on Greenlandic history, wildlife, geology, culture and more, unwind with a massage in the Albatros Polar Spa, or simply watch the seabirds gliding along the ship from our hot tubs as the Ocean Albatros flies across the Denmark Strait. 

You'll start your morning in the picturesque village of Kuummiut, nestled in the serene Ammassalik Fjord. The name Kuummiut means "People who Live by the River." It's one of the larger and more prosperous villages in East Greenland, thanks to its prime fishing grounds. In fact, it’s home to the only fish factory in the region. Fishermen from all around navigate the mostly ice-free fjord to bring in their catch.

Kuummiut offers a true taste of life in an East Greenlandic settlement. Instead of traffic, you'll hear the howls of sled dogs and the whisper of wind through the grass. With no roads connecting it to other towns, the sea serves as the village’s highway. Motorboats now replace the traditional skin boats once used here. It’s the perfect spot to relax, watch icebergs drift by, and maybe even catch a glimpse of whales playing offshore.

In the afternoon, you'll sail east to Ikateq, a fjord with a remarkable past. During World War II, the U.S. military built an airbase here, part of a network that included Kangerlussuaq on the west coast. The rugged landscape and frequent fog made landings challenging, but the base played a crucial role for aircraft traveling between Europe and North America.

The base, known as Bluie 2 East, had a 5,000-foot runway, hangars, barracks, and a port. After the war ended and with new aircraft technology making refueling stops less necessary, the base was abandoned in 1947. Most of the equipment, military vehicles, and fuel barrels were left behind.

For years, debates between Greenland, Denmark, and the U.S. centered on cleaning up the site. Eventually, Denmark removed the hazardous waste, but the rest remains as a historical marker. Walking through Ikateq today is like stepping back in time, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and echoes of the past. It's a haunting yet fascinating glimpse into history.

Welcome to Tasiilaq, the largest settlement in East Greenland. Unlike the west coast, which has been in contact with Europe since the 1700s, East Greenland remained isolated until a Danish trading post was set up here in 1894. Because of this separation, the people of East Greenland, known as the Tunumiit, have distinct traditions, language, and culture.

This region is rich in ancient customs. It was once home to Greenland’s last shamans, known as Angakkuit. They created tupilaat — mythical creatures made from animal (and sometimes human) parts, brought to life through magic to harm enemies. However, this dark art was risky, as a stronger magic user could turn the creature against its creator. When Europeans arrived, they were curious about these legendary beasts, leading locals to carve replicas from bone and horn. Today, Tasiilaq’s artisans are renowned for their tupilak carvings, considered some of the best in Greenland.

Nestled in a scenic natural harbour on Ammassalik Island, meaning "Place of Many Capelin," Tasiilaq offers a rugged landscape, fewer people, and plenty of sled dogs. Hiking enthusiasts can explore routes like the Flower Valley, while those interested in Tunumiit culture can visit the museum in the town’s old church, listen to the local choir in the modern church, or watch a traditional drum dance.

For a memorable souvenir, stop by the Stunk Artist's Workshop, where talented craftspeople create beautiful works using natural local materials. Whether you’re here to explore, learn, or simply admire the beauty of East Greenland, Tasiilaq offers a truly unique experience.

Sailing along the coastline of this vast island, it can be difficult to comprehend the scale of this huge country. Greenland, about four times the size of France, dominates the Arctic with 80% of its land covered by the massive Greenland Ice Sheet. This vast ice body influences regional weather and ocean currents. Along the remote coastline between Ammassalik and Scoresbysund, where towns are scarce, locals continue ancient traditions. In summer, they hunt whales and seals by boat, with some using kayaks to silently approach prey like narwhals. In winter, while snowmobiles are an option, most hunters rely on sturdy, fuel-free dogsleds — a testament to the enduring strength of traditional ways in this harsh environment.

As you enter Scoresbysund, the world's largest and longest fjord system, you might not even realise you're in a fjord! This massive 35km inlet is named after English whaler and explorer William Scoresby, one of the first Europeans to map the area. The local Greenlandic name, Kangertittivaq, humorously translates to "The Rather Large Fjord."

The only settlement here is Ittoqqortoormiit, meaning "the People who Live in Big Houses." It’s one of the most remote communities on Earth. Founded in 1925 by Danish authorities, the town was established to assert Danish sovereignty during a territorial dispute with Norway. Settlers from the Ammassalik region were relocated here, facing tough conditions at first. However, they quickly discovered the area was rich in game, offering excellent hunting and trapping opportunities. Even today, most residents rely on subsistence hunting, as supply ships visit only once or twice each summer. The town connects to the outside world via a small heliport, with flights to Iceland.

Despite its isolation, Ittoqqortoormiit has a strong sense of community. Locals warmly welcome visitors, often dressed in colourful traditional costumes. You can explore the town's museum, admire its charming Greenlandic church, and experience a unique glimpse into life in Northeast Greenland — all surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

At night, you'll sail past the rugged peaks of the Liverpool Land peninsula, entering the vast Northeast Greenland National Park. Covering nearly a million square kilometres, it's the largest national park and protected area on Earth, even including the northernmost land on the planet. There are no permanent settlements here, but Inuit hunters once thrived in this wild landscape, living off its natural resources.

Your adventure in the park depends entirely on nature. Wind, sea, weather, and ice conditions will guide your journey. The Captain and Expedition Leader will plan the exact route and activities, announcing them each evening.

Potential stops include Bastionen, a 1,300-meter-high rock wall on Ella Island. Further north, you might pass Maria Island, where the Germans had a World War II camp. On Ymer Island, you could visit Blomsterbugten, a picturesque oasis with views of the striking Teufelsschloss mountain, showcasing colourful rock layers that reveal the region’s fascinating geology. You may also sail by the massive Waltershausen Glacier or explore Moskusokse Fjord. As you return toward the open sea, there could be a stop at Jameson Land, a known polar bear habitat.

Wherever the journey takes you, expect adventure, breathtaking scenery, and incredible wildlife encounters. The experienced Expedition Team will enhance your experience with insightful lectures, recaps, and conversations. Keep your binoculars ready — you never know what wonders you’ll spot in this extraordinary wilderness.

Explore one of the most dramatic coastlines, the Blosseville Coast. Towering mountains, steep fjords, and a once-impenetrable belt of pack ice kept explorers at bay for years. Named after French explorer Jules de Blosseville, who vanished with his crew in 1833 while surveying the area, the coast’s mysteries remain unsolved.

Today, with warmer summers and less sea ice, ice-strengthened ships like the Ocean Albatros navigate these waters, offering views of polar wildlife, ancient Inuit settlements, and surreal landscapes.

As the vessel sails toward Reykjavik, enjoy activities designed to help you reflect on your journey. Sip a handcrafted cocktail at the Nordic Bar with new friends, learn from our passionate Expedition Team during lectures, or watch fulmars glide alongside the ship.

On your final evening, join the Captain and Officers for a Farewell Cocktail Party, followed by a photo and video presentation by our photographer — a perfect way to relive your Arctic adventure. Skål!

As the Icelandic capital comes into view on the horizon, strange objects appear; trees larger than ankle height, glassy skyscrapers and streets full of cars, busses and people. Such a bustling capital may feel strange after the remote wilderness of Greenland! 

After a hearty breakfast, it is time to bid a fond farewell to the Crew and Expedition Team of Ocean Albatros, and descend the gangway back to dry land with memories of the voyage of a lifetime. 

Secure your space today by calling one of our Travel Specialists on 0203 196 1000 or enquire here