One of the questions we regularly get asked is which destination is currently proving most popular for
future travel. For 2023 our most popular destination was Canada. However, in 2024 we are seeing an increase in clients looking for adventure, with Greenland proving to be one of 2024’s top adventure destinations.
Situated between the Arctic and Atlantic oceans, east of the Canadian Arctic Archipelago, and a part of the Arctic Circle, Greenland is an exciting destination for the adventurous traveler.
Greenland is unlike any other country on earth. It is the world’s biggest island (by area) that is not a continent, yet is one of the least densely populated countries in the world.
In order to learn a little more about the destination, we sat down with our travel industry colleague Andrew from AE Expeditions to hear about his experience in Greenland during the summer of 2023.
As a regular ocean cruiser looking to take a first expedition cruise, currently considering a trip to Greenland, what would your top tips be for someone new to expedition cruising?
The key thing is to note that an expedition cruise has no set itinerary. We follow the weather, the ice flows and the wildlife so our itinerary happens in real-time and is not preplanned with set times for stops/excursions in advance. If you go with the flow and follow the adventure you will be guaranteed to have a great time. We still offer spacious cabins, amazing food & wine, and luxurious treats such as the hot tubs and sauna so it offers a great relaxing break like any normal cruise. Just with a sense of adventure!
Which port in Greenland surprised you the most and why?
Ittoqqortoormiit – the most remote town in the western hemisphere. This small town is only accessible via heliport or by the harbour but for 6 months of the year the port is locked off by iceflows and at times does feel like you are on the edge of the earth. It was a very calm place, the locals were friendly and were as interested in knowing more of our lives as they were happy to share their Inuit culture and way of living. Although it is remote, they are still connected to the wider world, which I found out whilst playing football with the local kids on their astroturf pitch where they referred to themselves as Messi, Ronaldo, and Kane… and compared to my skills with the ball, they may as well have been. I think the expeditioners were 8-0 down by the end of the game!
If you could have an onboard experience for the first time again what would it be?
It has to be the Polar Plunge. Whilst the idea of a cold shower fills me with dread, I couldn’t wait to get into the ice-strewn waters of the Arctic and take the polar plunge. Enjoyable isn’t quite the right word but it is exhilarating and gave me such a buzz as I have never experienced before. Plus it is an experience I will never get to do again. So when in Rome… or Ittoqqortoormiit!
If you have previously visited Svalbard, what makes Greenland a different experience from other areas?
Whilst both Arctic destinations, Svalbard and Greenland, are incredibly different. Svalbard is the wildlife centre of the Arctic region whilst Greenland offers the most spectacular scenery in the Arctic Circle as well as a unique culture and history.
Travelling to Greenland will offer you a wide range of sights with magnificent glaciers, majestic mountain ranges, and deep striking fjords to explore with still icebergs floating all around. The rocky landscape across Greenland provides many microclimates across the land so when walking on land you can experience ice formations, mossy bogs, and shale rock gardens all within 5 minutes walk of one another.
The Greenlandic people and culture are unique and a visit to Greenland offers a chance to learn more about the Inuit people and their traditions.
If this has kindled your zest for adventure and you would like to discover more, get in touch 01904 623444 or visit us at 88 Main Street, Fulford.
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