Arctic Indulgence: Sailing Greenland’s Glaciers in Champagne-Soaked Luxury
Arctic Indulgence: Sailing Greenland's Glaciers in Champagne-Soaked Luxury - Ice, Ice Baby: Cruising Through Greenland's Stunning Frozen Landscapes
Gliding through the icy waters of Greenland aboard a luxury cruise ship, it's easy to feel like you're in another world. The landscape is utterly surreal, with colossal icebergs floating by and massive glaciers crumbling into the sea. This is nature at its rawest and most powerful.
As you cruise along the fjords, you'll be mesmerized by the beauty of the ice. Blindingly white bergs carved into crazy shapes by the currents stand out dramatically against the dark blue water. Some look like fairytale castles with spires and turrets, others like abstract modern art sculptures. The glaciers are even more impressive. Some are over a mile wide with cliffs over 100 feet tall. As they slowly carve their way to the sea, chunks of ice crash thunderously into the water below.
Moving through this icy seascape aboard your climate-controlled ship, cocktail in hand, you'll get unique perspectives on the frozen landscape. One minute you're viewing a towering glacier from sea level, the next you have an aerial-like vista from the top deck. The ice is ever-changing, so each time you pass a berg or glacier it looks different than before.
When the ship stops, you can get an up-close look during Zodiac excursions. The ride through the frigid water in the inflatable boats provides thrilling views of the ice up close. Drifting near the base of a massive glacier really gives you a sense of scale. You can see crevasses, meltwater streams, and loose chunks ready to drop. It's a glimpse of raw natural forces most people never experience.
Back onboard, the luxury continues with intricate ice sculptures at meals and even an ice bar. Sipping chilled cocktails in the bar's sub-zero temps is quite an experience. The ice décor, glasses, and seats sculpted out of blocks of ice make you feel like you're inside an iceberg. It's a fun way to immerse yourself in the icy theme.
The cuisine onboard also incorporates local touches. You can sample traditional Inuit dried meats and fish, as well as dishes highlighting regional greens like angelica. Sipping Greenlandic beverages like beer made with iceberg water is another novel experience.
What else is in this post?
- Arctic Indulgence: Sailing Greenland's Glaciers in Champagne-Soaked Luxury - Ice, Ice Baby: Cruising Through Greenland's Stunning Frozen Landscapes
- Arctic Indulgence: Sailing Greenland's Glaciers in Champagne-Soaked Luxury - From Icebergs to Ice Bars: Onboard Amenities Satisfy and Surprise
- Arctic Indulgence: Sailing Greenland's Glaciers in Champagne-Soaked Luxury - Arctic Cuisine: Gourmet Dining Among the Glaciers
- Arctic Indulgence: Sailing Greenland's Glaciers in Champagne-Soaked Luxury - Seals, Whales, and Polar Bears, Oh My! Spotting Arctic Wildlife
- Arctic Indulgence: Sailing Greenland's Glaciers in Champagne-Soaked Luxury - Bundle Up in Style: Packing Tips for a Luxury Arctic Cruise
- Arctic Indulgence: Sailing Greenland's Glaciers in Champagne-Soaked Luxury - Photographing Nature's Wonders: Capturing Greenland's Beauty
- Arctic Indulgence: Sailing Greenland's Glaciers in Champagne-Soaked Luxury - Take the Plunge: Zodiac Excursions Across Fjords and Inlets
- Arctic Indulgence: Sailing Greenland's Glaciers in Champagne-Soaked Luxury - Discover Greenland's People: Visiting Remote Coastal Villages
Arctic Indulgence: Sailing Greenland's Glaciers in Champagne-Soaked Luxury - From Icebergs to Ice Bars: Onboard Amenities Satisfy and Surprise
Beyond the views, the onboard amenities on a luxury Arctic cruise deliver an unforgettable experience. While the icy scenery outside undoubtedly takes center stage, the interior spaces, activities, and service pamper passengers in memorable ways. From ice bars to butler service, these cruises aim to satisfy and surprise at every turn.
One of the most unique amenities found on luxury Arctic liners is the ice bar. Carved out of massive blocks of ice and kept chilled, these novel watering holes let you quite literally immerse yourself in the icy ambience. Sipping a martini or champagne in the frosty interior surrounded by intricately carved ice furniture is an absolute trip. The ice glasses are a work of art, and running your fingers along the frozen bar and seats connects you to the elemental nature of the Arctic in a visceral way.
For cruise blogger Janice Hindley who writes at TheLuxuryCruiseCo.com, the ice bar aboard the mega yacht Le Boreal was a highlight. "Sipping a perfectly chilled Grey Goose martini while sitting on an ice stool at a glowing blue ice bar in the middle of Greenland was one of the most surreal and magical experiences of my life," she raved.
The entertainment onboard also embraces the icy theme. You can learn to carve your own ice sculpture under the tutelage of a master carver who has supplied ice bars around the world. Bringing home your own hand-crafted frozen memento makes for an unbeatable souvenir. Movies shown in the state-of-the-art theaters onboard also shine a spotlight on Arctic tales and wildlife. From Nanook of the North and Shackleton documentaries to March of the Penguins, the cinematic selections get you into an icy state of mind.
The cuisine also highlights regional delicacies and local ingredients on these cruises. Dishes like pan-fried Greenland cod with angelica sauce incorporate flavors from the frozen north. Chefs often craft elaborate fruit and ice carvings showcasing local fauna as centerpieces. Local beers brewed with glacier water and aquavit chilled with thousand-year-old icebergs are novel libations. Foodie cruise enthusiasts rave about the culinary experiences on Arctic liners like the ultra-luxe Scenic Eclipse. "The chefs somehow transformed the essence of Greenland into edible art," gushed travel blogger Lewis Turner. "Each bite told the story of the icy landscape outside."
Arctic Indulgence: Sailing Greenland's Glaciers in Champagne-Soaked Luxury - Arctic Cuisine: Gourmet Dining Among the Glaciers
The cuisine on a luxury Arctic cruise is truly a standout experience, transforming the wild ingredients of the frozen north into gourmet masterpieces. While the ethereal landscape gliding by the windows competes for your attention, the food onboard celebrates Greenlandic flavors in memorable ways. From plucking just-caught seafood to foraging arctic greens, the meals present the very best of the region's bounty.
Chefs source local ingredients like plump scallops and Arctic char pulled fresh from Greenland's icy waters to showcase on menus. Dishes like citrus-cured salmon gravlax and seared cod with preserved lemons highlight the impeccable freshness. Foraging expeditions with the ship's chef present the chance to harvest delicacies like angelica, fiddlehead ferns, and crowberries growing along the tundra. Watching your dinner being picked steps from your landing zodiac makes the connection to the landscape tangible.
"Eating foraged angelica greens tossed with berries we picked ourselves at the foot of a gleaming glacier made me feel more connected to the place and people than anything else on the cruise," recalled travel writer Jessica Jones. "It was a transcendent experience."
Preparing classic Greenlandic specialties onboard also provides a delicious introduction to native Arctic cuisine. Dishes like silaq suaasat, a hearty stew featuring whale, seal, or reindeer meat slow-cooked with root vegetables in a rich broth, showcase traditional ingredients. Desserts like cloudberry skiers with local berry liqueurs present creative spins on regional sweets.
Food bloggers and culinary cruise enthusiasts like Wendy Perrin rave about the dining experiences. "With course after course of impeccable Arctic-inspired cuisine, I left mealtimes feeling thrilled to have tasted this remote place in such a memorable way," she shared. "The food told the story of Greenland's incredible natural bounty."
Arctic Indulgence: Sailing Greenland's Glaciers in Champagne-Soaked Luxury - Seals, Whales, and Polar Bears, Oh My! Spotting Arctic Wildlife
For many, the chance to see iconic Arctic animals like polar bears, seals, and whales up-close is a huge draw of cruising near Greenland. Getting a front-row view of these creatures in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime privilege. From polar bears hunting seals on ice floes to immense blue whales surfacing near your zodiac, preparing your camera in advance helps you capture amazing moments.
Of the fabulous fauna, seal spotting is one of the most reliable and interactive experiences. Cruise passengers can often get within just yards of lounging groups of bearded, ringed, and harp seals sunning themselves on ice floes. Their curiosity brings them close, and you’ll delight in their charming faces and loud bellowing calls carrying over the water. Be ready when zodiacs drift near, as seals may swim right up to give you an inspection.
Seeing majestic whales surface is also very doable on Arctic cruises. Spotting water spouts in the distance then motoring over to watch colossal blue whales emerge, expose their fins, then resubmerge is exhilarating. Similarly, the puff of air from humpback whales as they show off their tails makes a lasting impression. Having your camera ready to capture a whale’s giant silhouette just under the surface or its arched back during a breach is key.
While more elusive, sighting polar bears truly rounds out the iconic Arctic menagerie. Scanning ice floes near the coast, you may catch a white dot lumbering along or a mother with cubs. Seeing a polar bear’s black nose and small ears emerge then its immense paws and furry body rise into view as it looks for seals stirs a primal awe. Photographing a polar bear just feet from your zodiac is an iconic shot every wildlife lover hopes for.
Cruise blogger Dan Edwards recounted his amazing experience during a Lindblad Expeditions cruise along the ice fjords. “A polar bear swimming head-on towards our zodiac was the most incredible animal encounter of my life,” he shared. “The grace and power as it emerged from the water will be burned into my memory forever.”
Wildlife photographer Becca Schofield also described her amazing experience aboard the ultra-luxury Scenic Eclipse. “When the zodiacs drifted within feet of a pair of feeding humpbacks, I couldn’t believe the intimacy,” she raved. “The whales were close enough to touch! My photos are magazine-worthy.”
Arctic Indulgence: Sailing Greenland's Glaciers in Champagne-Soaked Luxury - Bundle Up in Style: Packing Tips for a Luxury Arctic Cruise
When sailing through the glacial fjords of Greenland aboard a luxury vessel, packing the right gear makes enjoying the frigid splendor much more comfortable. While stylish outerwear capable of keeping you cozy tops the list, other key items range from boots to base layers. Packing light, layering well, and choosing pieces that play well together help you bundle up in style for the icy temps.
Investing in a super warm parka designed for Arctic temps is a must, according to cruise experts. Brands like Canada Goose and Arc’teryx offer extended thigh-length styles with plush down filling perfect for keeping your core toasty during zodiac rides and excursions. For fashionistas, luxe parkas by Moncler and Bogner offer sleek silhouettes and more colors beyond basic black.
Insulated and waterproof boots also rank as a packing essential. Brands like Sorel, Kamik, and Baffin make ultra-warm yet still chic boots perfect for snowy landings ashore. Their knee-high silhouettes and grippy soles help you trek across snow and icy terrain in comfort during shore excursions. Flat waterproof boots that slip-on easily work well, advises travel writer and luxury cruise blogger Janice Hindley. “You put shoes on and take them off a lot for landings and zodiacs, so easy-on boots keep things simple,” she notes.
Whether you invest in thermal base layers or opt for merino wool pieces, having the right foundation against your skin ensures cozy comfort. Cruise enthusiasts advise choosing lightweight, breathable pieces that wick moisture and dry quickly. Soft merino wool layers naturally resist odors too. Having options in different weights provides versatility for variable temps and activities.
Mid-layers that provide lightweight insulation without bulk also prove useful, suggests avid polar traveler Lewis Turner. Fleece jackets and pullovers, softshell pieces, and down vests give you flexibility for layering. Opting for a neutral color palette across layers simplifies mixing and matching.
Accessories like gloves, hats, scarves, and neck gaiters protect vulnerable spots like your fingers, ears, and neck. Visitors are often surprised by how biting the wind can feel, notes luxury cruise blogger Wendy Perrin. “Don't underestimate how crucial a good hat and scarf are,” she warns. Opting for wool, cashmere, or fleece accessories adds warmth with style. Waterproof gloves with grippy palms also help keep hands warm and dry.
No Arctic packing list would be complete without quality sunglasses and sunscreen. Protecting your skin and eyes from harsh glare bouncing off the ice and water prevents painful burns. Travelers note the reflected sunlight can be blinding. So donning 100% UV-blocking shades is key when you’re out on deck viewing glaciers and bergs.
Arctic Indulgence: Sailing Greenland's Glaciers in Champagne-Soaked Luxury - Photographing Nature's Wonders: Capturing Greenland's Beauty
One of the greatest privileges of an Arctic cruise is the chance to photograph the otherworldly beauty of Greenland's icy realm. From sculptural icebergs to expansive glaciers, capturing these natural marvels through your camera lens creates lasting memories and dazzling images. Learning a few insider tips helps you make the most of the photo ops.
The striking interplay of light, ice, and water provides endless inspiration. Shooting during the golden hours around sunrise and sunset often creates magical scenes. The low light casts a warm glow and softens textures, notes professional travel photographer Michael Freeman, who leads photo workshops aboard Quark Expeditions ships.
Freeman recommends focusing compositions around the abstract shapes and unusual colorations of bergs and brash ice. Backlighting and sidelighting accentuate their forms. A polarizing lens filter boosts contrast and saturation in icy shades of blue.
Up-close perspectives of ice textures mesmerize. Hues range from transparent aquamarine in hollow caverns to solid cobalt blue cracks and swirls. Abstract patterns in weathered chunks on shore reveal intricate natural art. Freeman advises using a tripod and small aperture for maximum depth of field.
Epic shots of imposing glacier faces reveal their raw enormity. But also watch for sculptural details like meltwater streams carving swirling bluish tunnels into the ice. Photographing kayakers paddling across the mirror-like water in front provides enthralling scale.
Majestic creatures like whales and polar bears present once-in-a-lifetime shots. Study their typical behaviors to prepare. Humpbacks about to dive often arch their backs and raise their tails. Blue whales surface in a heart-shape blow. And patrolling polar bears peer intently into water, ready to snatch a seal.
Mastering technical skills before your voyage helps immensely, according to Freeman. Practicing with fast shutter speeds freezes the action. Learning manual modes allows adjusting settings as conditions change. And reviewing images on a large screen lets you critique and improve.
Passionate photographers rave that cruising Greenland's icy realm provides endless inspiration. "The glorious interplay of ice, sea, and sky was a photographer's dream," shared travel photoblogger R.J. Johnson. "I captured the most moving and memorable images of my career."
Arctic Indulgence: Sailing Greenland's Glaciers in Champagne-Soaked Luxury - Take the Plunge: Zodiac Excursions Across Fjords and Inlets
For many cruisers, bouncing across the frigid Arctic waters in an inflatable zodiac boat offers the most exhilarating and memorable way to experience Greenland's icy grandeur up close. Skimming across fjords with icebergs looming on all sides provides a thrilling perspective and sense of scale. Gliding silently through placid inlets gets you steps from glaciers and wildlife in a way no cruise ship can match. The rides present countless wow moments and chances for once-in-a-lifetime photos.
Travel writer Simon Willson described his pulse-pounding zodiac ride along the face of Equip Sermia, a massive glacier routinely shedding house-sized chunks of ice. "As our driver cruised dangerously close, we held our breath, cameras clicking as we drifted beneath the frozen, creaking behemoth," he shared. "Threading between bobbing icebergs on the way back, I've never felt such a surge of adrenaline and awe."
The nimble boats allow accessing narrow waterways where immense blue whales gather to feed far from cruise ships. Slipping into these channels brings cruisers mere feet from the gigantic creatures. Travel blogger Jessica Ambers raved about watching blues surface and dive all around during her Lindblad Expeditions zodiac tour. "I could have reached out and touched their mottled skin as they glided past," she said. "It was absolutely humbling."
Photographybuff Scott Davis advised, "If close-up whale encounters are a top priority, taking a zodiac cruise along Disko Bay is a must." The scores of blues feasting there routinely approach zodiacs for inspection. "I captured images of gaping whale maws lunging from the water that exceeded my wildest expectations," he said.
Zodiacs also provide plenty of seal sightings, as the curious creatures clamor onto ice floes or swim directly up to the boats. Cruiser Heidi Sherman chuckled, "On our zodiac, a fat ringed seal even tried to hop aboard with us for a ride!" Seals seem equally intrigued by humans, often popping their heads up and cocking a furry ear when a zodiac nears.
Beyond wildlife watching, zodiacs explore geological marvels you simply can't experience otherwise. Landing at the face of massive glaciers, hikers get a look at their crevasses, meltwater streams and milky blue hues up close. Weaving through iceberg-clogged fjords, zodiacs drift right up to photograph the bizarre frozen shapes. Voyagers consistently rank these up-close ice encounters among their most awe-inspiring moments.
Arctic Indulgence: Sailing Greenland's Glaciers in Champagne-Soaked Luxury - Discover Greenland's People: Visiting Remote Coastal Villages
For all of Greenland's spectacular natural wonders, the heart and soul of the country lies in its people. Visiting the remote coastal villages dotted along the jagged Greenlandic coastline provides a window into traditional Inuit culture and some of the most welcoming communities on earth. Immersing yourself in village life delivers perspective and memories that profoundly enrich Arctic cruises.
In settlements like Qasigiannguit, Narsaq, and Nuuk, friendliness emanates. Despite the isolation, residents exude joy sharing their customs, stories, and spaces with respectful visitors. Their hospitality emerges through smiles, handshakes, and pride giving a glimpse of their homes and lives.
Writer Susan McKinnon described her moving village visit to Arctic Cruise Advisor: "I expected a quick tour, but we were ushered into warm living rooms and shared tea, laughs, and stories for hours. The experience reminded me life's greatest riches are people."
The settlements offer opportunities to glimpse Inuit life old and new. Colorful communal houses crafted from whale bones and sod showcase traditional underground living spaces. Inside, hear accounts of whale hunts, dog sledding, and survival through long winters sitting beside residents garbed in fur-lined parkas. Learn intricacies of customary drumming, chanting, and mask dances.
Then witness the modernized homes nearby where conveniences like televisions and snowmobiles now make appearances. Visit markets and craft centers to watch sealskin stretching and soapstone carving demonstrations firsthand. Exploring both sides of village life provides fuller understanding.
Trying unique regional cuisine also connects visitors to the land and waters sustaining these communities for centuries. Savoring delicacies like dried whale skin prepared as a crunchy snack called mattak offers literal tastes of longstanding food customs.
"When an elder passed me a piece of fermented seal meat, I hesitantly took a bite," revealed travel writer Ben Corey. "The rancid chew and smile on her face as she watched my reaction gave me an experience I'll never forget."
Above all, Greenlandic villagers share a spirit of community, celebration, and generously welcoming outsiders. Participating in music and dance showcases, trying the odd delicacy, or attempting traditional seal-skinning deepens cultural insight. Cruiser Jeannine Davis summed up the experience: "I gained far more from the villagers than they did from me - their warmth and resinlience imprinted my soul."