Disko Bay to Uummannaq Voyage with Glacier Lodge Stay

Arrive independently at Ilulissat International Airport where you will be met by our local representative and transferred to the centrally located Best Western Plus. We can advise on the best options for flights to Ilulissat.

Make the most of your morning in the charming town of Ilulissat with the freedom to explore at your leisure. Take in the sights, absorb the local culture, and let the beauty of this Greenlandic gem captivate your senses. Later in the afternoon, we gather to embark on a remarkable adventure as we board the M/S Balto.

Once settled aboard the vessel we set our sights on the awe-inspiring Disko Bay. As we sail amidst the glow of the low-hanging sun, prepare to be enchanted by a procession of icebergs, each adorned in a kaleidoscope of blues, a truly wondrous spectacle.

Overnight our voyage takes us across the bay's tranquil waters, leading us to the glacial waterfalls near Qeqertarsuaq on the south side of Disko Island. Here, we drop anchor, providing a perfect vantage point to witness the grandeur of these natural wonders and soak in the serenity and magnificence of the surroundings.

It is important to remember that this expedition voyage is a thrilling odyssey that embraces the untamed spirit of nature. As such, our meticulously crafted itinerary is subject to the whims of weather conditions, calving activity, and ever-changing ice formations. Rest assured, the experienced team will navigate these elements with expertise and adaptability. Whenever feasible, we will seize opportunities to embark on Zodiac excursions or make landings, allowing you to further immerse yourself in the extraordinary landscapes that Greenland has to offer.

We begin the day with breakfast overlooking the volcanic cliffs of Disko Island, renowned for its unique geology and lush vegetation. Legend has it that the island was magically transported here by seal hunters, guided by a witch's spell from Ilulissat. It offers fantastic hiking opportunities, with its columnar basalt rocks revealing its volcanic past.

Next, we visit the charming settlement of Qeqertarsuaq, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. The town itself is vibrant and colourful. As we depart Qeqertarsuaq, we cruise along the eastern side caves, often encountering humpback whales feeding. We may also witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of large ice calvings across the bay. Continuing through the picturesque Vaigat Strait, we navigate between magnificent glacier fronts and an abundance of icebergs.

This region boasts impressive and active glaciers, including the renowned Eqip Sermia. The thunderous sound of the glacier calving is a powerful experience. Proceeding northwest through the Vaigat Strait, we are greeted by towering cliffs and enormous icebergs. Rounding the corner of the Nuussuaq peninsula, which separates Disko Bay from Uummannaq Bay, we enter an area teeming with diverse wildlife such as whales, seals, walruses, reindeer, and foxes.

Our anchor drops near the secluded village of Niaqornat, aptly nicknamed "the village at the end of the world." This intimate settlement of around 50 people offers a unique glimpse into the local culture, with proud hunters showcasing narwhal horns, walrus skulls, polar bear skin, and antlers. Respect and a desire to learn are key in engaging with the community.

Approaching Uummannaq Island is a breathtaking sight, regardless of the weather. With its heart-shaped mountain and mist-shrouded coastal cliffs, whales often accompany our journey. According to local myth, a piece of visitors' hearts remains on Uummannaq Island, beckoning them to return. The island's enchantment may stem from its majestic landscape or the captivating songs of the children ashore.

Our visit to Uummannaq includes exploration of the town's historic settler houses, church, museum, and remnants of Arctic expeditions. Continuing east, we encounter highly active glaciers, where mesmerizing blue-shifting icebergs dramatically cascade into the sea. This lesser-travelled area boasts unnamed fjord systems and stunning landscapes, cherished by the fortunate few who have experienced its grandeur aboard the M/S Balto.

As we turn southwest, prepare to be mesmerized by magnificent displays of enormous icebergs, with their awe-inspiring transformations and occasional waterfalls cascading into the sea. We then venture along the rarely explored western side of Disko Island, unveiling fjords filled with geological wonders.

On the final morning of the voyage disembark the M/S Balto in Ilulissat and take a boat transfer like no other to Eqi Glacier Lodge.

On the way, we pass tiny settlements, steep fields, beautiful waterfalls and icebergs in incredible shapes and colours. And that is before two glaciers and the enormous Icesheet are in sight. If we are lucky we might even spot seals and whales on the way.

A light breakfast, a 2-hour lunch stop at the glacier, coffee/tea and a lecture on the area are all included on the way to Eqi.

At Eqi Glacier Lodge you get a rare opportunity to see, hear and feel the effect of a calving glacier up close. An experience that can make most people forget about everyday life, disconnect and be present in the moment.

The lodge is located in the Greenlandic wilderness, far from civilization however there is no need to compromise on everyday amenities with electricity to charge your camera; running hot water, so that you can enjoy a shower after a long day’s adventure; beautifully furnished cabins and of course, delicious food.

The cabins are uniquely located overlooking the Eqi Glacier, the glacier in the northern hemisphere which calves the most often. Scientist believes that the glacier calves no less than once every 10 minutes so you are therefore almost guaranteed to witness the deafening event during a stay here.

For the more adventurous there is a guided hike to the ice sheetavailable at an additional cost. The hike is fairly demanding covering 20 km with a climb of 1,000 metres but does not require special training or equipment.

On day 13 you can enjoy a final morning at the lodge before an afternoon boat transfer back to Ilulissat with a stop for afternoon tea and cake along the way. Once back in Ilulissat port, you are free to head into town for a last meal in Greenland or take a taxi to the airport for an onward flight.