Explore Eastern Greenland: Self-Launched Polar Adventure
14 days · Eastern Greenland
G Adventures charges £6,500
No-markup version: ~£3,200 per person
Estimate only, not a guaranteed price. Always verify costs independently before booking.
This self-launched version of G Adventures' Eastern Greenland expedition follows the same jaw-dropping route — Reykjavik, Tasiilaq, Nansen Fjord, Kaiser Franz Joseph Fjord, and Scoresbysund — aboard independently booked small-ship passages rather than G Adventures' proprietary G Expedition vessel. Eastern Greenland is one of the world's most remote and extraordinary destinations, and while it's impossible to "go fully independent" without any vessel, budget-conscious travellers can book passage on alternative expedition ships (e.g. through operators like Oceanwide Expeditions or Poseidon Expeditions) at lower per-berth costs, supplement with Reykjavik pre/post nights in hostels, and self-arrange Arctic experiences such as guided zodiac excursions and cultural visits in Tasiilaq and Ittoqqortoormiit. All cost estimates are approximate and based on 2024–2025 budget rates in GBP per person.
Day-by-day
Arrive Reykjavik & Board Your Expedition Vessel
Reykjavik, Iceland
Fly into Reykjavik (Keflavik Airport). Stay one night at a central Reykjavik hostel — try Kex Hostel or Loft Hostel, both well-located and sociable. Pick up any last-minute gear and provisions. In the late afternoon, board your independently booked expedition ship departing from Reykjavik Old Harbour. Budget operators like Oceanwide Expeditions and Poseidon Expeditions offer per-berth bookings on similar Eastern Greenland routes at significantly lower prices than premium operators. Check in to your shared cabin and attend the mandatory safety and expedition briefing.
🚌Flybus from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik city centre (~£25). Walk or taxi to the Old Harbour (~£5–8).
🛏Pre-boarding night: Kex Hostel or Loft Hostel, Reykjavik (~£30–40/night dorm). Nights 1–13 aboard expedition vessel in shared quad/triple cabin (included in ship fare).
- →Fly into Keflavik Airport and take the Flybus shuttle to central Reykjavik (~£25)
- →Check in to Kex Hostel or Loft Hostel for the night (~£30–40 per person in a dorm)
- →Explore Reykjavik's harbour area and grab lunch at Hlemmur Mathöll food hall
- →Board your independently booked expedition ship at Reykjavik Old Harbour in late afternoon
- →Attend ship safety briefing and settle into your shared quad or triple cabin
Day at Sea — Denmark Strait
Denmark Strait (at sea)
Your first full day at sea crossing the Denmark Strait between Iceland and Greenland. Take advantage of free on-board lectures from naturalists and expedition guides — these are typically included on any reputable expedition ship. Station yourself on deck with binoculars for excellent whale-watching opportunities (minke, humpback, and fin whales are common) and seabirds including fulmars, kittiwakes, gannets, guillemots, and razorbills. Most expedition ships provide rubber boots for zodiac landings — check whether these are included or can be rented.
🚌Aboard expedition vessel — all movement included in ship fare.
🛏Aboard expedition vessel.
- →Attend naturalist-led lectures on Arctic ecosystems, wildlife, and Greenland geology
- →Whale and seabird spotting from the ship deck with binoculars
- →Meet fellow travellers and expedition team members
- →Rest, read, and acclimatise to life aboard a polar vessel
Tasiilaq — East Greenland's Gateway
Tasiilaq, East Greenland
Arrive at Tasiilaq on the southeastern coast of Ammassalik Island — the largest town in East Greenland and a true gateway to Arctic adventure. Zodiac tenders will transfer you ashore. Spend the day exploring the colourful wooden houses clustered around the natural harbour, with dramatic mountain and fjord views in every direction. Visit the local museum (Ammassalik Museum) to learn about the Inuit heritage and history of the region — entry is typically under £5. A local guide walk can be self-arranged at the museum or through your ship's expedition team.
🚌Zodiac transfer ashore (included in ship operations). Walking in village.
🛏Aboard expedition vessel.
- →Zodiac tender ashore to Tasiilaq village
- →Visit Ammassalik Museum — Inuit cultural history, artefacts and exhibits (~£4)
- →Walk the village, photograph colourful houses and the natural harbour
- →Optional: hire a local guide for a short fjord hike (self-arranged, ~£20–30)
Nansen Fjord — Icebergs & Tidewater Glaciers
Nansen Fjord, East Greenland
Sail into the spectacular Nansen Fjord, a broad inlet flanked by rocky headlands and backed by Greenland's high interior. The fjord's primary tidewater glacier stretches 14km wide and constantly calves enormous icebergs into the water below. Conditions permitting, your expedition ship will deploy zodiacs for up-close cruising among the icebergs — one of the most thrilling Arctic experiences possible. Pack waterproofs and warm layers. Naturalists on board will brief you on glacial geology before the zodiac excursion.
🚌Aboard expedition vessel and zodiac (included in ship operations).
🛏Aboard expedition vessel.
- →Zodiac cruising among icebergs calved from the tidewater glacier
- →Photography of dramatic iceberg formations and glacier face
- →Wildlife watch: Arctic fox, ringed seals, and seabirds are common in this area
- →On-board naturalist lecture on glacial geology and the Greenland ice sheet
Greenland Sea — Arctic at Leisure
Greenland Sea (at sea)
A relaxed day at sea as the ship continues north toward Northeast Greenland National Park. Take in further naturalist lectures, try your hand at wildlife spotting from the bow, or simply absorb the vast, icy silence of the Greenland Sea. Many expedition vessels have small libraries, lounges, and observation decks perfect for journalling or reading. Keep binoculars handy — whale sightings are common on this stretch.
🚌Aboard expedition vessel.
🛏Aboard expedition vessel.
- →Whale watching from ship deck (minke, bowhead whales possible)
- →Arctic lecture series — natural history, climate science, polar exploration
- →Photography of sea ice and the Arctic light (the midnight sun in summer)
- →Relax in ship lounge, read, journal, connect with fellow travellers
Kaiser Franz Joseph Fjord — Into the National Park (Day 1)
Kaiser Franz Joseph Fjord, Northeast Greenland National Park
Enter the heart of the Northeast Greenland National Park — the world's largest protected area — via the Kaiser Franz Joseph Fjord. The scenery here is simply extraordinary: towering icebergs, sheer mountain walls, and a profound silence broken only by the crack of calving glaciers. Conditions permitting, zodiacs will be deployed for close-up cruising and possible shore landings. Keep watch for musk ox, Arctic fox, polar bears (rare but possible), and a vast array of seabirds. No independent entry is possible here — all access is via expedition vessel, which handles all required national park permits.
🚌Aboard expedition vessel and zodiac.
🛏Aboard expedition vessel.
- →Zodiac cruising through iceberg fields in Kaiser Franz Joseph Fjord
- →Wildlife spotting: musk ox, Arctic fox, seals, seabirds
- →Shore landings (conditions permitting) with naturalist guides
- →Photography of towering glaciers and fjord walls
Kaiser Franz Joseph Fjord — Into the National Park (Day 2)
Kaiser Franz Joseph Fjord, Northeast Greenland National Park
A second full day exploring the Kaiser Franz Joseph Fjord system, allowing the ship to navigate deeper into side fjords and bays that most visitors never reach. With extra time, expect more zodiac excursions, possible hikes on shore with expedition guides, and extended wildlife observation sessions. The expedition team will adapt the programme to weather and ice conditions — flexibility is the hallmark of great polar travel.
🚌Aboard expedition vessel and zodiac.
🛏Aboard expedition vessel.
- →Extended zodiac excursions into side fjords and bays
- →Guided shore hike with expedition naturalist (conditions permitting)
- →Extended wildlife and birdlife observation sessions
- →On-board recap and evening lecture on the national park's conservation
Scoresbysund — World's Largest Fjord System (Day 1)
Scoresbysund, Northeast Greenland National Park
Arrive at Scoresbysund (Kangertittivaq), the world's largest fjord system and one of Greenland's most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Spend the first of four days here exploring glaciers, bays, and inlets rarely visited by any tourists. Conditions permitting, zodiac excursions will penetrate deep into the fjord arms. The scale of everything here is humbling — icebergs the size of city blocks, glacier fronts stretching for kilometres, and absolute, profound Arctic wilderness.
🚌Aboard expedition vessel and zodiac.
🛏Aboard expedition vessel.
- →Zodiac cruising in the outer Scoresbysund fjord system
- →Photography of monumental icebergs and glacier tongues
- →Wildlife spotting: walrus, ringed seal, bearded seal, polar bear (possible)
- →On-board lecture on Scoresbysund's geography and exploration history
Scoresbysund — Glaciers, Bays & Inlets (Day 2)
Scoresbysund, Northeast Greenland National Park
Continue deeper into the Scoresbysund fjord system, exploring some of the most remote and rarely visited glaciers, bays, and inlets on Earth. The expedition team will prioritise zodiac landings on shores where wildlife concentrations are highest. Look for musk ox herds grazing on tundra, Arctic hares, snow buntings, and — if you're very lucky — polar bears. This is one of those places where you feel the full, humbling weight of the natural world.
🚌Aboard expedition vessel and zodiac.
🛏Aboard expedition vessel.
- →Zodiac landing on remote tundra shore — wildlife and geology walk
- →Musk ox spotting (commonly seen in Scoresbysund area)
- →Arctic flora identification with expedition botanist
- →Glacier viewing and ice photography
Scoresbysund — Ittoqqortoormiit Village Visit (Day 3)
Ittoqqortoormiit, Scoresbysund
Today's highlight is a visit to Ittoqqortoormiit, one of the world's most remote inhabited settlements, home to around 350 Greenlandic Inuit people. This tiny community, accessible only by helicopter or ship, offers a rare window into Arctic indigenous life. Visit the local shop, post office, and small museum. Many residents are keen to meet visitors and share stories of hunting, dogsled traditions, and life on the edge of the world. A deeply moving and memorable cultural encounter.
🚌Zodiac transfer ashore (included). Walking in settlement.
🛏Aboard expedition vessel.
- →Zodiac tender ashore to Ittoqqortoormiit village
- →Walk the settlement and visit the local shop and post office
- →Visit the small community museum
- →Cultural exchange with local Inuit residents
- →Send a postcard from one of the world's most remote post offices (~£2)
Scoresbysund — Remote Fjords (Day 4)
Scoresbysund, Northeast Greenland National Park
The final day in Scoresbysund allows the ship to explore its outermost reaches before beginning the return passage. Expect more zodiac cruising, possibly the best iceberg scenery of the entire trip as ice concentrations can be highest in the outer fjord, and a final farewell to Northeast Greenland National Park's extraordinary wilderness.
🚌Aboard expedition vessel and zodiac.
🛏Aboard expedition vessel.
- →Final zodiac cruising in Scoresbysund outer fjord
- →Iceberg photography — often best conditions of the entire voyage
- →Wildlife spotting: narwhal possible in this area in the right season
- →Evening recap and farewell to Northeast Greenland with expedition team
Southbound at Sea — Denmark Strait Return
Denmark Strait (at sea)
Begin the return passage south across the Denmark Strait toward Iceland. A day for reflection, final Arctic lectures, and conversation with fellow travellers. The ship's naturalists typically run a recap programme covering all wildlife and landscapes encountered. Pack your expedition kit carefully and begin thinking about re-entering the connected world. Evening: northern lights watch on deck if conditions allow (late season departures in August–September have the best aurora chances).
🚌Aboard expedition vessel.
🛏Aboard expedition vessel.
- →Whale and seabird spotting on the southbound passage
- →Expedition recap lectures — wildlife lists, highlights, and conservation discussion
- →Photography review session and tips from ship's expedition photographer
- →Northern lights watch on deck (conditions dependent, best in Aug–Sep)
Final Day at Sea & Approach to Iceland
North Atlantic (at sea, approaching Iceland)
The final sea day before returning to Reykjavik. Complete any remaining packing, attend the ship's farewell dinner and programme, and swap contact details with expedition companions. As Iceland comes into view, you'll understand why polar travellers are so often changed by experiences like this. Disembarkation procedures are briefed by the ship's crew in the afternoon.
🚌Aboard expedition vessel.
🛏Aboard expedition vessel (final night).
- →Farewell expedition programme and recap session
- →Swap contacts and social handles with fellow travellers
- →First glimpses of Iceland's coast on approach to Reykjavik
- →Attend disembarkation briefing from ship crew
Disembark Reykjavik — Extend or Fly Home
Reykjavik, Iceland
Disembark at Reykjavik Old Harbour in the morning. If your flight home doesn't depart until the evening or next day, Reykjavik is an excellent city to explore independently — the Golden Circle (Geysir, Gullfoss, Þingvellir) can be done on a cheap day-tour from ~£45, or simply wander the city, visit Hallgrímskirkja church, and eat well at the Hlemmur food hall or Bæjarins Beztu pylsur (Iceland's famous hot dog stand). If extending, book a night at KEX or Loft Hostel and consider a budget Blue Lagoon visit (book online in advance, ~£55).
🚌Walking in Reykjavik. Flybus to Keflavik Airport (~£25).
🛏Optional extra night: Kex Hostel or Loft Hostel, Reykjavik (~£35–45 dorm).
- →Disembark at Reykjavik Old Harbour
- →Optional: Golden Circle day tour from Reykjavik (~£45 via Get Your Guide or direct)
- →Visit Hallgrímskirkja church and Laugavegur shopping street
- →Eat at Hlemmur Mathöll food market or try Iceland's famous hot dogs at Bæjarins Beztu
- →Optional: Blue Lagoon geothermal spa (pre-book online, ~£55)
- →Flybus back to Keflavik Airport for departure (~£25)
Self-launched vs. G Adventures
| This itinerary (self-launched) | G Adventures | |
|---|---|---|
| Price per person | ~£3,200 | £6,500 |
| Duration | 14 days | 14 days |
| Who books it | You and your group, direct | Tour operator, guided group |
| Savings | £3,300 per person (51%) | |
Estimate only, not a guaranteed price. Always verify costs independently before booking.
Want to see more G Adventures-style trips? Check them out here.~£3,200
estimated per person
You never pay Travel Crew for this — you pay hostels, transport, and activity providers directly, the same as if you'd booked it all yourself.
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Frequently asked questions
How much does Explore Eastern Greenland: Self-Launched Polar Adventure cost?+
Doing it yourself with this self-launched itinerary costs an estimated £3,200 per person for 14 days in Eastern Greenland. This is an AI-generated estimate based on typical budget-traveller prices — actual costs will vary by season and how you book.
Is this cheaper than booking with G Adventures?+
Yes — G Adventures charges around £6,500 per person for a similar tour. Doing the same route independently, using the same standard of accommodation and activities, costs an estimated £3,200 — a saving of roughly £3,300 (51%) per person.
How long is the Eastern Greenland trip?+
This itinerary runs 14 days, covering 14 day-by-day stops through Eastern Greenland.
How do I join this trip?+
You can join an existing open departure using this itinerary if one is scheduled, or launch your own departure with your own dates and invite other travellers to join you — no tour operator required.
Isn't it easier to just use a tour operator?+
Well, yes, a tour operator will book all the individual parts of your travel for you and provide a guide. That's obvious, but doing this has the potential to save the group thousands, which can in turn improve your itinerary substantially or save you huge amounts of money. Also, when you launch a departure, Travel Crew has tools in place to help you book the individual sections of the trip or make it easier for you to do this as a group. Really, you do not need a middle man. If you are more comfortable paying more and using a middle man, then you should certainly do this.
Is it safer to book through a tour operator?+
Arguably, there isn't much difference. A self-launched trip runs on the same principle as a group travel crew: collective responsibility, everyone looking out for each other, the same way it would if a group of friends organised the trip themselves — because that's exactly what's happening. You should always take out travel insurance before you go, self-launched or not; that doesn't change either way. Every open departure is published publicly with real dates and a real trip organiser, so it's never an anonymous arrangement, and our support team is reachable any time you need help, including in an emergency while you're away. Longer-term, we're building direct relationships with ground DMCs in popular destinations, offered as an optional paid add-on for extra on-the-ground support. Ultimately, though, the group is responsible for its own conduct and safety on a self-launched trip, same as on any trip you plan yourself.
What kind of trip is this?+
This is a adventure, wildlife, slow-travel trip through Eastern Greenland, self-launched rather than run by a tour operator — you organise it with a group you find or bring yourself.
Would you like to name the operator, name the trip, or have any suggestions about how to improve this itinerary?
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