Curator’s statement
I’ve always been fascinated by polar regions, drawn to their stark beauty and sense of mystery. So finally taking my first trip to the Arctic, a 10-day journey to Greenland with Atlas Ocean Voyages, felt nothing short of surreal. Surrounded by towering icebergs, dramatic fjords, and profound silence, I often thought back to the Age of Exploration and how few people had stood where we were. It was an experience that left me with an even deeper appreciation for this extraordinary corner of the world.
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Our journey began in Kangerlussuaq and took us along Greenland’s breathtaking west coast before concluding in Iceland. The itinerary included stops in Kangaamiut, Eternity Fjord, Nuuk, an iceberg field, and the stunning Prince Christian Sound, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, zodiac cruising, and wildlife watching. The highlights were as varied as they were memorable: interacting with locals in remote settlements, marveling at the northern lights, being surprised with an ice cream buffet at the end of a hike, and braving the polar plunge were just a few standouts.

This was not a typical cruise—it was an expedition, with the itinerary shifting based on weather and sea ice. The expedition team made the most of every opportunity, typically offering two excursions per day that catered to all fitness levels. On sea days, team members gave lectures on Greenland’s history, geography, and wildlife, ensuring the experience was as educational as it was adventurous.

The ship itself was luxurious yet intimate, with just 154 passengers creating a close-knit atmosphere. Onboard entertainment was simple—two singers, a cruise director, and educational talks—rather than large productions, which fit the spirit of the journey. Amenities include a spa, multiple lounges, and a fitness center to enjoy during downtime. My favorite ritual quickly became an afternoon stop at Paula’s Pantry for a pastel de nata and cappuccino, followed by reading my book in the Atlas Lounge. The food was consistently good, with enough variety to keep meals enjoyable throughout the trip. Hospitality exceeded our expectations. We especially appreciated the upgrade to the ship’s largest suite, complete with a butler, daily L’Occitane gifts, free laundry, and even a private dinner with the captain and senior officers. These thoughtful touches made the journey feel truly special.

While a few aspects could have been optimized, such as three consecutive sea days at the end and some pre-trip communication, the overall experience was pretty great. I’d recommend this expedition cruise for travelers 50 and older seeking both luxury and adventure. My parents in their 60s loved it, but the trip also worked well for a family with high schoolers and even an adventurous 89-year-old guest. It’s a journey for those who appreciate striking landscapes, meaningful cultural encounters, and the thrill of exploring places few others have experienced.
Need to know
Book optional excursions as early as possible, as they often sell out quickly.
Be prepared for itinerary changes, which are common on expedition cruises. For example, we were unable to visit Disko Bay, one of the major highlights, due to heavy sea ice.
When selecting a cabin, I recommend picking one located midship and on a lower deck where motion is less noticeable and seasickness is minimized.
For more travel inspiration and insider recommendations, check out our Cruises page.

Travel Advisor
Richa Sharan

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