Tina Dalton embarked on the trip of a lifetime as she set sail around the stunning southern coast of Greenland aboard the ultra-luxurious Scenic Eclipse. This unique adventure offers travelers the chance to witness raw, unspoiled beauty, including majestic glaciers and towering icebergs, all whilst experiencing the rich cultural heritage of the local indigenous communities and close encounters with iconic Arctic wildlife.
Starting her enchanting voyage from Reykjavik, Iceland—the world's northernmost capital—Dalton's exploration began intriguingly, as she arrived just as a volcanic eruption was underway not far from the city limits. Despite the natural spectacle, the locals make good use of geothermal energy for heating and power.
After spending one night at sea, Dalton awoke to breathtaking views of icebergs and whale sightings from her cabin balcony as the ship approached the icy landscapes of Greenland. Approximately 80% of this vast region is covered by ice, and on the first day, Dalton joined the Scenic Eclipse Discovery Team as they launched Zodiacs to explore the sheltered bays rich with ice formations.
Among the trip’s highlights was Dalton’s first sighting of humpback whales, which added to the excitement. Aboard the Scenic Eclipse, guests were treated to unparalleled luxury, featuring amenities far beyond what one would expect in such remote locations. Dalton made the most of her time on board, indulging with soothing treatments at the expansive Senses Spa.
The cruise's itinerary varied with each day, where surprises awaited travelers. Dalton mentioned the unforgettable chance to explore the recently undiscovered Bernstorff Fjord, where guests were led ashore for hikes among breathtaking rocky outcrops and colorful wildflowers, guided by experts ready to share their knowledge and passion for the area.
“Despite its name, Greenland doesn’t have many green pockets where native plants thrive, and today we’re going to hike up one of them,” noted expedition leader Colby Brokvist, as Dalton and her fellow travelers anticipated the rugged adventure.
One of the most memorable moments came on the ship's deck at night, when the captain invited guests to experience the magnificent Northern Lights. Dalton described the scene as the vibrant greens, reds, and pinks of the aurora borealis danced across the sky—a spectacle few can forget.
With only 200 guests on board and nearly as many crew members, the atmosphere was intimate. Thanks to its Polar Class 6 design, the Scenic Eclipse is capable of reaching smaller bays such as Qaqortoq, where Dalton explored the picturesque town and its colorfully coded buildings, each representing different community uses.
A polar plunge for guests became one of the events of the trip, introducing participants to the brisk waters of the Arctic. “Jumping in took my breath away, just like the extraordinary scenery,” said Dalton, noting how exhilarating the experience was and how it added to her appreciation of Greenland’s beauty and the resilience of its indigenous people.
Another traveler’s experience was not unlike Dalton’s but came with elements of adventure and unpredictability. Emily Pennington, on one of her excursions with Natural Habitat Adventures, reflects on the challenges posed by unpredictable weather conditions. She learned the term 'uupaa,' which translates to ‘it’s what you get’—a reminder to embrace Greenland's fickle weather during her travels.
Pennington’s adventures took her from canceled whale-watching trips to unexpected excursions through lava tube formations on the icy Atlantic shores. Despite the challenges, the beauty and majesty of Greenland's environment kept her spirit high as she explored the expanses of ice and rock.
November 2024 marked significant advancements for Greenland’s tourism infrastructure, as its main airport at Nuuk reopened its international terminal to accommodate larger planes for the first time. This upgrade opens up more opportunities for travelers seeking to experience the country’s vast glaciers and rich wildlife.
Pennington’s travels led her to Tasiilaq, known for its stunning location. There, she encountered diverse characters and historical narratives, quickly weaving personal connections with local cultures. Her experience encompassed shared meals, photography tips from her guides, and humorous anecdotes woven through moments of hiking and exploration.
Aside from enjoying the Arctic’s natural wonders, Pennington praised the community spirit she found among locals, emphasizing Greenland as not just stunning landscapes but also as vibrant and traditional cultures. Visiting the small village of Tinit allowed her to gain insights related to traditional hunting practices and the artistry involved in crafting local garments, deeply linking her to the heritage of the land.
Adventures like jumping onto the shifting ice of Sermilik Fjord, learning about traditional hunting techniques, and forging bonds with nature have become more than mere experiences—they are immersions prompting contemplation on the nature of existence. This led Pennington to deepen her appreciation for irrespective weather conditions, fostering the mantra of 'uupaa' as her guiding philosophy.
Upgraded access to Greenland encourages more travelers to explore, engage, and discover the country, promising ever more personal journeys laced with culture, beauty, and adventure. Each trip to Greenland captures the essence of not just the scenery but the very souls of its communities. Tourism there is much more than visiting; it is experiencing and connecting with the incredibly resilient nature of its land and people.