Reykjavik is the world’s northernmost capital city. Norse settlers named the place Reykjavik (meaning 'Smoky Bay') after the columns of steam that rose from the hot springs in the area. The surroundings offer fantastic natural beauty with geysers, mountains, glaciers and geothermal baths that are well worth exploring before embarking on MS Fridtjof Nansen.

Many consider Qaqortoq one of the most beautiful towns in Greenland for its colourful houses and lovely setting. The biggest town in South Greenland, with some 3.000 inhabitants, Qaqortoq is easy to explore on foot, or you can join one of our excursions to get even more insight into local culture.

Included activity:

Great Lake Walk (2 hrs)

Qaqortoq rises quite steeply over the surrounding fjord system and is best discovered on foot, which says something about its small size. Our hike leads you outside the town to see its water supply, the great lake known as Tasersuaq. Walking along its shoreline provides stunning views and creates awe for nature’s majesty.

Maniitsoq was founded in 1755 and its name means `The uneven place´. referring to the rocky hills and mountains shaping the layout of the town. It is also known as the `Venice of Greenland´ as it is situated in an archipelago, intersected by natural canals.

The local museum provides an introduction to the town´s rich history and culture. 

Ilulissat is set in the stunning scenery of the Ilulissat Icefjord World Heritage Site. At the mouth of the fjord you can see enormous icebergs that have run aground. These ice masses originate from the Jakobshavn Glacier, one of the fastest glaciers in the world. Join one of our many excursions here.

Included activity:

Walk to the Icefjords (2 hrs)

Hear the ice cracking in the distance? Take a closer look at the beautiful icebergs of Ilulissat Icefjord. Getting a close-up view of these frozen giants will slow your world down and leave you humbled. Join us on a walk to enjoy this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Today´s exploration will take us to the meandering Evighed Fjord, surrounded by tall mountains (up to 2,000 m (6,600 ft.) in height. Conditions of the day will determine the final program and the range of activities we will offer.

The abandoned town of Ivittuut is a stronghold for musk oxen. More than a thousand years ago, Vikings settled the area, but left no written records behind. Archaeologists believe this was the last Norse settlement in Greenland to be established, and the first to be abandoned.

After exploring exhilarating Greenland, we set course back to Iceland. Spend the days at sea recapping your experiences, having fun in the Science center or just relaxing on deck, looking at the sea birds which follow our ship or maybe even spotting whales.