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Ilulissat to Qaqortoq - Treasures of the Greenland West Coast | M/S Balto

USD $500 OFF per person

Valid for select Arctic 2026 Greenland Departures

Offer available in all cabin categories

Available until 31 Jul 25 unless withdrawn/sold out prior

See additional T&Cs below*

12 Days
From £ 8,866

STYLE: Small Ship Expedition Cruise

Trip Code: ACPQTGWC

DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (Light Adventure)

Start: Ilulissat, Greenland

Finish: Qaqortoq, Greenland

SHIP: M/S Balto

DestinationDestination

Greenland, The Arctic

DestinationDeparture Date

17/07/2026

MealsMeals

All Meals, Tea, And Coffee On Board Throughout Your Voyage

TransportAccommodation

Cabin On Board Ship



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Included SightseeingIncluded Sightseeing

Daily Arctic Excursions, Zodiac Cruising, Onboard Expert Lectures & Briefings By The Experienced Expedition Team

 

PLEASE NOTE: Itinerary Is Subject To Change Depending On Weather & Ice Conditions

OVERVIEW

Embark on an 12-day expedition along Greenland's west coast aboard the M/S Balto, a 12-passenger vessel designed for intimate exploration. This journey offers a blend of natural wonders and cultural insights, from navigating iceberg-laden fjords and observing humpback whales to visiting remote settlements and the capital, Nuuk. Experience the rich tapestry of Inuit and Norse history amidst Greenland's stunning landscapes.

ITINERARY

Embarkation in Ilulissat, Greenland

We arrive independently to the town by the ice fjord, Ilulissat. As soon as we arrive, the breathtaking natural scenery captivates us, showcasing hills, glaciers, and a bay dotted with icebergs. The remoteness from our everyday life is obvious!

In the afternoon we board M/S Balto. We are now on a voyage in true expedition style and our exact route is depending on weather and ice and the itinerary must be kept flexible!

Expedition cruising - Day 2 to 11

We continue to explore the ice-choked Disko Bay area, before we head south. We are constantly on the lookout, since we are very likely to sail through humpback feeding grounds. We also pass the small and colourful houses of Aasiaat. As we continue via an inland passage towards Sisimiut, we sail amongst small islands, fjords and cliffs. We might pay a short visit to wander the streets, or we might opt for the surrounding wild fjords with an abundance of cod and various whale species. During hikes we might see the iconic muskox.

As we now leave the ice-filled fjords behind, only random icebergs will pass our way. We pass by Sermersuut Island and might enter the magical Kangerlussuatsiaq fjord (the fjord of eternity), where huge mountains up to 2000 metres rise straight from the ocean.

We then reach Nuuk. The capital’s setting is stunning, and the bay is sometimes visited by minke and pilot whales. We pay a visit to the National Museum, Greenland’s largest museum of cultural history. The collections come from all over the country, brought from various archaeological and small museum displays over recent years and the visit gives us great insight into the many different cultures of Greenland.

Our journey continues south towards the fjords around Qaqortoq. En route we hope to stop by the abandoned mining town of Ivittuut – one of the few places in the world to have discovered naturally occurring cryolite. During a hike here we have good chances of seeing muskox.

Nearby is the Ikka fjord. The legend says that the Inuit people drove invaders out onto the thin ice and when the ice gave way, the invaders died in the ice-cold water. If you look closely, you can catch a glimpse of their petrified remains on the bottom. The figures on the bottom are made of ikaite, an unusual form of chalk or limestone that is formed under an enormous pressure. Only about five other findings of ikaite have been observed around the world.

The places we are travelling through on this voyage have many stories to tell. One is of the Inuit's great respect of and symbiotic relationship with environment and animals. During periods of weather change and animal numbers declining, amulets and fishing or hunting artefact became objects of great beauty and artistry. Of respect and love for the animals, who give themselves to sustain the Inuit life and culture, offerings are made to the Sea Goddess Sedna, to release the animals’ souls. Still today, Inuit carry a small jug of fresh water when hunting seal. After a seal is killed it is given fresh water, so its spirit will not go thirsty. We will have many opportunities to learn about stories and legends, different eras and people that migrated to Greenland, conflicts and the ultimate demise of the once powerful Norse civilisation.

We reach Qaqortoq, the largest city in Southern Greenland, beautifully situated on the mountain slopes and surrounded by fjords. We venture into Eriksfjord, named after Erik the Red, a Norse explorer believed to have founded the first settlement in Greenland. During a landing we visit Brattahlid, the estate he established at the end of the 10th century. We also hope to explore the hot springs of Uunarteq and enjoy a bath in these warm-tempered natural bathtubs, with breath-taking views of mountain peaks and drifting icebergs.

Disembarkation in Qaqortoq

We disembark, continue to the airport in Qaqortoq and begin our journey home.

Please note: Our exact route will depend on ice, weather conditions and wildlife as well as permissions and restrictions from local authorities. The places mentioned are just examples of some of the many sites this region of Greenland has to offer. We always strive to maximize your experience. Please remember that flexibility is the key to a successful expedition!

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDF

WHY CHOOSE THIS CRUISE?

  • Intimate and Flexible Exploration: With only 12 guests aboard the M/S Balto, this micro-cruise offers a personalized experience, allowing for unique itineraries and more time ashore in remote settlements, enhancing cultural immersion.

  • Rich Cultural and Natural Encounters: The journey traverses from iceberg-laden Disko Bay to the capital Nuuk, offering opportunities to observe humpback whales, explore Norse historical sites, and engage with Inuit culture, providing a diverse and enriching experience.

  • Spectacular Arctic Scenery: Witness dramatic landscapes including towering icebergs, majestic fjords, and colourful coastal villages, all set against the backdrop of Greenland’s rugged and untouched wilderness.

M/S Balto

M/S Balto

M/S Balto is built to the highest ice class standards as was named after the lead sled dog in the 1925 Nome serum run. The vessel originally served as a service ship in the Baltic sea and was refurbished between 2019-2022 to become a premium polar expedition small ship. Enjoy luxurious accommodation on the ship and the intimate nature of a small ship with just 12 guests onboard. The size of the vessel makes it nimble and able to reach areas that larger ships cannot. The ship is equipped with a range of cabins including single cabins and a premium owners suite. 

On the guest deck you will find a small sauna and cold shower and you can enjoy downtime in the saloon and dining messroom, which features cotch-mahogany panelling as well as in the library. There are 24/7 tea and coffee stations onbard. 

Ice Class: Length: 40m
Breadth: 9mMax
Draft: Cruising
Speed: 9 Knots
Electricity: Passenger
Capacity:
12

View Ship Details

Accommodation

We believe that appropriate accommodation should add to the authentic travel experience, as well as providing utmost enjoyment. For that reason our accommodation is scrutinised by our staff on the ground frequently, ensuring the properties adhere to our high standards. This key will help you understand the levels of accommodation available on this tour.

Standard

Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.

Superior

Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.

Deluxe

Luxurious properties with impeccable facilities and service.

Included ACTIVITIES

These are included in your cruise fare. Activities vary by itinerary and destination and are subject to regulations, weather conditions and other factors.

Zodiac Cruises

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Expert Lectures

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Shore Excursions

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Polar Plunge

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OPTIONAL ADVENTURES ADD ONS

These can be booked in advance at an extra cost. Activities vary by itinerary and destination.

Hiking

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Community/Cultural Activity

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Pricing per person & date

Pricing & Availability Last Updated 06 Jun 25

Ilulissat to Qaqortoq - Treasures of the Greenland West Coast | M/S Balto from £ 8,866
Departing Ending Duration
17 Jul 202628 Jul 202612

Important Information

  • *Save $500 USD Off Per Person On Select 2026 Greenland Departures

    Valid on select Greenland departures in the 2026 Arctic season
    Discount will apply on all available cabin categories
    Discount is valid until 31 Jul 25 unless withdrawn, sold out or varied prior
    Not combinable with any other promotions and valid on new bookings only

  • Prices are based on per person, quad/triple/twin share.
    Prices are correct at time of publishing but are subject to change at any time.
    Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and ice conditions.

    Traveling to Greenland can be challenging due to its remote location, limited flight availability, and small airports. Flights tend to be infrequent and costly, often requiring additional hotel nights before or after your trip. Booking flexible tickets well in advance is strongly advised.

  • INCLUSIONS 

    Cabin accommodation on board ship
    All meals, tea, and coffee on board throughout your voyage
    All scheduled landings and excursions
    Guiding and leadership by expert exploration team and crew
    Passenger taxes and harbour/landing fees 

     

    EXCLUSIONS

    Flights to Ilulissat and from Qaqortoq
    Excess-baggage fees on international or internal flights
    Transfers to/from airport, hotel and ship
    Any other pre- or post- land arrangements not mentioned
    Passport and visa expenses
    Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned
    Baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance - strongly recommended
    Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned
    Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew
    Meals ashore unless otherwise specified
    Laundry, bar or any other personal charges unless specified

  • 2 (Light Adventure)
  • A single supplement surcharge may apply and is subject to availability. Please contact us for more information.

  • Departure date, fuel surcharges, cabin category, currency fluctuations, seasonality and availability.

FROM PRICE INFORMATION

  • 'From Price' is based on a Double Cabin departing 17 Jul 26

Please contact us for the latest availability, pricing and details of your preferred voyage. Chimu Adventures are Arctic experts and we will endeavour to find you the perfect Arctic expedition cruise to ensure you have an unforgettable adventure!

NOTE: Pricing is subject to change, currency fluctuation and availability at the time of booking and may be varied without notice by us or any of the operators and partners we work with. It is only confirmed and guaranteed at the time of making a booking, agreeing to our terms and conditions and paying a deposit.