South Greenland Adventure: The Majestic Alpine Arctic
This south Greenland adventure cruise offers activities for all abilities and opportunities to view the Northern Lights. Hike, visit local Inuit communities, Zodiac cruise, fly in a helicopter and even camp—all from 199-guest Ultramarine as your modern floating base camp.
On this south Greenland adventure cruise, explore majestic fjords, glaciers and mountains, in partnership with local communities. Be as active as you like, or opt for more relaxing, immersive experiences. Enjoy one–of–a–kind excursions, some enabled by the ship’s two twin–engine helicopters. Some of these, such as heli-assisted hiking and landings, and the Greenland Ice Sheet Experience, are included for all guests. Also on offer are hikes, community visits and Zodiac cruises.
This voyage—accessible to guests of all fitness levels—offers something for everyone, whether you’re interested in soaking up the serene mountain views, sailing through the icebergs on a Zodiac cruise, or trying optional activities such as heli–hiking, or camping in style on the shores of Tasermiut Fjord with local hosts. Additionally, travel during a time when the Northern Lights are typically most active over Greenland.
Also special, this itinerary was designed in collaboration with local Greenlandic partners and is endorsed by the regional government of South Greenland. This program pioneers a new local engagement ethos featuring the unrivaled hospitality, wisdom and expertise of the local people. In Aapilattoq, enjoy storytelling, food, music and a soccer match. Alongside Ice Sheet excursions, meet local artists, craftspeople, musicians and chefs on board for the Tamassa cultural festival. In Qasiarsuk, learn about South Greendland’s agricultural economy at a sheep farming community, and more.
The 2026 14-day South Greenland Adventure: The Majestic Alpine Arctic Itinerary focuses on the towering mountains and deep alpine fjords, maximizing access via helicopter.
The 2027 15-day South Greenland: Alpine Exploration by Helicopter focuses on historical sites (Viking ruins), deep fjord exploration, and standard landings.
Aboard the technologically-advanced, 199-guest Ultramarine, take advantage of two twin-engine helicopters and 20 quick-launching Zodiacs to create the quintessential Arctic experience. This modern, purpose-built polar expedition vessel comes equipped with specialized, cutting-edge safety features to provide added security in remote environments.
Read on for details about this Greenland adventure, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Greenland small ship cruises or other Arctic cruises and Arctic trips.
2026 South Greenland Adventure: The Majestic Alpine Arctic Itinerary
The 14-day, 2026 South Greenland Adventure cruise sails round-trip from Reykjavik, Iceland.
Arrive in the Icelandic capital and make your way to your included hotel. You will have the rest of the day to explore the city on your own.
This afternoon, you’ll board your vessel in Reykjavik and begin your expedition. Get ready for a great adventure ahead on your technologically-advanced ship, which is equipped to deliver unique off-ship experiences in South Greenland.
As you cruise north across the Denmark Strait, with views of Greenland in the distance, your expedition team will prepare you for the adventures ahead. Learn about the storied history of the Arctic, its fascinating wildlife, geology, glaciology, ecology and climate, and the incredible sights you will soon explore. The team will also help you search for seabirds soaring around your ship, as well as whales that frequent the surrounding waters.
As you approach and arrive in Greenland, the first natural features you’ll see will be the towering steep-walled fjords and hanging glaciers. Explore the uninhabited east coast. This area offers opportunities for wildlife sightings, including the possibility of polar bears and humpback whales. Activities include heli-landings, hiking, paddle excursions, Zodiac cruises and shore landings in this remote, ice-laden landscape of tumbling glaciers, alpine vistas and wildlife. Set out for the wild fjords of the uninhabited east coast, one of which is Lindenow Fjord, also known by its Greenlandic name, Kangerlussuaq. Thousands of years ago, groups of Paleo Inuit hunters and fishermen made their home in these isolated fjords, living off the land and surviving mostly on the resources provided by the sea—long before the arrival of European explorers and successive waves of migration prompted mass settlements. Traces of these early inhabitants can be found today against the backdrop of cascading glaciers and steep-walled mountains.
The fjords are where you can observe plenty of wildlife, especially marine mammals. Rare sightings of polar bears are also possible as they drift down from the north on sea ice floes propelled by the East-Greenland current. Humpback whales are often sighted when entering fjords as the shallowing seas bring an upwelling of nutrients to the surface. While you keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, the magnificent alpine terrain invites you to explore by sea, land and air to immerse yourself completely in the remote icescapes of the region. The wild east is ideal for heli landings, paddle excursions, hiking, Zodiac cruises and shore landings.
Sail along the spectacular west coast of Greenland into the Westlands, the same journey the Greenlandic Norse followed to reach the Western fjords. You’ll experience the contrast between the Greenland Ice Sheet—the second-largest body of ice on the planet—and the grassy valleys of the coast, which is steeped in Viking history, especially at landmarks such as the Kujataa UNESCO World Heritage site. The latter provides an excellent opportunity to learn about the region’s history and cultural traditions, as well as the interaction between Norse and Inuit cultures.
Explore the mammoth Ice Sheet by helicopter, hike the surrounding foothills, cruise through ice-filled waters and engage with local communities. Visit the small settlement of Qassiarsuk, as well as the remains of Erik the Red’s estate of Brattahlíð, both of which offer further insights into South Greenland’s history and culture. You will appreciate quite quickly why Erik the Red chose this land as his home and gave Greenland its name: every direction you look rewards visitors with vistas of blue, ice-strewn waters set against a breathtaking backdrop of lush, verdant valleys and green pastures bursting with blooms.
Unique to Greenland, and indeed the entire Arctic, warm microclimates deep in the fjords have created a surprisingly fertile Arctic Garden of Eden. South Greenlandic farming traditions dating back to Viking days are still kept alive. Many families work their remote sheep farms along the shores of the fjords, their lives very much attuned to the seasons as they produce a variety of organic homegrown produce (such as potatoes, turnips and kale).
Also in the West, find perfect access points to the Greenland Ice Sheet, which you’ll reach by helicopter. You’ll enjoy the most incredible views of the largest mass of ice in the northern hemisphere flowing from the heights of the polar plateau to sea level. Become one of the very few people to ever set foot on this incredible body of ice during your included Greenland Ice Sheet Experience. Over these 2 days you will have the opportunity to explore the Ice Sheet, hike the surrounding foothills, cruise or paddle through the azure ice-filled waters, and engage with local friends and partners during meaningful and in–depth community experiences.
Transit through the scenic 65-mile-long (105km) Prins Christian Sund (Ikerasassuaq) and explore the dramatic fjords of South Greenland. The team has planned a visit to the village of Aappilattoq, where you can experience local culture, music and traditional foods. The journey continues to the steep-walled 43-mile (70km) Tasermiut Fjord, known as “Arctic Patagonia,” where overnight camping and various excursions are available amidst stunning glaciers and peaks.
The maze of fjords, sounds, islets, inlets and skerries (rocky islands) in and around Cape Farewell (Nunap Isua) at Greenland’s most southern tip possesses its own particular magic. Transiting the Prins Christian Sund (Ikerasassuaq)—one of the world’s most scenic fjords—will be truly unforgettable. You can then look forward to dramatic mountain and seascapes with glaciers tumbling down to the sea, and spectacular vistas around every corner. Inhabiting this domain are Southern Greenlanders living on the frontier, a people as unique as the landscape they call home. This is where the migrating hunting peoples from the east finally settled around the European trading posts.
The few villages in this southern region have gained a level of fame thanks to the inhabitants who remain steadfastly faithful to their hunting and fishing heritage. As mentioned above, hope to visit Aappilattoq, perched on the shores of Prins Christian Sund, to introduce yourself to local partners and friends. Enjoy the opportunity to listen to inhabitants’ stories, hear their music, taste their food, learn about their hunting traditions and perhaps even join a friendly game of soccer as a player or spectator.
Your time in Arctic Patagonia will allow you to marvel at the impressive glacier at its head, with rivers of ice tumbling toward the sea, and the imposing peaks of Nalumasortoq and Ulamertorsuaq that dominate the skyline, making for the most scenic backdrops to your hike or helicopter excursion.
As your Arctic adventure winds down, you can take in a polar presentation by your onboard experts, share your photos, sip an icy cocktail in the bar, or watch a movie. This is a great opportunity to ask members of the expedition team any remaining questions you have about any aspect of your voyage.
You’ll disembark in Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, at the end of your journey. If you have booked post-expedition accommodation, then a transfer to a central downtown location is provided.
Included
Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping; all meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board; beer, wine, standard spirits and cocktails during dinner and bar service hours; complimentary WiFi; all shore landings per the daily program; leadership throughout the voyage by experienced expedition leader; all Zodiac transfers and cruising per the daily program; formal and informal presentations by expedition team and special guests as scheduled; photographic journal documenting the voyage; a pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for shore landings; official Quark Expeditions® parka to keep; coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock; hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; all luggage handling aboard ship; Greenland voyages cruise passenger tax.
Exclusions
International airfare; arrival and departure transfers, except where noted in itinerary; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above; meals ashore unless otherwise specified; baggage, cancellation, interruption, evacuation and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended; excess-baggage fees on international flights; mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned; laundry, bar, beverage and other personal charges unless specified; phone charges; voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew; additional overnight accommodation; any adventure options.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 150 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 120 days – 100% of deposit
119 to 90 days – 75% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The South Greenland Adventure cruise begins and ends in Reykjavik, Iceland (KEF). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to Reykjavik anytime on Day 1 of the itinerary and make your way to the included hotel. Embarkation is around 4:00pm on Day 2 in Reykjavik, with an included transfer from the hotel to the ship.
Disembarkation is between 7:00 and 8:00am on Day 14 of the itinerary in Reykjavik. Plan flights to depart Reykjavik on Day 14 of the itinerary anytime after breakfast. Airport transfers in Reykjavik are not included and cannot be pre-arranged through the cruise operator. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
One-time paddling excursions are included (one per guest, per voyage); no experience is necessary. Also included are optional hiking, Zodiac cruising, daily presentations, photography guides, community visits, possible northern lights viewing, the polar plunge and the two following weather-dependent helicopter-assisted excursions: heli hiking and a transfer to explore the Greenland Ice Sheet. Various optional activities may be available on your South Greenland Adventure cruise, for guests aged 16 and older. The Greenland camp experience ($1,395 per person in 2026) and Tundra to Table: Inuit Culinary Experience ($125 per person in 2026) must be reserved in advance. Please contact AdventureSmith to reserve activity space with your booking.
Room Configuration
Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Solo travelers willing to share can reserve a triple or twin-shared cabin, where you will be matched with a person of the same gender. If the other cabin berth goes unsold, you will be guaranteed the double rate. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x (2x for Premium cabins) the per-person listed rate in select cabins based upon availability. Premium Cabins are as follows:
Ultramarine: Deluxe Balcony Suite, Terrace Suite, Penthouse Suite, Owner’s Suite & Ultra Suite
Families & Children
At date of embarkation, a minimum age restriction of 9 years and minimum height and weight requirements (weight of 64lbs or 29kg and 48 in. or 1.2 m. tall) must be met. Children under 16 years of age must be supervised by a parent/guardian at all times, and may not participate in adventure options.
Travel Insurance
It is a condition of your participation in this expedition that you shall have comprehensive medical insurance in place which is sufficient to cover all medical risks and exposure, including emergency medical and evacuation coverage. Trip cancellation insurance is optional but highly recommended. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Arctic expedition.
2027 South Greenland: Alpine Exploration by Helicopter
The 15-day, 2027 South Greenland Adventure cruise sails from Reykjavik, Iceland to Nuuk, Greenland, ending with a charter flight back to Reykjavik.
Arrive in the Icelandic capital and make your way to your included hotel. You will have the rest of the day to explore the city on your own. At 64°08’ north, Reykjavik is the world’s northernmost capital of an independent sovereign state.
This afternoon, you’ll board your vessel and begin your expedition. Get ready for a great adventure ahead.
Cruise north across the Denmark Strait, with views of Greenland in the distance, your Expedition Team will prepare you for the adventures ahead. Polar presentations offer an excellent opportunity to learn about the Arctic’s storied history, fascinating wildlife, geology, glaciology, ecology, climate, and the incredible sights that await you.
The team will also help you spot seabirds soaring around the ship, as well as whales that frequent the surrounding waters.
Arrive in Greenland. Admire towering fjords and hanging glaciers, marking your first encounter with the remote east coast. This uninhabited region offers excellent opportunities for wildlife sightings, including humpback whales and the occasional polar bear. Depending on conditions, you may explore this ice-shaped landscape by sea, land, and air through Zodiac cruising, hiking, paddling, and heli-landings.
Look forward to exploring the fjords of Greenland’s east coast, including Lindenow Fjord (Kangerlussuaq). Thousands of years ago, Paleo-Inuit hunters and fishermen lived in these isolated landscapes, sustained by the sea long before European explorers and permanent settlements. Traces of their presence remain today, set against cascading glaciers and steep mountains.
The fjords are rich in wildlife, especially marine mammals. Rare sightings of polar bears are possible as they drift south on sea ice floes carried by the East Greenland Current. Humpback whales are often seen near the fjords, where nutrient-rich waters rise to the surface.
As we watch for wildlife, the alpine terrain invites exploration by sea, land, and air for a fully immersive experience of this remote icescape. Conditions permitting, activities may include heli-landings, hiking, paddling, Zodiac cruising, and shore landings.
Transit through the scenic 65-mile-long (105km) Prins Christian Sund (Ikerasassuaq) and explore the dramatic fjords of South Greenland.
Plan to visit the village of Aappilattoq, where you can experience local culture, music, and traditional foods. The journey continues to Tasermiut Fjord—a 43-mile (70km), cliff-lined waterway known as “Arctic Patagonia”—where excursions unfold among glaciers and towering peaks.
The maze of fjords, sounds, islets, inlets, and skerries around Cape Farewell (Nunap Isua), Greenland’s southernmost tip, has a distinct character. Transiting Prins Christian Sund is unforgettable, with glaciers tumbling to the sea and dramatic mountain scenery at every turn. This region is home to Southern Greenlanders whose communities remain closely tied to hunting and fishing traditions.
Hope to visit Aappilattoq, a close-knit Greenlandic Inuit community on the shores of Prins Christian Sund, where you may hear stories and music, sample traditional foods, and learn about local traditions and hunting practices.
Your time in Arctic Patagonia offers the chance to marvel at the glacier at the head of Tasermiut Fjord, where rivers of ice descend toward the sea beneath the imposing peaks of Nalumasortoq and Ulamertorsuaq, creating a spectacular backdrop for hiking and helicopter excursions.
Following in the footsteps of the Greenlandic Norse into the western fjords, it’s easy to see why Erik the Red chose this land and gave Greenland its name. In every direction, blue, ice-strewn waters meet lush valleys and blooming pastures. Warm microclimates deep within the fjords create surprisingly fertile landscapes where farming traditions dating back to Viking times continue today.
This quiet, pastoral landscape contrasts sharply with the Greenland Ice Sheet, which covers approximately 80% of the island. From your seat in the helicopter, enjoy sweeping aerial views of the world’s second-largest ice mass before landing to experience the vast scale of the Ice Sheet firsthand. The endless horizon and ancient ice beneath your feet create an unforgettable sense of place.
Tamassa, meaning “Come in everyone” or “You are welcome,” is a unique onboard cultural exchange led by South Greenlanders. Moving naturally through shared spaces aboard Ultramarine, local residents connect with guests through conversation, stories, workshops, food tastings, and performances.
You’ll also explore Kujataa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves the legacy of Norse and Inuit farming traditions. Hope to visit Qassiarsuk, a small settlement across the water from Narsarsuaq, where you can experience South Greenland hospitality and explore the remains and reconstructions of Brattahlíð, Erik the Red’s estate and the former heart of the Norse Eastern Settlement.
Upon arriving in Greenland’s capital, enjoy one final Zodiac ride to shore before the group transfer to the airport for your charter flight to Reykjavik, Iceland. Upon arrival in Reykjavik, you will be transferred to your included hotel as part of the Charter Flight & Hotel Package.
After breakfast at your included hotel, make your way to Keflavik International Airport for your onward flight, or continue exploring Reykjavik at your leisure.
Included
Mandatory Transfer Package ($995 for 2027: includes one night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Reykjavik (breakfast included); group transfer from hotel to ship on embarkation day; group transfer from the ship to the Nuuk airport on disembarkation day; charter flight from Nuuk to Reykjavik; group transfer from Reykjavik airport to group hotel on Day 14; one night’s post-expedition hotel accommodation in Reykjavik, with breakfast on Day 15); shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping; all meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board; beer, wine, standard spirits and cocktails during dinner and bar service hours; complimentary WiFi; all shore landings per the daily program; leadership throughout the voyage by experienced expedition leader; all Zodiac transfers and cruising per the daily program; formal and informal presentations by expedition team and special guests as scheduled; photographic journal documenting the voyage; a pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for shore landings; official Quark Expeditions® parka to keep; coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock; hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; all luggage handling aboard ship; Greenland voyages cruise passenger tax.
Exclusions
International airfare; arrival and departure transfers in Reykjavik, except where noted in itinerary; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above; meals ashore unless otherwise specified; baggage, cancellation, interruption, evacuation and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended; excess-baggage fees on international flights; mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned; laundry, bar, beverage and other personal charges unless specified; phone use charges; voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew; additional overnight accommodation; any adventure options not listed in the included activities.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 150 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 120 days – 100% of deposit
119 to 90 days – 75% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The South Greenland Adventure cruise begins and ends in Reykjavik, Iceland (KEF). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to Reykjavik anytime on Day 1 of the itinerary and make your way to the included hotel. Embarkation is around 4:00pm on Day 2 in Reykjavik, with an included transfer from the hotel to the ship.
Disembarkation follows breakfast on Day 14 in Nuuk, Greenland, before a return charter flight to Reykjavik, Iceland. Plan flights to depart Reykjavik on Day 15 of the itinerary anytime after breakfast; however, AdventureSmith strongly suggests that a flexible air ticket be held for your journey home in case you need to change your travel arrangement following a delay of the return flight from the Arctic. Airport transfers in Reykjavik are not included and cannot be pre-arranged through the cruise operator. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Internal Flights
A group charter flight from Nuuk to Reykjavik is required on this trip’s itinerary; see the Mandatory Transfer Package information listed in this trip’s Inclusions. There is a luggage limit which will be detailed in your final documents. Should you have additional luggage, it may be stored at the hotel in Reykjavik (subject to availability). There is no option to pay for additional luggage. On Day 14 of the itinerary, the ship is scheduled to arrive at the pier between 7:00am and 8:00am local time. Disembarkation follows breakfast, with a transfer to the airport for the charter flight to Reykjavik.
Activities
Zodiac cruising, daily presentations, photography guides, community visits, possible northern lights viewing, the polar plunge and the two following weather-dependent helicopter-assisted excursions: heli flightseeing and a transfer to explore the Greenland Ice Sheet are included. Various optional activities may be available on your cruise, for guests aged 16 and older. Per-person prices for the 2027 season: Greenland camp experience $TBA, one-time paddling excursion $TBA, Tundra to Table: Inuit Culinary Experience $TBA. Each departure’s paid activities must be pre-booked. Please contact AdventureSmith to reserve activity space with your booking.
Room Configuration
Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Solo travelers willing to share can reserve a triple or twin-shared cabin, where you will be matched with a person of the same gender. If the other cabin berth goes unsold, you will be guaranteed the double rate. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x (2x for Premium cabins) the per-person listed rate in select cabins based upon availability. Premium Cabins are as follows:
Ultramarine: Deluxe Balcony Suite, Terrace Suite, Penthouse Suite, Owner’s Suite & Ultra Suite
Families & Children
At date of embarkation, a minimum age restriction of 8 years and minimum height and weight requirements (weight of 64lbs or 29kg and 48 in. or 1.2 m. tall) must be met. Children under 16 years of age must be supervised by a parent/guardian at all times, and may not participate in adventure options.
Travel Insurance
It is a condition of your participation in this expedition that you shall have comprehensive medical insurance in place which is sufficient to cover all medical risks and exposure, including emergency medical and evacuation coverage. Trip cancellation insurance is optional but highly recommended. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Arctic expedition.
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The new Ultramarine 199-passenger polar ship is purpose-built for safety and far-off exploration. The vessel boasts specialized exploration tools, cutting-edge safety measures and an incredible 40-day cruising range to focus on hard-to-reach places, while at the same time providing a high-end onboard experience. Ultramarine was built in 2021 by Croatia’s award-winning Brodosplit, the largest shipyard in the country, and is designed by LMG Marin, Europe’s leading naval architect. Her first sailings were in the Arctic in early 2022.
Ultramarine - In Detail:
Ultramarine Ship Review
Helicopter Program
Design Features
Crew & Guides
Dining & Cuisine
Common Areas
Cabins, Suites, Amenities & Deck Plan
Why Sail Aboard Ultramarine
Choose this ship for her excellent balance of personal, operational and public spaces, creating a high-end experience to go farther, faster and more safely in the dynamic conditions of the Arctic and Antarctic. Exploration is prioritized with Ultramarine's twin helicopter and helipads for heli-skiing, flightseeing and expeditions to otherwise inaccessible places as well as an innovative, internal hangar and launching system for Zodiacs.
These exploration tools, the ship’s specialized, cutting-edge safety features, and the provisioning and waste handling systems (enabling a 40-day operational range) all ensure the ability to go farther into the polar regions, more safely and more easily than before. For these, and many other reasons, the Ultramarine is among our top choices for passengers seeking Antarctica luxury cruises and exploring in the most active way worldwide.
AdventureSmith Explorations has been aboard the Ultramarine firsthand. Read our dedicated Ultramarine Ship Review, written by our expert who sailed aboard the ship in the Arctic. Or consult this page further for a detailed description of the Ultramarine, including ship specs, deck plan, cabin images, photo gallery and current links to all the trips she sails. We can help compare the Ultramarine with other Antarctica ships and ice-class expedition ships offering Arctic cruises, Iceland cruises, Greenland cruises, Patagonia cruises and Antarctica cruises.
Design, Sustainability & Accessibility
Designed in collaboration with active expedition leaders, this ship offers innovative features to increase guests’ on- and off-ship experiences.
Helicopters, Zodiacs & Activity Gear
This polar ship has two twin-engine H145 helicopters launched from two simultaneously operable helidecks for heli-skiing, heli-hiking, flightseeing and exploration of air-only accessible destinations. These helicopters are the most fuel-efficient in their class, celebrated for their small footprint and reduced noise pollution. They enable polar travelers to explore deeper in the remote areas in which Ultramarine sails (except for South Georgia in Antarctica and Spitsbergen in the Arctic). Helicopter operations require roughly 20 expedition team members and pilots to run successfully, and operate in tandem with paddling and Zodiac activities.
Days are packed with multiple landings by Zodiac, enabled by the ship's rapid Zodiac deployment tools. Ultramarine's internal Zodiac hanger provides safe and quick deployment of 20 Zodiacs with four embarkation points easily accessible from two ready rooms, enabling all passengers to offload the ship at the same time. When possible, the Expedition team uses a rear dock that lowers to water level for efficient Zodiac loading.
Ultramarine additionally offers the largest selection of classic adventure options, including sea kayaking (hard plastic boat), paddling (inflatable kayak), camping, mountaineering and stand-up paddleboarding (inflatable board). All activities are led by highly trained guides and expedition leaders, and all paddling activities include a drysuit and gloves.
Safety Features
The groundbreaking safety features of Ultramarine include 13 fully redundant critical systems, twin propellers powered by four diesel-electric engines in two separate engine rooms for consistent backup and engine reliability, stabilizers, as well as a fully operational emergency bridge. This expedition vessel also has an ice strengthened hull and dynamic positioning capabilities. The dynamic positioning technology also means no need to anchor, avoiding damage to sensitive seabed ecosystems.
Responsible Travel Features
Ultramarine's sophisticated and environmentally friendly waste handling systems allow for treatment of waste to be managed safely in far-off distances. Her numerous innovations are designed to minimize her environmental footprint to an extent previously unseen for a vessel of comparable size, including a sophisticated water treatment system, state-of-the-art waste handling (Micro Auto Gasification System incinerates waste that then creates stored energy for use on board), a leading-edge heat recovery system that recycles excess energy back into the ship, LED lighting, and the use of entirely recyclable materials to construct it.
Other Facilities
Digital wristbands enable both keyless cabin entry and computer-logged tracking of entry and exit from the ship. An elevator services all decks. Finally, an onboard, English-speaking doctor is available 24 hours a day. The ship's physician manages a medical clinic stocked with a supply of common prescription medicines and basic first aid equipment.
Crew, Guides & Expedition Leaders
The 140 crew members of Ultramarine work together to create a seamless guest experience. This premiere ship within the Quark Expeditions fleet attracts top guides, many with over 10 years of experience with the company. The expedition team features guides with advanced degrees, including doctorates, in areas such as glaciology, geology and ornithology. Guides are omnipresent on board and make every effort to interact with travelers throughout the voyage. Special guests may include a cultural interpreter. A large portion of the expedition staff are required for helicopter operations, and the near 1:1 guest-to-guide ratio helps with smooth operations.
Onboard Facilities
With a modern and high-end feel, guests aboard the Ultramarine polar expedition ship can feel right at home while traveling to these extreme locations. A modern spa and fitness facilities offer guests the ability to relax and rejuvenate in between the active off-ship explorations. A polar boutique is stocked with basic toiletries, sunscreen, Ultramarine logo gear, base layer clothing, gloves, hats, jackets, waterproof pants and gifts. Satellite WiFi is available in public spaces and some cabins, however service may be intermittent due to the remote locations in which the ship sails.
Dining, Bar & Lounge
The gourmet Balena Restaurant services two dining rooms with tables from 2-10 guests each. The indoor/outdoor Bistro 487 on the upper deck, and four bars, provide additional food and beverage options (including self-serve espresso) while aboard. The bistro offers an alternative menu and various healthy options, plus any early riser breakfasts, afternoon tea and late-night snacks.
Food on board is healthy and varied, with options including meat, fish, vegetables, pasta, grains, soups, cheeses, desserts and fruit. Most special diets (vegetarian, dairy free, sugar free, gluten free, nut free, shellfish free) are easily accommodated with advance notice. Breakfasts and lunches are typically buffet style, while a la carte dinners are made to order and plated.
The Panorama Lounge & Bar is a space for special events; when this space is not in use for a function, guests can enjoy its far-reaching views with complimentary binoculars and spotting scopes, plus coffee, espresso and tea. The bar offers complimentary soft drinks, juices and water. Beer, wine, standard spirits and cocktails are complimentary with dinner and during bar service hours. A selection of premium liquors, spirits, beer, wine and champagne is available for a fee.
Observation Decks
Deck 5 of Ultramarine features a wraparound promenade that's ideal for walking and al fresco wildlife viewing, including a large forward-facing viewing area. Deck 7 has a large exterior deck space with forward and side facing views, and quiet outdoor spaces can be found at the back of the ship. The Bridge, open in calm weather and open seas, is spacious and offers 180-degree views and binoculars to enjoy them with. This heart of the ship is where guests will find the expedition leader, captain and crew continuously evolving the expedition's course.
Spa, Sauna, Steam Room & Gym
The Tundra Spa offers treatments and massages bookable on board. The steam room is a great place to relax after an off-ship excursion. The sauna features commanding views of the icy landscapes outside. The gym is equipped with a variety of machines and weights, including exercise bikes, treadmills, a rowing machine, weight machines, free weights, yoga and stretching mats. Floor-to-ceiling windows and mirrors blend with wooden accents and a polar theme.
Library & Lecture Theater
The library features a collection of field guides, picture books and reference materials relevant to the polar regions. Find materials in various languages, covering a selection of topics such as wildlife, history, marine biology, ecology and geology. A selection of games further provides entertainment while the ship is underway. The Ambassador Theater seats all passengers and acts as the main lecture hall. Enjoy a variety of comfortable seating arrangements including chairs, tall tables and bench seating near the bar, bar stools, booths with bench seating and chairs. Visit this auditorium for briefings, recaps, presentations and movies.
Ready Rooms & Studio
The thoughtfully designed mudroom Ready Rooms (A & B) are equipped with an open storage locker assigned to each guest, plus ample space and benches. Travelers can keep their parka, boots and life jacket here, between excursions. Located near to the helideck, the Studio is a preparation room for helicopter excursions, where travelers are weighed for balancing the aircraft, and arranged into flight groups.
Cabins, Amenities & Deck Plan Aboard Ultramarine
Passengers benefit from 11 different cabin styles, each are spacious and designed for superior comfort. Amenities include key-less entry via wristbands, Egyptian cotton bedding, non-allergenic pillows, bedside USB charging stations, 220-volt electrical outlets (standard European two round pin plugs), reusable water bottle, refrigerator and a safe. The heated-floor private bathrooms are equipped with bathrobes, slippers, a hair dryer, and their feel is high-end, with a rain shower and in-shower bench. TVs in-room offer movies and the ability to tune into live presentations going on in the Ambassador Lounge.
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Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary
The new Ultramarine polar ship is purpose-built for safety and far-off exploration in Antarctica and the Arctic. Dual helicopter pads and an incredible 40-day cruising range allow access to the hardest-to-reach places.
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Reviews From Our Experts So You Know What to Expect
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Expert Aboard: Ultramarine Ship Review
Read a detailed ship review from our expert who was aboard Ultramarine, plus see traveler ratings on everything from the food & helicopters to his Greenland itinerary highlights.
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Quark Expeditions Reviews
Our in-house polar experts review Quark Expeditions from their time aboard multiple trips & ships in both poles. Then read traveler-written ratings on everything from food to expedition guides.
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