Geri's Grand Expedition to Greenland
25/07/2025
There are holidays, and then there are journeys that leave a mark on your soul – and for Geri, sailing the west coast of Greenland with HX Expeditions was exactly that. In June, she embarked on a breathtaking voyage aboard the state-of-the-art HX Fridtjof Nansen, experiencing the raw, untamed beauty of the Arctic like never before. From humpback whales and glistening glaciers to local communities and unforgettable hikes through jaw-dropping landscapes, Geri's Greenland adventure was packed with moments of wonder, discovery, and pure magic. Here's her story, from Reykjavik to Sisimiut – and everything in between.
Meet Geri!
In June, I had the incredible opportunity to sail onboard HX Fridtjof Nansen for an unforgettable most amazing experience to sail the west coast of Greenland. And the adventure started at London Heathrow Airport, where I met a wonderful group of ladies and our fantastic HX host, Louise. I arrived in Reykjavik on the day before we were to board for a pre-night stay. Sunday morning was all about exploring, strolling around the city and down the colourful rainbow road, visiting the stunning cathedral and taking in all the fantastic street art around the city.
Days 2 – 4: Sailing into Greenland’s Glaciers
The next day, I took a short flight to Nuuk to board the Fridtjof Nansen and begin an unforgettable 10-day sailing adventure. From the moment we set sail, I was captivated by the jaw-dropping landscapes, eager to discover what lay ahead.
Our first stop was Ilulissat and Disko Bay, an absolutely breathtaking place. The icebergs seemed to grow more majestic with every passing mile, and it felt almost dreamlike to witness these incredible formations up close. The highlight of the day, without a doubt, was spotting a humpback whale. The thrill of seeing it just three metres from the ship was beyond words, a magnificent, graceful giant of the ocean – it was a truly unforgettable moment that I’ll treasure forever.
Days 5 – 6: From Santa’s Hut to Scheideck’s Ice
Our next destination was Uummannaq, which means "heart-shaped" in Greenlandic – a name that perfectly matches its charm. I spent the morning exploring and soaking up the Inuit culture, before setting off on a three-hour hike through breathtaking scenery, complete with a visit to Santa’s hut!
The following day brought an unforgettable kayaking experience through the spectacular Maarmorilik Fjord. With clear skies, calm waters, and stunning views all around, it couldn’t have been more perfect. Later, I joined a Zodiac cruise around the magnificent Scheideck Glacier – a thrilling way to get up close to the glistening icebergs.
Days 7 – 9: Beautiful Ice Sculptures of Disko Bay
Over the next couple of days, we visited two more incredible ports: Equip Sermia and Qeqertarsuaq. Each stop offered something new, yet equally breathtaking. The scenery continued to blow me away – raw, powerful, and impossibly beautiful.
We glided past cascading waterfalls tumbling down rugged cliffs, sailed alongside towering, sculpted icebergs that shimmered in the sunlight, and were constantly surrounded by jaw-dropping views in every direction. And the moments when the silence was broken by the crackle of calving ice or the splash of distant wildlife, were reminders of just how alive and awe-inspiring this part of the world truly is.
Days 10 – 13: A Goodbye to Greenland
Our final port of call was Sisimiut, Greenland’s second-largest city, and the setting for my last off-ship adventure. I set off on a three-and-a-half-hour hike through more of Greenland’s astonishing landscapes – towering peaks, sweeping valleys, and endless stretches of untamed beauty. Then, on day 12, we arrived in Nuuk and bid a fond farewell to MS Fridtjof Nansen, the Expedition Team, and the new friends I had made before catching a flight back to Reykjavík.
Memorable Moments
Along the way, I had the chance to encounter some of the famous Greenlandic sledge dogs, a truly memorable experience. As well as learning some fascinating facts about them, until the age of six months, the puppies are allowed to roam freely and socialise with visitors. But once they reach six months old, their training begins, preparing them for the vital role they’ll play in pulling sledges through Arctic conditions.
Why You Should Hop Onboard HX
This truly was a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, so it’s impossible to choose a favourite moment. Every part of the journey felt extraordinary. From the awe-inspiring Icebergs to the unforgettable encounters with majestic humpback whales. The entire experience was nothing short of magical. A HX Expedition Cruise offers something special for everyone, regardless of age or ability.
Lectures at Sea
Sea days were enriched by insightful lectures from the expedition team, each one opening a window into the wonders of the Arctic. One that particularly captivated me was on whales, where I discovered there are 94 distinct species, 16 of which call the Arctic home. The session was not only fascinating but expertly delivered – the knowledge and passion of the expedition team made every fact feel alive.
If Geri’s unforgettable expedition to Greenland has sparked your sense of adventure and left you dreaming of icy landscapes and extraordinary wildlife, why not take the next step and experience an HX Cruise for yourself? With a range of breathtaking itineraries to choose from, there’s no better way to turn that inspiration into a once-in-a-lifetime journey.