In July 2024, Craig and I set sail in western Greenland with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions. We were aboard the National Geographic Resolution, and it proved to be a lovely and comfortable homebase from which to explore.
Onboard National Geographic Resolution
Expedition cruising offers the unique advantage of traveling on a smaller ship, allowing for daily stops on land where you can enjoy hikes and meaningful cultural interactions. This intimate experience can also bring you closer to wildlife and natural wonders than larger vessels typically can.
The National Geographic Resolution is a state-of-the-art expedition ship designed for comfortable polar exploration. She is equipped with advanced technology, including stabilizers for smooth navigation in icy waters and is of the highest ice class (PC5 Category A) for polar ships. She carries just 76 cabins (138 guests maximum), includes fantastic dining options, and has many observation areas offering 360-degree views. With a fleet of zodiacs and kayaks, the ship provides immersive, educational experiences while exploring remote regions. National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions also features a team of experts onboard their ships, including naturalists, historians, and marine biologists, who provide briefings to help travelers better understand the unique destinations they are explore.
One of the most unique and fun aspects of the ship was the opportunity to stay in one of Resolution’s onboard “igloos.” These sleeping domes are on the observation deck and are available to all guests on a first-come, first-served basis. (Guests who stay in a suite-level cabin or above are guaranteed a night in one of the igloos.) Imagine sleeping under the stars and enjoying unparalleled views of the night sky. Although we missed them on our trip, I can imagine that witnessing the Aurora Borealis would be absolutely magical from the comfort of a cozy dome!
Incredible Landscapes: Fjords, Icebergs & Open Seas
Greenland’s landscape is breathtaking. We navigated narrow fjords in our zodiacs, surrounded by towering icebergs and massive ice formations. Seeing icebergs calve – where chunks of ice break off and crash into the water—was exhilarating. The open seas were a vibrant shade of blue, and the sheer magnitude of Greenland’s natural beauty was awe-inspiring.
One particular highlight was seeing the Greenlandic Ice Sheet, a vast, thick layer of ice covering about 80% of Greenland’s surface. It is the second-largest ice body in the world, after the Antarctic Ice Sheet. It spans more than a million square miles, and holds an enormous volume of frozen water, estimated to be about 10% of the world’s freshwater!
A Safari on the Seas
One of the highlights of the journey was watching humpback whales breaching, showcasing their massive tails as they dove back into the sea. It felt like being on a safari, but on the water, searching for these majestic creatures from the safety of our zodiac. The excitement of spotting them and the sheer scale of their presence was unforgettable. I have been fortunate to visit many incredible places, but being in the presence of so many whales displaying their strength and grace was one of the best travel experiences of my life.
Hiking
Greenland’s rugged terrain is not for the faint of heart. The hikes can be difficult, but you are rewarded with stunning landscapes, complete with scenic waterfalls and awe-inspiring views. Walking these paths, I felt completely immersed in the raw, untamed beauty of the region. Every step was worth the effort!
Culture
Lindblad Expeditions does an exceptional job of connecting travelers with local culture. On our trip, we were fortunate to meet locals from Greenland who came aboard to share their stories and traditions. Some of the crew members were even from the region, giving us a deep and personal understanding of the places we were visiting. The people we encountered on land go about their daily lives in these remote and peaceful areas. As guests, we felt an overwhelming responsibility to tread very carefully in their presence.
One particularly memorable stop was “Dog Town,” where sled dogs are trained. Walking along the path and having the playful puppies follow us was a pure delight. This interaction offered a glimpse into the traditions that are so integral to Greenlandic culture, especially in terms of survival in the harsh Arctic conditions.
Greenland’s natural beauty, unique rewarding hikes, fascinating cultural experiences, and incredible wildlife offer something for every adventurous traveler. Whether you’re marveling at humpback whales, cozying up in a luxurious sleeping dome, or interacting with local Greenlanders, this trip will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.