Greenland West Coast Gay Adventure Cruise 2024 - Happy Gay Travel

Greenland West Coast
Gay Adventure Cruise 2024

Reykjavik, Kangerlussuaq, Uummannaq Fjord, Disko Bay, Qeqqata, and more!

12 Days from/to Reykjavik, Iceland

July 23 – August 03, 2024

City Sightseeing Reykjavik Hop-on Hop-Off Tours

Gay Greenland cruise Immerse yourself in the drama of Greenland’s west coast. On this cruise, our adventurous gay group will join a larger Quark Expeditions departure aboard their impressive Ultramarine expedition ship. You’ll see deep fjords and remote islands. Visit towns like Sisimiut and Uummannaq that provide deep cultural exchange experiences. Even admire the rugged splendor of Greenland’s glaciers from the exquisite comfort of our ship (perhaps through the sauna’s massive picture windows after treating yourself in the spa). Though we join a larger expedition aboard the Ultramarine, we’ve arranged exclusive excursions and events for you. This adventure wraps up in Reykjavik just before our Iceland Summer Gay Pride tour begins, so if you have the time, enjoy both adventures back-to-back!

Greenland adventure cruise

Immerse yourself along the dramatic coast of West Greenland, exploring deep into fjords and stunning islands. This trip features the best sites of West Greenland and delivers an in-depth experience in just 12 days. You’ll have opportunities to visit towns such as Sisimiut and Uummannaq, both rich with culture. Find yourself coasting by massive glaciers while enjoying all the comforts Ultramarine has to offer. At the peak of summer months, you’ll enjoy the long sunny days, clear vistas, and longer opportunities to see wildlife.

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Greenland expedition cruise

• Flightseeing: one 10-15 minute helicopter supported activity thanks to two helidecks along with two twin-engine helicopters on the Ultramarine (weather permitting)

• Hikes in the unusual tree-less terrain of this polar region

• A 'polar plunge' to welcome you into this whole new world of travel

• Zodiac cruises to admire icebergs and remote bays

• Optional add-ons such as mountain biking, sea kayaking and ‘Tundra to Table’ Inuit Culinary Experience with two Greenlandic chefs.

Reykjavik, Iceland gay cruise

Day 1 - Reykjavik, Iceland
Aluu – as they say in Greenlandic (or hæ hæ – since we meet up in Iceland).

Feel free to explore a little on your own before our 6PM welcome meeting at our host hotel. After everyone has gotten acquainted, we’ll delight our tastebuds in some Icelandic cuisine at our official Welcome Dinner.

PLEASE NOTE: an arrival transfer is not included in this itinerary, however detailed instructions for transportation to the hotel will be included in your trip documents.

Accommodation: Park Inn by Radisson Reykjavik Keflavík Airport Hotel, Reykjavik

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland gay cruise

Day 2 - From Reykjavik, Iceland to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland
This morning we’ll catch a charter flight to Kangerlussuaq, board the Ultramarine ship, and head north on our adventure. Expect a warm welcome and safety briefing from our Expedition Leader.

PLEASE NOTE: Unlike our typical offerings, an expedition cruise is not only more exciting, but also less predictable. We must factor in ever-changing sea, ice, wildlife and weather conditions in a remote part of the world. Therefore, the itinerary is less specific than usual. Still, the days will be full of adventure.

Accommodation: Quark Expeditions Ultramarine

Greenland gay cruise sea day

Day 3 - A Day at Sea!
Today we’ll continue sailing north along the west coast.

The Expedition Team will prepare us for the adventures ahead with activity and excursion briefings.

There will also be presentations on the wildlife and history of Greenland including its geology, ecology and climate.

Accommodation: Quark Expeditions Ultramarine

Uummannaq, Greenland gay cruise

Days 4 - 6 - Uummannaq Fjord, Geenland
Uummannaq Fjord is the second-largest fjord system in Greenland surpassed only by Scoresbysund in east Greenland. On these itinerary days you will have the opportunity to become one of few people ever to explore this area in depth and travel beyond the predictable tourist destinations. The fjord is full of cultural and natural wonders.

Potential excursions include visits to the town of Uummanaq, venturing into Qilakitsoq (the site where the famous Greenland Mummies were discovered) and excursions focused around Store Glacier and its immense discharge zone. You’ll embrace the expeditionary spirit as we pioneer new destinations within the labyrinth of valleys and channels in the depths of the fjord.

Accommodation: Quark Expeditions Ultramarine

Disko Bay, Greenland gay cruise

Days 7 - 8 - Disko Bay, Greenland
Disko Bay Is a wide, southeastern inlet of Baffin Bay and is the largest open bay in western Greenland. Try to get out on deck as we navigate into this iconic bay where whales are often spotted. Disko Bay is full of exciting destinations for us to explore. We will almost certainly visit the community of Illulissat, which is situated at the head of outlet fjord for Sermeq Kujalleq (Jakobshavn Glacier) , known for discharging 35 billion tons of ice each year. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004, the fjord is immensely beautiful and we will encourage you to explore it via one of the many marked hiking trails.

Another area we will consider for this itinerary is the wild beauty of Equip Sermia or Torsukatak Fjords, located in the northeast corner of Disko Bay. Both of these remote areas offer fantastic vistas of large active glacial faces and provide plenty of opportunities for hiking, paddling, and Zodiac cruising. This is also an area where, if conditions allow, we will consider utilizing our twin- engine helicopters to get you in the air to appreciate the immensity of this region.

Accommodation: Quark Expeditions Ultramarine

Greenland expedition cruise

Days 9 - 10 - Qeqqata, Greenland
Qeqqata (meaning centre) municipality is Greenland’s second smallest administrative region. Situated in the middle of the country’s western coast, Qeqqata is home to almost 20% of Greenland’s populace, most of whom reside in Sisimiut and Manitsoq.

During these two days your expedition team will work with our local partners to curate a balance of community and wilderness-focused activities. We are likely to visit Sisimiut, where you can wonder through the open air museum, participate in local tastings or join a hiking group to venture beyond the town limits along one of many incredible hiking trails on Sisimiut’s doorstep. This is where we will also offer the (paid) mountain biking activity.

Further south, the areas surrounding Manitsoq are equally stunning. One of our favorite destinations in the area is the picturesque alpine lake of Innussuit Tasersuat, which we can hike and share a picnic with friends from Manitsoq. The fjord systems behind Manitsoq are deep and seldom visited. Our team will seek to take you beyond the ordinary and into these fjords for magical one-of-a-kind experiences, one of which is Eternity Fjord, which is home to the tallest mountains in all of West Greenland.

Accommodation: Quark Expeditions Ultramarine

Greenland gay cruise adventure

Day 11 - Kangerlussuaq, Greenland / Reykjavik, Iceland
This morning we bid farewell to our faithful crew, and board our flight back to Iceland.

Flight times back to Reykjavik can vary greatly, so there are no planned activities this evening. We will dine together for an optional dinner if timing allows.

Accommodation: Park Inn by Radisson Reykjavik Keflavík Airport Hotel, Reykjavik

Gay Iceland

Day 12 - Reykjavik, Iceland
This morning you may opt to fly home or spend a couple of days exploring the capital. Or, even better, join our Iceland Countryside & Reykjavik Pride Tour for a few more days of fun and frolicking.

PLEASE NOTE: A departure transfer is not included, but your group leader will provide clear instructions on getting to the airport. For those looking to quickly explore Reykjavik we will be offering a one-day post-cruise extension including the main sights of this small city.

• Breakfast daily, 8 lunches, 10 dinners

• All onboard meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices

• Onboard beer and wine during dinner; and coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock

• Roundtrip chartered flight between Reykjavik, Iceland and Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

• Credit of $300 for additional drinks and on-board purchases

• Out Adventures dry bag

• Quark Expeditions parka

• A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions

• Shore landings per the Greenland: West Coast Gay Cruise program

• Flightseeing: one 10-15 minute helicopter supported activity thanks to two helidecks along with two twin-engine helicopters on the Ultramarine (weather permitting)

• An Out Adventures Host from beginning to end of tour and experienced expedition leaders throughout the voyage

• Photographic journal of the expedition

• Onboard emergency evacuation insurance to a maximum benefit of US$500,000 per person. This does NOT include any other form of travel insurance including basic medical coverage, which is required for all our travellers.

• Group transfers to and from starting hotel and ship

Exotic Greenland gay cruise

• Arrival & departure transfers to/from joining/finishing point hotel. Detailed arrival and departure instructions will be provided.

• International airfare

• Passport and visa expenses

• Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above

• Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned

• Laundry, bar, beverage and other personal charges unless specified

• Phone and Internet charges (connectivity may vary by location)

• Adventure Options and any other optional activities, meals, and drinks not outlined in itinerary

• Gratuities for the ship and expedition crew (we recommend $200 per passenger)

• Travel insurance (medical & repatriation coverage is mandatory for all travellers. Emergency evacuation coverage is provided by the Ultramarine ship, with limitations.

Gay travellers are warming up to one of our most remote destinations ever.
Part of the United Kingdom of Denmark, the world’s largest island is a place of paradox. Gay rights are among the world’s best, but there isn’t a major queer community. You can explore the country’s Viking history or beautiful geography. Go dog sledding or whale watching. And enjoy natural phenomena like the Midnight Sun in the summer and Northern Lights in the winter.

Culture Shock
Greenland is the world’s least populated nation on earth by a wide margin. Rest assured the people you do meet will be warm and welcoming.

Visas
Most citizens of Canada, the USA, and Europe do not need a visa for short-term visits to Greenland or visits under 90 days to Iceland and the Schengen Area. There may be exceptions, and all visas are the traveller’s responsibility.

Local LGBT Scene
While Greenland has some of the best LGBT rights in the world. In fact, with less than 60,000 residents, the entire population is smaller than some gaybourhoods. In Iceland the scene is small, and centred around Reykjavík. Being gay or lesbian in Iceland is a complete non-issue (they’ve already had a lesbian prime minister).

Weather
Don’t let the name deceive you. This island can be frosty. Winter temperatures can plunge to -58°F/-50°C. Even in the summer, when we visit, you can expect average temperatures below 50°F/10°C.

Required Vaccinations:
Based on the entry requirements for Greenland and Iceland, there are no mandatory vaccinations. To determine if you should take preventative measures to reduce the risk of illness, consult your doctor or a travel medical clinic. We cannot provide vaccination recommendations.

Electricity
You will need an international travel plug/adapter for Type C, F, E and K sockets.

Connectivity:
You’ll have solid Wi-fi and Cell service in Reykjavik. But once we hit Greenland, connectivity can vary greatly by location.

Quark Expeditions Ultramarine

The newest ship in our fleet, Ultramarine, is designed to go beyond the familiar in polar exploration, to discover new places, and to immerse you in the best the region has to offer.

Equipped with two twin-engine helicopters, Ultramarine offers the most robust portfolio of adventure activities in the industry, the most spacious suites in its category, breathtaking public spaces, and more outdoor wildlife viewing spaces than other expedition ships its size. It also features an innovative mix of sustainability features that exceed all industry standards.

With all this and more, Ultramarine is set to deliver the ultimate polar expedition experience.

Ultramarine ship helicopter

Ultramarine, the newest, ice-strengthened polar tour ship designed specifically for navigating the Arctic and Antarctic, with a priority on maximising guest experience in this part of the world.

The MV Ultramarine can hold a maximum of 199 passengers (200 people is the maximum number that can leave any ship at the same time in the Antarctic according to IAATO regulations) and 140 crew, so not only does it pass this important passenger limit rule, there’s substantial staff available to cover all needs and requirements for high-end cruise executions.

Ultramarine spa

With a focus on environmentally responsible tourism, Quark ensured that the Ultramarine also utilises the most sustainable tech available to operate, including special systems to convert waste to energy, minimise fuel consumption and navigate narrow passages without impacting the land or seabed.

Luxury is paramount onboard, and every corner blends spacious functionality with high-end amenities and tasteful decorations.

Ultramarine bar

There are 8 decks with different style cabins, lounge, two bars, two restaurants, presentation room, gym, spa, reception, ready room and a fully-stocked store.

The newest addition and arguable highlight is the two twin engine helicopters that allow for off ship experiences such as scenic flights and landings in places few people have ever seen.

Ultramarine Panorama Lounge

Located at the bow on Deck 7 is the Panorama Lounge, the ultimate social hub on the Ultramarine. It’s perfect place for guests to relax and unwind at the end if a big day’s exploration or to chill in the morning with a cup of coffee while watching the landscapes pass by.

Ultramarine restaurant

The main restaurant on the ship is the Balena Restaurant located on Deck 5, there’s two sections to the Balena Restaurant – the front section which is more like a lounge and the bright, back section which has more of a diner feel.

Ultramarine Greenland gay cruise

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Greenland West Coast Gay Adventure Cruise 2024 Prices

Cabin

Description

Per person
$ (USD)

Availability

Owner's Suite

Ultramarine Owner's Suite

Located on Deck 6, with approximately 446 sq. ft. (41.4 m2) of indoor living space and a 46.3 sq. ft. (4.3 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests who want it all. A large, luxurious suite featuring a private bedroom, full bathroom, powder room, and two separate living spaces. This suite is perfect for couples who want all the comforts of home onboard the ship. Features: one double or two single beds in a private bedroom with walk-in closet, sitting area with sofa bed and additional closet, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors and separate powder room.

$ 18,895

Penthouse Suite

Ultramarine Penthouse Suite

The only suite category to be located on Deck 7, with approximately 369 sq. ft. (34.3 m2) of indoor living space, and a 67 sq. ft. (6.2 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests wanting to wake up to unobstructed polar views from the warmth and comfort of their bed onboard the ship. These suites offer the best of everything—views, spacious interiors, full bathrooms and generous balcony sizes—as well as easy access to the wellness centre. Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors.

$ 15,445

Deluxe Balcony Suite

Ultramarine Deluxe Balcony suite

Located on Decks 4 and 6, with approximately 299 sq. ft. (27.8 m2) of indoor living space, and a 70 sq. ft. (6.5 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests wanting a larger living space, full bathroom, and a substantial balcony. Deluxe Balcony Suites are the first suite type to offer additional privacy in the bathroom with an enclosed toilet, a full bath and shower to make it easier for guests to get ready together in the morning. Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors.

$ 14,595

Balcony Suite

Ultramarine Balcony SUite

Located on Decks 4 and 6, with approximately 226 sq. ft. (21 m2) of indoor living space, and a 52 sq. ft. (4.8 m2) balcony, this entry-level balcony suite is one of the largest available on a ship of this class. This suite is perfect for guests who are looking for both indoor and outdoor living spaces. There are four connecting suites in this category, making this an excellent option for families or groups wanting to stay connected to each other during their expedition. Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors.

$ 13,545

Explorer Suite

Ultramarine Explorer Suite

Located on Deck 3, and approximately 285 sq. ft. (26.5 m2). These suites are perfect for people traveling together or solo guests looking to share with like-minded individuals. This suite maximizes interior living space while still offering guests the opportunity to stay connected to the outdoors. Our entry-level twin suites are the largest available on a ship of this class. Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, picture window, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors.

$ 12,645