This Is Your Sign To Take That Bucket List Trip To East Greenland

Whether it’s launching a new business, pivoting careers or pursuing passions that once felt out of reach, we love nothing more than seizing the chance to dive into new adventures. That, of course, goes without saying when it comes to travel, and if you're currently planning your next big trip, there's no better time to push your boundaries and explore the world in bold new ways. Need a little inspiration? How about setting sail to the pristine, untamed wilderness of East Greenland...

This September, I took the plunge and embarked on a journey far outside my comfort zone. I joined the expedition yacht MV Vikingfjord, run by Secret Atlas, a company pioneering micro-cruises for intimate, eco-friendly exploration. We sailed through Scoresby Sund, the longest fjord system in the world, on Greenland’s remote east coast, deep within the Arctic Circle. Little did I know, this trip would not only introduce me to the spectacular wildlife and icebergs of the Arctic, but it would result in a whole host of deeply meaningful experiences.

The Secret Atlas Approach: Intimate And Sustainable

Founded by Michele D’Agostino, a passionate high-latitude sailor, and Mariano Curiel, an experienced polar explorer, Secret Atlas is unique in the industry - their small, intimate cruises fill a gap in an overcrowded market dominated by larger ships carrying hundreds of passengers. With Vikingfjord, I was one of just six guests onboard (though the yacht accommodates up to 12), many of who were in their golden years.

What’s more, as group travel continues to grow in popularity, particularly among empty-nesters and retirees, this kind of shared experience - blending adventure, comfort, and sustainability - hits all the right notes.

But beyond the enviable setting, what really sets Secret Atlas apart is their dedication to sustainable tourism. In a world where mass travel threatens many ecosystems, their approach offers a refreshing alternative: small groups, less environmental impact, and a deeper connection with the pristine wilderness.

Embracing Spontaneity And The Thrill Of Exploration

One of the best parts of this type of travel is the joy of letting go of rigid itineraries. Gone are the days of over-planning every detail - on Vikingfjord, the daily schedule is determined by expert guides, Ombline and Raphaël, who base decisions on weather conditions and wildlife activity. Typically, however, the itinerary includes two daily outings, such as shore landings or Zodiac cruises (Zodiacs are small, inflatable boats) around towering icebergs. These nimble boats allow access to rugged shorelines and untouched inlets, providing an up-close and personal experience of Greenland’s ice-laden landscape.

For those concerned about the physical demands of these outings, rest assured that flexibility is built into the experience. While some hikes offer a chance to explore further into the wilderness, shorter, gentler walks are also an option, allowing guests of all fitness levels to participate without feeling overtaxed. Whether you’re up for a more challenging trek or prefer a leisurely stroll, the guides will tailor activities to suit everyone’s needs.

Greenland’s Icebergs: A Marvel Of Nature

Contrary to what its name suggests, over 80% of Greenland is covered in ice, and witnessing the icebergs for the first time is an awe-inspiring experience. These towering, shimmering giants, some as tall as 300 feet, rise out of the water, ranging in colour from vibrant blues to deep greens. One of the highlights of our trip was witnessing a glacier calving - a massive slab of ice breaking off and crashing into the sea, forming a new iceberg. It’s one thing to watch such events on television; it’s another to see it happen before your eyes.

This part of Greenland, Scoresby Sund, is renowned for its natural beauty, and as we sailed through the fjord, I often found myself mesmerised by the sheer vastness of the ice and the sense of untouched wilderness. You’re far from the crowded tourist hotspots here, experiencing a world that remains wild and virtually unchanged.

The Wildlife: Up-Close Encounters In The Arctic

Of course, no trip to the Arctic is complete without its unique wildlife. We had the rare privilege of spotting Arctic hares, Arctic foxes and musk ox - the latter being the largest land mammals in Greenland, with their impressive shaggy coats and imposing horns. One particularly magical moment was seeing a lone polar bear resting on a drifting iceberg, peacefully dozing after a freshly-caught meal.

And if you're lucky, this part of the world offers some of the best chances to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights too.

Immersing Yourself In Local Culture

An important aspect of this adventure is the cultural immersion it offers. A recent report by American Express Travel noted that 89% of travellers today are eager to experience local cultures rather than just tourist attractions, and we had the opportunity to visit Ittoqqortoormiit, one of the most remote villages on the planet, home to just 400 residents. Blanketed in snow for nine months of the year, this village is a testament to human resilience in one of the harshest environments on Earth.

The brightly coloured wooden houses set against a backdrop of ice and fjords made for a striking scene. We met locals, cuddled newly born Arctic puppies and were even invited into the home of an Inuit woman named Charlotte, who prepared us a meal with a view over the fjords. It was a humbling experience to witness such a simple yet beautiful way of life, so removed from the hustle of modern society.

Dining And Luxury Onboard

Given the remote location, the culinary experience on Vikingfjord was fantastic. Chef Josh Wing prepared daily meals using locally sourced ingredients wherever possible, with each meal a feast - chicken cordon-bleu with butternut risotto, Arctic char with dill oil and freshly baked breads were some of the highlights. After a long day of exploration, indulging in delicious food, followed by a soak in the outdoor hot tub or a sauna, was the perfect way to unwind.

The yacht itself, having been recently renovated, offers chic Scandinavian design complete with eight en-suite cabins plus a panoramic lounge that provided stunning views at every turn. What’s more, the vessel is environmentally friendly, boasting systems that reduce emissions by 95% and increase fuel efficiency, making it one of the greenest small expedition vessels in the Arctic.

The Journey: A Rare And Priceless Experience

Reaching East Greenland isn’t easy -it requires a private charter flight from Reykjavik to one of the most remote airports in the world, Constable Point. But that’s part of what makes this destination so special. The effort to get there, along with the limited number of visitors, helps preserve Greenland as one of the last untouched wildernesses on Earth.

For those seeking an adventure that goes beyond the ordinary, this expedition is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that’s not just about checking another destination off your list, but about deeply engaging with a place and its people in a meaningful way. This is what travel should be as we get older - rare experiences, incredible landscapes and a connection to both nature and culture. Greenland truly is one of the most spectacular places on Earth, and Secret Atlas makes it possible to explore it with purpose and comfort.

INFO: 2025 dates now available for booking; from €14,050pp; secretatlas.com

Images: Robert Scott, Sané Raphaël, Nico-Majerus & Sophie Dingwall, Secret Atlas