For landscape lovers and aurora chasers – the ultimate expedition of Earth and sky.
Explore Scoresbysund in autumn, and witness the northern lights casting their spell across the sky. This otherworldly event is particularly common here at this time of year, illuminating the night sky above a mythical land where Arctic wildlife roam the shores and monolithic icebergs drift down fairytale fjords.
Otherworldly landscapes and the heavens dancing above you.
East Greenland in autumn is a feast for the senses – on land, at sea, and in the sky.
Explore the mythical Scoresbysund, the largest fjord system in the world, its labyrinthine pathways strewn with cathedral-size icebergs. Encounter the local wildlife, including musk ox, Arctic foxes, Arctic hares, and maybe even (though they are rare here) polar bears and narwhals.
But keep your eyes on the skies and listen for the knock on your cabin door at night. The northern lights are the ultimate East Greenland sight at this time of year. Capturing them on camera is the goal of photographers great and small.
This voyage takes place during the latter half of September, at the optimum time for encountering the Scoresbysund northern lights. Whilst never guaranteed, there is a good chance to witness this magical phenomenon in one of the most scenic places on Earth, with zero light pollution and majestic mountains all around.
The best time of year for seeing the northern lights – the greatest show on Earth
Explore Scoresbysund’s wild, perspective-altering landscapes of icebergs, fjords, and mountains, from the ship and shore
Spot Greenland’s wildlife – musk oxen, seabirds, seals, reindeer, polar bears – in their Arctic home
Visit the remote settlement of Ittoqqortoormiit and learn about the unique Greenlandic way of life
“Secret Atlas provides the trip of a lifetime. If you are looking for a cruise that only has a small number of people, then this is a trip you can't go past.”
— JB, Secret Atlas guest in Scoresbysund
Every expedition leaves a mark. Discover honest reflections, unforgettable moments, and personal highlights shared by guests who have explored the polar regions with us.
We prefer to embrace spontaneity and make the most of every opportunity nature presents to us. This is how we believe a true, authentic expedition should run. After all, the thrill of adventuring into the unknown is more rewarding than a journey that runs on tracks!
So all our listed itineraries are for guidance only. The day-to-day activities may vary depending on the ice, the weather, and the wildlife. Landings are subject to site availability and permissions, and always in line with AECO regulations.
For even more flexibility, get in touch about making this a private yacht charter.
Meet other guests and Secret Atlas rep at the pre-arranged meeting point in Keflavik Airport, or Reykjavik Airport, Iceland, before going through security together and boarding our charter plane to Nerlerit Inaat Airport (Constable Point), Greenland.
From the airport, we will take a short hike to the shore and board Zodiac boats to take us to our expedition ship.
Explore Viking Bay by Zodiac cruise, marvelling at the bird cliffs and stunning basalt columns.
Hike on Danmark Island, a striking island in the fjord, spotting divers and maybe even musk oxen, alongside ancient Thule remains.
Sail into Hare Fjord, which likely gained its name from the Arctic hares that preside here.
Tour steep-sided Ofjord and land on the Bear Islands for panoramic views of this scenic stretch of Scoresbysund.
Land on Sydkap to discover Thule remains and a hunters’ cabin, gaining a dramatic view of the surrounding icebergs on the border of the Northeast Greenland National Park.
Sail to Ittoqqortoormiit, one of the remotest towns on the planet, with an idiosyncratic culture and way of life.
On the final day, we’ll take a charter flight back to Iceland, where you’ll enjoy a relaxing evening and overnight stay at our comfortable hotel — a chance to unwind and reflect on your unforgettable journey through Greenland.
Enjoy your last day in Reykjavík, Iceland
For those continuing, there’s the opportunity to join an adventure with Hyperborea, our trusted local tour operator partners in Iceland — perhaps exploring Reykjavík’s vibrant culture, soaking in the Blue Lagoon, or discovering the country’s dramatic waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanic landscapes on a scenic day tour.
A perfect finale to your Arctic journey.
This is an exciting and convenient fly and cruise expedition, cutting down on time at sea with our own private charter flight from Iceland to Greenland.
The view from the plane over Greenland is immense. It’s a map of the adventure we’re about to embark on together – and the perfect way to start our expedition.
You'll be flying with our carrier, Icelandair, aboard a fixed-wing turboprop aircraft suitable for regional Arctic operations.
Your home-from-home in the Arctic.
MV Freya is a classic expedition ship. The sturdy, ice-strengthened 1A hull makes her perfect for exploring the Arctic waters.
A new ice-strengthened ship with industry-leading environmental credentials.
We’re fuelled by the long-lost spirit of adventure, guided by environmental and cultural responsibility, and committed to creating transformative travel experiences.
We’re pioneers of the Expedition Micro Cruise, offering the smallest group sizes at both poles. That means a flexible itinerary. It means more time exploring and photographing. It means a deeper connection with your team and the natural world.
We understand that, out here, less is more. Less waiting to board Zodiacs, more time ashore. Less strict itineraries, more adventure. Less crowd, more immersion.
We’re fuelled by the long-lost spirit of adventure, guided by environmental and cultural responsibility, and committed to creating transformative travel experiences.
We’re pioneers of the Expedition Micro Cruise, offering the smallest group sizes at both poles. That means a flexible itinerary. It means more time exploring and photographing. It means a deeper connection with your team and the natural world.
We understand that, out here, less is more. Less waiting to board Zodiacs, more time ashore. Less strict itineraries, more adventure. Less crowd, more immersion.
Lectures, workshops on board, and daily exploratory activities
Free use of ship’s Wi-Fi powered by Starlink
Full board (breakfast, lunch and dinner) beverages served during meals, while on board our micro cruises
Rubber polar standard boots for shore landings
One piece insulation suits available on board
IAATO and AECO fees, and operational fees and permits included
Private charter return flight between Iceland and Greenland
Transfer from the airport to the hotel on disembarkation
Complementary hotel night and farewell dinner
International flights – we recommend booking early. For excellent service and support, consider using our partner Exito Travel
Travel and cancellation insurance – we strongly recommend securing coverage to protect your expedition. For guidance, see our Travel Insurance Checklist
Additional expenses outside of what is included in the voyage or optional activities
Gratuities
Additional purchases or services on board
Other transfer or hotels unless specified as included as part of the voyage description
Solo travellers are welcome on all our voyages. We often host solo travellers – the chances are you won’t be the only one. We offer the following accommodation options:
Single cabins (where available)
The option to share a twin cabin with another traveller of the same gender
The option to have your own double cabin for an additional supplement. Please contact us for this option as the price varies depending on trip and availability
To get the most from a Secret Atlas expedition, it’s important to be stable on your feet and able to undertake short hikes. But there’s no requirement to undertake any given activity, and we usually split into two groups: those who want to go to the top of the hill, and those who’d prefer a more leisurely stroll at the bottom (or a Zodiac cruise!).
The charter flight offers a more generous baggage allowance than most commercial airline flights to Greenland, with each guest able to bring 23kg check-in, 5kg hand luggage, and one small personal item.
All our East Greenland expeditions start with a charter flight from Keflavik International Airport, Iceland, to Nerlerit Inaat Airport (Constable Point Airport) in East Greenland, where you will board your Secret Atlas micro expedition vessel.
Unlike larger vessels with higher passenger capacities, our voyages are personal and unique in their approach. Travelling with a small group of guests means more time exploring, more flexibility, and less time waiting to board Zodiacs and go ashore.
Our small expedition vessels will get you closer to nature and more immersed in the landscape than larger ships, offering you a more transportative and transformative experience with no crowds or queuing.
Guests are not permitted to use drones during the expedition. In any case a drone is being used during your expedition, it will be for professional use only by a member of the Secret Atlas team with the required permissions.
Limitations are in place to protect the wildlife we encounter. Often, it is not possible to get up-close to the wildlife we see. For more information, check out the ‘Visitor Guidelines’.
Everything you need to know to help you plan your polar expedition, from destination guides to weather insights and what to pack…
Share the journey with those who matter most.
The Signature Twin cabins aboard Freya are comfortable and cosy, just like the rest of the vessel.
The colour scheme of dark blues and golden wood notes, seen elsewhere on the ship, creates a warming atmosphere.
There is an air of eccentricity harking back to expeditions of the past in the design elements and artwork adorning the walls – but the rooms are appointed with modern conveniences.
The master suite aboard Freya is spacious, charmingly appointed, and has a pleasingly cosy, warming design style. With an ensuite toilet and shower room, along with plenty of storage space, it’s as comfortable as it is attractive.
The ship’s characterful look – with dark blue walls, varnished wood detailing, and plenty of light – is well-represented in the penthouse suite, providing a cabin-in-the-woods feeling of warmth. There’s a dash of expeditionary eccentricity to many of the design details – we’re big fans!
It’s just what you want to return home to after an active day of exploration.
The top choice for solo travellers, Signature Singles aboard Freya boast an ensuite toilet and shower room and plenty of storage space.
You need somewhere comfortable to return to after a long day of adventuring in the wilderness, and with Freya’s quintessentially warm aesthetic – scattered here and there with characterful design details and artworks – you have just that.
A window lets in plenty of light, gearing you up for another day in one of the world’s last great wildernesses.
The top choice for solo travellers, the new Classic Singles aboard Freya boast an ensuite toilet and shower room and plenty of storage space.
You need somewhere comfortable to return to after a long day of adventuring in the wilderness, and with Freya’s quintessentially warm aesthetic – scattered here and there with characterful design details and artworks – you have just that.
A window lets in plenty of light, gearing you up for another day in one of the world’s last great wildernesses.
This comfy cabin option comes with your choice of a double bed or twins.
The ship’s subtle Scandi design continues into your suite, creating a calming, rejuvenating atmosphere in which to unwind after a long day’s exploration.
The cabin boasts an ensuite toilet and shower room, along with a desk and chair, wardrobe, and windows.
The spacious master suite on deck 3 is seamlessly designed for double occupancy.
It boasts a particularly light and airy feel, courtesy of the windows in the main room and ensuite, as well as the cabin’s elevated position on the upper deck.
The Scandi-inspired penthouse features a desk and chair, along with ample storage space for two guests and plenty of room to relax and unwind in.
Ideal for solo travellers, this more compact cabin option still feels spacious and welcomingly serene, thanks to its light design and carefully considered layout.
Features include a wardrobe, ensuite, and a window on the wall of the main room.
Your cosy home-from-home as you explore the wildest places on the planet.
This comfy cabin option comes with your choice of a double bed or twins.
The ship’s subtle Scandi design continues into your suite, creating a calming, rejuvenating atmosphere in which to unwind after a long day’s exploration.
The cabin boasts an ensuite toilet and shower room, along with a desk and chair, wardrobe, and windows.
The spacious master suite on deck 3 is seamlessly designed for double occupancy.
It boasts a particularly light and airy feel, courtesy of the windows in the main room and ensuite, as well as the cabin’s elevated position on the upper deck.
The Scandi-inspired penthouse features a desk and chair, along with ample storage space for two guests and plenty of room to relax and unwind in.
Ideal for solo travellers, this more compact cabin option still feels spacious and welcomingly serene, thanks to its light design and carefully considered layout.
Features include a wardrobe, ensuite, and a window on the wall of the main room.
Your cosy home-from-home as you explore the wildest places on the planet.
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