The completion of an airport expansion in Nuuk, the capital city of Greenland, is set to have a significant impact on expedition itineraries for various cruise lines, including Viking, Silversea, and HX. This expansion includes a longer runway and a new terminal, which is expected to open later this year. With Icelandair offering service from Reykjavik and Air Greenland offering service from Copenhagen, Nuuk is poised to become a strategic starting point for expeditions into Greenland. The availability of more flight options is crucial in opening up the region to a wider range of travelers, including those from the United States.
Viking is seizing the opportunity presented by the Nuuk airport expansion by offering new expedition itineraries from the city. The Viking Octantis will sail on four new cruises next year, ranging from 13 to 27 days and exploring the polar regions of Greenland and Canada. These cruises will depart from Nuuk, marking a shift from the traditional starting point of Reykjavik. The different itineraries offered by Viking provide a comprehensive exploration of the region, from the Arctic Circle to Canada’s Nunavut territory.
HX’s Greenland Season
HX, formerly known as Hurtigruten Expeditions, is also capitalizing on the increased accessibility of Nuuk by expanding its Greenland offerings. The line will sail nine Greenland itineraries next year, with three new Grand Greenland sailings starting and ending in Nuuk. These itineraries will take passengers on a journey along the western coast of Greenland, visiting iconic sites such as the Ilulissat Icefjord and Uummannaq Fjord. HX’s Fridtjof Nansen will be the vessel for these expeditions, providing passengers with a comfortable and immersive experience.
Silversea Cruises is joining the trend of incorporating Nuuk into its expedition itineraries. The Silver Endeavour will embark on a 15-day cruise from Churchill, Manitoba, to Nuuk. This route will take passengers through Hudson Bay, exploring Canada’s northern territories before reaching Greenland. The cruise will include stops at various ports along the way, offering passengers the chance to experience the unique landscapes and cultures of the region. The inclusion of Nuuk as a key point of interest highlights the growing importance of the city as a hub for expedition travel.
Overall, the expansion of Nuuk’s airport is reshaping the landscape of expedition travel in Greenland. With new flight options and cruise itineraries, travelers now have more opportunities to explore this remote and captivating region. The inclusion of Nuuk as a starting point for expeditions opens up a host of possibilities for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the unique landscapes and cultures of Greenland. As more cruise lines begin to incorporate Nuuk into their itineraries, the city is poised to become a key destination for expedition travel in the Arctic region.
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