For a few short months each year, East Greenland becomes one of the best places on Earth to witness the night sky. From August to October, when the Arctic transitions from endless summer daylight to darker skies, the region offers ideal conditions for northern lights viewing and stargazing, with almost no light pollution for disruption to see the sky shine.
During this time, retreating sea ice reveals access to one of the most remote coastlines in the Arctic, with a beautiful landscape shaped by glaciers, drifting icebergs, steep mountains, floating ice, and vast fjord systems, including Scoresbysund, the largest fjord in the world. Secret Atlas, a polar expedition company specializing in Expedition Micro Cruises, offers various unique itineraries to explore the destination, with groups of just 12 guests, allowing them to feel like part of the environment itself.
Voyages are guided by real-time conditions such as sea ice, weather, wildlife activity, and light, allowing the expedition team to venture deeper into fjords, spend more time ashore, and stargaze for longer.
Secret Atlas offers several voyages exploring East Greenland during this period, including:
Northeast Greenland National Park Micro Cruise
Secret Atlas’ longest Greenland expedition, this 11–13 day journey combines the exploration of Scoresbysund, one of the largest fjords in the world, with Northeast Greenland National Park, a vast protected area only a lucky few have the privilege to experience first-hand. Northeast Greenland National Park covers more than a quarter of Greenland, the largest island on Earth. Unbelievably, it is larger than 166 of the planet’s 195 countries.
Departing in early September, the itinerary explores terrains such as Sydkap, where guests will discover Thule remains; Antarctic Havn, hearing the stories of Erik the Red and the Norwegian governor who had his residence here in the 1930s, and hiking to an atmospheric cabin, half-submerged by an avalanche; and Blomsterbugt, where guests will absorb the colours of the surrounding plainland, spot divers, and meet the local population of Arctic hares. The itinerary also includes a visit to the remote settlement of Ittoqqortoormiit, offering insight into Greenland’s unique culture.
Scoresbysund Autumn Micro Cruise
Timed for the later half of September, this nine-day expedition takes place as the Arctic transitions from continuous daylight to darker skies, the best time of the year to see the northern lights and stargaze. This expedition also explores Scoresbysund, including areas such as Ofjord, Hare Fjord, and the Bear Islands. Guests experience icebergs, fjords, and mountain scenery from both ship and shore while keeping watch for wildlife such as musk oxen, seabirds, seals, reindeer, and polar bears, which are noted to be more rare in this region. The journey also includes a stop in Ittoqqortoormiit.
Scoresbysund Northern Lights Photo Tour with Virgil Reglioni
One of three photo tour options in Scoresbysund, led by award-winning polar photographer Virgil Reglioni, this photography-focused expedition offers the chance to capture East Greenland’s landscapes under ideal northern lights conditions. Guests photograph fjords, peaks, and vast ice formations while receiving expert guidance throughout the journey.
For travelers seeking a more personalized experience, Secret Atlas also offers private yacht charters, allowing guests to select their own travel dates and explore the Arctic on a fully personalized and customized itinerary.
