What draws travelers to the remote corners of the earth? For many, it's the opportunity to explore the untouched wilderness, encounter new cultures, and experience moments that redefine adventure. We asked our very own Gretchen, Expedition Trips' Logistic Advisor rockstar and avid traveler, who has ventured to both the Arctic and Antarctic regions, this and other questions. Her most recent journey took her aboard the Ultramarine, Quark Expeditions' state-of-the-art polar vessel, on an expedition through South Greenland's dramatic landscapes.
In this interview, Gretchen shares her insights on the stark contrasts between the Arctic and Antarctic regions, the unforgettable moments that shaped her trip, and what it was like to explore Greenland from the comfort of the Ultramarine.
From glacier hiking and helicopter landings on the Greenland ice sheet to encounters with local communities, her adventure offers a glimpse into the immense beauty and challenges of navigating this remote destination. If you're curious about what a Greenland expedition is like or are dreaming of your own, Gretchen's stories are sure to inspire your wanderlust.
Let's dive in and hear what made her journey aboard the Ultramarine so memorable.
You've visited both the Arctic and Antarctic regions—how would you compare the two?
The part of the Arctic I visited (Southern Greenland) was incredibly varied in terrain. I was surprised at how we could be crunching over the vast Greenland ice sheet one day, and the next be hiking through an absolute explosion of colorful flora up toward a glacier. What Antarctica lacks in variety of terrain, however, it makes up for in wildlife. The wildlife was far more elusive in Greenland.
What was your first impression when you embarked on the Ultramarine, and how did traveling aboard that ice-breaker enhance the experience?
The ship is both sleek and well-designed, yet has a cozy, homey feel to it. The comfort you would return to after being out in the cold, sometimes desolate locations was so welcome. There were always hot beverages, little cookies and cakes, and fresh fruit available in the Panorama lounge, and even if you just wanted to spend time in your cabin, the cozy robes and slippers (not to mention the most comfortable mattresses ever) helped you feel right at home. Were there any particular features of the ship that stood out? I spent a lot more time in the sauna than I expected. It has a massive panel of windows where you can just watch the icebergs floating by while you're inside, all nice and toasty. The Panorama lounge was another excellent option if you wanted to be cozy, but still have visual access to icebergs, glaciers, or possible fin whales spouting. Wraparound windows, and binoculars waiting on the ledge if you needed them.
What was your favorite activity or moment on the trip? Any memorable landings?
I loved the "charger hike". This was presented as a challenging, active, several-hour hike, and it did not disappoint – even for extremely fit, seasoned hikers. Everyone was thoroughly exhausted by the end, and felt completely justified indulging in all the incredible desserts at lunch. And the helicopter landing on the Greenland ice sheet was a pretty spectacular, wholly unique experience.
If you had to choose one word to describe Greenland, what would it be and why?
Immense. Everything just felt so enormous and vast there.
Have you had any opportunities to interact with local communities in Greenland? What aspects of Greenland's culture and history intrigued you most during your trip?
We had two stops at local communities. Aappilattoq welcomed the ship guests with local music, food, and a display of crafts, and Qassiarsuk was a shorter visit where guests had the opportunity to view some of the sheep farming activities, and were also free to explore the historical restorations, and enjoy local herbal tea at a charming café. What was really intriguing was the revolving attempts of non-natives settling there. The land could be fairly unforgiving, and various groups tried to lay claim to the entire region at different times.
What advice would you give to travelers heading to Greenland for the first time?
Manage your expectations for spotting wildlife, and prepare to be awed by the remote beauty of the landscape.
