From the Arctic to Hamburg – quite unusual for a polar cruise but highly convenient for you and, above all, one thing: spectacular. On a flexible course, the small HANSEATIC nature connects the west and east coasts of Greenland. A region that appears so untouched and pristine as if no human being had ever set eyes on it. The fascination of remoteness lies over Sisimiut right from the start, its old town resembling a museum village. You can marvel at one of the northernmost UNESCO World Heritage Sites on a hike with your experts to the ice fjord of Ilulissat, “birthplace” of many icebergs. These will draw everyone’s attention in Disko Bay as well. Both while cruising and riding in the Zodiacs, watch the mighty ice formations that drift through the bay.

In the Arsukfjord, cast your gaze over the vast tundra where musk oxen might make an appearance. Peer in wonder at the beautiful shimmering turquoise on a cruise through Prince Christian Sound with extraordinary views of waterfalls, steep rock faces and glaciers.

Those who want to get to know the remote east of Greenland now have the best opportunity to do so. Only in late summer are the waters considered navigable, when the thick belt of pack ice opens up to reveal a hidden world. Mountains up to 1,000 m (3,281 ft) high define Skjoldungen Sound – ideal for hiking with your experts. The small settlement of Tasiilaq lies in the middle of virtually untouched nature. Dog sledding and the Inuit drum dance are a living tradition here. It is even more isolated to live in Ittoqqortoormiit in the midst of endless wilderness. Your impressions of nature will probably only be surpassed by Scoresbysund, the largest fjord system in the world. Greenland’s highest mountains, impressive glacier landscapes and icebergs shape the region. Awe-inspiring rock faces rise up steeply before you, forming a rugged background for the scene of bizarre ice sculptures. Enjoy extensive hikes surrounded by these wonderful views. With a little luck, you will be able to see the Northern Lights at this time of year. One particular highlight of your expedition awaits you in Northeast Greenland National Park, the largest national park on the planet covering an area of around 970,000 km² (375,000 mi.²) – only accessible with a small expedition ship. Deserted aside from the traditional Sirius Dog Sled Patrol, its alpine landscape, granite cliffs and glaciers redefine the feeling of isolation. Enjoy a series of overwhelming views in the realm of polar bears and Arctic foxes from the Zodiacs and on deck, such as when the mountain flanks of the Alpefjord tower up to 3,000 m (9,843 ft) above you. Equally majestic, the King Oscar Fjord will complete your unforgettable impressions – perhaps even with polar bear sightings.

After the isolation, the route slowly brings you back to civilisation. Iceland does not dare compare itself with Greenland, but rather provides deep insights into Nordic life. With its colourful wooden houses, the small town of Seydisfjordur, situated on a fjord, are a reminder of the riches brought by the herring boom.

Rough, wild and full of ancient history, the Orkney Islands welcome you when you discover the historical treasures* starting in Kirkwall. Skara Brae, the best-preserved prehistoric village in northern Europe, and the Ring of Brodgar, dating back to around 2700 BC, are fascinating sights here.

The ship’s route from the distant Arctic eventually takes you quite comfortably to Hamburg. Take this opportunity to end your cruise with further impressions on the Elbe and Alster.