The HANSEATIC spirit is one of the few ships that can travel not only to Greenland’s spectacular west, but also to virtually untouched east Greenland, where the icy shield opens up at this time of year. The stage is set for unique natural spectacles that, with a little luck, will be crowned by the Northern Lights. As you start your cruise, Sisimiut presents the history of polar settlements in its picturesque old town, which resembles a museum village. On a hike, your experts will explain fascinating historical details. The imposing landscape of Ilulissat also offers stunning views on a hike to the ice fjord. A breathtaking display will draw everyone’s attention in Disko Bay: while cruising and riding in the Zodiacs, watch the mighty ice formations that drift through the bay.

Your expedition feeling will continue as you head further south. Cast your gaze over the vast tundra in the Arsukfjord, where musk oxen might make an appearance. Gaze in wonder at the beautiful shimmering turquoise on a cruise through Prince Christian Sound: enjoy extraordinary views of waterfalls, steep rock faces and glaciers. The warm colours of the landscape in Skjoldungen Sound are a charming contrast to the icy blue. Lush tundra with delicate flowers, surrounded by mountains up to 1,000 m (3,281 ft) high – and you in the midst of it all on a hike with your experts.

Greenland’s seldom-visited east coast will captivate you with its remoteness, enormous mountains and an almost endless fjord world. The Zodiacs will take you up-close to nature on your flexible expedition route – and offer a good chance of spotting whales, among other creatures. Continue on a geological journey through the millennia deep into Scoresbysund, where the Ice Age has clearly left its mark. Depending on the weather and ice conditions, the HANSEATIC spirit will take its time over intensive explorations of the world’s largest fjord system. A world of superlatives awaits you: 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 reflected white in the water. Enjoy a series of hikes through the autumnal tundra surrounded by these wonderful views. Ittoqqortoormiit, one of Greenland’s smallest communities where around 350 people live in complete isolation, is like an Arctic haven of peace. A small museum will take you back in time and bring Inuit history to life.

One particular highlight of your expedition awaits you further north 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 true 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 musk oxen 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. Triangular Ella Island and its almost 1,200 m (3,937 ft) high rocky flank are just as imposing. Equally majestic, the King Oscar Fjord will complete your unforgettable impressions of Greenland’s pristine beauty – perhaps even with polar bear sightings.

After the isolation of Greenland, the route slowly brings you back to civilisation. What is life like in Iceland between mighty volcanoes and glaciers? Sitting on a long fjord, the town of Seydisfjordur and its colourful wooden houses are a reminder of the riches brought by the herring boom.

Scotland’s rugged landscape is just as stunning. The town of Lerwick, a place of towers and granite houses, welcomes you to the Shetland Islands with a special sense of calm. Visit the archaeological site of Jarlshof*, which bears witness to the everyday lives of the Stone Age people and Vikings. Alternatively, focus on natural photography on Shetland*. The premiere destination Berwick-upon-Tweed also provides memorable photo opportunities. This charming small town on the east coast of England features impressive historic structures, such as the 14th-century city walls. The monastery ruins and castle on tidal Holy Island* exhibit the signs of a turbulent past, while a visit to Alnwick Castle and Garden* lets you explore the second-largest noble estate in England – made famous by the Harry Potter and Robin Hood film adaptations.

From the northern reaches of the world, your ship returns to its home in Hamburg. Take this opportunity to end your cruise with further impressions on the Elbe and Alster.