by Sarah Kuta
Last updated: 10:35 AM ET, Thu January 23, 2025
HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions) is launching new Greenland expedition cruises with roundtrip flights from Newark.
The company says it is the first to offer flight-inclusive packages from Newark to Nuuk, with dedicated flight allocations on United Airlines’ direct route. The new itineraries debut on June 21, which is Greenland National Day and the summer solstice.
The trips coincide with the opening of the new Nuuk International Airport, which makes it possible for larger planes to land at Greenland's capital. The airport opened in November with a 7,217-foot runway. And, in June, United will begin nonstop seasonal flights there from Newark.
“Greenland is on the cusp of transformation,” says Laali Berthelsen, local product manager for HX and a resident of Nuuk. “With the opening of our new international airport and direct flights, Greenland is more accessible than ever. As interest grows, we have a responsibility to ensure tourism uplifts our communities and respects our environment.”
HX has more than 20 years of experience in Greenland and has been exploring the Arctic since 1896. Offered aboard the hybrid-powered MS Fridtjof Nansen, the new itineraries were created in partnership with Greenlandic communities on the island’s west coast. Each sailing will feature cultural ambassadors, and the HX Foundation has contributed more than $186,605 to youth education, mental health and cultural preservation projects in Greenland communities.
All of HX’s trips are now all-inclusive, meaning that meals, drinks, excursions, science opportunities and more are part of the fare price.
Aleqatsiaq Peary, an Inuk storyteller, musician, and hunter from Qaanaaq, will also join all of the new departures.
"If you’ve read about Arctic explorers, these itineraries offer a chance to experience it for yourself,” says Peary, who is the great-great-great-grandson of Robert Peary, the first person to reach the North Pole. “To see what they saw and feel what it was like to journey to the far north aboard their ships." Onboard, Peary will share his knowledge of Greenlandic traditions, connecting guests with remote communities and deepening their understanding of Northwest Greenland.
The new departures are:
- “Ice Giants of Disko Bay,” a 12-day expedition departing June 21
- “Mythical Lands of the North,” a 16-day voyage departing July 1 and July 15
- “Farthest North to Thule and kane Basin,” a 20-day trip departing July 29
- “Northwest Passage–Through the Arctic Labyrinth,” a 26-day voyages departing August 16
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