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Stacy
Trip Date 09/03/2019 Posted On 09/25/2019 16:10:45 |
Destinations | Cruises | Greenland | Prince Christian Sound | Prins Christian Sund | Aappilattoq | Royal Caribbean Serenade of the Seas | Transatlantic Cruises | Greenland Crossing
Our most recent transatlantic cruise took us to ports in Denmark, Norway, Scotland and Canada. It was, however, the destinations in Greenland and Iceland that were the primary motivation for us booking our vacation. Little did we know that one of the highlights of sailing aboard the Royal Caribbean Serenade of the Seas would be the time that we spent cruising through Prince Christian Sound.
If you are considering a Greenland Crossing, these 25 photos will help inspire you to make your reservation now. As these infrequent itineraries tend to fill up quickly (and prices seem to skyrocket), don't stall! The scenery of what is known locally as Prins Christian Sund certainly competes with other fjords more commonly travelled by cruise ships. In addition to the cliffs, glaciers and icebergs, you'll likely be treated to some waterfalls and a sighting of the remote town of Aappilattoq. Rumor has it that you might even be lucky enough to spot some whales or other wildlife.
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Prins Christian Sund
The country of Greenland is comprised of the mainland plus an island grouping known as the Cape Farewell Archipelago. The network of channels and fjords which separates southern Greenland's archipelago from the country's primary land mass is known as Prins Christian Sund. Although sailing through the sound requires navigating through many narrow passageways, the route avoids the rough seas found further south.Cruising through the sound is possible only during the few months after temperatures have risen enough to melt the icebergs which often block the entrance. Temperatures are relative - the afternoon high on the day of our early September sailing was expected to be 51 degrees Fahrenheit. The early morning temperatures and 20 mile per hour winds made it feel near freezing to this Texas girl! Withstanding the cold along with most of our fellow passengers, however, was definitely worth it. Traveling through the beautiful sound was one truly memorable experience from our crossing.
These 25 photos are just a small fraction of those that we took during the day. While choosing our favorites was difficult, we feel certain that the selection below will give you a feel for what to expect!
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Sunrise in Prince Christian Sound
Prior to leaving home, I had read that giving up some early morning shut-eye to see the sunrise in Prince Christian Sound was worth the effort. (After all, there's always the opportunity for nap time later in the day!) Although the rising of the sun during our voyage was less than stellar, I can definitely imagine how beautiful it could be without the fog and clouds that plagued our morning arrival.Even so, I'm glad I tried!
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Icebergs, Waterfalls and the Rugged Landscape of Prince Christian Sound
After departing Iceland on our journey from Europe to North America, we entered Prince Christian Sound from Greenland's west coast. The 66 mile long passageway had us sailing between the tall rugged mountain peaks which dwarfed our cruise ship. We cruised up close to both icebergs and glaciers while passing waterfalls along the way.
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The Glaciers of Prince Christian Sound
Captain Stig even took the time to pivot the ship on multiple occasions ensuring that all aboard had an opportunity to take in the beautiful glacial surroundings.
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A Special Delivery to Aappilattoq
We heard the faint "ding-dong" while relaxing in our cabin during the mid afternoon indicating an upcoming announcement. Uh-oh, it was Captain Stig - did that mean that there was a problem? Fortunately, all was good. He was just informing us that we would be pausing to make a special delivery to the residents of Aappilattoq located at the foot of one of the massive mountains flanking the sound.The town, home to about 110 residents, is about as remote as they come. Our early September visit was likely during one of the warmest times of the year. It's hard to imagine life in a community covered in snow more often than not.
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We actually saw a few residents outside - all bundled up to stay warm. After noticing a father sitting next to his son who appeared to be playing on a cell phone, I decided to check to see if I had any cell or data service. Viola - believe it or not, I was able to check email and even make a phone call with a super clear connection!
Although traveling to Greenland is becoming more popular, only a limited number of ships pass through the sound in the short sailing season. This crossing marked only the second time in Royal Caribbean's history to sail by the town.
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As reaching (or even finding) Aappilattoq is not easy, residents of the town have learned to be quite self-sufficient. Prior to our arrival, a request was made by RCI to the government of Greenland. Permission was granted for the ship to deliver some fresh fruits and vegetables to the community.
We learned that no other cruise lines had made such a delivery in the recent past. Being able to witness this small token of appreciation for sharing their beautiful scenery was "icing on the mountain cap" to a beautiful day!
Qaqortoq, Greenland
Check back in the coming weeks for an overview of the day that we spent exploring the port city of Qaqortoq. Our post titled Ideas for Making the Most of a Port Day in Qaqortoq, Greenland will help you plan your time. With suggestions for travelers who are intrigued by history to those who are more athletically inclined (and everything in between), there's something for everyone to see in this unique town.Greenland
In your opinion, what are the must see cities (and sites) that someone planning a visit to Greenland should strive to incorporate into their plan?Weather:50F Light Rain
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