The Norse Ruins Excursion on New Cruise Line, Explora Journeys
Friday, July 18, 2025
From Krista Shelton, Client Care Manager at Imagine Going There Travel
As I stepped onto my balcony to check the weather (which was a frigid 26 degrees), I was questioning my decision to sign up for the “exhilarating ride in a RIB (rigid inflatable boat) to the oldest Norse Ruins in Greenland.”
But what an amazing experience! It was well organized with pick up, a warm waterproof suit and gloves to protect me from the elements. It was a short walk across the road to the boat.
We zipped along the coastline (with only my cheeks cold), seeing the sparse and rocky scenery that is Greenland in September, and, in about 20 minutes, we landed at Hvalsey (Whale Island) Ruins, which is the sight of the largest and best preserved Norse ruins in Greenland and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
History says the farmstead was established by Erik the Red’s uncle in the late 10th century and the last documented wedding at Hvalsey Church happened in 1408.
As I wandered freely around the stone ruins you could hear streams flowing in the distance, and when you gazed out over the ocean there was an iceberg floating past.
I was amazed to see some rugged, yet delicate purple flowers blooming through the frost that was slowly melting in the morning sun.
Just when I thought I couldn’t be more in awe of nature, on the way back we slowly boated around three huge icebergs! To be so close to the ice and to see the seagulls perched on top of something that was probably 12 stories high was just phenomenal.
Overall, this was an amazing addition to my Explora Journeys Ocean Cruise.
If you are interested in booking an Explora Journeys cruise, contact us today for complimentary travel care and bonuses!
Imaginegoingthere.com
Carol Shaddix
(770) 421-9627
Carol@ImagineGoingThere.com
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