Kayak, Hike and Sail West Greenland

Upon arrival into Reykjavik, you will be met at the airport and transferred to the group hotel for your overnight stay. This evening you’ll meet your expedition leaders for the trip briefing.

Meals:  Nil

Today we head back to the airport for the 3.5 hour flight to Ilulissat, located on Greenland’s west coast. Ilulissat means ‘iceberg’ in Greenlandic and it’s an apt name as the town is the iceberg capital of the world with Ilulissat Icefjord a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On arrival into Ilulissat we transfer direct to our schooner Elsi, moored just a 10-minute drive from the airport. On boarding, you’ll meet the crew, settle into your cabin and prepare for the upcoming journey. We may have time before departure to sort and fit the kayaking equipment or even enjoy a short stroll or paddle around Ilulissat. After dinner on board, we will set sail for Disko Island, located in Baffin Bay and the largest island along Greenland’s main coast. While out on deck, we’ll keep an eye out for whales, frequent summer visitors to Disko Bay include humpback, minke and fin. We experience the endless light of the polar north summer, where the sun remains visible 24 hours a day, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and sightseeing, even in the late hours of the night.

Meals:  B,D

Disko Island, Qeqertarsuaq in Greenlandic, is volcanic in origin and the steep basalt mountains and hot springs differentiate the island from anywhere else in Greenland. We begin our day with a paddle or hiking excursion on the southern coast of Disko Island, exploring stunning black beaches and hidden coves. We’ll hike to the breathtaking waterfalls of Blaesedalen (Valley of the Winds) and discover the diverse and abundant flora of the island. As we trek or paddle along the coast, we’ll enjoy spectacular views of gigantic icebergs floating both up close and beyond. After a hearty lunch, we will set sail for the fjords of western Disko Island.

Meals:  B,L,D

Today we explore the western expanse of Disko Island, hiking along open valleys and paddling the remote coastline. Our sturdy vessel, Elsi, will accompany us as we journey through the fjords. Disko Island is world renowned as a significant breeding ground for  two species of birds, the white-fronted goose and the king eider and for three Ramsar sites, wetlands designated to be of international importance. This afternoon we will set sail for Uummannaq, a journey that will see us sailing through the polar night.

Meals:  B,L,D

Located 600 kilometres north of the Arctic Circie is Uummannaq Island and town, both sharing the same name. The town is located at the foot of a heart shaped mountain and is perfect to explore. Part of the town’s charm is the enormous red post box where letters to Santa are received from all over the world and replied to by volunteers in Santa’s ‘office’, located between the church and museum. The panoramic view of the fjord from the shore is truly breathtaking, offering an incredible backdrop for our hikes and paddles. This afternoon we will sail to the east, delving deeper into the Islands of Uummannaq Fjord.

Meals:  B,L,D

To the east of Uummannaq lies a selection of Islands set against the Greenland icecap. Depending on the wind and ice, we intend to explore the Islands with the chance to hike, paddle and sail in this most spectacular and remote part of West Greenland. We will endeavour to visit Appat Island, one of the larger islands in the Uummannaq Fjord system. The island is very mountainous, with precipitous walls falling from the glaciated summit plateau in all directions, a stunning backdrop for our kayak outings.

Meals:  B,L,D

Most of today will be spent sailing southward from Uummannaq Fjord to Arve-prinsens Ejland. Enjoy the open ocean, expansive landscapes, spectacular icebergs and keep an eye out for whales from the deck of the ship during our transit.

Meals:  B,L,D

oday we awake in the fjords near Arve-prinsens Ejland (named Alluttoq in Greenlandish), in the north of Disko Bay. This area is ideal for hiking, kayaking among the ice and searching for Greenland’s elusive wildlife. We will paddle and cruise deep into the fjords, watching for ice broken away from the Greenland Icecap. For those inclined to stroll, we may have the chance to hike a short section of tundra to a glacial lake. After lunch, we head further south to Oqaatsut, also known as Rodebay and named after Dutch whalers. Here, we will explore the coastline by tender or kayak, navigating the waters and observing remnants of whales on the seabed. This area offers a fascinating insight into the region’s whaling history. We will enjoy our final meal together tonight and re-live the incredible experiences and natural wonders encountered during our journey. Later this evening we set sail for Ilulissat.

Meals:  B,L,D

The expedition concludes in Ilulissat today. You can choose to continue exploring more of Greenland by land or catch a flight to your next destination. Please note that this itinerary is an approximate guide only and may change due to weather, ice conditions, logistic or unforeseen delays. Highlights of the trip include whale watching, iceberg sightings, scenic treks, sea kayaking, cultural experiences and visits to unique Greenlandic sites. Each day offers a blend of adventure and relaxation, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the stunning beauty and rich culture of Greenland. NB: The following itinerary should be seen as an approximate guide only. Please note that weather, ice conditions, logistics and unforeseen delays can cause alterations to our itinerary.

Meals:  B