There are no scheduled ferries to Greenland, but you can sail to Greenland on a cruise ship.
A number of cruise ships choose to visit Greenland when they sail across the Atlantic from USA or Canada to Europe or vice versa. As such most cruise ships to Greenland usually depart from Iceland, Norway, and Canada.
The most common are small expedition cruise ships but there are a few big cruise ships with 1000-4000 passengers docking in various cities in Greenland during the summer (mostly from June- September).
Is there any ferry in Greenland?
Yes, Greenland has a local ferry called Sarfak Ittuk which is operated by Arctic Umiaq line. It is sailing along the west and southwest coastlines, from Qaqortoq to Ilulissat. It sails with weekly departures all year round except mid-January to mid-March when it gets an annual overhaul.
Are there marinas in Greenland?
Yes, as Greenland doesn’t have roads between the cities, boats and as such marinas play an important role in everyday life. Every city and settlement has a harbor or even two (industrial and leisure) where they receive shipments (for example food, oil, furniture, building materials, cars, etc.)
Can you go sailing in Greenland in winter?
There are quite a few destinations in Greenland where you can sail all year round. That includes the towns of Ilulissat, Aassiat, Sisimiut, Maniitsoq, Nuuk, and South Greenland.
What to bring for a sailing trip in Greenland?
A hat, gloves, scarf/buff is always needed even if you sail in summer. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera are always a good idea to pack. The best advice is to dress in layers.
Is it not too cold to sail in an open boat in Greenland?
Sailing with an open boat in Greenland is a refreshing experience. Usually, when you sail with an open boat, you will be provided with floating suits that will keep you warm (depending on the tour) and life west which you will need to wear during your tour (mandatory for all open boat tours). We recommend dressing in layers all year round, you can read more about what to pack for your Greenland trip here.
Sailing with cabin boats
All closed boats have heated cabins, where you can get in and get warm and step outside again when you are ready.
Is there a toilet on board the boats?
Most of the cabin boats have a toilet on board, but it depends on the type of boat.
Does the boat captain/crew speak English?
Yes, at least one of the crew will speak English so you are welcome to ask questions during your trip!
Is it safe to sail in Greenland?
Yes, captains are experienced in sailing in arctic conditions.
Here at Guide to Greenland, we only sell tours with boats that are approved by authorities in Greenland. That means that there is required safety equipment on board such as life vests, VHF radio, life raft (depending on the boat type), and more.
Can kids go sailing in Greenland?
Yes! Boats will be equipped with kid’s life west if you inform us about traveling with your children when booking.
If you traveling with your kids to Greenland, we advise you to go sailing in closed boats as it will be safer for kids and more comfortable.
