Elsi at sail in West Greenland
Elsi at sail in West Greenland
Huge floating glacier Disko Bay, West Greenland
One of the best ways to truely experience the vast wilderness of West Greenland is by kayak
Enjoy extended hikes in West Greenland
Experience Inuit culture in West Greenland  | Toby Story
One of the best ways to truely experience the vast wilderness of West Greenland is by kayak  | Toby Story
The colours of the Arctic in spring

Kayak, Hike and Sail West Greenland

9 Days from

$ USD

Trip Code: SSD
View dates to BookEssential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Twin Cabin
$7000 USD
Kayaking
$600 USD

Duration

  • 9 Days

Activities

  • 7 days sailing, hiking and optional kayaking

Accommodation

  • 1 night hotel in Ilulissat
  • 7 nights aboard Elsi

Meals

  • 7 Dinners
  • 6 Lunches
  • 8 Breakfasts

Difficulty Grading  

4 / 10

Introductory to Moderate

Trip highlights

  • Experience the dramatic landscape and natural beauty of Greenland
  • Learn about traditional Inuit culture
  • Kayak the serene waters of Disko Island & Uummannaq
  • Enjoy extended hikes and look for unique flora
  • Watch for wildlife including whales, seals, Arctic fox & Arctic hare

Overview

Greenland’s breathtaking west coast is a kayaker’s dream, Inuit communities have long navigated these waters by kayak, preserving traditions in harmony with nature. This nine-day adventure aboard the intimate 16-passenger yacht Elsie begins in the vibrant city of Reykjavík, Iceland. From here, we fly to Ilulissat, our gateway to West Greenland, and a town renowned for its proximity to the UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord. Before setting sail, we’ll explore Ilulissat, Greenland’s third-largest town, surrounded by towering icebergs and rich Arctic landscapes. As we embark on our voyage, we’ll sail through iceberg-dotted Disko Bay, heading toward the wild beauty of Disko Island. Over the next few days, we’ll paddle along the island’s southern and western coastlines, immersing ourselves in serene waters framed by dramatic cliffs and ice-filled horizons. Next, we sail to Uummannaq, a spectacular fjord celebrated for its towering glaciers, floating icebergs, and rugged mountain scenery. These waters teem with life—whales, seals, and abundant fish—creating an unforgettable paddling experience for the adventurous spirit. Join us as we paddle north of the Arctic Circle, exploring one of the world’s last untouched wilderness frontiers.

Itinerary

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Please make your own way to Reykjavik Airport for our group flight to Ilulissat. Icelandic Air flight FI 127 departs Reykjavik at 11am and arrives in Ilulissat at 1.25pm. The flight takes 3.5 hours and you will be met by your guide on arrival at Ilulissat airport and transferred to the group hotel for your overnight stay. This evening there will be a group trip briefing. Overnight: Best Western Plus Hotel Ilulissat (or similar) *We highly recommend you arrive in Reykjavik the day before incase on any flight delays or unscheduled time changes.

Meals: Nil

This morning we will have breakfast at the hotel and some time to explore Ilulissat town before being transferred to board our schooner Elsi. 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 boarding the boat, 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

Ready to start your adventure?

View dates to Book

What’s included?

Included

  • Arrival transfer from the airport to the group hotel in Ilulissat
  • Hotel accommodation (twin share) in Ilulissat including breakfast
  • One way flight from Reykjavik to Illulissat.
  • Transfer from Illulissat hotel to vessel
  • All meals once onboard the boat
  • Seven nights ship accommodation in selected cabin
  • Expedition guide services
  • Port taxes and port charges imposed by government authorities

Not included

  • Travel to and from your home country to Iceland
  • Outward flight from Ilulissat at the end of the trip
  • Single supplements where available
  • Pre- and post- tour accommodation in Reykjavik or Ilulissat
  • Hotels and meals not included in the voyage itinerary
  • Laundry, personal clothing, medical expenses, personal travel insurance and items of a personal nature such as bar charges and phone/email charges.
  • Visa, passport and vaccination charges and airport departure taxes
  • Optional excursions not included in voyage itinerary
  • Optional activities such as kayaking unless the activity supplement has been paid
  • Tips on board for crew and service personnel
  • Travel insurance
  • Emergency evacuation charges

Responsible travel

Extra trip info

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