Included: Experienced guides with extensive knowledge of the area 9-day West Greenland multisport adventure Return transfers from the airport to the group hotel in Reykjavik One way flight from Reykjavik to Illulissat Return transfer from Illulissat airport to vessel Accommodation: Hotel (twin share) in Reykjavik and 7 nights on a ship All meals on board ship Port taxes and port charges imposed by government authorities Add-ons: Kayaking package rental Twin cabin Not included: Flights to and from Iceland Outward flight from Ilulissat at the end of the trip Visa, passport and vaccination charges and airport departure taxes Optional excursions not included in the itinerary Meals not indicated in the itinerary Emergency evacuation charges Alcoholic beverages Laundry and medical expenses Optional activities such as kayaking unless the activity supplement has been paid Entry tickets/parking Guide and crew gratuities — optional Travel and medical insurance — optional

How fit do I need to be?

While there’s a range of activities available, from easy shore landings and zodiac cruises to active hikes and paddles, it is most important that you have an adventurous disposition, are in good health, and are relatively fit and active to participate in this trip. Shore landings and zodiac cruises are suitable for all those with the ability to enter the tender from the yacht with assistance from the expedition team. The active hikes will often be over several miles/kilometres of varied terrain, from gentle tundra to steep slopes on a mix of uneven, rocky ground, and may involve some scrambling . The paddling program is focused on those looking for active outings. For more hiking, kayaking, and sailing adventures in Greenland, click here !

What do I need to bring?

Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring: ZODIACS & LANDINGS Thermal base layer: Long sleeve top and leggings made of Merino wool or Polypropylene material is ideal. We recommend packing 3-4 long sleeve tops and 2-3 leggings for the expedition. Insulation mid layer 1: Polar Fleece top or lightweight wool jumper. Polar Fleece or warm (tracksuit) bottom. Insulation mid layer 2: Polar Fleece or Down zip up jacket or vest Waterproof outer layer: Waterproof jacket and waterproof pants (essential to go ashore). The pants need to be durable and wide enough to fit over your rubber boots. Footwear: You will need to pack your own long rubber boots with insulation for the expedition.Please ensure they are roomy enough to fit thick socks, or 2 layers of thinner socks. We recommend packing sheep wool inner soles for extra warmth and comfort in your rubber boots. Bring several pairs of socks so you can layer and work out the best combination for you. We recommend thick warm socks made of wool or synthetic fibres. Gloves: A pair of polypropylene or woollen gloves with a waterproof glove on top. We suggest packing 2 pairs in case one gets wet. Headgear and neck warmers: A neck gaiter is the easiest way to keep your neck warm from the cold. Make sure it is large enough to also pull up to cover your mouth. A fleece or woollen beanie that also covers your ears ONBOARD Clothing: Comfortable casual clothes Footwear: Warm comfortable flat shoes with good grip, such as sneakers or moccasins OTHER ITEMS Sunscreen Polarised sunglasses Personal medication Sea sickness medication Moisturiser for face and hands Lip balm/chapstick Personal toiletries A towel Waterproof bag for landings Dry bag or Ziploc plastic bag for camera Camera and accessories Spare batteries and memory cards for camera Adapter (the plugs aboard are European 2-prong) Binoculars Earplugs and eye mask Extra prescription glasses or contact lenses Personal first-aid kit with individual medicines Glasses cord for glasses/sunglasses Water bottle Hot tea thermos Collapsible adjustable walking poles Swimsuit for the Polar Plunge Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and pricing For this West Greenland kayak, hike, and sailing adventure, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 15:2. It takes a minimum of 15 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 15 participants. West Greenland kayak, hike, and sail adventure can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements. Min. age requirements If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Minors from 16 to 18 may be permitted to join the West Greenland kayak, hike, and sailing adventure on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. If your group has adventurers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Getting there and meeting location

The starting point of your West Greenland kayak, hike, and sailing adventure is Keflavik Airport (KEF) in Reykjavik, Iceland. Upon arrival into Reykjavik, you will be transferred to the hotel for the overnight stay. This evening, you’ll meet your expedition leaders for the trip briefing.

Safety measures and insurance

We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner! Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered. Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!

ILULISSAT | GREENLAND

Arctic Expedition: Sail, Kayak, and Hike in West Greenland

5.00 ()

From $5,650 ()

Duration

9 days

Season

July through August

Book a call

Intro
Itinerary
Brochure
Guides
Accommodation
Reviews
Things to know

Ready to trade city lights for the glow of the midnight sun? Hop aboard the schooner Elsi and embark on an unforgettable voyage through West Greenland’s icy playground. Paddle alongside icebergs, hike valleys straight out of a fairytale, and marvel at Disko Island’s black beaches and towering basalt cliffs. With only 16 adventurers on board, every moment feels personal—whether spotting whales from the deck or exploring Greenlandic communities off the beaten path. This is where silence, ice, fun, and the unexpected meet—come and see for yourself!

Adventure highlights

Disko fever

Discover Disko Island’s volcanic charm with its dramatic landscapes and pristine coastlines
Tundra treasures

Trek across Greenland’s rugged tundra to uncover glacial lakes and hidden valleys
Deck life, redefined

Watch whales breach and icebergs drift by—all from schooner Elsi’s deckside

Download itinerary

Itinerary

Embark on a 9-day expedition through the icy majesty of West Greenland, where kayaking, hiking, and sailing meet in a breathtaking Arctic adventure. Aboard the intimate 16-passenger schooner, Elsi, we’ll explore Disko Bay’s volcanic shores, paddle among towering icebergs, and hike to remote valleys under the midnight sun. With stops at Uummannaq and Disko Island, plus opportunities to visit Greenlandic communities, this small-group trip offers a unique chance to connect with nature and culture. Perfect for adventurers seeking pristine landscapes, abundant wildlife, and unforgettable moments in one of the world’s last wild frontiers.

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.

Accommodation: Hotel in Reykjavik
Today, we’ll head back to the airport for the flight to Ilulissat, located on Greenland’s west coast. Upon arrival into Ilulissat, we’ll transfer directly to our schooner Elsi. On board, 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. While out on deck, we’ll keep an eye out for whales. We’ll 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: Lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Schooner Elsi
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: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Schooner Elsi
On Day 4, 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. This afternoon we will set sail for Uummannaq, a journey that will see us sailing through the polar night.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Schooner Elsi
Located 600 km / 373 mi north of the Arctic Circle 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, 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: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Schooner Elsi
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: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Schooner Elsi
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: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Schooner Elsi
On Day 8, 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, and 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.

Here, we will explore the coastline by tender or kayak, navigating the waters and observing remnants of whales on the seabed. We will enjoy our final meal together tonight. Later this evening, we set sail for Ilulissat.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Schooner Elsi
Our expedition concludes in Ilulissat today. You can choose to continue exploring more of Greenland by land or catch a flight to your next destination.

Arctic Expedition: Sail, Kayak, and Hike in West Greenland

Adventure Brochure

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If you have questions or need help with planning a trip, schedule a call with one of our adventure experts.

Meet your guide

5.00

Southern Sea Ventures

Southern Sea Ventures began conducting sea kayak trips in 1988. The founder and fellow adventurer, Al Bakker, set out to discover new and untouched destinations best explored by sea kayak. The company’s guides, both new and existing, have many decades of experience leading sea kayak trips all over the world. Southern Sea Ventures work with a select group of partners to provide local expertise in culture, language and history of the regions they paddle through.

Accommodation

Schooner Elsi

Schooner Elsi was built in Germany in 1983 as a training expedition sailing vessel. Extensive renovations were made in 2013. Elsi is steel-hulled and 37.7 m / 123.6 ft in length. There are 8 cabins on board for clients and crew. The cabins are a mixture of double and triple berths. There are three heads and showers, and a dining area.

Elsi’s large deck ensures passengers can comfortably move around and enjoy the fantastic surroundings. The enclosed and heated pilot house provides a refuge from the cold, with huge windows ensuring those who like to warm up won’t miss a thing. We’ll spend 7 nights on the schooner Elsi.

5.00 (3 reviews)

Paul D (source: Trip Advisor)

Excellent trip, Well organised , great guides, Wonderful experience. The local were very friendly and helpful

Liz W (source: Trip Advisor)

Thank you SSV for a very memorable, exciting, relaxing, fun four days … accommodation was 7 stars and the food … brilliant … came back home feeling so content that this adventure was everything I thought it would be … and it was

TOOHOOT (source: Trip Advisor)

Superb trip, beautiful scenery is expected and is delivered but the accomodation, equipment, breakfast, evening wine and dine etc is first class too. Exceptionally well guided with a flexible and accommodating itinerary which was exciting, interesting and beautiful. Thanks T and S

Things to know

Included:
- - Experienced guides with extensive knowledge of the area
  - 9-day West Greenland multisport adventure
  - Return transfers from the airport to the group hotel in Reykjavik
  - One way flight from Reykjavik to Illulissat
  - Return transfer from Illulissat airport to vessel
  - Accommodation: Hotel (twin share) in Reykjavik and 7 nights on a ship
  - All meals on board ship
  - Port taxes and port charges imposed by government authorities
Add-ons:
- - Kayaking package rental
  - Twin cabin
Not included:
- - Flights to and from Iceland
  - Outward flight from Ilulissat at the end of the trip
  - Visa, passport and vaccination charges and airport departure taxes
  - Optional excursions not included in the itinerary
  - Meals not indicated in the itinerary
  - Emergency evacuation charges
  - Alcoholic beverages
  - Laundry and medical expenses
  - Optional activities such as kayaking unless the activity supplement has been paid
  - Entry tickets/parking
  - Guide and crew gratuities — optional
  - Travel and medical insurance — optional
While there’s a range of activities available, from easy shore landings and zodiac cruises to active hikes and paddles, it is most important that you have an adventurous disposition, are in good health, and are relatively fit and active to participate in this trip.

Shore landings and zodiac cruises are suitable for all those with the ability to enter the tender from the yacht with assistance from the expedition team. The active hikes will often be over several miles/kilometres of varied terrain, from gentle tundra to steep slopes on a mix of uneven, rocky ground, and may involve some scrambling. The paddling program is focused on those looking for active outings.

For more hiking, kayaking, and sailing adventures in Greenland, click here!
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:

ZODIACS & LANDINGS

Thermal base layer:
- - Long sleeve top and leggings made of Merino wool or Polypropylene material is
    ideal. We recommend packing 3-4 long sleeve tops and 2-3 leggings for the
    expedition.
Insulation mid layer 1:
- - Polar Fleece top or lightweight wool jumper.
  - Polar Fleece or warm (tracksuit) bottom.
Insulation mid layer 2:
- - Polar Fleece or Down zip up jacket or vest
Waterproof outer layer:
- - Waterproof jacket and waterproof pants (essential to go ashore). The pants need to
    be durable and wide enough to fit over your rubber boots.
Footwear:
- - You will need to pack your own long rubber boots with insulation for the expedition.Please ensure they are roomy enough to fit thick socks, or 2 layers of thinner socks.
  - We recommend packing sheep wool inner soles for extra warmth and comfort in
    your rubber boots.
  - Bring several pairs of socks so you can layer and work out the best combination for
    you. We recommend thick warm socks made of wool or synthetic fibres.
Gloves:
- - A pair of polypropylene or woollen gloves with a waterproof glove on top. We suggest packing 2 pairs in case one gets wet.
Headgear and neck warmers:
- - A neck gaiter is the easiest way to keep your neck warm from the cold. Make sure it
    is large enough to also pull up to cover your mouth.
  - A fleece or woollen beanie that also covers your ears
ONBOARD

Clothing:
- - Comfortable casual clothes
Footwear:
- - Warm comfortable flat shoes with good grip, such as sneakers or moccasins
OTHER ITEMS
- - Sunscreen
  - Polarised sunglasses
  - Personal medication
  - Sea sickness medication
  - Moisturiser for face and hands
  - Lip balm/chapstick
  - Personal toiletries
  - A towel
  - Waterproof bag for landings
  - Dry bag or Ziploc plastic bag for camera
  - Camera and accessories
  - Spare batteries and memory cards for camera
  - Adapter (the plugs aboard are European 2-prong)
  - Binoculars
  - Earplugs and eye mask
  - Extra prescription glasses or contact lenses
  - Personal first-aid kit with individual medicines
  - Glasses cord for glasses/sunglasses
  - Water bottle
  - Hot tea thermos
  - Collapsible adjustable walking poles
  - Swimsuit for the Polar Plunge
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
Group sizes and pricing
- - For this West Greenland kayak, hike, and sailing adventure, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 15:2.
  - It takes a minimum of 15 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 15 participants.
West Greenland kayak, hike, and sail adventure can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  - Minors from 16 to 18 may be permitted to join the West Greenland kayak, hike, and sailing adventure on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
If your group has adventurers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
The starting point of your West Greenland kayak, hike, and sailing adventure is Keflavik Airport (KEF) in Reykjavik, Iceland. Upon arrival into Reykjavik, you will be transferred to the hotel for the overnight stay. This evening, you’ll meet your expedition leaders for the trip briefing.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!

Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!
Deposits
You can secure one of the set dates with a 30% deposit upon booking. The remaining 70% of the trip price is to be paid 90 days prior to departure, at the latest.

Cancellations
Booking fees are non-refundable in all cases. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options:

Basic
- - In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
  - For cancellations 60 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a 70% refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, there is no refund.
Flexible
- - In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
  - For cancellations 60 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 30-59 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 0-29 days before the trip, there is no refund.
Super Flexible
- - In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
  - For cancellations 30 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 0-29 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.
57hours partners with Redpoint Travel Protection, offering you a fully integrated program with a single point of contact for all your needs, from emergency services to travel assistance and protection claims. We highly recommend purchasing a comprehensive protection policy from Redpoint, which will protect you both before and during your travels. Before your departure, your investment is protected by the trip cancellation benefit. Once you depart, your policy provides coverage for trip interruption, medical assistance and rescue, baggage loss, trip delay, and more. Once you complete booking with 57hours, we'll create bespoke quote for you (and your group), making sure you're fully protected for the adventure ahead.