Meet your guides at the airport in Reykjavik—from there, we’ll fly to Ilulissat and overnight at the group hotel there. Get some rest, as tomorrow we’ll board the ship and the adventure starts!
Accommodation: Hotel in Ilulissat
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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.
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Board the schooner Elsi. Once there, 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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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Included:
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- 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:
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- Twin cabin
Not included:
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- 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
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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.
Discover more hiking, kayaking, and sailing adventures in Greenland here!
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Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
ZODIACS & LANDINGS
Thermal base layer:
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- 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.
- Long sleeve top and leggings made of Merino wool or Polypropylene material is
Insulation mid layer 1:
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- Polar Fleece top or lightweight wool jumper.
- Polar Fleece or warm (tracksuit) bottom.
Insulation mid layer 2:
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- Polar Fleece or Down zip up jacket or vest
Waterproof outer layer:
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- Waterproof jacket and waterproof pants (essential to go ashore). The pants need to
be durable and wide enough to fit over your rubber boots.
- Waterproof jacket and waterproof pants (essential to go ashore). The pants need to
Footwear:
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- 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:
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- 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:
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- 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
- A neck gaiter is the easiest way to keep your neck warm from the cold. Make sure it
ONBOARD
Clothing:
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- Comfortable casual clothes
Footwear:
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- Warm comfortable flat shoes with good grip, such as sneakers or moccasins
OTHER ITEMS
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- 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.
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Group sizes and pricing
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- 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
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- 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.
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The starting point of your West Greenland kayak, hike, and sailing adventure is Keflavik Airport (KEF) in Reykjavik, Iceland. You’ll meet your guides there and fly to Ilulissat on Day 1.
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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!
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