Greenland Sailing Expedition

In the Wonders of Scoresby Sound

Live on board a traditional sailing ship for an amazing week in the natural wonders of Scoresby Sound in East Greenland.

Schooner Opal next to iceberg in East Greenland

Encounter the arctic landscape and wildlife in one of the most remote places in the world.

Sunrise zodiac ride through Iceberg City

A once-in-a-lifetime adventure

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to sail in the largest and one of the most remote fjords on Earth, surrounded by untouched natural phenomena such as glaciers, icebergs and ice crusts. Far from being your everyday experience, the picturesque sceneries are unparalleled. Whether in Red Island’s Iceberg City, the mountainous Øfjord, overlooking amazing archipelagos near Bear Island or scouting for wildlife in Harefjord, Greenland’s spectacular landscape leaves everyone speechless.

Encounter the arctic wildlife

As we sail through the unspoiled arctic landscape – or when ashore – we might come across some of Greenland’s sensational wildlife in their natural habitat. Each season, polar bears have been spotted during our sailings through Scoresby Sound. Encounters with muskoxen are common, and seals are quite often seen. Other animals that roam the area are snow hares, arctic foxes, wolves and narwhals though these are considerably more difficult to spot. Regardless of whether hiking in the breathtaking arctic environment or onboard our vessels sailing through the kingdom of ice, the feeling of spotting the exceptional wildlife cannot be described.

Environmental commitment

The privilege of operating tours near one of the more remote communities on Earth also comes with its share of responsibilities which North Sailing takes very seriously. As the Arctic ecosystem is fragile, we strive to find a healthy balance of allowing our guests access to relatively untouched areas while at the same time assessing that we do everything to the best of our ability to leave the environment in the most natural condition possible.

Schooner Opal during golden sunset in East Greenland.

Exploring the majestic Scoresby Sound

For 8 days and 7 nights, we will sail around the magnificent Scoresby Sound, the world’s largest fjord system, filled with breathtaking nature and landscape. With our expertise and years of knowledge of the area, we hope to create your most unique travel experience.

Scoresby Sound Map estimated sailing route

Please keep in mind that this is an expedition at sea; therefore, the journey will always be subject to weather- and sea conditions and routes might have to be altered.

Highlights of the journey

Iceberg palaces

Towards Milne Land, we will travel between stunning palaces of icebergs that gently drift under the influence of the currents in the arctic waters after calving from the parent Inland glaciers.

Inuit settlement at Hekla Havn

Arriving at Hekla Havn, in Denmark Ø, we will have the chance to visit the site of an old Inuit settlement and wintering camp of the first scientific expedition to Scoresby Sound over a hundred years ago.

Massive mountains of Føhnfjord

Sailing the narrow Føhnfjord brings impressive sights of the majestic basalt mountains of Gåseland on one side and 2000 meters high sheer granite cliffs of Milne Land on the other side.

Red Island’s Iceberg City

The peculiar-looking Red Island with its red sandstone shore is a stunning sight at the mouth of Rødefjord, often filled with larger icebergs and ice crust. A zodiac ride through the city of Icebergs is an awe-inspiring experience and, for some, the highlight of the whole journey.

Wildlife scouting in Harefjord

Harefjord is a fantastic place for scouting wildlife. Muskoxen are often seen grazing on the south-facing slopes of the fjord and if we’re lucky we might spot grouse, geese, snow hares, or other wildlife. Shorter or longer hikes can be taken up the hill, sometimes all the way over to the beautiful Rypefjord.

Sail the majestic Øfjord

The majestic Øfjord is one of the most spectacular parts of the whole trip. Terrific mountain peaks and massive granite walls tower up from the sea, creating an impressive feast for the eyes. Usually, the sea breeze in the Øfjord during the middle of the day allows sails to be set.

Cooling down at Jyttes Havn

Jyttes Havn in Bear Islands is possibly one of the nicest and most picturesque anchorages in Scoresby Sound. It is a great place to try your skills at sea swimming at 71°N, and temperatures can be as surprising as 13°C in the summertime.

Archipelagos and icebergs

Sailing the channel between the Bear Islands and Milne Land offers a breathtaking view of the spectacular archipelago. Expect to witness some of the largest and most fascinating icebergs of the journey often found in this area.

The village Ittoqqortoormiit

The village of Ittoqqortoormiit is the most northerly settlement on the east coast of Greenland. The colourful, quaint little houses are home to around 320 inhabitants who make their living primarily by subsistence hunting.

“This was an absolutely incredible trip that I’ll cherish for the rest of my life. Everyone was absolutely wonderful, and days were filled with incredible food, beautiful sights, and endless laughter. Truly something I’ll remember forever and hold very, very close to my heart. I loved every minute of being here. Endless thank to everyone who made it happen!”

Included

International flight Reykjavík – Constable Point – Reykjavík.
Accommodation on board in made up bunks/beds with shared facilities.
All meals on board the sailing ship.
Services of the crew, excursions and arrangements

Not included

Airfare to and from Iceland.
Visas or Individual travel insurance.
Excess baggage charges.
Laundry charges and items of personal nature.
Alcoholic beverages (available for extra charge & to be paid upon departure).
Optional pre or post tours in Iceland