Kayaking in Greenland
Greenland Kayaking: Experiencing the polar wilderness
Picture yourself gliding silently through pristine Arctic waters, your paddle cutting through the mirror-like surface as ancient icebergs tower above. You're following in the wake of centuries of Inuit hunters who mastered these waters in their traditional kayaks.
This is kayaking in Greenland – an experience that connects you deeply with both history and nature.
The kayak isn't just a boat in Greenland – it's a cultural touchstone that bridges past and present, connecting the earliest immigrants to today's adventurers. As you paddle these waters, you're participating in a tradition that spans thousands of years.
Northeast Greenland National Park Micro Cruise
76°50'N, 29°99'W
The ultimate Greenland experience – a unique two-week adventure into Northeast Greenland National Park, the world’s largest national park, and Scoresbysund, the longest fjord system on Earth.
- 12 guests
- 12 days
Scoresbysund Autumn Micro Cruise
70°50’N, 25°00’W
An autumn micro cruise to Scoresbysund, East Greenland. For landscape lovers and aurora chasers – the ultimate expedition of Earth and sky.
- 12 guests
- — days
Scoresbysund Northern Lights Photo Tour
70°50’N, 25°00’W
Capture the heavens bursting with light above the monumental icebergs and high-drama landscape of Scoresbysund.
- 12 guests
- 8 days
Scoresbysund Northern Lights Photo Tour with Virgil Reglioni
70°50’N, 25°00’W
With 0% light pollution and insane iceberg sculptures, paired with the world’s finest aurora borealis photographer, you’re in for a treat.
- 12 guests
- 8 days
Scoresbysund Northern Lights Photo Tour with Dean Tatooles
70°50’N, 25°00’W
Head out into wild and remote East Greenland with acclaimed photographer Dean Tatooles, capturing the aurora borealis blossoming above the fjords of Scoresbysund.
- 12 guests
- — days
Scoresbysund Northern Lights Photo Tour with Randy Hanna
70°50’N, 25°00’W
Photograph the northern lights illuminating the skies above Scoresbysund with nature photography legend Randy Hanna.
- 12 guests
- 8 days
The history of kayaking in Greenland
The story of Greenland kayaking begins over 4,000 years ago when the first waves of immigrants brought this ingenious watercraft to Greenland's shores. These early settlers, known as the Thule people, developed and perfected kayak designs specifically for hunting in Greenland's challenging waters.
Built from driftwood and sealskin, traditional Greenlandic kayaks were masterpieces of engineering – perfectly suited to navigate between ice floes and track marine mammals. Each kayak was custom-made to fit its paddler, ensuring optimal performance in the harsh Arctic conditions.
Today's Greenlandic kayaking culture beautifully blends tradition with modern adventure. While traditional hunting kayaks are still used in northern regions, recreational kayaking has opened up new ways to explore Greenland's stunning coastline. Local kayak clubs preserve traditional techniques, and many communities celebrate their kayaking heritage through competitions and demonstrations.
Finding a Greenland kayaking tour
When planning your Greenland kayaking adventure, you'll find options ranging from day trips to multi-week expeditions. The best time to go kayaking in Greenland is between June and September, when the midnight sun provides extended daylight and temperatures are most comfortable.
Several types of experiences are available:
Guided day tours from coastal towns
Week-long camping expeditions
Combination trips that include hiking and kayaking
Support vessel-based kayaking expeditions
For many travellers, joining a supported expedition offers the perfect blend of adventure and security. These trips provide experienced guides, proper equipment, and the comfort of a warm bed each night while still allowing you to explore remote fjords and get close to glaciers.
Are you interested in learning more about travelling to Greenland? Click below to read our Greenland travel guide.
Looking to explore the world with friends, family, or colleagues?
Plan a private charter with us.
How to enjoy kayaking in Greenland
How to prepare for a kayaking expedition
Physical preparation makes your Greenland kayaking experience more enjoyable. Start building upper body and core strength a few months before your trip. Practise kayaking in your local area if possible, focusing on proper paddling technique and building endurance.
Mental preparation is equally important. Research Greenland's weather patterns and familiarise yourself with basic safety protocols. Understanding the environment you'll be paddling in helps you make the most of your adventure.
What to bring with you
Your packing list should include:
Warm, waterproof layers
Non-cotton clothing that dries quickly
Sun protection (the Arctic sun is intense)
Camera in a waterproof case
Gloves designed for paddling
Warm hat and sun hat
Most tour operators provide specialised equipment like:
Kayaks and paddles
Dry suits or wet suits
Safety gear
Navigation equipment
Typical kayaking destinations in Greenland
East Greenland offers some of the most dramatic kayaking opportunities as well as the most popular places to visit, with towering mountains plunging straight into deep fjords. The Ammassalik region is particularly notable for its combination of traditional settlements and pristine wilderness.
South Greenland provides slightly milder conditions and a mix of Norse ruins and modern settlements. The waters around Nanortalik offer excellent opportunities to paddle among icebergs while spotting seals and whales.
Kayaking in East Greenland tips
East Greenland's remote nature makes it especially important to paddle with experienced guides. They understand local weather patterns and can read ice conditions – essential skills in this environment.
1. Understanding weather and safety
East Greenland's weather can shift dramatically within hours. Your guide will monitor weather forecasts and satellite imagery, but you should also learn to read basic weather signs. Calm mornings can transform into challenging conditions by afternoon, which is why flexibility in your schedule is essential.
Keep these safety considerations in mind:
Always carry emergency communications equipment
Learn the basic signals your guide uses
Stay within sight of your group
Familiarise yourself with basic rescue techniques
Know how to properly wear your safety gear
Read our Greenland Travel Guide to learn more.
2. Navigating around ice
Icebergs create one of the most spectacular elements of East Greenland kayaking, but they demand respect and careful navigation. Your guide will teach you proper distancing – typically keeping at least two times an iceberg's height away from it. Remember that roughly 90% of an iceberg lies beneath the surface, and they can roll unexpectedly.
3. Wildlife encounters
East Greenland offers remarkable wildlife viewing opportunities from your kayak. You might spot:
Seals popping their heads up nearby
Whales in the deeper fjords
Arctic seabirds nesting on cliffs
Perhaps even a polar bear on shore
Always maintain appropriate distances from wildlife and never pursue animals for photographs. Your guide will advise on safe viewing practices that protect both you and the wildlife.
4. Cultural considerations
East Greenland's communities maintain strong connections to their hunting and kayaking heritage. When visiting local settlements:
Ask permission before photographing people
Learn a few basic Greenlandic phrases
Show interest in local traditions
Purchase handicrafts directly from artisans
Respect private property and hunting grounds
5. Environmental responsibility
The Arctic environment is particularly vulnerable to human impact. Practice these principles:
Pack out all waste
Avoid disturbing vegetation at landing sites
Use established camps where possible
Minimise noise pollution
Follow ‘Leave No Trace’ principles
Best times for East Greenland kayaking
While the kayaking season runs from June to September, each month offers different advantages:
June:
Long daylight hours
Fresh snow still on mountains
Beginning of wildflower season
July:
Warmest temperatures
Peak wildlife activity
Excellent photography conditions
August:
Less precipitation
Mild weather
Peak hiking conditions
September:
Autumn colours
More dramatic light for photography
Dark enough for Northern Lights
Recommended fjords and routes
East Greenland's most captivating kayaking areas include:
Sermilik Fjord
Massive icebergs from Helheim Glacier
Traditional hunting grounds
Dramatic mountain backdrops
Ammassalik Fjord
Access to traditional settlements
Protected waters for beginners
Rich cultural history
Scoresbysund
World's largest fjord system
Stunning geological formations
Remote wilderness experience
Final thoughts
Kayaking in Greenland connects you with centuries of maritime tradition while providing access to some of Earth's most spectacular wilderness. Whether you're an experienced paddler or new to the sport, the combination of cultural heritage and natural beauty makes Greenland kayaking an unforgettable experience.
Ready to explore Greenland's spectacular coastline? Our East Greenland cruises take you to many of the region's most remarkable kayaking areas.
Northeast Greenland National Park Micro Cruise
76°50'N, 29°99'W
The ultimate Greenland experience – a unique two-week adventure into Northeast Greenland National Park, the world’s largest national park, and Scoresbysund, the longest fjord system on Earth.
- 12 guests
- 12 days
Scoresbysund Autumn Micro Cruise
70°50’N, 25°00’W
An autumn micro cruise to Scoresbysund, East Greenland. For landscape lovers and aurora chasers – the ultimate expedition of Earth and sky.
- 12 guests
- — days
Scoresbysund Northern Lights Photo Tour
70°50’N, 25°00’W
Capture the heavens bursting with light above the monumental icebergs and high-drama landscape of Scoresbysund.
- 12 guests
- 8 days
Scoresbysund Northern Lights Photo Tour with Virgil Reglioni
70°50’N, 25°00’W
With 0% light pollution and insane iceberg sculptures, paired with the world’s finest aurora borealis photographer, you’re in for a treat.
- 12 guests
- 8 days
Scoresbysund Northern Lights Photo Tour with Dean Tatooles
70°50’N, 25°00’W
Head out into wild and remote East Greenland with acclaimed photographer Dean Tatooles, capturing the aurora borealis blossoming above the fjords of Scoresbysund.
- 12 guests
- — days
Scoresbysund Northern Lights Photo Tour with Randy Hanna
70°50’N, 25°00’W
Photograph the northern lights illuminating the skies above Scoresbysund with nature photography legend Randy Hanna.
- 12 guests
- 8 days
Kayaking in Greenland FAQs
What is the difference between a sea kayak and a Greenland kayak?
Traditional Greenland kayaks are narrower and lower to the water than modern sea kayaks. They're designed for hunting and rolling in icy waters, while modern sea kayaks prioritize stability and cargo capacity. Today's Greenland kayaking tours typically use modern sea kayaks for added safety and comfort.
Where is the best place to kayak in the world?
While many spectacular kayaking destinations exist worldwide, Greenland offers a unique combination of pristine wilderness, dramatic scenery, and rich cultural heritage. The opportunity to paddle among icebergs while following ancient Inuit routes makes Greenland kayaking truly special.
What is an eskimo kayak called?
The traditional Greenlandic kayak is called a ‘qajaq’ in Kalaallisut (Greenlandic). This word is actually the origin of our modern term ‘kayak.’ These traditional craft were highly personalized, with each hunter's qajaq built to their exact measurements.
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