A true Greenland expedition from Sisimiut to Disko Bay
From Sisimiut to Disko Bay
This expedition follows Greenland’s west coast from Sisimiut to Ilulissat, combining island navigation, glacier sailing, and hands-on coastal passages. It is a journey with focus on sailing in sheltered Arctic waters and time spent ashore in some of the most dramatic and storied landscapes in the North Atlantic.
Traditional fishing and hunting settlements
We begin in Sisimiut, where we meet on board, complete safety preparations, and head north along a remote and largely untouched stretch of coastline. Early in the journey we stop at a river mouth to fish for Arctic char. Some of the best catches have come from working these margins from the dinghy, right where the rivers reach the ocean. On our way north we visit Attu, a traditional fishing and hunting settlement of around 200 people, founded in 1818 and set on a small island along the coast. On past visits the welcome has been warm and unhurried, with people open and curious, offering a genuine glimpse into everyday life in one of Greenland’s more remote communities.
We then move through the low island archipelago approaching Aasiaat, where navigation becomes hands-on as the boat weaves between skerries and sheltered channels. From there we sail straight north over towards Disko Island, one of the highlights of this trip. Disko island offers volcanic geology, fertile tundra, and polar history, and the local town Qeqertarsuaq is our destination. We walk around in town and hike up to the glacier above the town, from where we have great views over the bay filled with drifting ice. Qeqertersuaq has much polar history, and has been visited by many polar explorers, Roald Amundsen one of many, on his expedition through the North West passage.Â
Disko Bay & Ice Bergs
Along the way we explore the waters of Disko Bay, one of the most productive feeding grounds in the Arctic, where humpback whales are often seen moving through ice-filled channels. The expedition ends in Ilulissat, sailing toward the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier and the icebergs it sends drifting out from the inland ice sheet, completing a journey through one of the most visually striking sailing regions on earth.
The Marine Ecosystem
The ecosystem in Disko Bay is highly productive, driven by glacial melt and nutrient-rich waters that support a complex food web. Large populations of plankton sustain fish species such as capelin and Arctic cod, which in turn attract humpback whales that are frequently seen feeding, sometimes close to the boat. Seals are common on ice floes, while seabirds such as Arctic terns and guillemots follow the coastline. Occasionally, rarer species such as narwhals may be present in northern waters.
The Greenlandic Culture
Along the way, we experience Greenlandic culture in small communities where life remains closely tied to the sea. We aim for many visits ashore, including the chance to join a traditional kaffemik, provide insight into local traditions, hunting culture, and everyday life in the Arctic.
The Great Greenland Expedition 2027
Our Greenland Expeditions 2027 are divided into multiple legs, and participants are welcome to join one or several sections of the route. Together, the 8 departures form a complete exploration of Greenland, starting and ending in Iceland. Â
On all our expeditions we explore the fjords, glaciers, and remote settlements, using the boat as a base for going ashore. Hiking, wildlife spotting, and experiencing local culture are key parts of the journey, alongside the sailing itself.
The voyage is both an adventure and a hands-on learning experience. Throughout the expedition, you will take part in watchkeeping, navigation, sail handling, and decision-making at sea. This is an opportunity to build real offshore sailing experience while being part of a functioning expedition crew.
Join as part of the crew on board
From SeilNorge we will be skipper, co-skipper and an extra crew and guide on board. En route for sail or motor, we include everyone on board in the sailing. We will mostly sail around the clock, and divide everyone into watch teams. Where we rotate with 4 hours on and 8 hours off. In addition, we add a few shorter shifts each afternoon, so that the night shifts also rotate between the watch teams throughout the expedition.Â
Our expedition vessel, Valiente
On this expedition we’re using our 70-foot expedition boat Valiente. She is a very stable and comfortable boat built in steel for sailing in arctic waters. The boat is well equipped and has large outdoor areas, and a wheelhouse and a saloon with a 360-degree view. Read more about Valiente and see pictures and a movie here.
Environment and sustainability
The Arctic is a vulnerable region under increasing pressure from both human activity and climate change. At SeilNorge, we aim to minimise our impact wherever we go.
We believe that small boats with fewer people, lower emissions, and minimal waste leave a much lighter footprint than large vessels and cruise ships. In the places we visit we collect litter rather than leaving anything behind — aiming to leave a positive handprint.
In Svalbard and Greenland, we follow AECO’s guidelines for encounters with wildlife, beach cleaning, cultural heritage sites and for visitors and operators in the Arctic. You can read more about AECO’s guidelines here.
Once in a lifetime sailing trip among Greenland's icebergs.
Tristan Imbert, Greenland 2025
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome on board in Sisimiut
We meet in the hatbour 18:00 this first day. We start with getting to know the boat and the other expedition participants. We walk through how life is on board, safety briefs and basics about sailing and navigation. When we are all ready we hoist sails for our adventure already this first afternoon and sail into the midnight sun!
Day 2-6: Sailing to Disko Bay and Illulissat ice fjord
This will be the longest sailing leg of this journey. Depending on wind and conditions of course, but it will last around 24h. As we get closer into Disko Bay we see larger and larger ice bergs. And this afternoon we reach the UNESCO World Heritage site; Ilulissat Icefjord. Here the fjord itself is around 1000m deep, and the vast inland ice is calving enormous ice bergs into the fjord. At the entrance of this fjord though, its only a few hundred meters deep. Which make all the huge ice bergs run aground and form an ice dam. Therefore, this whole fjord is packed with ice bergs, large as skyscrapers. A super impressive sight. For the evening we anchor at Ilimanaq, south of the ice fjord. Having dinner by the bonfire on the beach and enjoying our last night!
Day7: Last full day of sailing and exploring
On this day we’ll sail through the UNESCO world heritage site of Ilulissat Ice fjord. How many calving ice bergs will we see on our last full day of exploring?
Day 8: Goodbye for now, in Ilulissat
A week of adventure and exploration is unfortunately coming to an end. We pack, tidy, and wash ourselves out of the boat this morning and say goodbye by 09.00 this last morning. Thanks for a wonderful experience together!
Changes to the program
The program should be seen as a rough itinerary that we can adapt to the weather and conditions. We also reserve the right to change and improve our itineraries. We will have a dinghy for beach trips and small expeditions, fishing gear for cod, and gear to hike or make bonfires on the beach on all our trips – we are ready for adventure! Are you?
What is included?
- A trip experience with sailboat – experienced skipper with local knowledge on board
- Co-skipper and crew/guide on board
- All food we eat on board during the trip
- Our Comfort Package, which consists of accommodation on board in a shared double cabin (bunk or double bed) with a ready-made bed (warm and nice duvets and pillows!)
- An environmentally friendly, local, sustainable, unique, exotic and exclusive Norwegian adventure holiday
- A shared experience and friendship with like-minded adventurers from around the world
- A lot of time outdoors – raw and honest nature experiences
- Use of our shared equipment if available: dinghies, kayaks, fishing equipment, etc.
- All boat-related costs such as diesel, propane and harbor fees
- Personal safety equipment; Helly Hansen inflatable lifejacket
- Survival suit and Search and Rescue (SAR) Insurance for everyone on board
- Instruction, advice, guidance and practical training in boating and sailing
What is not included?
- Travel to and from the start/end location
- Optional meals at a cafes/restaurants during the trip
- Entrance to galleries, museums, or other alternative activities that you/we may come up with
- Rental of equipment and/or activities from external operators, ex. kayak, glacier hiking or surfing where possible
- Drinks such as wine, beer or exclusive apple juice and other luxuries (yes, we drink beer and wine on board, bring your own)
- Travel insurance and/or cancellation insurance – (up to you, but recommended!)
Important info
Departure and arrival
This trip start in Sisimiut, and end in Ilulissat, Greenland.
You find more information on travel, equipment and other tips under Practical info.
Deposit and payment
You only pay a deposit (NOK 6000) upon registration, the remainder of the payment is due 60 days prior to departure.
Safety and risk on board
We are all about people, and so we also take safety very seriously. On our trips we practice sail- and boat handling also for safety, and we spend time going through various situations that can arise at sea, how to handle them and how to avoid them.
On board a boat everyone must know what to do in critical situations and in the event of an emergency. Our philosophy is that partaking and participation builds safety. It is important for the safety of the whole boat that you are a participant on board, not just a passenger.
Therefore all our trips are to be considered sailing courses in addition to being great holidays and adventures: You are trained to make up the crew on board and so we build a capable team on board.
Feel free to contact us for a chat about safety and risk on our adventures.
Level of the trip
No sailing experience? No problem! Our sailing adventures welcome both novices and seasoned sailors for an inclusive and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re new to sailing or a salty sea dog, our trips cater to all levels.
We aim to transform beginners into sailors quickly while offering experienced participants greater responsibilities and challenges. Our mainland sailing journeys involve 44-50 feet boats navigating coastal and protected waters, occasionally crossing open stretches for excitement. Route adjustments based on weather and conditions ensure a safe and adaptable voyage.
Our trips aren’t overly strenuous – we rotate positions and tasks, so everyone gets a mix of hands-on sailing and time to relax. Staying active helps prevent seasickness, and if it strikes, it usually passes quickly. Weather up north is unpredictable, one moment it’s smooth sailing and the next the wind picks up, and you’re in the middle of a proper Arctic adventure. Be ready for anything from calm winds to rough weather – because that’s what makes the journey unforgettable!
What we expect from you
Our trips require a little effort from you who are joining – everyone on board must be ready to contribute and to give of themselves also socially; the more you open up, share and interest yourself in the others on board, the more enjoyable it gets.Â
When you’re sailing with us you will be taking part in the running of the ship and all that comes with it.
You will be sailing, docking, navigating, looking out for whales and icebergs, but also making food, serving others, doing dishes and helping clean the boat during the trip, and contributing in other ways when needed. On board we are all in the same boat and when all help out, the ship is most happy.
Our experience is that doing things together is what creates the best and most memorable moments and stories:)
Equipment and packing
As with all activities, there is plenty of special equipment and clothing for sailing. If you don’t have any of this, you will get very far with normal hiking/outdoor equipment. You do not need to buy a lot of new equipment to join our trips. Use what you have, borrow what you need from a friend, purchase used equipment, and if you have to invest in new equipment – buy quality items that will last! What you need is something waterproof and windproof on the outside, and layered warm clothing underneath.
Some jackets may not be waterproof “enough”, or might not perform too well in salt water, so you can consider a set of oilskin for the wettest days (available for rent or purchase on board). A pair of higher rubber boots for disembarking from the dinghy is very good to have, as well as indoor shoes below deck. Out at sea and in the Arctic it can be cold even in summer, so bring both swimwear and plenty of warm clothes. Well before departure, we will send you a detailed recommended packing list.
Read more and see our packing tips here:
PS: In a sailboat, you pack in a bag or sack, not in a rigid suitcase. 🙂
Food & cooking on board
On our trips, you will be part of the crew on board and get the chance to participate in all tasks for the operation of the boat. This includes cooking and preparing food – everyone take turns in the galley! Skippers and crew assist as much as they can along the way.
We have great menus with tasty, healthy and “boat-friendly” food, and for each trip we order provisions for all meals on board. If you have allergies or preferences, let us know in the registration form and we will take that into account as best as we can. You are also most welcome to bring any special food or drink with you. Why not bring some specialities from your country or region for the boat to enjoy?Â
During a weeklong trip we often sail by a good restaurant or two where we can have dinner on land. Some places we need to pre-book and we will then need to choose a menu before we arrive. More about all of this when you come on board!
Life on board & accommodation
Life on a sailboat is super social and fun, but it might feel a bit intimate at first. No worries though, that vibe usually fades after the first hour. Everyone chips in to run the boat, and we’re all part of the crew, which means quick bonding.
We’re keen to get to know you and hope you’ll connect with the rest of the crew. It takes some patience, generosity, and an open mind to thrive, but soon you’ll be focused on making new friends and enjoying raw nature experiences once sea life feels like home.
Sleeping arrangements in shared cabins with double or bunk beds can be a bit of a puzzle, but we’re pretty good at figuring it out. Let us know if you have preferences. You’re on your own for land accommodations before or after the trip.
The boat provides heating and good food, but fresh water isn’t always abundant. Water conservation means not showering every day, but when near freshwater sources, we make the most of it. But nothing beats a morning sea swim for that fresh feeling.
Safety and risk on our expeditions
As mentioned, we take safety very seriously. Even more so on our expeditions, as we then explore really remote waters and terrain, cross open oceans and sail into areas with additional risk factors such as sea ice or poor charts and uncharted waters. We deal with this by having an extra focus on the situations we may encounter among everyone on board, for each expedition. We sail in these remote areas only in the most optimal seasons; and we use larger and very solid boats for our expeditions. Which are both equipped and sized to cope with this type of expedition trips and waters very well.
We are absolutely certain that sailing is the safest and most accessible way to visit these very inaccessible places we go on our expeditions. However, all sailing in general, and particularly sailing in arctic regions and over open seas, involves a certain risk that you must be aware of when joining.
Level and goals of the expedition
Some have their first sailing experience ever, joining us on an ocean crossing! Please note that our expeditions require a certain physical health and mobility level.
The boats we sail on our expeditions are larger, robust and sit well in the sea. On our sailing expeditions we both sail in more coastal, sheltered waters, and cross open stretches of waters. On some of our expeditions even ocean crossings over several days at sea. An incredibly wonderful and special experience!
Weather dictates our journey, and we adapt each expedition’s program accordingly, often allowing extra days for flexibility in assessing and choosing optimal weather windows. Despite planning and preparations, we can’t control the weather, so be prepared for various conditions. Please understand that specific goals or landings, especially in areas lacking proper harbors or sheltered waters, are never guaranteed. Consequently, we cannot be held liable for changes to the itinerary or the inability to reach the planned goal, or set foot on specific islands due to sea state, wind, or weather conditions.
The proximity to nature’s forces on such expeditions is a rare and rewarding experience.
On expeditions, we sail with many participants, forming watch teams for a solid on board team spirit. Rotating watches around the clock ensures active involvement without without wearing you out.
As everyone participates actively during the week or more on board, seasickness is rare. If you anticipate seasickness, consider bringing remedies, such as seasickness plasters, often effective for longer expeditions. Consult your doctor for advice on seasickness and any necessary medications. Feel free to ask us about seasickness as well.