A true expedition along the coast of Greenland
The Expedition
This expedition sails from Sisimiut to Qaqortoq, following Greenland’s west coast through fjords, offshore passages, and remote coastal waters. It is a journey defined by sailing, watchkeeping, and the shared rhythm of life onboard, balanced with time ashore in some of the most dramatic landscapes in the Arctic.
We begin in Sisimiut and immediately head south into open water, crossing the Arctic Circle and establishing the watch system that will shape the days ahead. From here, the route unfolds through a mix of long coastal passages and sheltered fjord sailing, including Eternity Fjord and the mountainous waters around Maniitsoq, before continuing toward Nuuk and further south to Paamiut.
A strong emphasis is placed on sailing throughout the expedition. The crew rotates through helming, navigation, lookout, and sail handling, learning to work together in changing conditions. Offshore passages, particularly the extended night sail south from Nuuk, build confidence and routine as the boat is run increasingly as a coordinated team.The expedition continues into the glacier systems of Bredefjord before turning south toward Qaqortoq, where the journey concludes after a full passage along Greenland’s west coast.
Marine Eco-system
The marine ecosystem along this route is rich and dynamic, supported by nutrient-rich waters flowing from the Greenland Ice Sheet. These conditions sustain fish such as capelin and Arctic cod, which attract humpback whales that are often seen feeding along the coast. Seabirds follow the vessel offshore, while seals are commonly encountered near ice and shoreline areas.
The Greenlandic Culture
Greenlandic coastal culture remains closely tied to the sea, with fishing and hunting forming the backbone of life in many small communities. Visits ashore in places like Paamiut offer insight into this relationship, where harbours, boats, and marine harvests remain central to daily life and tradition.
The Great Greenland Expedition 2027
This expedition is a true high-latitude sailing journey, combining offshore passages, coastal exploration, and time ashore in some of Greenland’s most remote and spectacular regions. Beginning in Ísafjörður, we cross the Denmark Strait to Greenland before continuing north along the west coast all the way to Disko Bay, and then sailing south again through a constantly changing Arctic landscape.
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.
Along the way, we explore Greenland’s 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.
This expedition is divided into multiple legs, and participants are welcome to join one or several sections of the route. Together, they form a complete journey along the west coast of Greenland. We recommend allowing extra time before or after your leg to explore Greenland further. Additional information and travel tips will be shared with all participants.
Join as part of the crew on board
From SeilNorge we will be skipper, co-skipper and crew/guide on board. Which are all good sailors, and at least one of whom will have solid sailing time and experience from similar expeditions. The guide and remaining crew on board also take responsibility for being polar bear watch when we are on land, where needed. En route for sail or motor, we include everyone on board in the sailing. We will mostly sail around the clock, and divides everyone into watch teams. We rotate between the duty shifts and go 4 hours on and 8 hours off. In addition, we include a couple of shorter shifts in the rotation in the afternoon, so that we also rotate the night shifts between the different watch teams.
Our expedition vessel, Valiente
It’s not just any sailboat we’re using on this trip, but 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. For pictures and more information about the vessel Valiente, see this link.
Environment and sustainability
The Arctic is a vulnerable area under pressure from people and the climate. However in SeilNorge, we are concerned with taking care of the environment to the greatest extent possible. We believe that small boats with fewer people and little pollution and waste are much less harmful to the environment, climate and local wildlife, than larger boats and cruise ships. In the places we visit, we also try to clean up litter rather than leaving anything behind, so we 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.
This is a dream we’ve had for a long time and finally the time is here; in 2027 we set sail for new adventures and expeditions to Greenland! We know there are a lot of adventures out there, waiting to explore the wonders of Greenland with us!
Emil, founder SeilNorge
Itinerary
Day 1 Welcome on board in Sisimiut
We meet in the harbour in Sisimiut at 16:00. After a warm welcome, we get to know each other, go through safety procedures, and settle into life on board.
In the evening, we cast off and start with some sailing maneuvers and safety drills. Then we begin sailing south into the night along the rugged Arctic coastline. With the guidance of the Captain and crew you settle into a navigational watch rotation. As the town fades behind us, we cross the Arctic Circle and celebrate the beginning of our expedition together. We continue sailing into the evening, 77 NM to our first stop.
Day 2 Sailing to Eternity Fjord
We arrive in the spectacular Eternity Fjord, where glaciers cascade down steep mountains into the sea. The fjord is exceptionally long and narrow creating a feeling the journey lasts forever.
We spend the day exploring this wild landscape, sailing deeper into the fjord and stopping to go hiking ashore. In the evening, we anchor in a protected anchorage .
Day 3 Maniitsoq, mountains and exploration
We continue south to Maniitsoq, which means ‘uneven place’ in Greenlandic, it is surrounded by jagged peaks and a maze of islands. Going ashore, we explore this remote Arctic town and hike above it for sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, the hikes are not long but give us some fantastic views. The area is rich in birdlife and marine life and offers a true sense of Greenland’s rugged beauty.
Day 4 Sailing to Nuuk
We leave Maniitsoq behind and sail approximately 100 nautical miles south toward Nuuk. We operate in our watch system throughout the day, rotating roles between helming, navigation, lookout, and sail handling. We plot our route and fix our position on the chart, we make course adjustments, and sail changes. Whether tacking, gybing or reefing, everyone gets hands-on involvement in running the boat.
Arriving in the capital region, we anchor off the old town and take a dinghy ashore. The contrast between remote wilderness and Greenland’s largest city becomes clear as we prepare to explore ashore the following day.
Day 5 Nuuk, culture and history
We go ashore in Nuuk to explore Greenland’s capital.
We can visit the National Museum to learn about Inuit culture and history, stroll through town, and experience the blend of traditional and modern Arctic life. There may also be an opportunity to visit the hunters’ market and try local delicacies such as musk ox or mattak.
In the evening, we return to the boat, have dinner then prepare the boat for our next offshore passage south to Paamiut covering approximately 159 nautical miles
Day 6 Overnight passage to Paamiut
We depart Nuuk and begin our longest offshore passage of the trip, sailing approximately 150 nautical miles south toward Paamiut.
By now, the watch system runs smoothly and the crew is well practiced. Movements on deck are more confident, sail handling is more efficient, and communication becomes clearer and more instinctive. What felt new at the start of the expedition now begins to feel routine.
We continue through day and night, rotating watches and maintaining a steady rhythm onboard. Time off watch is spent resting, while on watch the focus is on helming, navigation, trim, and lookout. The responsibility is shared, and the boat is run together as a team. Small adjustments in sail trim and course become more precise, and the boat moves more efficiently as a result.
Sailing along Greenland’s exposed coastline, we may encounter stronger winds and swell, adding to the challenge. Seabirds follow in our wake, and if we are lucky, whales may appear alongside us.
By the end of this passage, the experience of offshore sailing, watchkeeping, and life onboard has become second nature, and the sense of working together as a crew is firmly established, that brings a sense of accomplishment in itself.
Day 7 Paamiut and continued sailing
We arrive in Paamiut, a colourful town shaped by its history of fishing and trade, and home to a large population of white tailed sea eagles.
We go ashore by dinghy and explore the village, perhaps walking to viewpoints overlooking the Davis Strait. Later, we return to the boat and continue sailing south, beginning our next longer passage toward the glacier fjord systems.
Day 8 Glacier exploration at Bredefjord
We reach the glacier rich fjord systems near Bredefjord, where the inland ice meets the sea.
We spend the day exploring among towering glacier fronts, watching and listening as the ice shifts and calves into the water. If conditions allow, we go ashore near the ice cap to experience its immense scale firsthand.
We anchor surrounded by drifting ice in a truly unforgettable Arctic setting.
Day 9 Final sailing to Qaqortoq
We leave the ice fjords behind and sail the final stretch south toward Qaqortoq.
As we approach, colourful houses appear along the hillside, marking our arrival in one of South Greenland’s most charming towns. After days of wilderness and open sea, Qaqortoq feels vibrant and welcoming. We celebrate our journey together with a final evening in town.
Day 10 Goodbye for now in Qaqortoq
We wake in Qaqortoq and enjoy a relaxed final morning. After breakfast, we tidy the boat, pack our gear, and say goodbye at 09:00.
This leg of the expedition have come to an end. And we will pack our luggage, do the last cleaning and say goodbye latest at 09:00 this morning. Breakfast at one of the cosy cafes here in Nuuk is a great option!
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 in the mountains 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 Qaqortoq, Greenland.
You find more information about the travel, equipment and packing under Practical information
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.
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?
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.