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Nuuk – Ilulissat · 24 June – 6 July 2027 – Main voyage image

Nuuk – Ilulissat · 24 June – 6 July 2027

Greenland is the worlds largest island, but about 80% of it is permanently covered in ice. The inland of Greenland is harsh and provides no shelter or place to permanently live for people, so all settlements, towns and cities off Greenland are near the Coast. Nuuk, starting point of this voyage, is the capital of Greenland. Flights to Nuuk from Reykjavik are daily. And although in winter time the ice wins land and spreads out also into the bay of Nuuk. In the summer time Nuuk is free of most forms of ice. The city houses a large part of the population of Greenland. Once founded by early settlers and called ‘Good Hope’, it was only after the second world war, when the Greenlandic National identity was reawakened that the city was renamed, Nuuk, translated this means Cape. Setting sail North to Ilulissat, there is much exploring to do along the way. Depending on wind, and weather conditions and taking in account any Ice anomalies like Storis – sea ice – making its way around the south cape. The first day might be used to sail to Maniitsoq. The surroundings were formally known as Sukkertoppen. This name came from Dutch, German and British whalers in the 17th and 18th century, who recognized in the hills the forms of ‘sugar loafs’. Now known as Kangaamiut. Another beautiful place with a whaling history is Ukiivik (Sydbay). A sheltered anchorage can be found here among one of the many low islands. Taking the dinghy ashore, it is a good surrounding to go for a hike. The hills are accessible and from the lighthouse some amazing pictures can be taken. Not looking for a perfect picture or a long hike, remains of the old whaling station can still be found ashore. Go and explore!

24 June 2027 – 6 July 2027
12 nights
Nuuk, Greenland – Ilulissat, Greenland
Tecla
from€4,095/ person
Places available
Visit operator's page

Greenland is the worlds largest island, but about 80% of it is permanently covered in ice. The inland of Greenland is harsh and provides no shelter or place to permanently live for people, so all settlements, towns and cities off Greenland are near the Coast. Nuuk, starting point of this voyage, is the capital of Greenland. Flights to Nuuk from Reykjavik are daily. And although in winter time the ice wins land and spreads out also into the bay of Nuuk. In the summer time Nuuk is free of most forms of ice. The city houses a large part of the population of Greenland. Once founded by early settlers and called ‘Good Hope’, it was only after the second world war, when the Greenlandic National identity was reawakened that the city was renamed, Nuuk, translated this means Cape. Setting sail North to Ilulissat, there is much exploring to do along the way. Depending on wind, and weather conditions and taking in account any Ice anomalies like Storis – sea ice – making its way around the south cape. The first day might be used to sail to Maniitsoq. The surroundings were formally known as Sukkertoppen. This name came from Dutch, German and British whalers in the 17th and 18th century, who recognized in the hills the forms of ‘sugar loafs’. Now known as Kangaamiut. Another beautiful place with a whaling history is Ukiivik (Sydbay). A sheltered anchorage can be found here among one of the many low islands. Taking the dinghy ashore, it is a good surrounding to go for a hike. The hills are accessible and from the lighthouse some amazing pictures can be taken. Not looking for a perfect picture or a long hike, remains of the old whaling station can still be found ashore. Go and explore!

Route

Nuuk - Ilulissat

Port

Nuuk, GreenlandIlulissat, Greenland

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Check the voyage itinerary

24 June

Arrival and welcome aboard in Greenland’s capital. Safety briefing, settling in, and if conditions allow, we start heading north.

Photo: Vincent van Zeijst, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Openverse (https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=16363063)

Arriving in Nuuk by sea, you are met by a dramatic Arctic setting of dark hills, scattered houses, and a harbour edged by cold, clear water. Nearby, visitors can look toward the town’s colorful neighbourhoods and the wide fjord landscape that gives Greenland’s capital its remote, windswept atmosphere.

25 June

We sail along a dramatic coastline of rugged peaks and deep fjords. Possible stops include the Maniitsoq area (Kangaamiut) — once known to whalers as “Sukkertoppen.” Short walks ashore and time to explore small settlements or quiet anchorages.

Photo: David Stanley from Nanaimo, Canada, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons (https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Maniitsoq_(52675689990).jpg)

Approaching Maniitsoq by sea, you are greeted by a dramatic Greenlandic shoreline of rocky islands, clear cold water, and colorful houses scattered across the slopes above the harbour. The atmosphere is remote and quiet, with wide views of the surrounding coast and nearby hills inviting a closer look beyond the quay.

28 June

We continue north, weaving between islands and sea ice. A favourite stop is Ukiivik (Sydbay), where we can hike to a lighthouse or explore remnants of old whaling stations. Evenings in sheltered bays offer zodiac outings or a stroll onshore.

1 July

If weather cooperates, we visit Sisimiut — Greenland’s second-largest town — to explore museums, local cafés, and a touch of culture. North of Sisimiut, the coastline becomes wilder; whales are often seen feeding close to shore.

3 July

Entering Disko Bay, we encounter icebergs from the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier. If conditions allow, we may stop near Disko Island or take a zodiac cruise among the ice. Views of the Ilulissat Icefjord are often unforgettable.

5 July

We finish in Ilulissat, a lively Arctic town with access to the UNESCO Icefjord. Time ashore for hikes, photography, cafés, and optional excursions with local operators. Disembarkation on Day 13.

Photo: patano, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons (https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:The_colors_from_Ilulissat_-_Greenland._-_panoramio.jpg)

Arriving by ship, Ilulissat feels remote and elemental, with a working harbour set against stark Arctic light and a coastline of rock, sea and ice. Nearby, visitors can take in views toward the famous ice-filled waters and the dramatic Greenlandic landscape that gives the town its unforgettable atmosphere.

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Places you'll visit

Nuuk

Arriving in Nuuk by sea, you are met by a dramatic Arctic setting of dark hills, scattered houses, and a harbour edged by cold, clear water. Nearby, visitors can look toward the town’s colorful neighbourhoods and the wide fjord landscape that gives Greenland’s capital its remote, windswept atmosphere.

Photo: Vincent van Zeijst, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Openverse (https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=16363063)
Photo: Vincent van Zeijst, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Openverse (https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=16363063)

Maniitsoq

Approaching Maniitsoq by sea, you are greeted by a dramatic Greenlandic shoreline of rocky islands, clear cold water, and colorful houses scattered across the slopes above the harbour. The atmosphere is remote and quiet, with wide views of the surrounding coast and nearby hills inviting a closer look beyond the quay.

Photo: David Stanley from Nanaimo, Canada, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons (https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Maniitsoq_(52675689990).jpg)
Photo: David Stanley from Nanaimo, Canada, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons (https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Maniitsoq_(52675689990).jpg)

Ilulissat

Arriving by ship, Ilulissat feels remote and elemental, with a working harbour set against stark Arctic light and a coastline of rock, sea and ice. Nearby, visitors can take in views toward the famous ice-filled waters and the dramatic Greenlandic landscape that gives the town its unforgettable atmosphere.

Photo: patano, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons (https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:The_colors_from_Ilulissat_-_Greenland._-_panoramio.jpg)
Photo: patano, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons (https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:The_colors_from_Ilulissat_-_Greenland._-_panoramio.jpg)

Frequently asked questions about tall ship cruises and sailing ships

Many leisure and introductory voyages accept guests without sailing experience. Training and expedition voyages may require active participation, minimum ages or a particular level of mobility. Check the operator's conditions for the exact voyage before booking.
Start with the operator's joining instructions because space, dress rules and required equipment vary by ship. Soft luggage, layered clothing, a waterproof outer layer, sun protection and operator-approved non-slip footwear are common recommendations. Ask a medical professional about suitable seasickness precautions if needed.
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Choosing a tall ship cruise is more than just booking a vacation; it is an invitation to experience the timeless romance of the sea. Unlike modern, crowded cruise liners, a traditional sailing vessel offers an intimate atmosphere where the sound of the wind in the canvas replaces the hum of engines. Taking part in such a unique voyage allows you to connect with maritime heritage while enjoying the comforts of a modern leisure cruise. Whether it’s the thrill of seeing the horizon from a wooden deck, the spectacular sight of a full press of sail, or the chance to visit hidden coastal gems inaccessible to larger ships, a tall ship voyage offers a sense of freedom that is simply unmatched. It is the perfect choice for travelers seeking authenticity, tranquility, and a truly luxury sailing experience that stays with them long after they return to shore.
Tall ships cruises take place on many waters: Baltic, North Sea, Atlantic, Caribbean, Mediterranean and others. Each offer indicates the region and route.
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