Sarfaq Ittuk, the coastal ferry run by Arctic Umiaq Line, sails between Qaqortoq (South Greenland) and Ilulissat (North Greenland) from April 1 till early January. A full route takes 4 nights northbound and 3 nights southbound.
Coastal sailing in Greenland is a spectacular nature experience through and through, but it is also an opportunity to get close to the Greenlandic culture. Unlike other Arctic cruises that are designed especially for tourists, Sarfaq Ittuk usually carries more local passengers than travelers. Greenlanders depend on the coastal ferry as an alternative to flying, and how lucky we are to have such a beautiful way to travel in Greenland.
As the honorary tourists on board Sarfaq Ittuk, you have a special window on the Greenlandic world. Dining alongside Greenlanders in the communal café and taking in the same magnificent view from the upper decks, you have every chance to strike up a conversation and hear stories you won’t find anywhere in the Internet. At the end of the journey, watch as your new friend reunites with his family on the dock, and know that you are witness to something unique to Greenland.
“We had the chance to take a standard cruise to Greenland, but we preferred this kind of ship experience – being with the locals and meeting people. It is nicer!”
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A SPIRIT OF EXPLORATION
West Greenland waters like the Davis Strait and Labrador Sea made the original highway along the west coast of Greenland many centuries ago. Today, there are still no roads between the dozens of towns and villages, but even with airplanes and helicopters available, coastal sailing remains a beloved way to travel in Greenland.
The maritime voyage evokes a spirit of exploration as you navigate past changing landscapes and iceberg-filled waters from one Greenlandic town to the next. Each town has its own character, and excitement builds anew to discover what adventures await on shore. When out on the high seas, enjoy whale watching and chatting with your fellow seafarers until the next harbor and cluster of small colorful houses comes into focus on the open horizon.
COASTAL FERRY SHIP GUIDE
There is a great amount of freedom on Sarfaq Ittuk to fall in line with the local way and to make your own adventure out of the voyage. But for those who wish for a bit of guidance, the Ship Guide is there during the high season purely to make sure your coastal sailing trip run smoothly.
In summertime, the coastal ferry Ship Guide arranges afternoon activities on board, and since Sarfaq Ittuk is only so big, he or she is always around and happy to answer questions.
