Boat Travel around Ilimaussaq

Most of our travel within the complex will be by boat - Ilimaussaq spans two fjords. Our boats are small fast, typically "cuddy cabin" types, each capable of carrying 5 people. Some trips are short - a quick trip from Narsaq to the Tunuliarfik area, while the other is a longer 1 hour ride to Kangerlussaq. For larger groups we'll either use two boats, or make several trips.

These trips are great opportunities for photos; the scenery is fantastic. Occasionally we will find ourselves navigating dense ice fields as the ice gets blown out of the fjord north of Narsaq and into the boating channels. Peter (our captain) is adept at navigating this ice, but it can still be cause for some anxious moments. I have over 30 years of boating experience in South Florida, but Peter still won't trust me to drive; "Black Ice - you must watch for the black ice!". He tells stories of icebergs barely poking out of the water, crystal clear such that they appear black (invisible). Hit one of those and you'll be launched out of the water just like a scene from Miami Vice!

Our daily plans are made each morning - according to the weather. We look for good boating weather and take advantage of it every day we can. The weather in Greenland is quite unpredictable and can change instantly. Winds blow up the fjords and create heavy seas which are impossible in a heavily loaded boat. Those days we spend our time in the Kvanefjeld area which we can access by 4-wheel drive.

Those who are interested can also make side trips by boat to the Ice Pack and glaciers, or to the Norse Ruins. A day spent fishing can be a wonderful break from the rigors of hauling rock.... There are several guides in Narsaq who will provide you with a wonderful day on the water.