Cruise Port Day PlannerCruise Port Day Planner
Find Cruises Plan a Cruise My Trips Port Guides

Ittoqqortoormiit GreenlandCruise Port Guide

Upcoming cruises to Ittoqqortoormiit

Ittoqqortoormiit, also known as Scoresby Sound, is a remarkably remote port in Greenland. Your cruise ship will anchor or moor, and you will be tendered ashore. This area is home to the world's largest and longest fjord complex. The municipality is vast, comparable in size to Great Britain, yet it has only about 550 inhabitants, making it one of the most sparsely populated places on Earth. Getting here is considered an adventure in itself, as Ittoqqortoormiit is almost as far as one can get from any other inhabited area in Greenland. Be prepared for a unique experience, as the sea here is frozen for nine months of the year, with long winters and very few tourists.

Getting Around from the Port

Upon tendering ashore, the town center of Ittoqqortoormiit is likely within walking distance due to its small size. However, it's crucial to understand that there are no roads connecting towns in Greenland. All inter-town transportation is by plane or ship. For shorter distances outside the town, locals use private boats, dogsleds, or snowmobiles. Given the extreme Arctic climate, all transport prioritizes safety. Independent transport options beyond walking within the immediate village area are extremely limited and typically require pre-arrangement with local operators for specific activities.

Attractions and Activities

Ittoqqortoormiit offers a truly unique array of activities focused on its untouched wilderness:

  • Expedition Trips: Engage in adventurous sea kayak or dogsled expeditions, providing an authentic way to explore the vast Arctic landscape.
  • Sailing and Hiking: For a more comfortable experience, various sailing and hiking trips are available, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty.
  • Trophy Hunting: This region is known for trophy hunting opportunities, catering to specific interests.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Visit the National Park located north of Ittoqqortoormiit to observe its unique fauna, including numerous species of mammals and birds. Given the remoteness, it is highly recommended to book any excursions directly through your cruise line or reputable local tour operators in advance.

Dining & Shopping

Shopping in Ittoqqortoormiit focuses on unique, handmade Greenlandic art and souvenirs. These are distinctive creations by local artists, blending tradition with individual skill, ensuring you'll find one-of-a-kind items. For basic provisions, supermarkets typically operate on weekdays from 10:00 to 17:30, extending to 18:00 on Fridays. On Saturdays, hours are usually 09:00 to 13:00. Some smaller corner or grocer's shops may offer longer hours and operate on Sundays. Dining options are very limited; expect local establishments rather than a wide range of restaurants.

Weather

Ittoqqortoormiit (Scoresbysund) in East Greenland is accessible during the brief Arctic summer (July to August), with cool temperatures between 36–50°F (2–10°C). This remote settlement at the entrance to one of the world's longest fjord systems sees rapidly changing weather, with wind, fog, and rain possible at any time; warm insulated waterproof layers, gloves, hat, and sturdy boots are essential. The extraordinary Arctic wildlife and iceberg scenery make this one of the most dramatic cruise destinations in the world.

Average Temperature (°F)
154Jan143Feb156Mar2415Apr3225May4135Jun5042Jul4941Aug4031Sep2921Oct2415Nov155Dec
Average Precipitation (in)
3Jan3.27Feb3.07Mar1.94Apr2.06May3.91Jun2.3Jul3.35Aug2.37Sep3.33Oct3.42Nov3.3Dec

Currency and Language

The local currency is the Danish Krone (DKK). While credit cards are accepted at many hotels, shops, and restaurants, it is strongly recommended to carry a small amount of Danish kroner, especially because ATMs may not be in service on weekends.

Top Attractions

Show map
Scoresby Sund
Explore the world's largest and deepest fjord system, renowned for its immense icebergs, dramatic cliffs, and pristine Arctic wilderness. It offers unparalleled opportunities for scenic cruising and wildlife observation.
Ittoqqortoormiit Settlement
Explore the colorful houses, observe local life, and experience the unique atmosphere of one of the world's most isolated settlements. It serves as a base for Arctic adventures.
Northeast Greenland National Park
Discover the immense wilderness of the world's largest national park, a vast protected area home to diverse Arctic wildlife like musk oxen, polar bears, and walruses, offering pristine and untouched landscapes.
Ittoqqortoormiit Museum
Discover the rich history and traditional Inuit culture of East Greenland through artifacts, photographs, and exhibits. Gain insight into the challenging yet resilient life in the Arctic.
Red Island
Marvel at the striking red sandstone cliffs and unique columnar basalt formations of Red Island, a geological wonder often surrounded by magnificent, towering icebergs within the fjord.
Jameson Land
Undertake excursions to this large peninsula, a prime location for observing herds of musk oxen and other Arctic wildlife in their natural, rugged environment.
Øfjord
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Øfjord, one of the most spectacular branches of Scoresby Sund, characterized by its steep, majestic cliffs and narrow passages that create dramatic fjord landscapes.
Fønfjord
Navigate the deep waters of Fønfjord, a significant branch of Scoresby Sund, renowned for its towering icebergs and impressive fjord scenery, offering a true Arctic wilderness experience.
Milne Land
Discover the rugged beauty of Milne Land, the second-largest island in Greenland, characterized by its impressive mountainous terrain, glaciers, and vast, untouched Arctic landscapes.
Røde Ø
Witness the striking red sandstone cliffs of this island, often surrounded by a mesmerizing collection of icebergs, creating a truly unique Arctic spectacle.
Cape Brewster
Witness dramatic basalt cliffs rising directly from the sea at Cape Brewster, a significant and iconic landmark marking the entrance to the vast Scoresby Sund fjord system.
Kap Tobin
Journey to this scenic cape, often reached by dog sled or snowmobile, to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Scoresby Sund and the dramatic Arctic coastline.
Denmark Island
Visit Denmark Island to explore ancient Inuit ruins, offering a poignant glimpse into the history and culture of the region's indigenous people amidst stunning Arctic scenery.
Ittoqqortoormiit Church
Visit the charming local church, a prominent landmark in the settlement, reflecting the community's spiritual and architectural heritage. It offers a glimpse into local life.
Bear Island
Cruise among these picturesque islands within Scoresby Sund, admiring their rugged beauty and keeping an eye out for seabirds and other coastal wildlife.
Hekla Havn
Discover Hekla Havn, a significant historical site on Denmark Island, where the first scientific expedition to Scoresby Sund established its winter quarters in the late 19th century.
Fame Islands
Explore this archipelago within Scoresby Sund, renowned for its dramatic landscapes and pristine Arctic environment, ideal for scenic cruising.
Hurry Inlet
Explore Hurry Inlet, a scenic fjord arm leading towards Constable Point, known for its interesting geological features, potential wildlife sightings, and dramatic coastal landscapes.
Renland
Discover Renland, a distinctive peninsula within Scoresby Sund, characterized by its dramatic, unglaciated mountain peaks and unique geological formations, offering a rugged Arctic experience.
Liverpool Land
Witness the dramatic coastal scenery and rugged mountains of Liverpool Land, a prominent peninsula forming the eastern boundary of Hurry Inlet, offering spectacular views of the Greenland Sea.
Scoresby Land
Explore the expansive wilderness of Scoresby Land, a remote and pristine area north of Scoresby Sund, offering untouched Arctic landscapes, vast tundra, and potential wildlife encounters.