Plan a CruiseTasiilaq Cruise Port Guide
Tasiilaq, also known as Ammassalik, is the sole settlement on Ammassalik island and one of Greenland's fastest-growing towns, home to 1,893 inhabitants. Ships typically use tenders to reach the town, as the pier is only 30 meters long. The town itself is celebrated for its distinctive small wooden houses painted in various colors and the frequent howling of sled dogs, a quintessential sound of the area. Beyond the colorful town, Tasiilaq is a gateway to an outdoor adventurer's paradise. The surrounding landscape offers exceptional opportunities for kayaking, mountaineering, and hiking amidst craggy peaks, glaciers, and icy waters. It's important to note that Greenland has no roads connecting its towns, meaning all inter-town travel is by plane or ship. For shorter distances outside of town, locals rely on personal boats, dogsleds, or snowmobiles, underscoring the remote and rugged nature of the region.
Getting Around from the Port
Tasiilaq is a compact and walkable town, making it easy to explore on foot once you've tendered ashore. There are no taxis or public transport options within the town itself. Given the absence of roads connecting settlements in Greenland, renting a car is not practical. For activities outside the immediate town area, such as exploring glaciers or waterways, you would need to arrange an organized tour, which typically uses local boats, or in winter, dogsleds or snowmobiles.
Attractions and Activities
Independent exploration within Tasiilaq primarily involves walking around to admire the colorful houses and soak in the atmosphere. For more adventurous pursuits, the surrounding area offers:
- Kayaking Tours: Explore the icy fjords and waters around Tasiilaq, offering stunning views of glaciers and icebergs. These are typically guided tours due to the challenging environment.
- Hiking Expeditions: Numerous trails wind through the craggy peaks and wilderness surrounding the town. Options range from shorter, less strenuous walks to more demanding mountaineering trips.
- Glacier and Iceberg Viewing: Organized boat tours provide opportunities to get close to the impressive glaciers and the majestic icebergs that drift through the region's waters.
- Dogsledding/Snowmobiling: During the winter months, these traditional modes of transport offer a unique way to experience the Arctic landscape. Tours would need to be pre-booked and are highly weather-dependent. Specific tour prices and durations will vary by local operator and should be inquired about upon arrival or pre-booked through your cruise line.
Dining & Shopping
Tasiilaq has a large supermarket where you can find groceries and everyday items. While specific restaurants or cafes are not detailed, you can expect basic options for food. For souvenirs, look for unique, handmade works of art crafted by Greenlandic artists. These items are distinct, reflecting local traditions and the individual skills of their creators, making them special mementos of your visit.
Currency and Language
The local currency is the Danish Krone (DKK). While credit cards are widely accepted at many hotels, restaurants, and shops, it's advisable to carry a small amount of Danish kroner, especially for weekend visits, as some ATMs may not be operational. The official language is Greenlandic (Kalaallisut), which is quite distinct. Danish is commonly spoken as a second language, but English proficiency is less widespread among the local population. Internet hotspots are available in most major hotels, and some larger towns and tourist offices offer internet cafes for accessing webmail. The mobile phone system used is GSM 900/1800.