Plan a CruiseUpernavik Cruise Port Guide
Upernavik is a tender port, meaning ships will anchor offshore and transport you ashore by boat. Located at 72 degrees north latitude, Upernavik offers visitors the unique feeling of being "on top of the world." This northern position is also home to the world's most northerly open-air museum. The area is characterized by unique wildlife, including Apparsuit, the world's largest bird cliff, and significant mountains like Life's Summit (151 meters / 500 feet) and Qaarsorsuaq (1,100 meters / 3,600 feet).
The Upernavik municipality has a population of around 3,000, with over half residing in ten settlements along its 450 km (280 miles) coastline. The primary industry is fishing for Greenland halibut, often done through the ice in winter. The sea is frozen from December to June, making travel by dogsled or snowmobile common. For those visiting between February and April, a dogsled trip offers an iconic experience across the frozen sea, with stunning views of the Davis Strait.
Getting Around from the Port
Upernavik is a small, walkable town from the tender landing. There are no roads connecting towns in Greenland; all inter-town transport occurs by plane or ship. For shorter distances outside of towns, locals use personal boats, dogsleds, or snowmobiles. Within Upernavik itself, you can easily explore on foot. There are no taxis, public transit, or car rental options for independent exploration within the town or surrounding areas. Any excursions beyond walking distance would typically involve local boats, dogsleds, or guided snowmobile trips, which need to be arranged locally.
Attractions and Activities
Given your 8-10 hours in port, consider these activities:
- Explore Upernavik Town: Visit the world's most northerly open-air museum to learn about local history and culture. The town itself is small and offers a glimpse into Arctic life.
- Hike Life's Summit: Walk to the town's highest point, Life's Summit, at 151 meters (500 feet) for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and coastline.
- Nature and Wildlife Viewing: The Upernavik area is known for unique fauna, including Apparsuit, the world's largest bird cliff. Local boat charters can be organized to explore the coastline and potentially spot wildlife.
- Traditional Activities (Seasonal/Arranged):
- Dog Sledding: If visiting between February and April, a dogsled trip offers a unique opportunity to experience travel across the frozen sea. These trips would need to be arranged locally with a guide.
- Kayaking: The area is ideal for kayaking, with options to paddle between settlements or simply enjoy a unique sailing trip if you charter a local boat.
- Hunting Trips: For those interested in local traditions, hunting trips (e.g., for narwhals, beluga whales, seals) can be organized with local outfitters, reflecting the central role of hunting in the settlements.
Dining & Shopping
Upernavik offers unique shopping opportunities for authentic Greenlandic souvenirs. You'll find handmade works of art crafted by local artists, reflecting traditional customs while incorporating individual skills and ideas. These unique products are not found elsewhere.
While specific restaurants are not noted, general supermarket hours in major Greenlandic towns are typically 10:00-17:30 on weekdays (until 18:00 on Fridays) and 09:00-13:00 on Saturdays. Smaller corner or grocer's shops may offer longer hours and could be open on Sundays.
Currency and Language
The local currency is the Danish Krone (DKK). While credit cards are accepted at many hotels, restaurants, and shops, it's advisable to carry a small amount of Danish kroner cash. ATMs may not be in service on weekends.
The primary language spoken is Kalaallisut (Greenlandic). Danish is widely spoken as a second language, but English is less common. For mobile communication, the system in Greenland is GSM 900/1800. Internet access may be available via hotspots in major hotels or at internet cafés in larger towns, and some tourist offices offer webmail access.