Best time to visit Greenland

Cruising in Greenland

Observing glaciers under the midnight sun or the northern light is an unforgettable experience

Best time: June–September

Cruising
Cruising
Cruising
Cruising

Greenland's terrain is mountainous and rugged, so water transport has always been a more practical and efficient way to move around. Traditionally kayaks and the larger umiaq were used. Some Northern areas are hard to access even in summer, but the rest of Greenland's waters are perfect for cruising. In fact, it's the best way to get to some parts of the island. Most cruises begin and end in Kangerlussuaq and include a visit to Disco ​Bay and the Ilulissat Icefjord which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cruising is available all rear round, ​but there are two periods that are extra special: summer with the midnight sun and winter with the northern lights. These natural phenomena make for a truly magical experience. Often cruises also offer a unique taste of Greenland. Literally. The crew fishes out 4,000 years old ice caps and crushes it into ice cubes for your drink.

Practical info

When is the best time to go on a cruise in Greenland?

To enjoy cruising in Greenland, it's suggested to visit between June and September. These months have milder weather with clear skies, creating excellent visibility for admiring the glaciers and icebergs. Moreover, from May to mid-July, visitors can observe the midnight sun, and from September to April, the northern lights can be seen. Show more

What is the starting and ending point for most cruises in Greenland?

Usually, most cruises in Greenland originate and conclude at Kangerlussuaq, a small town located in the west. With many international flights to Greenland, Kangerlussuaq provides easy access to visitors. The Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the stunning Disco Bay are the two most popular attractions visited from Kangerlussuaq. However, some areas of the island may require additional travel arrangements. Show more

What is unique about cruising in Greenland?

Cruising in Greenland is a unique adventure because of the rugged terrain and breathtaking natural views. Visitors get a chance to observe the glaciers, icebergs, and the midnight sun or northern lights, making it an incomparable experience. Another one-of-a-kind experience is the availability of 4,000-year-old ice caps that are collected by cruise crews and offered as ice cubes for drinks. Show more

When can you observe the midnight sun in Greenland?

The midnight sun in Greenland is visible from late May to mid-July, providing extended daylight hours to explore and witness the island's beauty. The phenomenon is most commonly seen in northern Greenland, where the sun remains above the horizon for 24 hours, and the darkness never arrives. This unforgettable experience of natural beauty is worth seeing once in a lifetime. Show more

Can visitors taste 4,000-year-old ice caps on Greenland cruises?

On a cruise in Greenland, visitors can indeed taste 4,000-year-old ice caps that the crew members collect from the glaciers and icebergs seen during the journey. The ice caps get crushed into ice cubes for guests' drinks, providing a unique and refreshing taste and a direct connection to the island's natural environment. Overall, it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that visitors can cherish. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin