Sisimiut, Greenland’s second-largest town with around 5,800 inhabitants, sits on the coast of Davis Strait at the mouth of the 170-kilometer-long Kangerlussuaq fjord (also known as Søndre Strømfjord). This fjord system is one of the most accessible places in Greenland to observe humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) during the summer months. Boat trips from Sisimiut into the fjord offer close encounters with these marine mammals, alongside views of icebergs calved from the Greenland Ice Sheet, bird cliffs, and historical sites. This article covers the practical details—operators, pricing, timing, wildlife, and preparation—so you can plan a memorable excursion.

Why Kangerlussuaq fjord is a prime whale-watching destination

Kangerlussuaq fjord stretches from the former US air base at Kangerlussuaq (Søndre Strømfjord) eastward to the ice sheet, but the section near Sisimiut is particularly rich in marine life. The fjord’s deep, nutrient-rich waters attract humpback whales from June through September, when they feed on capelin and krill before migrating south. The sheltered waters of the inner fjord provide calm conditions ideal for small boat excursions. In addition to humpbacks, you may see fin whales, minke whales, harbour porpoises, and seals. Birdlife includes Arctic terns, black-legged kittiwakes, and white-tailed eagles. The scenery is dominated by towering mountains, glaciers, and icebergs that drift from the ice sheet’s margin near the head of the fjord.

Boat trip operators in Sisimiut

Several local companies run scheduled and private boat trips from Sisimiut harbour (located at the end of Aqqusinersuaq street). The main operators as of 2026:

  • Greenland Travel Sisimiut – Offers 4-hour and full-day excursions into Kangerlussuaq fjord. Prices start at 1,200 DKK per person for a half-day trip. Their boats are rigid-hulled inflatables (RIBs) seating 8–12 passengers, allowing close approach to whales and icebergs.
  • Sisimiut Boat Tours – A family-run company with a 40-foot motor vessel that accommodates up to 20 passengers. Half-day trips cost 950 DKK per person; full-day (6–7 hours) costs 1,500 DKK including lunch. They also offer custom charters for groups.
  • Arctic Umiaq Line – While primarily a ferry service, their passenger boat Sarfaq Ittuk connects Sisimiut to Kangerlussuaq and other settlements. However, for dedicated whale-watching, the smaller tour operators are better because they can maneuver closer and spend more time in wildlife-rich areas.

Most trips depart from the main harbour near the Sisimiut harbour. It is advisable to book at least 24 hours in advance, especially in July and August when demand peaks.

What to expect on a whale-watching boat trip

A typical half-day boat trip from Sisimiut lasts 3–4 hours and covers the inner part of Kangerlussuaq fjord, up to the vicinity of the Kangerlussuaq Glacier (also called Russell Glacier). The route passes by the abandoned settlement of Umánaq and the mouth of the Akuliaruseq valley. The captain often cuts the engine when whales are spotted, allowing the boat to drift silently while passengers watch from deck. Humpback whales are known for breaching, tail-slapping, and fluke-up dives. The guides provide commentary in English and Danish, explaining whale behaviour and local ecology.

Full-day trips (6–8 hours) go farther into the fjord, reaching the calving front of the glacier where icebergs are abundant. Some operators include a stop at the former US radar station at the summit of the 1,200-metre-high Mount Nasaasaaq, though this requires a separate hike. Lunch is usually provided—often a traditional Greenlandic soup (suaasat) with seal or fish, or a packed lunch with sandwiches, coffee, and cake.

Wildlife viewing probabilities

Humpback whale sightings are common but not guaranteed. According to operator logs from 2023–2025, sightings occurred on about 85% of trips from mid-June to late August. The best months are July and August, when feeding activity peaks. Early morning departures (around 8:00 or 9:00) often yield calmer seas and more active whales. In September, sightings decline as whales begin their migration south, but fin whales become more frequent.

Practical information: pricing, duration, and booking

Prices for boat trips from Sisimiut vary by operator and duration:

  • Half-day (3–4 hours): 900–1,200 DKK per adult. Children under 12 often pay half price.
  • Full-day (6–8 hours): 1,400–1,800 DKK per adult, including lunch.
  • Private charter (up to 8 passengers): 6,000–10,000 DKK for a half-day, depending on boat size and operator.

All trips require a minimum number of passengers (usually 4–6) to run. If the minimum is not met, the operator may offer a private charter at a higher rate or cancel with full refund. Booking can be done online via the operator’s website or at the Sisimiut Tourist Information office near the harbour. Payment is accepted in Danish kroner (DKK) by credit card; cash is rarely needed.

What to bring

Even in summer, temperatures on the fjord range from 5–15°C (41–59°F), with wind chill making it feel colder. Essential items:

  • Warm, waterproof jacket and trousers (synthetic or wool layers)
  • Non-slip shoes or boots (deck can be wet and slippery)
  • Binoculars (for distant whales and birds)
  • Camera with a telephoto lens (200mm or more recommended)
  • Sunscreen and sunglasses (glare from water and ice is intense)
  • Motion sickness medication if prone (the inner fjord is usually calm, but outer sections can be choppy)

Operators provide life jackets and sometimes immersion suits for safety. Listen to the safety briefing before departure.

Combining boat trips with other Sisimiut activities

A boat trip on Kangerlussuaq fjord can be combined with other summer experiences in Sisimiut. Many visitors take a morning whale-watching tour and then spend the afternoon hiking a section of the Arctic Circle Trail, which starts just outside town. The trailhead at the end of the road near the old heliport is a 20-minute walk from the harbour. Alternatively, you can join a guided fishing trip or a tour of the Sisimiut Museum, which showcases 4,500 years of human settlement in the region.

If you have a full day, consider a combined tour that includes a boat trip and a visit to the Kangerlussuaq Glacier. Some operators offer a “Glacier & Whales” package that includes a 2-hour hike on the ice sheet margin after the boat ride. This requires sturdy hiking boots and a reasonable fitness level.

Getting to Sisimiut and planning your trip

Sisimiut is accessible by air and sea. The town’s airport (JHS) receives flights from Air Greenland from Kangerlussuaq (SFJ) and Nuuk (GOH). Flight time from Kangerlussuaq is about 25 minutes; from Nuuk, about 50 minutes. During summer, the Sarfaq Ittuk coastal ferry also calls at Sisimiut on its route between Ilulissat and Qaqortoq. For detailed routing, see How to get to Sisimiut 2026: flights, ferries, routing.

If you are arriving via Kangerlussuaq, you could take a boat trip directly from the airport community. However, the whale-watching is generally better from Sisimiut because the fjord is narrower and whales are more concentrated. Many visitors fly into Kangerlussuaq, take a boat or bus to Sisimiut (the road is not complete, so boat or helicopter is the only option), and then join a tour. For a comprehensive overview of the region, read The Complete Guide to Sisimiut, Greenland 2026.

Best time for boat trips: summer vs. shoulder seasons

The prime season for boat trips from Sisimiut is from June 1 to September 15. Within that window:

  • June: Icebergs are abundant, but whale sightings are less frequent (about 60% success rate). Midnight sun provides long daylight hours.
  • July–August: Peak humpback whale season. Daytime temperatures average 10–15°C. The midnight sun persists until early August, allowing late-evening tours.
  • September: Fewer whales but the autumn colours are stunning. Northern lights become visible after dark.

Outside summer, boat trips are not offered due to sea ice and polar darkness. However, winter visitors can experience dogsledding and northern lights.

Environmental considerations and responsible wildlife viewing

All licensed operators in Sisimiut follow the Greenlandic guidelines for responsible whale-watching: maintaining a minimum distance of 100 metres from whales, approaching from the side rather than directly, and limiting time spent with a single group. Engines are kept at idle or turned off when whales are near. Do not feed or touch wildlife. For more on sustainable travel, see Arctic Circle Trail packing list: ultralight comfort (though focused on hiking, its principles apply to boat trips too).

Related articles

  • The Complete Guide to Sisimiut, Greenland 2026
  • How to get to Sisimiut 2026: flights, ferries, routing
  • Air Greenland routes to Sisimiut, Kangerlussuaq, Nuuk
  • Sarfaq Ittuk coastal ferry: Sisimiut schedule and stops
  • Sisimiut summer: boats, hikes, midnight sun 2026