| Embark | Disembark | Vessel | Duration | Voyage No |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thu 08-07-2027, 18:00Illulissat, West Greenland | Sun 18-07-2027, 10:00Upernavik, Greenland | Tecla | 10 Nights | TC080727 |
Sail through Greenland’s Disko Bay aboard Tecla, a brilliant Arctic sailing expedition, on a historic Dutch ketch built for polar waters, navigating among cathedral-sized icebergs during the midnight sun season.
This nine-night Arctic sailing voyage from Ilulissat to Upernavik offers hands-on experience of polar navigation, watchkeeping in continuous daylight, and traditional seamanship adapted for ice-filled waters.
The professional crew teaches rope handling, ice awareness, and navigation skills while you witness glacier calving, potential whale sightings, and the profound silence of Arctic seascapes. Arrive in Upernavik, a remote Greenlandic settlement where Inuit culture remains deeply connected to these polar waters, having gained genuine Arctic sailing experience and perspective few travelers ever witness.
A delight. A competent and engaging professional crew, an interesting voyage with some challenges and some great rewards. Good companions to make the log spin around.
Mike
| Vessel type / Rig | Gaff Ketch |
| Guest Berths | 12 |
| Beam | 22ft |
| Draft | 8.9ft |
| Deck Length | 90ft |
| Overall Length | 124ft |
| Tonnage | 92 tons |
| Year Built | 1915 |
Sail through one of Earth’s most dramatic seascapes on this Greenland Arctic sailing voyage aboard Tecla, a historic Dutch ketch purpose-built for polar waters. Departing from Ilulissat, Greenland in early July, you’ll navigate through Disko Bay where cathedral-sized icebergs drift in profound silence, their sculpted blue forms towering up to 100 meters above the waterline. This nine-night Arctic sailing expedition offers your first genuine experience of polar navigation, with hands-on steering, watchkeeping, and traditional sailing skills taught in an environment few sailors ever witness. The voyage concludes in Upernavik, a remote settlement where the Greenlandic Inuit culture remains deeply connected to these Arctic waters.
Expect to actively crew a traditional sailing vessel through ice-filled waters, learning rope handling, navigation, and watchkeeping from professional crew while witnessing massive glacier calving events and navigating among icebergs. You’ll develop genuine polar sailing skills in conditions that test your abilities while remaining safely manageable for first-time Arctic sailors.
The passage north from Ilulissat takes you deep into Disko Bay, where the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier – one of the world’s most productive – calves icebergs into the sea at an astonishing rate. You’ll quickly understand why Greenlandic waters demand constant vigilance and skillful seamanship. Steering Tecla through ice-scattered channels requires concentration and judgment that modern GPS navigation cannot replace. The professional crew will teach you to read ice patterns, understand how icebergs drift with current rather than wind, and calculate safe passing distances based on the submerged ice mass extending below the waterline.
During July, these latitudes experience near-continuous daylight, with the midnight sun barely dipping toward the horizon before rising again. This extended light allows for flexible watches and sailing schedules dictated by ice conditions rather than darkness. You’ll stand watches at 2am in full daylight, the only sounds being the creak of Tecla’s rigging and the occasional thunderous crack of distant glacier calving.
Any initial doubts as to the number and experience of the crew were very quickly dispelled and we were impressed with the knowledge and the handling skills of the skipper and the 2 mates. Every opportunity was taken to enhance our enjoyment on both voyages and at every stage we were made to feel relaxed and under no obligation to crew the ship under sometimes testing (but enjoyable) conditions. As an observation, we must congratulate the skipper for her culinary skills under difficult conditions……….the food was perfect for the voyage.
Geoff
The sailing itself follows traditional principles adapted for polar conditions. You’ll handle sheets and halyards with the added complexity of cold weather, learning how rope behaves differently at low temperatures and why certain knots work better in these conditions. The crew teaches Arctic-specific skills: ice watches, cold weather safety protocols, and the particular characteristics of sailing in waters where visibility can change from crystal clarity to fog within minutes.
Disko Bay and the waters north toward Upernavik support remarkable Arctic wildlife, though sightings can never be guaranteed in these vast waters. Humpback whales commonly feed in these rich waters during July, their breaches and tail flukes dramatic against the ice backdrop. Seals haul out on ice floes, and if you’re particularly fortunate, you might spot the white form of a polar bear on distant ice – always viewed from safe distance and with profound respect for these apex predators.
Seabird colonies populate cliff faces along the Greenlandic coast, with kittiwakes, guillemots, and Arctic terns filling the air with their calls. The professional crew, experienced in these waters, will help you identify species and understand the Arctic ecosystem’s delicate balance.
Your voyage begins in Ilulissat, whose name literally means “icebergs” in Greenlandic – an entirely accurate description. This settlement of approximately 4,500 residents sits on the edge of Disko Bay, directly facing the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier’s output. Ilulissat offers several compelling reasons to arrive a day or two early.
The Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, can be explored via boardwalk paths that provide stunning vantage points over the ice-choked fjord. Walking these paths in the days before your voyage helps acclimatize to the scale of Greenlandic ice formations and builds anticipation for what lies ahead. The town itself retains genuine Arctic character, with brightly painted wooden houses, husky kennels (dog sledding remains essential winter transport), and a harbour where fishing boats work among drifting ice.
July temperatures in Ilulissat range from 5°C to 12°C, with conditions varying from bright sunshine to fog and occasional rain. The weather remains unpredictable, characteristic of Arctic maritime climates where conditions can shift rapidly.
The voyage concludes in Upernavik, one of Greenland’s more remote settlements located approximately 800 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle. The name “Upernavik” translates from Greenlandic as “the spring place,” referring to the slightly earlier thaw compared to surrounding settlements. The settlement earned its informal title “The Women’s Island” during the 19th and early 20th centuries when many men from the community spent extended periods hunting and fishing at distant camps, leaving the women to manage the settlement’s daily life and commerce – a historical pattern that created an unusually matriarchal community structure for its time.
With a population around 1,100, Upernavik maintains strong connections to traditional Greenlandic Inuit culture while adapting to modern realities. Consider extending your stay in Upernavik for a day after disembarkation. The settlement’s museum provides insight into centuries of Arctic survival, including the unique social history that gave rise to its distinctive character, and the surrounding landscapes offer hiking opportunities with views across island-studded waters. Upernavik’s isolation – accessible only by helicopter or boat during the brief summer season – makes it genuinely remote, offering a perspective on Arctic life that few travellers from temperate latitudes ever witness.
Tecla, built in 1915, is a traditional Dutch ketch that has been strengthened for polar navigation. Her steel hull and robust construction make her ideally suited for ice-filled waters, while her traditional rig provides the sailing experience you’re seeking. The vessel has recently refurbished her twin cabins with bunk beds and ensuite facilities, offering comfortable accommodation while maintaining the authentic character of a working sailing vessel. Cabins are arranged with same-gender pairings where applicable, and the communal dining area serves as the social heart of the ship.
The small crew complement – maximum 12 guests plus professional crew – creates a naturally social atmosphere. Solo travellers represent the majority of Classic Sailing’s guests, and the shared experience of Arctic sailing quickly builds connections among people who might otherwise never meet. Watches are organised to ensure everyone participates while maintaining adequate rest, with flexibility to accommodate individual energy levels and learning speeds.
Meals aboard feature fresh ingredients where available, supplemented by provisions suitable for extended passages. The galley produces substantial, warming food appropriate for cold weather sailing, with dietary requirements accommodated when communicated in advance. Eating together in the saloon becomes a social focal point, with conversation naturally turning to the day’s ice navigation, wildlife sightings, or the next day’s planned route.
Brilliant. I would do it again tomorrow. And good value too. The food was excellent. I loved the spicy meatballs and my wife loved the fresh langoustines.
Steve
This voyage provides genuine learning opportunities in traditional seamanship adapted for polar conditions. The professional crew teaches:
Reading charts for Arctic waters where tides, currents, and ice patterns interact in complex ways. You’ll learn to calculate safe distances from icebergs, recognise ice types (first-year vs. multi-year ice), and understand how icebergs move differently from surface vessels.
Handling canvas and rope in cold conditions requires techniques that differ from temperate waters. The crew demonstrates why certain approaches work better when temperatures hover just above freezing and how to maintain equipment in these conditions.
Standing watches during the midnight sun presents unique challenges – maintaining alertness when circadian rhythms lose their usual darkness cues, and developing the discipline to rest during “daylight” hours between watches.
July represents the peak of Greenland’s brief Arctic summer, when the ice has partially cleared but remains dramatically present. Expect daytime temperatures between 5°C and 12°C, occasionally reaching 15°C in direct sunshine. Wind conditions vary considerably, from calm days where Tecla motors through glassy waters to brisk winds that allow for excellent sailing. The professional crew monitors weather forecasts continuously, though Arctic weather patterns can develop rapidly and unpredictably.
Sea conditions in Disko Bay and the waters toward Upernavik range from remarkably calm to moderately challenging, depending on wind and swell patterns. The presence of ice tends to dampen wave action, creating more comfortable conditions than you might expect in these latitudes. However, this voyage ventures into genuine Arctic waters where conditions can test your abilities – part of the authentic experience you’re seeking.
The itinerary is subject to weather conditions and the captain’s discretion. However, the advertised departure from Ilulissat on 08-07-2027 at 18:00 and arrival in Upernavik on 18-07-2027 at 10:00 remain firm commitments.
What’s Included: All meals and accommodation aboard Tecla, all safety equipment, comprehensive instruction and guidance from professional crew, and the sailing experience itself.
Not Included: International flights to Greenland (typically via Reykjavik, Iceland, then domestic Greenlandic flights), accommodation before/after the voyage, travel insurance (required), and personal bar bills.
Travel Logistics: Reaching Ilulissat requires flights from the UK to Reykjavik (approximately 3 hours from London), then onward to Kangerlussuaq or Nuuk, and finally a domestic flight to Ilulissat. Allow a full day for travel and strongly consider arriving at least one day early to account for potential weather delays to Arctic flights. Air Greenland operates the Greenlandic domestic network, with schedules subject to weather conditions. Classic Sailing’s Ilulissat port guide provides comprehensive travel details.
Solo Travellers: Approximately 75% of Classic Sailing guests travel solo, and this voyage particularly attracts individuals seeking meaningful bucket-list experiences. Same-gender shared cabin arrangements (where cabin structure allows) create both economy and natural social connections. The small crew size means you’ll quickly know everyone aboard.
Limited Availability: With only 12 berths available and this voyage operating during the brief Arctic summer window, spaces fill well in advance. The combination of Tecla’s ice capability and the limited season when these waters are navigable makes this a rare opportunity.
Classic Sailing Context: Classic Sailing has connected guests with traditional sailing experiences for nearly 30 years, working exclusively with authentic tall ships and traditional vessels. This Greenland Arctic sailing voyage represents the authentic expeditionary sailing we’ve specialised in since our founding, with experienced guidance to ensure safety while maintaining the genuine nature of the challenge.
The waters you’ll sail have sustained Inuit peoples for millennia, with maritime skills and ice knowledge passed down through generations. Modern Greenlandic communities maintain deep connections to these traditions while navigating contemporary realities of Arctic life. The professional crew, experienced in Greenlandic waters, provides context for understanding how these remote settlements function and the challenges of Arctic maritime culture.
Disko Bay attracted European whalers from the 17th century onward, with Dutch, British, and other nations establishing temporary whaling stations. The massive whale populations that once filled these waters were decimated by industrial whaling before protective measures were finally implemented in the 20th century. Today’s recovering whale populations represent conservation success, though numbers remain far below historical levels.
Greenland’s glaciers and ice sheet provide some of the world’s most visible evidence of climatic shifts, with glacier retreat rates and ice loss quantifiable year by year. Sailing these waters offers direct witness to these changes – the size of icebergs calving from Sermeq Kujalleq, the extent of summer ice retreat, and the adaptation of Arctic ecosystems all become tangible rather than abstract. The crew can provide perspective on changes they’ve observed over years of Arctic sailing.
Whether you are an experienced sailor or a complete beginner, the professional crew will train you to be guest crew from the moment you arrive, with the intention that everybody works together to sail the ship. The common thread to all Classic Sailing holidays is ‘Hands on’ participation on ships that use ropes, blocks and tackles and ‘people power’ to set sail.
We cater for a wide range of ages and physical abilities and how much you are expected to do varies a bit between vessels. See the vessel tab above which explains all about the ‘sailing style’ and what to expect in terms of hands on participation. There is a lot of information about day to day life, the ship’s facilities and accommodation on the vessel pages.
Every customer sailing with us will need to fill in basic medical questions on their booking application. If you are not sure if your current level of fitness and agility are up to a voyage, then please ring the Classic Sailing Office on 01326 531234 and we can chat through your concerns and possibly find options that might suit you better.
Do I need previous sailing experience for this Greenland Arctic voyage?
No previous sailing experience is required, as the professional crew will teach you everything from basic rope handling to navigation skills at a pace that suits you. However, it might be sensible to know you enjoy being at sea before setting off on this long voyage. The Arctic environment adds unique elements – cold weather, ice navigation, extended daylight – but these enhance rather than complicate the learning experience. Many guests specifically choose this voyage as their introduction to sailing precisely because the dramatic setting and genuine challenge create memorable first experiences. The professional crew has extensive Arctic experience and understands how to teach effectively in these conditions.
What is included in the Tecla Arctic voyage price?
The voyage price includes all meals and accommodation aboard Tecla throughout the nine nights, all safety equipment and immersion suits for Arctic waters, comprehensive instruction and guidance from the professional crew, and the sailing experience itself. Not included are international flights to Greenland, domestic flights within Greenland to reach Ilulissat and depart from Upernavik, accommodation before or after the voyage, travel insurance (which is required and must include Arctic coverage), and personal bar bills. Tecla operates as a working sailing vessel, so the price reflects the authentic sailing experience rather than hotel-style amenities.
When is the best time to sail Greenland’s Arctic waters?
Early to mid-July, when this voyage operates, represents optimal timing for Arctic Greenland sailing. The ice has partially cleared allowing navigation through Disko Bay, while massive icebergs remain dramatically present. The midnight sun provides nearly continuous daylight, enabling flexible sailing schedules and extended wildlife watching opportunities. Temperatures reach their annual peak (5-12°C), though this remains distinctly Arctic. The brief Greenlandic summer window – essentially late June through early August – means only limited departures can operate, making timing critical. Earlier in summer, excessive ice may prevent navigation; later, approaching autumn brings earlier darkness and potential early winter weather.
How many passengers sail on Tecla Arctic voyages?
Tecla accommodates a maximum of 12 guests plus professional crew for Arctic voyages. This small number ensures everyone can actively participate in sailing, receives adequate instruction, and experiences the social atmosphere that develops naturally among small crews. The limited capacity also reflects practical considerations for Arctic sailing – adequate safety equipment, manageable watch schedules, and sustainable resource use during extended passages. Unlike larger passenger vessels that offer observation-only experiences, Tecla’s small crew means you’re genuinely needed and involved. Approximately 75% of Classic Sailing guests travel solo, so you’ll find others who’ve come independently seeking this same experience.
What should I pack for Arctic sailing in Greenland?
Layering for variable conditions is essential. Base layers (merino wool or technical synthetics), mid-layers for insulation (fleece or down), and waterproof outer layers form the foundation. Warm gloves (two pairs – one waterproof, one insulated), a warm hat covering ears, and neck protection are non-negotiable for Arctic waters. Footwear should include waterproof sailing boots and warm socks. Sunglasses with UV protection and high-factor sunscreen address the intense reflection from ice and water. Classic Sailing provides a detailed packing list upon booking, but the principle is simple: prepare for cold, potentially wet conditions, and bring sufficient clothing to remain warm throughout the voyage. Tecla has limited drying capacity, so adequate quantities matter. A small dry bag for electronics and valuables protects against Arctic conditions.
Find more Arctic and Antarctic voyages hereIlulissat is a coastal town in western Greenland. It’s known for the Ilulissat Icefjord which is an utterly incredible sight and you owe yourself the opportunity to experience the Icefjord in all possible ways. It is listed as UNESCO world heritage site. The Ilulissat Museum traces the area’s history and the life of local-born explorer Knud Rasmussen. The area is home to thousands of Greenland dogs, used for dogsledding which is still widely used for transportation by the local fisherman on the ice or similarly as a way to see the sights.
Recommendation for flights to remote or cold climate destinations we recommend purchasing flexible flights that offer full refunds. See advice on Flexible flights here.
In an archipelago filled with small islands, fjords and mountains, the small, colourful fishing town of Upernavik is nestled on a steep hillside. If you have time, try and secure a bed at the Upernavik Guesthouse to give yourself the chance to explore. Here is a brief guide to some of the highlights of Upernavik:
1. Upernavik Museum: A fascinating open-air museum which offers insight into the history of Greenland and the Inuit.
2. Upernavik Art Museum: Holding the world’s most northern collection of Greenlandic art, the museum is a window into local culture and history.
3. Northern Lights: If conditions are right, Upernavik is a spectacular place to view the Aurora Borealis. You may have seen it during your voyage, but with helming, keeping lookout and helping with the running of the ship, you may not have had time to just sit back and bask in it.
Remember to dress warmly and bring appropriate outdoor gear, as the weather in Greenland can be cold and unpredictable.
Recommendation for flights to remote or cold climate destinations we recommend purchasing flexible flights that offer full refunds. See advice on Flexible flights here.
All flights to and from Upernavik require a change at either Nuuk or Illulissat via Air Greenland. You may then also require a second domestic flight to Kangerlussuaq, the only airport in Greenland with flights to Europe.
Please note that flight schedules and routes can change, so it is essential to check with airlines or travel agencies for the most up-to-date information before planning your journey to Nuuk.
Not all sailing areas require the same gear, the same foul weather equipment or even the same shorts. But some items you must always bring. In this kit list we hope to give you a small insight in what to bring, but of course, please consider this list might not encumber all that you would wish to take!
Very important is that your bag or small suitcase needs to be stored in the room, under your bed, there is limited space – so bring a foldable bag! the following is Tecla's standard included/excluded and kit list. Below this you can find more specific info and kit lists dependant on sailing area.
When the ocean crossing is not part of the Southern Ocean sailing (so no South Georgia or Antarctica included) the crossings are usually in warm weather. Going from North to South, please be advised that the weather in the Falkland Islands is cool and wet! So also bring at
least one set of warm clothing.
If there are any items you usually take on your hikes, and they are easy to take in your luggage, don’t forget to bring them!
On the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and Antarctica there are different levels of Bio-Security we will have to comply with. To make it easy on yourself we recommend you bring one set of hiking gear that you would like to use on shore, that is completely cleaned at home. This means Velcro is cleaned and does not contain any seeds or pollen. Your pockets are empty of any seeds, pollen, sand etc. Your boots are cleaned, no sand or mud on them.
This way, getting ready for the first landing becomes a walk in the park. For more information on Bio Security, please contact us.
These surroundings can be very cold, especially on longer watches. And also because these areas are protected, we ask you to take at least two sets of wet weather gear, with one of them at least completely clean. If you have sailing gear, perfect, but also bring some light weight, waterproof hiking gear. We recommend goretex pro of any brand. This is tough and durable. Often easy to clean and light weight.
In the cold, making layers is important. If there is no rain, most 800gr down jackets with a merino wool layer underneath are warm enough. If it rains, most jackets do not fit over the down jacket. Therefore we recommend layer one merino wool, layer two a woollen sweater, layer three a thinner down jacket or wind stopper and layer four your water proof jacket.
Of course we understand that not everybody has these items in their closet. Please contact us if you are unsure what to pack.
Summer in the Northern Territories of Canada can be cold, but they can be beautiful and warm as well. During the 2019 voyage we have had days of 2 degrees and days of 19 degrees. We had nights of 0 degrees, but also nights with a warm land breeze, where a woollen sweater and merino under layer were enough.
Tecla a Taste of the North West Passage 2024
Glad you liked our journey!
Feel free to post a link so others may see.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X06b4Xfs0hc
Have a great new year!!!
All the Best, Carr Clifton
This trip fulfilled my desire for adventure sailing as we transited the north coast of Iceland, along the Arctic Circle. Even though it was rough, the boat and crew performed admirably.
Bruce
An enjoyable week in less than ideal weather conditions. The crew were competent and friendly, the catering excellent. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend a voyage on Tecla.
Jonathan
A great mix of sailing in Scottish waters, some super hikes and an opportunity to see some of the immensely important historical sites in the Orkneys and Sheltands.
Mooring alongside in the Fair Isles was a great privilege.
The ocean passage to the Faroes was quiet but as a result we were blessed with clear skies whilst slinking in and out of the islands and some of the best coastal views one could hope to see anywhere.
The ocean passage to Iceland was a bit of a bimble until we were 60 miles off and then it got exciting. Thanks to a great skipper and permanent crew we snuggled into a fjord whilst the cruise ship ran aground in Reykjavik harbour. A good holiday, an adventure and fun.
K
Any initial doubts as to the number and experience of the crew were very quickly dispelled and we were impressed with the knowledge and the handling skills of the skipper and the 2 mates. Every opportunity was taken to enhance our enjoyment on both voyages and at every stage we were made to feel relaxed and under no obligation to crew the ship under sometimes testing (but enjoyable) conditions. As an observation, we must congratulate the skipper for her culinary skills under difficult conditions..........the food was perfect for the voyage.
Geoff
A delight. A competent and engaging professional crew, an interesting voyage with some challenges and some great rewards. Good companions to make the log spin around.
Mike
Brilliant. I would do it again tomorrow. And good value too. The food was excellent. I loved the spicy meatballs and my wife loved the fresh langoustines.
Steve
Most enjoyable classic sailing with great food, a true sense of teamwork, great guidance and a good sense of humour. Can't get any better.
Thomas
Globe trotting Tall Ship Tecla in action and images. This historic gaff ketch is our Polar Specialist, with expeditions to Antarctica and through the Northwest Passage, but she also has fantastic voyages in sunnier climes. Photos from Classic Sailing customers, ships crew and professional photographers. We hope it gives a flavour of her sailing, life on board, the people that come, her beautiful sailing grounds and what it is like to live below decks.
For daily tall ship news and voyage updates, follow Classic Sailing on Facebook — over 64,000 sailors already do.
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