#Resolute Expedition Leg 5: Nuuk to Upernavik OW110924

Embark	Disembark	Vessel	Duration	Voyage No
Wed 11-09-2024, 13:00Nuuk, The Capital of Greenland	Fri 20-09-2024, 13:00Upernavik, Greenland	Linden	9 Nights	OW110924

Voyage Description

Be a Part of the #Resolute Expedition

You’ll join Ocean Warrior’s Expedition Ship Linden’ in Nuuk, the capital of Greenland and home to over a third of the country’s population. Overlooking the stunning Nuuk fjords, the city is a fascinating blend of traditional Inuit and modern Arctic culture. We’d recommend arriving early if you can, to give yourself time to explore the city.

Before departure you’ll be fully familiarised with the ship, including undergoing safety training and drills, as well as settling in to life on board and getting to know the rest of the crew. You will also be given full details of the scientific work that will be undertaken on this leg, and how you will contribute towards it.

Science on board

The crew will comprise postdoctoral scientists and citizen scientists as well as professional crew.

Core Science

We are yet to confirm the exact nature of the science but it will include the following:

This decade long mission will demonstrate that using a traditional sailing vessel equipped with state of the art autonomous scientific instrumentation can address key questions in polar ocean and climate research, including:

Air Sea Carbon Dioxide fluxes: What controls the spatial and temporal variability of oceanic CO2 uptake?

Phytoplankton community dynamics: What determines the distribution patterns of plankton? How and why do plankton communities change in response to short- and long-term, natural and anthropogenic perturbations?

Validation of ocean colour satellites: Are phytoplankton biomass and/or community structure changing at global, basin and regional scales?

Changes in ocean chemistry and physical structure: At what rate is climate change impacting ocean structure (e.g., heat content and stratification) and ocean chemistry (e.g., pH, O2), and what functional changes is this bringing about?

Seabird and sea mammal biodiversity. (AI camera / spotters)

Invasive species – environmental DNA

Meteorology

Hydrography

FAIR SCIENCE

In addition, Ocean Warrior will deliver an open access and FAIR data management architecture that establishes a standards-based data pipeline covering collection, storage, quality control, and delivery to users.

Our goal is to equip a traditional sailing vessel with science, marine autonomy, citizen science and outreach to deliver net zero oceanography in a near real time capacity.

Ocean Warrior Project Fact Sheet

The tail of a humpback whale disappearing below the water in Disko Bay, Greenland. You can sail there with Classic Sailing

Setting sail, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. It’s an excellent time of year for bird-watching, as many species begin their southerly migration. You could also see humpback and minke whales, as well as seals.

Your course takes your North, and as Autumn is now drawing in and the days are getting shorter, be prepared for potentially cold conditions. The trade off for the shorter days is the chance to see the vivid colours of the Aurora Borealis which, viewed from the deck of a ship quietly slipping through the darkness, is breathtaking.

Ocean Warrior’s Expedition Ship Linden will head into Disko Bay en route to Upernavik, and potentially make a stop-over at Illulissat. With its massive icebergs, Disko Bay is one of the most impressive sights in Greenland, and here you can also observe one of the world’s most active glaciers in Ilulissat Icefjord.

Your final destination is Upernavik, a uniquely colourful fishing town nestled amongst islands, fjords and mountains.

WINDS, WAVES & WEATHER

You’ll be passage-making up the coast of Greenland, and the weather can be unpredictable. September is the start of the Arctic Autumn, and temperatures, while at freezing to 10°C, can feel much colder with the wind.

Prevailing winds at this time of year are generally blowing from the east or southeast, allowing some shelter in the lee of the coast, but wind speeds can pick up and the direction fluctuate, causing rough conditions at times.

Expect a real mix of conditions. This is part of the Ocean Warrior’s Expedition!

HANDS ON EXPEDITION

The Ocean Warrior voyages are real expeditions, not adventure holidays. These trips will be fascinating, educational and inspiring but something they won’t be is relaxing! You’ll be learning to sail the ship with the professional crew, forming part of a navigational watch, joining in with data collection and citizen science projects and generally being a core member of the team during your time on board.

A NOTE ON VOYAGE DESCRIPTIONS

On a sailing voyage we never use the word itinerary, as skippers will always be aiming for the best and safest sailing routes for the forecast. They are as keen as you to include some of the highlights described above, but when it comes to sailing, you have to go with Mother Nature, not fight her. The description provided is based on what we think might be possible, based on past trips, or prior experience, but nothing is guaranteed on a sailing voyage. As such, the scheduled joining ports, routes, activities and/or destinations may be altered. Due to the complexities of weather systems, this may be at very short notice.

Read the Ocean Warrior Expedition FAQs

A map of the route of the Resolute Expedition, part of the Ocean Warrior Project. Join the adventure through Classic Sailing

Start & End Port

Nuuk, The Capital of Greenland

Nuuk

Nuuk, the capital city of Greenland, offers a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and modern amenities. It’s well worth spending some time here before or after your voyage. Here is a brief guide to experiencing a memorable day out in Nuuk:

A Day Out in Nuuk:

1. Morning Exploration:
Begin your day by exploring the city centre. Visit the National Museum of Greenland, which houses exhibits showcasing the history, culture, and art of Greenland. Take a leisurely walk along the colourful harbour area, admiring the picturesque view of the surrounding mountains and the charming houses. Don’t miss the iconic statue of Hans Egede, the founder of Nuuk, located near the harbour.

2. Cultural Immersion:
Immerse yourself in Greenlandic culture by visiting local art galleries and craft shops. Nuuk Art Museum showcases contemporary Greenlandic art, while the Katuaq Cultural Center hosts various events, performances, and exhibitions. Explore the Nuuk Cathedral, a beautiful modern church known for its impressive stained glass windows.

3. Greenlandic Cuisine:
Indulge in Greenlandic cuisine during your lunchtime. Visit one of the local restaurants and try traditional dishes like mattak (whale skin and blubber), Greenlandic seafood, or reindeer meat. You can also sample local delicacies such as dried fish or “kaffe-mik,” a traditional coffee gathering with cakes and pastries.

4. Outdoor Adventures:
In the afternoon hike up nearby mountains like Lille Malene or Store Malene for breathtaking panoramic views of Nuuk and the surrounding wilderness.

5. Nuuk’s Cultural Landmarks:
Discover Nuuk’s cultural landmarks, such as the Nuuk Art Museum, which houses an impressive collection of contemporary Greenlandic art. Visit the Nuuk Cathedral, a modern architectural gem known for its unique design and serene ambiance. Explore the Greenland National Theater and enjoy a performance showcasing traditional Greenlandic music and dance.

6. Evening Relaxation:
End your day by unwinding at one of Nuuk’s cozy cafes or restaurants. Sample Greenlandic specialties like crowberry desserts or sip on a local beer brewed with Arctic ingredients. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade and enjoy the peaceful evening atmosphere with stunning views of the sunset over the mountains.

Remember to dress warmly and bring appropriate outdoor gear, as the weather in Greenland can be cold and unpredictable.

Getting to Nuuk

Recommendation for flights to remote or cold climate destinations we recommend purchasing flexible flights that offer full refunds. See advice on Flexible flights here.

1. UK: You will typically need to take a connecting flight from a major airport such as London Heathrow or Manchester. There are no direct flights from the UK to Nuuk, so you would first fly to a major European hub, such as Copenhagen, Denmark, or Reykjavik, Iceland. From there, you would then take a connecting flight to Nuuk, which is the capital city of Greenland. It is advisable to check with airlines for the most convenient routes and schedules.

2. Canada: There are direct flights available from several Canadian cities to Nuuk. For instance, Air Greenland operates flights from both Montreal and Copenhagen to Nuuk. Alternatively, you could fly to Reykjavik, Iceland, which serves as a common connecting hub for flights to Nuuk. From Reykjavik, you would take a connecting flight to Nuuk, completing your journey.

3. USA: From the USA, you can reach Nuuk in Greenland by taking a connecting flight. Similar to Canada, there are no direct flights from the USA to Nuuk. Your best way is to fly via one of the Canadian airports mentioned above.

4. Europe: Several airlines, including Air Greenland, Air Iceland Connect, and Air Canada, operate direct flights from European cities like Copenhagen, Denmark, Reykjavik, Iceland, and Keflavik, Iceland, to Nuuk. The availability of direct flights may vary depending on the airline and the time of year, so it is recommended to check the schedules and book in advance to secure your preferred travel dates.

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.

Adam Purser

Upernavik, Greenland

Upernavik

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.

Getting to and from Upernavik

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.

Kit List

What to pack for an Ocean Warrior Expedition ship Linden

What is Included:

Three meals per day on board

All safety equipment, including lifejackets

Your bunk, a towel and warm bedding

An Ocean Warrior branded Henri Lloyd offshore sailing jacket, yours to keep (worth £750)

What is Not Included:

Travel to and from your voyage, including any accommodation ashore

Personal insurance (to cover cancellation, travel, search & rescue, medical costs and repatriation and personal effects). See our advice on Travel Insurance.

Alcohol. There is a bar on board where drinks and snacks can be purchased. Note that consumption of alcohol is at the strict discretion of the Skipper and is never permitted when watch-keeping.

What to Bring

Ocean Warrior branded kit, including Henri Lloyd sailing waterproofs, is available to participants with a 20% discount through Global Warrior Expedition Basecamp. Contact them to discuss what you need. We'd highly recommend talking to Basecamp to make sure you've got everything to keep you safe, warm and dry during your time on board.

Waterproofs: you will need good wind and water-proof trousers and a jacket. High-chest sailing salopettes are ideal. You will be provided with an offshore sailing jacket.
Warm waterproof boots with good grip (for deck and ashore). Bring a second set, so you'll have something warm and dry if one pair gets wet.
A warm hat (ear flaps are a bonus!), mittens or gloves (waterproof if possible) and a warm tubular snood for round your neck (these are better than a long scarf which can get whipped away in the wind and caught in the lines).
At least two sets of warm clothes - think in layers: For the torso- a warm baselayer (natural wool is great), a mid layer and a warm wool or fleece jumper. For the legs- thermal underwear (silk or wool are both great), a mid layer of leggings or trousers and then your wind and waterproof outer layer.
Several pairs of thick warm socks, plus some slimmer socks so you can double-layer these too.
A small waterproof rucksack for taking ashore with you.
Sunglasses and spectacles. We highly recommend a cord / neck strap for your glasses.
A pair of decent binoculars: having your own pair means you won't miss any wildlife spotting opportunities!
Moisturiser with SPF, including lip balm. Your skin can dry out quickly in cold air, and the sun is surprisingly strong, especially when reflecting from the sea, ice and snow.
Any medication, including seasickness tablets or pressure-point wristbands (talk to your pharmacist and see our article on seasickness)
Your own logbook and / or journal for keeping track of your adventures.
Your camera and other electronics, including chargers and good waterproof cases. Sockets on board are European. Make sure any valuable devices are covered by your travel insurance.

N.B. Please don't use a rigid suitcase or a bag with a rigid frame. Soft bags are much easier to fold up and stow. Also don't bring any expensive jewellery or other valuables, unless you have specific insurance to cover it.

Review

The Oceans have been my life since I was a teenager. I love the awesome beauty, the serenity, the frenetic chaos and the overwhelming power. To think that we as humans have taken advantage of and abused our oceans to the point of serious damage is horrifying. Which is why I was honoured when Jim and Sam asked me to be Patron of their critically important project.

Over the next 11 years, Ocean Warrior will train ordinary people from all walks of life and many nations to benchmark, measure and monitor - 'ground-truth' - exactly what is happening for our partner scientific organisations.

What's more, they will do this by the power of the wind, teaching the participants to sail in the process. This by anyone's standards is an extraordinary endeavour and I'm delighted to help them in any way I can.
Ocean Warrior Patron: Tracy Edwards MBE

During my first conversation with Jim, I was impressed by his quiet confidence and solid enthusiasm. Since then I have come to learn the determination, dexterity, skills and knowledge of Jim and the crew behind the project, and am delighted to be associated with them. Global Warrior has all the potential of a truly great British first. Slightly mad and eccentric in conception, thorough and precise in planning and likely to prove ingenious and resolved in execution.
Sir Ranulph Fiennes

The terrain is exceptionally hostile and dangerous; but I am confident that Jim and his team will be successful... in conducting an environmentally vital transect of the Arctic Ocean. For as Ernest Shackleton said: "difficulties are just things to overcome".
Alexandra Shackleton

Learning to travel the hard way is not only the best way, but it's also the most memorable. I greatly admire all of you for having a go: believe me you won't forget the experience.
Michael Palin

We all think that the world has been 'discovered' and there are few areas that mankind has not reached. This is not so, and projects like this serve to explore these extremes and push back the boundaries of our knowledge, as well as the limits of those who take part.
Sir Chris Bonington

Ocean Warrior Project Fact Sheet