| Embark | Disembark | Vessel | Duration | Voyage No |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thu 24-06-2027, 18:00Nuuk, Greenland | Tue 06-07-2027, 10:00Illulissat, West Greenland | Tecla | 12 Nights | TC240627 |
Join a cold climate adventure onboard Tecla, a century-old Dutch tall ship, on an Arctic expedition from Nuuk to Ilulissat along Greenland’s dramatic west coast. This 11 day, 12 nights, voyage immerses you in true expedition sailing, where you’ll actively participate in navigating through pristine fjords while taking watches and learning traditional seamanship from experienced crew.
Journey north through waters where massive icebergs drift like frozen cathedrals, stopping at remote settlements including Maniitsoq with its whaling heritage and Ukiivik’s sheltered anchorages perfect for hiking. Navigate through Disko Bay’s spectacular ice fields, where enormous bergs calved from Sermeq Kujalleq glacier create an ever-changing seascape. Watch for whales, seals, and seabirds in these nutrient-rich Arctic waters.
Arrive in Ilulissat, the iceberg capital of the world, where the UNESCO World Heritage Icefjord showcases the Northern Hemisphere’s most productive glacier. Explore well-marked trails along the fjord, visit the town’s fascinating museums, and extend your stay to experience optional boat trips, flightseeing, or hiking at ancient Inuit settlements beneath the midnight sun.
| 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 |
A huge icecap covers the interior of Greenland. Despite global warming, the whole coast has never been circumnavigated, even by an icebreaker, due to huge amounts of ice in the Northern half of the country that never breaks up. Coastal mountains as high as 2500 metres trap the ice cap but huge glaciers push through the ranges and these are very active, calving many icebergs into the sea. The middle of the West coast of Greenland has a small coastal strip of land that becomes ice free in the summer. This allows fjord sailing with incredible mountain backdrops, wilderness walking with low tundra vegetation and flowers or bare rock.
The West Coast is also where the majority of Greenland Inuit live but there is still plenty of wilderness. It offers a more extensive summer Arctic playground than Scoresby Sound on the East Coast and is steeped in Arctic exploration history from the Vikings to more recent attempts on the North West passage.
On a sailing voyage we never use the word itinerary, as skippers will always be aiming for the best sailing and shore landings for the forecast and most idyllic or sheltered anchors and ports. They are as keen as you to include some of the highlights described below, but you have to go with Mother Nature, not fight her. The description below is based on what we think might be possible, based on Tecla’s last adventure here but nothing is guaranteed on a sailing voyage. In this part of the world, ice reports, wind direction and keeping a close lookout is vital.
Just like the North West Passage, this voyage much depends on the amount of ice that is met underway. This could mean you have to wait a day or two in a sheltered place before heading out into the open.
Nuuk, starting point of this voyage, is the capital of Greenland. Flights to Nuuk from Reykjavik are daily. And although in winter time the ice wins land and spreads out also into the bay of Nuuk. In the summer time Nuuk is free of most forms of ice. The city houses a large part of the population of Greenland. Once founded by early settlers and called ‘Good Hope’, it was only after the second world war, when the Greenlandic National identity was reawakened that the city was renamed, Nuuk, translated this means Cape. The National museum has a collection of Inuit mummies dating back to the 15th century. The Cultural Centre of Nuuk displays the work of a different Greenland Artist each year, which is well worth a visit.
The island of Akilia has the oldest sedimentary rocks in the world and south of Maniitsoq is evidence of a huge meteorite which hit the earth 3 million years ago. This bit of coast North of Nuuk is good for blue whale or humpbacks.
The first day might be used to sail to Maniitsoq and the fantastic landscapes around the Sermilinguaq Fjord with glaciers reaching down to the sea.
Further North are the distinctive mountain surroundings were formally known as Sukkertoppen. This name came from Dutch, German and British whalers in the 17th and 18th century, who thought the flat mountain tops looked like ‘sugar loafs’. Kangaamiut is a village at the entrance to the Evighedsfjord (Eternities Fjord). The locals still make and sell Inuit handicrafts here. The mountains here are up to 2000 metres and look out for humpback whales in this region.
Another beautiful place with a whaling history is Ukiivik (Sydbay). A sheltered anchorage can be found here among one of the many low islands. Taking the dinghy ashore, it is a good surrounding to go for a hike. The hills are accessible and from the lighthouse some amazing pictures can be taken.
If you don’t have the energy for a trek uphill, then wander the shoreline towards the remains of the old whaling station. 18th Century whalers use to come here to trade with the Greenlanders during an annual meeting called the Assivik. Go and explore!
With more possible stops like Attu or Kangaatsiaq along the way. The Tecla will slowly make her way towards Disko Bay.
Disko Bay has been an important location for centuries. Its coastline was first encountered by Europeans when Erik the Red started a settlement in 985 AD on the more habitable western coast of Greenland. The two settlements, called the Eastern and Western settlements, were sustenance economies that survived on animal husbandry and farming. Soon after the Western settlement was established, the Norsemen travelled up the coast during the summer thaw and discovered Disko Bay.
In Disko Bay there are several beautiful places that can be visited. Anchorages around Disko Island are well sheltered and accessible. Some of the islands will not be open to the public as Arctic Terns will be nesting.
On Basisø an old abandoned settlement can be visited with old Sod houses dug into the hillside. And all the way in the North of Disko Fjord lies Atanikerdluk, once visited by a group of explorers out to find the Franklin Expedition. McClintock, in charge of the expedition has said about the area
Illulissat will be the end port of the voyage. The nearby glacier Sermeq Kujalleq will riddle the water with Bergy bits, Growlers and more forms of ice. Navigating into the Fjord will be depending on ice density and weather forecasts. Which will make it all the more interesting.
Illulissat itself is a busy fishing port with little over 4000 inhabitants. Which is a lot less then the estimate of 5000 sled dogs that also live in Illulissat. The town has, in a basic form, all you can need. A bakery, some shops, a hotel, a youth hostel and an airstrip. From Illulissat one can fly to Kangerlussuaq, to catch a connecting flight to Europe.
In July and August the remaining sea ice offers good opportunities to see polar bears. As you get into September the polar bears are starting to roam the beaches looking for stranded whales or birds to hunt.
In August the seabird chicks are hatching and learning to fly. They are preyed on by Gyr falcon, skuas, gulls and arctic fox. Seals and walrus can be seen hauled out on the remaining ice but by September they have moved to the beaches and rocks or are at sea hunting. Migrating Beluga and Narwhals keep heading North from West Greenland to stick with the edge of the sea ice. The North West passage is probably the only place far enough North to see them at this time of year.
There are often huge pods of Beluga in the estuaries of Somerset Sound. (source – Swoop Arctic).
Ice adds another dimension to sailing, and it’s important to understand that the Skipper will plan the exact route and itinerary to make the most of the forecast conditions, but that ice may also halt progress at any time. It’s good to be flexible, and to make the most of the journey, rather than feeling a need to tick off particular destinations.
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 ships facilities and accommodation on the vessel pages.
No previous sailing experience is necessary. Tecla’s professional crew provides comprehensive instruction in all aspects of sailing and ship operations. The informal sail training program is designed to accommodate everyone from complete beginners to experienced sailors, with each person contributing at their own comfort level. The key requirements are willingness to participate, flexibility regarding schedules, and enthusiasm for hands-on learning. During watches, you’ll work alongside experienced crew members who ensure safety while helping you develop new skills. Even if you’ve never set foot on a sailing boat before, this can be an amazing and transformative voyage.
Tecla accommodates 16 guest crew in comfortable two-person cabins, each equipped with private ensuite facilities including shower and toilet. Cabins also feature central heating, adequate storage space for luggage, reading lights, and portholes. Solo travelers are paired with another guest of the same gender in shared cabins, while couples or friends traveling together can request to share a cabin. Bedding and towels are provided. The cabins are cozy rather than spacious, as is typical aboard working sailing vessels, but offer considerably more comfort than many expedition ships. Your luggage must be stored under your berth, so collapsible or soft-sided bags are strongly recommended rather than rigid suitcases.
Sailing itineraries are always flexible by nature, as skippers prioritize safety, optimal sailing conditions, and the best possible anchoring locations based on weather forecasts. Mother Nature ultimately determines where Tecla sails and which locations can be visited. This flexibility is fundamental to expedition sailing and often leads to unexpected discoveries and experiences that wouldn’t be possible with a rigid schedule. The professional crew has extensive experience in Arctic waters and will always aim to include highlights while ensuring safe, enjoyable sailing. Sometimes weather that prevents one activity creates perfect conditions for another, such as calm conditions ideal for dinghy explorations or good winds for exhilarating sailing passages.
Essential items include quality waterproof and windproof outer layers, warm mid-layers such as fleece or wool, thermal base layers, waterproof hiking boots suitable for uneven terrain and wet landings, warm hat, gloves, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. The midnight sun and reflection off ice and water create surprisingly intense sun exposure despite cool temperatures. Bring personal medications, toiletries, and any camera equipment you wish to use. A small day pack is useful for hiking excursions. Tecla does not provide sailing clothing, so your own waterproof gear is necessary. Detailed packing lists are provided upon booking. Bags should be collapsible or soft-sided to fit under cabin berths. Onboard heating keeps interior spaces comfortable, and hot drinks are always available.
Nuuk is accessible via daily flights from Reykjavik, Iceland, on Air Greenland and Icelandair, with flight time approximately 3.5 hours. Some passengers prefer routing through Copenhagen on Air Greenland for additional frequency options. Nuuk’s airport is located about 3 kilometers from the city center, easily reached by taxi or hotel shuttle. From Ilulissat at voyage end, you’ll typically fly to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland’s main international hub, then connect to Reykjavik or Copenhagen. Ilulissat’s airport is approximately 4 kilometers from the harbor, again serviced by taxis and shuttles. Classic Sailing can provide detailed flight information and recommendations, though flight bookings are typically made independently. We strongly recommend arriving in Nuuk at least one day before the voyage departure to account for potential flight delays and to explore this fascinating city.
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WHAT’S INCLUDED
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
Nuuk is the capital of Greenland and home to the majority of Greenlanders. It’s a fascinating place, and if you have time we’d highly recommend visits to the Nuuk Art Museum and the National Museum of Greenland. Also a great opportunity to sample some local cuisine like the dried fish, reindeer meat and crowberry desserts.
Ilulissat 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.
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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