Whale Safari
Cruise through Nuuk Fjord, where towering mountains meet icy waters. Watch as humpback whales breach, a powerful glimpse into Greenland’s wild beauty.
What to expect on your whale safari
An Unforgettable Encounter with Arctic Wildlife
Nuuk Fjord is one of Greenland’s premier whale-watching destinations, where humpback whales return each summer to feast in its cold, nutrient-rich waters. These majestic giants travel thousands of kilometers to reach these feeding grounds, putting on breathtaking displays as they breach, slap their tails, and glide effortlessly through the fjord. As we cruise through these pristine waters, keep watch for the mist of their breath rising against the Arctic sky and the graceful arch of their backs as they dive beneath the surface.
But this journey is more than just whales—Nuuk Fjord is a thriving ecosystem filled with diverse Arctic wildlife. Look to the cliffs and skies for white-tailed eagles soaring high above, their sharp eyes scanning for fish. Seals are sometimes spotted bobbing in the water or lounging on floating ice, adding to the magic of this remote wilderness. Every trip is unique, offering a new perspective on Greenland’s untouched nature.
Midnight Sun & Whales – A Breathtaking Combination
During peak whale season, a late-evening cruise offers an experience like no other. Under the golden glow of the midnight sun, the Arctic landscape transforms into a surreal dreamscape. The warm hues of twilight reflect off the water, creating the perfect backdrop as we search for whales. Whether it’s a tail flicking through the shimmering sea or the peaceful stillness of the fjord bathed in endless daylight, this is a scene that will stay with you long after your journey ends.
Your itinerary
- Meeting point – Gather at the tidal steps in Nuuk harbor (Tidevandstrappen), where our crew welcomes you aboard our closed Targa boat.
- Setting sail – We depart from Nuuk and sail toward the heart of the fjord, leaving the city behind.
- The search begins – With expert eyes on the water, we begin scanning for humpback whales as they surface to breathe.
- Wildlife encounters – Along the way, we might spot white-tailed eagles soaring above or seals breaching the surface.
- When spotting the whales – We approach the giants with ease and turn off the engine, respecting their privacy. Step out on deck and marvel at the wonders.
- Return to Nuuk – As the adventure nears its end, we sail back toward the harbor, taking in the last moments of this Arctic spectacle.
Included in your tour
- Warm beverages (tea, coffee) and snacks
- Expert local captain and guide
- Indoor seating in a heated cabin
- Spacious deck for optimal viewing
- Onboard restroom
The Secrets of Nuuk Fjord’s Whales
Why humpback whales return every year
Every summer, humpback whales migrate thousands of kilometers to the nutrient-rich waters of Nuuk Fjord. Here, they feast on small fish and krill, building up energy before heading south for the winter. These whales are known for their acrobatics, often breaching and slapping their tails on the water in dramatic displays.
Songs that echo beneath the waves
Humpback whales are famous for their haunting, complex songs that can travel for miles underwater. Scientists believe these melodies are used for communication and even mating. While we won’t hear their songs from the boat, knowing they are singing beneath us adds to the magic of the experience.
Why Nuuk fjord is a prime whale habitat
The fjord’s deep, cold waters provide the perfect environment for whales to feed. Plankton-rich currents attract fish, which in turn attract the whales. Unlike open-ocean whale watching, Nuuk Fjord offers sheltered waters and stunning scenery, making for a comfortable and awe-inspiring journey.
More than just whales
While the whales are the stars of the show, Nuuk Fjord is teeming with other wildlife. White-tailed eagles soar over the cliffs, keeping watch for fish, while seals bob in the water or sun themselves on floating ice. Every trip holds a new surprise.
Protecting these gentle giants
As climate change affects ocean temperatures and food availability, whale migration patterns are shifting. Responsible whale watching ensures that these creatures are observed with minimal disturbance. At Raw Arctic, we follow strict guidelines to maintain a respectful distance, allowing whales to go about their natural behavior undisturbed.
The Secrets of Nuuk Fjord’s Whales
Why humpback whales return every year
Every summer, humpback whales migrate thousands of kilometers to the nutrient-rich waters of Nuuk Fjord. Here, they feast on small fish and krill, building up energy before heading south for the winter. These whales are known for their acrobatics, often breaching and slapping their tails on the water in dramatic displays.
Songs that echo beneath the waves
Humpback whales are famous for their haunting, complex songs that can travel for miles underwater. Scientists believe these melodies are used for communication and even mating. While we won’t hear their songs from the boat, knowing they are singing beneath us adds to the magic of the experience.
Why Nuuk fjord is a prime whale habitat
The fjord’s deep, cold waters provide the perfect environment for whales to feed. Plankton-rich currents attract fish, which in turn attract the whales. Unlike open-ocean whale watching, Nuuk Fjord offers sheltered waters and stunning scenery, making for a comfortable and awe-inspiring journey.
The Secrets of Nuuk Fjord’s Whales
Unveiling the wonders of Nuuk Fjord – Where giants roam
Why humpback whales return every year
Every summer, humpback whales migrate thousands of kilometers to the nutrient-rich waters of Nuuk Fjord. Here, they feast on small fish and krill, building up energy before heading south for the winter. These whales are known for their acrobatics, often breaching and slapping their tails on the water in dramatic displays.
Songs that echo beneath the waves
Humpback whales are famous for their haunting, complex songs that can travel for miles underwater. Scientists believe these melodies are used for communication and even mating. While we won’t hear their songs from the boat, knowing they are singing beneath us adds to the magic of the experience.
Why Nuuk fjord is a prime whale habitat
The fjord’s deep, cold waters provide the perfect environment for whales to feed. Plankton-rich currents attract fish, which in turn attract the whales. Unlike open-ocean whale watching, Nuuk Fjord offers sheltered waters and stunning scenery, making for a comfortable and awe-inspiring journey.
More than just whales
While the whales are the stars of the show, Nuuk Fjord is teeming with other wildlife. White-tailed eagles soar over the cliffs, keeping watch for fish, while seals bob in the water or sun themselves on floating ice. Every trip holds a new surprise.
Protecting these gentle giants
As climate change affects ocean temperatures and food availability, whale migration patterns are shifting. Responsible whale watching ensures that these creatures are observed with minimal disturbance. At Raw Arctic, we follow strict guidelines to maintain a respectful distance, allowing whales to go about their natural behavior undisturbed.
Let's answer all your questions!
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What makes Nuuk Fjord a great place for whale watching?
Nuuk Fjord is one of the largest fjord systems in the world, offering deep, sheltered waters rich in fish and krill—perfect feeding grounds for whales. Because of its remoteness and lack of boat traffic, it’s an ideal location to observe whales undisturbed in a natural setting. The combination of towering mountains, drifting icebergs, and incredible wildlife makes this one of the most scenic places in Greenland to see whales.
Will I definitely see whales on this tour?
Whales are wild animals, so sightings can never be 100% guaranteed. That said, humpback whales return to Nuuk Fjord every summer, and we carefully plan our tours during the best times to maximize your chances of spotting them. On most trips, guests see these incredible creatures as they surface, slap their tails, or even breach. Even if the whales don’t make an appearance, the journey through the fjord’s breathtaking landscapes is an unforgettable experience.
Are the whales dangerous?
No, whales are not dangerous to humans. Humpback whales are gentle giants, known for their curiosity rather than aggression. We always keep a respectful distance and turn off our engine when observing them, allowing them to move naturally without disturbance. Seeing them up close is awe-inspiring, but there’s nothing to fear—just a moment of pure Arctic magic.
How close will we get to the whales?
We always follow ethical whale-watching guidelines, which means we approach slowly and turn off our engine when we get close. The whales often decide how near they come to us—sometimes they surface just meters from the boat, while other times, they stay at a distance. Either way, seeing these massive creatures in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience.
Is this whale safari suitable for children?
Yes, this is a great experience for families. The boat is comfortable, with a heated cabin and an onboard restroom, making it an easy and enjoyable trip for all ages. Children are often amazed by the size of the whales and the beauty of the fjord, making this an unforgettable adventure for them. Just make sure to dress them warmly, as they’ll likely want to step outside on deck to watch for whales.
When is the best time to see whales in Nuuk Fjord?
The best time to see whales in Nuuk Fjord is from June to September. During these months, humpback whales arrive in the fjord to feed in its nutrient-rich waters. July and August tend to offer the most frequent sightings, as the whales are highly active during this period.
Is there a chance to see other wildlife besides whales?
Yes! Nuuk Fjord is home to much more than just whales. As we cruise through the fjord, you might see a massive white-tailed eagle circling overhead before diving toward the water, talons first. Seals often pop their heads up curiously near the boat, disappearing just as quickly beneath the surface. Schools of fish sometimes break the water in a sudden, chaotic splash, attracting seabirds that dive in a frenzy.
What should I wear for the whale safari?
Even in summer, Arctic waters can be cold, especially when out on the boat. We recommend bringing:
- A warm, windproof jacket
- Layered clothing (wool or fleece is best)
- Gloves, a hat, and a scarf for extra warmth
- Sturdy shoes (deck surfaces can be wet)
- Sunglasses (the water can be bright in the midnight sun)
Our boat has a heated cabin, but you’ll want to step outside on deck to fully experience the whales and the fjord.
Does the whale safari tour run year-round?
This tour runs during the summer months, from June to September, when the whales migrate to Nuuk Fjord to feed. Outside of this season, the whales travel to warmer waters, making sightings unlikely. If you're visiting in winter, consider one of our Northern Lights or fjord cruises instead.
