Port information & tips for Salliaruseq Island (Storøn)
Salliaruseq, also known as Storø, is an untouched natural jewel in Greenland's impressive Nuup Kangerlua fjord system. The uninhabited island captivates with its rugged Arctic aesthetic, dramatic cliffs, and vast tundra that invites exclusive exploration. Highlights include hikes on the majestic Mountain Qaqqatsiaq, marveling at ancient rock formations, and observing reindeer in their natural habitat. As there is no commercial port on the island, expedition ships use a natural landing site, which guests reach safely by Zodiac. The spectacular wilderness opens up directly from this landing point, offering an authentic Greenland experience thanks to its seclusion while enabling a deep connection with untouched nature.
Arrival & Departure
Getting around
Highlights & Districts
Useful tips
Returning to the ship
Salliaruseq (Storøn) in Greenland is a remote and impressive destination for expedition cruises, but it is not a traditional embarkation port. Guests from the DACH region typically travel to Greenland's larger airports to begin their cruise, which then visits Salliaruseq as part of an unforgettable itinerary. Greenland's settlements are not connected by roads or railways; travel is primarily by plane or ship.
Airplane
Travel to Greenland usually takes place via Copenhagen (CPH) or Reykjavík (KEF). Air Greenland offers direct flights from Copenhagen to Kangerlussuaq International Airport (SFJ), which serves as a major hub for travel to Greenland. The flight from Copenhagen to Kangerlussuaq takes approximately 4 hours and 40 minutes. Alternatively, Air Greenland offers year-round flights from Reykjavík (Keflavík International Airport, KEF) to the capital Nuuk (GOH), which has had a new international airport since November 2024 and increasingly functions as the primary international hub. Icelandair also flies from Keflavík to Nuuk.
Transfer & Shuttle
From the international airports in Kangerlussuaq (SFJ) or Nuuk (GOH), which are often the embarkation points for Greenland cruises, transfers to the ship or pier are usually organized by the cruise lines and are often included in the travel package. In Kangerlussuaq, the transfer from the airport to the anchorage, located about 13 to 20 kilometers away, typically takes place by coach, as no public shuttles or taxi ranks are available. In Nuuk, private transfers, hotel shuttles, and local taxis are available, taking you from the airport to the cruise port in about 15 to 30 minutes. The island of Salliaruseq itself is usually reached by Zodiac or tender boat from the main ship during the cruise.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long journey and potential weather dependency in Greenland, arriving at least one day before your scheduled embarkation is strongly recommended. This allows for a relaxed start to your cruise and provides a buffer for possible flight delays. Accommodations are available in both Kangerlussuaq and Nuuk. Many cruise lines also offer Fly & Cruise packages, which include flights and, if necessary, an overnight stay at the embarkation point to ensure a smooth start to the trip.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will generally receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the voyage: For shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and the notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
The landing on the uninhabited island of Salliaruseq is comfortably carried out using the ship's own boats, allowing for an immediate start to your Greenland nature experience.
Zodiacs and Tender Boats
Since the island does not have a fixed pier, agile Zodiacs bring passengers directly to the untouched natural beach. These boats ensure a smooth transfer and also allow for the first fascinating panoramic views of the surrounding fjord landscape.
On Foot
The exploration of Salliaruseq takes place exclusively on foot and leads along natural paths through the Arctic tundra. Hikers can enjoy the absolute tranquility of nature here and, thanks to the pristine surroundings, reach various viewpoints overlooking the Arctic Ocean directly from the landing site.
Expedition Boats
Specialized expedition boats are often available for organized explorations of the wider coastline. These offer a safe journey along the rugged shore formations while providing the best conditions for observing whales and passing icebergs.
To experience the pristine beauty of Salliaruseq and the Uummannaq Fjord at its best, we recommend a combination of geological discoveries directly on the island and a visit to the cultural center in nearby Uummannaq.
Salliaruseq & the Quartz Desert
Known as Storøn, this island impresses with its striking reddish earth tones and is perfect for an exploration tour through the so-called Quartz Desert, where visitors can search for fossils thanks to the unique geology while enjoying wide views of the Arctic Ocean.
Uummannaq & the Historic Center
The charming settlement at the foot of the iconic heart-shaped mountain is easily accessible thanks to short boat crossings and delights with its colorful houses; additionally, the historic stone church from 1935 offers a fascinating insight into local architecture and history.
Uummannaq Fjord & Ice Fields
The deep blue waters surrounding the island provide a spectacular backdrop of monumental icebergs and, thanks to nutrient-rich currents, are also the perfect place for whale watching directly from the excursion boat.
The Mountain Scenery of Salliaruseq
The landing point on the island of Salliaruseq is easily accessible directly from the ship by tender boat and offers guests a front-row seat in the middle of the monumental Greenlandic mountain world of the Nuup Kangerlua fjord system. This location impresses with its immediate proximity to the imposing, over 1,600-meter-high Mount Qingaaq and also invites you to enjoy the complete silence of the Arctic during a relaxed stay on the coast. The atmosphere is characterized by crystal-clear air and wide panoramic views over the deep blue water, which is ideal for unforgettable nature observations and high-quality photo opportunities. It is best to visit the island with the first boat landing in the morning to make optimal use of the soft light conditions on the massive rock faces, and plan your return to the ship at your leisure for the lunchtime.
The return journey from your nature experiences on Salliaruseq Island back to the ship is safe and straightforward, thanks to the meticulous planning of the expedition team.
Zodiac Transfer
The ship's own Zodiac boats serve as a comfortable means of transport, taking you directly from the island's beach area back to the cruise ship. These boats shuttle regularly, allowing you a flexible return trip as well as a fantastic view of the wild coastline of Storøn.
On Foot
On the island, you will move along natural paths and easily find your way back to the landing site thanks to the markings set by the team. The routes are designed to be manageable and lead you directly to the point on the shore where you originally stepped onto the island.
Secure Meeting Point
On the shore, a conspicuous flag or an information stand marks the central meeting point for the return journey and guarantees an organized process. The expedition staff coordinates departures here and, thanks to seamless monitoring, ensures that every guest reaches the ship on time and safely.
