Port information & tips for Upernavik
Upernavik is a fascinating outpost in the far north of Greenland, boasting a dramatic location on an island in the middle of a vast archipelago. The settlement welcomes visitors with an authentic Arctic flair, characterized by colorful wooden houses nestled picturesquely against the rocky slopes and sweeping views of the shimmering Arctic Ocean. Cultural treasures include the Upernavik Museum, the oldest open-air museum in the country, and the historic cemetery with its white crosses set against a backdrop of gigantic icebergs. Cruise ships usually use the central quay of Upernavik Harbor or anchor in the protected bay, meaning the charming town center and all local sights are easily accessible within just a few minutes' walk.
Upernavik, a remote cruise port in Greenland, is only accessible by plane and subsequent inland transfers. Direct travel from the DACH region is not possible; the journey always requires stopovers and good planning.
Airplane
Travel from the DACH region usually takes place via Copenhagen (CPH) in Denmark or Reykjavik (KEF) in Iceland. Air Greenland offers year-round flights from Copenhagen to Nuuk (GOH) and seasonally to Kangerlussuaq (SFJ). There are also connections from Reykjavik to various destinations in Greenland, including Ilulissat. For onward travel to Upernavik (JUV), you will need a connecting flight within Greenland. Upernavik Airport (JUV) is served directly from Ilulissat several times a week, five times in summer and four times in winter.
Inland Transfer & Onward Journey
The Upernavik Heliport (JUV) serves as a hub for passenger and cargo traffic in northern Greenland, connecting the town with smaller settlements and regional airports such as Qaarsut and Ilulissat. It is a compact hub that primarily handles helicopter flights and has a simple waiting hall. Onward travel from the heliport to the town center is usually by taxi or pre-arranged private transfer, as there is no public transport or car rental in Upernavik.
Pre-Cruise Hotel & Travel Planning
Due to long flight times and the potential weather dependency of domestic flights in Greenland, an overnight stay in Copenhagen or Reykjavik before the onward flight to Greenland is strongly recommended. A pre-cruise hotel in Greenlandic hubs like Nuuk or Ilulissat is also advisable to ensure a relaxed arrival and to be prepared for possible flight delays. Greenland is known for its unpredictable weather, so flexibility and appropriate travel insurance are essential.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents will usually provide you with a fixed time slot for check-in, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
Upernavik, a remote cruise port in Greenland, is only accessible by plane and subsequent inland transfers. Direct travel from the DACH region is not possible; the journey always requires stopovers and good planning.
Airplane
Travel from the DACH region usually takes place via Copenhagen (CPH) in Denmark or Reykjavik (KEF) in Iceland. Air Greenland offers year-round flights from Copenhagen to Nuuk (GOH) and seasonally to Kangerlussuaq (SFJ). There are also connections from Reykjavik to various destinations in Greenland, including Ilulissat. For onward travel to Upernavik (JUV), you will need a connecting flight within Greenland. Upernavik Airport (JUV) is served directly from Ilulissat several times a week, five times in summer and four times in winter.
Inland Transfer & Onward Journey
The Upernavik Heliport (JUV) serves as a hub for passenger and cargo traffic in northern Greenland, connecting the town with smaller settlements and regional airports such as Qaarsut and Ilulissat. It is a compact hub that primarily handles helicopter flights and has a simple waiting hall. Onward travel from the heliport to the town center is usually by taxi or pre-arranged private transfer, as there is no public transport or car rental in Upernavik.
Pre-Cruise Hotel & Travel Planning
Due to long flight times and the potential weather dependency of domestic flights in Greenland, an overnight stay in Copenhagen or Reykjavik before the onward flight to Greenland is strongly recommended. A pre-cruise hotel in Greenlandic hubs like Nuuk or Ilulissat is also advisable to ensure a relaxed arrival and to be prepared for possible flight delays. Greenland is known for its unpredictable weather, so flexibility and appropriate travel insurance are essential.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents will usually provide you with a fixed time slot for check-in, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
The Port of Upernavik is located directly in the village, allowing you to explore the colorful settlement and its sights immediately upon arrival. Thanks to its central location, you can reach the island's most important points comfortably and directly.
On foot
As Upernavik occupies a compact area, you can reach the center and the worth-seeing open-air museum in about 5 to 10 minutes. The walk leads along paved paths through the picturesque rows of houses and also offers wonderful views of the bay.
Taxi
A few taxis are available at the port to reliably take you to more remote points or higher-altitude viewpoints. These off-road vehicles are ideal for guests with limited mobility and simultaneously enable a comfortable drive through the hilly Arctic landscape.
Boat and water taxi
Local boats are ready in the harbor basin for explorations of the surrounding island world and the massive icebergs. These water taxis serve as the most important link between the settlements and also offer visitors a first-class opportunity for tours in the Upernavik Icefjord.
To make the most of your time in Greenland's northernmost town, we recommend a combination of a walk through the historic old town and a visit to the unique open-air museum right by the water.
Historic Harbor District
The bright, colorful wooden houses along the edge of the harbor define the iconic cityscape and invite you to take a relaxed stroll, where you can enjoy the authentic atmosphere of everyday Greenlandic life up close.
Upernavik Museum
This cultural highlight is considered the northernmost open-air museum in the world and, thanks to its well-preserved historic buildings, provides a fascinating insight into the colonial past as well as Inuit traditions.
Upernavik Icefjord
The monumental icebergs floating majestically in the water off the coast offer a spectacular natural spectacle and can be ideally admired on a local boat tour or from the town's elevated viewpoints.
Upernavik Museum
The Upernavik Museum is located just a few minutes' walk from the harbour in the historic district and, as Greenland's northernmost open-air museum, is a fascinating destination full of authentic history. Carefully restored buildings, such as the prominent old church and the historic doctor's house, offer deep insights into Inuit life and the Danish colonial era, while also providing impressive views of the majestic icebergs in Baffin Bay. Thanks to its central location, a visit can be perfectly combined with a stroll through the town's picturesque, colourful rows of houses, with the peaceful atmosphere on the museum hill inviting you to linger and take photographs. It is best to visit the museum in the morning to fully enjoy the special tranquility of the historic site, and return to the ship relaxed after an inspiring tour.
The Upernavik harbor is centrally located in the heart of the settlement and is quickly accessible from all sights thanks to the town's clear layout. The paths to the ship are short and can be planned safely and punctually.
On Foot
From the open-air museum or the distinctive wooden church, simply walk downhill towards the coast to the harbor. The colorful residential houses serve as an ideal orientation guide and lead you directly back to the pier.
Taxi
If you would like to make the return journey from the outskirts or after an excursion more comfortable, you can use the local taxis. These can be easily ordered through the Hotel Upernavik or at the central Pilersuisoq market and ensure a timely arrival at the quay.
Boat Transfer
Since many ships anchor in the bay off Upernavik, tender boats will bring you safely back on board from the central pier. The meeting point at the harbor is easy to find thanks to the signage and the presence of ship personnel, providing a smooth process for your return journey.
