Qaqortoq Cruise Port
Qaqortoq Harbor Pontoon
Qaqortoq, Greenland Port
Kujalleq UN/LOCODE GLJJU Port of call Homeport
Qaqortoq Cruise Port Location
| Port Details | |
|---|---|
| Country | Greenland |
| Region | Kujalleq |
| UN/LOCODE | GLJJU |
| Contact | |
| Address | Kalaaliaraq, 3920 Qaqortoq, Greenland |
| Port phone | +299 64 22 22 |
| Website | kujalleq.gl |
| Geography | |
| Coordinates | 60.71839, -46.03561 |
| Accessibility | |
| Accessible | Limited |
Qaqortoq lacks a deep-water cruise pier, meaning all passengers arrive via a 10-minute tender boat transfer from the Labrador Sea anchorage to a floating pontoon in the center of town. Located in the Kujalleq municipality of Southern Greenland, this is the most populous town in the south, yet it remains a compact, walkable destination where the 'Stone and Man' sculptures are carved directly into the bedrock you walk upon. You can realistically explore the entire town core in three hours, but the most significant rewards require leaving the harbor by boat. The UNESCO-listed Hvalsey Church ruins sit 19 km (12 miles) away, roughly a 40-minute boat ride, while the Uunartoq hot springs are 50 km (31 miles) south, requiring a two-hour transit. This is an ocean cruise port primarily served by expedition vessels and mid-sized ships. It is worth knowing that tender delays are the primary disruptor here; if you are not in the first three tender groups, you will lose 45 minutes of your port call to queuing. The destination rewards those who move fast to the local boat charters and punishes those who wait for a organized 'highlights' walk that they could easily do themselves. You must be prepared for vertical gain; while the center is flat, the best views require climbing steep, often slick, wooden stairs.
Qaqortoq — Port Overview
History
Qaqortoq, meaning 'The White', was founded in 1775 by the Norwegian trader Anders Olsen on behalf of the General Trade Company. While the modern town is roughly 250 years old, the surrounding fjords hold the history of the Norse Eastern Settlement. Around 985 AD, Erik the Red led a group of Vikings to these shores, establishing farmsteads that survived for nearly 500 years. The most haunting remnant of this era is the Hvalsey Church, where the last documented Norse event—a wedding in 1408—took place before the colony mysteriously vanished. During the 18th and 19th centuries, the town became a critical hub for the colonial seal-skin trade, a legacy still visible in the black-tarred 18th-century warehouses that now house the museum. In 1993, local artist Aka Høegh launched 'Stone and Man', an ongoing project that transformed the town's granite into a permanent gallery. Today, the 40 sculptures integrated into the rock represent the town's transition from a colonial outpost to a modern Arctic cultural center. You will see this history reflected in the 1804-built 'Old House' near the harbor, which remains one of the best-preserved examples of Scandinavian colonial architecture in the Arctic region.
The Verdict
Qaqortoq rewards the traveler who respects its rugged edges. At this port, the people who do best are the ones who arrive with a plan and the flexibility to adapt it when the Arctic fog rolls in. This guide has been fact-checked by J. Richard and the Waterways Cruise editorial team. Excursions that guarantee a return to the ship can be tailored to your mobility, interests, and pace, so missing departure is never a concern. No two travelers want the same day ashore.
Things to Do & See in Qaqortoq
| Attraction | Type | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mindebrønden (The Fountain) | Landmark | Center Square, 3920 Qaqortoq | Open 24 hours | visitgreenland.com | Free | |
| Qaqortoq Museum | Museum | B-2, 3920 Qaqortoq, Greenland | +299 64 22 22 | 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM on ship days | visitgreenland.com | USD 40 DKK |
| Great Greenland Furhouse | Tourist Attraction | Sannerut, 3920 Qaqortoq | +299 64 22 14 | 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM | greatgreenland.com | USD 50 DKK |
| Stone and Man (Outdoor Gallery) | Cultural Site | Scattered throughout the town | Open 24 hours | Not available | Free | |
| Church of Our Saviour (Annaassisitta Oqaluffia) | Historical Site | Vatikanbakken, 3920 Qaqortoq | +299 64 20 42 | Variable, usually open 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM on ship days | Not available | Free |
Mindebrønden (The Fountain) · Landmark
FreeThe Mindebrønden is the literal heart of Qaqortoq. Established in 1932, it holds the title of the oldest fountain in the country. It is a simple, circular stone structure with brass whales that spout water into a basin. For travelers, it serves as the primary landmark for navigating the town. It is worth noting that it is the best place to sit and observe the rhythm of the town; you'll see Greenlandic children playing, elders chatting, and the constant movement of the harbor just steps away. You will find that the fountain is often the only place in town with consistent, level seating for more than two people at a time. While it isn't an architectural marvel by European standards, its presence in such a remote Arctic location is a testament to the town's early aspirations for civic beauty. Take a moment to look at the primary-colored houses rising in a semi-circle behind the fountain—this is the classic 'Greenland' photo. Most visitors snap a photo and leave, but it is a good idea to spend fifteen minutes here to let the scale of the landscape sink in. It is one of the few places where you feel the town's cozy community spirit before heading into the rugged hills.
Center Square, 3920 Qaqortoq ·Open 24 hours ·visitgreenland.com
Qaqortoq Museum · Museum
USD 40 DKKHoused in a black-tarred colonial building from 1804, this is one of the most evocative museums in the Arctic. It was originally the colony manager's residence and has preserved that historical weight. Inside, the collection spans from the Dorset and Thule cultures to the Norse settlers and the modern era. The walking time from the tender pier is less than two minutes, making it the most efficient stop in town. The highlight is the 'Blue Room,' the former bedroom of polar explorer Knud Rasmussen. Standing in that cramped, blue-painted space gives you a visceral sense of the isolation early explorers faced. You will also see an impressive collection of traditional Inuit clothing and ivory carvings. Visitors should look closely at the 'Kamiks' (sealskin boots); the intricate embroidery tells the story of the wearer's marital status and village origin. Feedback consistently notes that the staff here are exceptionally knowledgeable but can be overwhelmed when three tour groups arrive at once. If it’s crowded, go to the harbor market first and come back 45 minutes later when the groups have moved to the hill.
B-2, 3920 Qaqortoq, Greenland ·+299 64 22 22 ·10:00 AM - 4:00 PM on ship days ·visitgreenland.com
Great Greenland Furhouse · Tourist Attraction
USD 50 DKKGreat Greenland is the heart of the town's modern economy. It is the only tannery in the country and a global center for processed sealskin. Visiting this facility offers a blunt, honest look at Arctic life where hunting is a matter of survival and tradition rather than sport. The tour takes you through the various stages of skin processing, from the raw material to the finished, high-fashion coats and accessories. Visitor feedback is consistent that even those skeptical of the industry leave with a better understanding of Greenlandic culture. The quality of the craftsmanship is world-class. You will see designers working on patterns that blend ancient Inuit motifs with contemporary European fashion. The on-site boutique is the best place in Greenland to purchase authentic, high-quality skin products, including mittens, hats, and the distinctive 'Kamik' boots. Be aware that importing seal products into the USA and some other countries is strictly prohibited under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. You should check your home country's customs regulations before make a purchase. Even if you don't buy, the facility is a fascinating example of Arctic industrial ingenuity.
Sannerut, 3920 Qaqortoq ·+299 64 22 14 ·9:00 AM - 3:00 PM ·greatgreenland.com
Stone and Man (Outdoor Gallery) · Cultural Site
FreeLaunched in 1993 by local artist Aka Høegh, 'Stone and Man' (Sten og Menneske) is an ongoing project that has turned Qaqortoq into a permanent open-air museum. Over 30 artists from across Scandinavia and the Arctic have carved images into the town's granite bedrock and boulders. This isn't a gallery with walls; the art is under your feet and behind the houses. The route to the major clusters and found it are one of the most rewarding 'hunts' in the Arctic. You’ll find faces, animals, and abstract symbols emerging from the grey stone. Some are obvious, like the large faces near the harbor, while others are hidden in the higher residential neighborhoods. It’s an intimate way to see the town while engaging with its creative spirit. It is worth knowing that many visitors give up after seeing the first three carvings near the museum. Don't make that mistake. The most impressive works are the larger-than-life faces carved into the granite wall near the local school. It offers a unique perspective on how humans have left their mark on this seemingly impenetrable landscape. Wear sturdy boots, bring a map from the museum, and prepare for a scavenger hunt that doubles as a serious workout.
Scattered throughout the town ·Open 24 hours ·Not available
Church of Our Saviour (Annaassisitta Oqaluffia) · Historical Site
FreeConstructed in 1832, this red-painted wooden church is a classic example of Danish colonial ecclesiastical architecture. Its simple, stark exterior belies an interior that is deeply connected to the sea. Inside, you will find whalebones used in the altar decoration and a model ship hanging from the ceiling—a common tradition in Nordic maritime churches to protect those at sea. Many visitors report that the church provides a quiet, reflective counterpoint to the busy harbor. The acoustics are wonderful; if you happen to visit during a choir practice, stay and listen. The church sits slightly above the harbor, offering a panoramic view of the colored houses and the Labrador Sea. It is a working parish, so please be respectful of local worshippers. The cemetery nearby is also worth a quiet walk; the white crosses against the green moss and blue water are incredibly striking. Most guides spend ten seconds on the church, but it represents the spiritual heart of the community. It’s a place that connects the modern town to its 19th-century roots and the enduring faith of the people who call this harsh environment home.
Vatikanbakken, 3920 Qaqortoq ·+299 64 20 42 ·Variable, usually open 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM on ship days ·Not available
Eating & Drinking in Qaqortoq
The culinary identity of Qaqortoq is defined by 'The Arctic Pantry'—what can be hunted, fished, or gathered in a land with no agriculture. The regional specialty is Suaasat, a thick, hearty soup made from seal, whale, or reindeer meat, thickened with rice and flavored simply with salt, pepper, and onion. It is the ultimate Greenlandic comfort food. For something truly local, visit the Kalaaliaraq (the local fish and meat market) near the harbor. This isn't a tourist market; it's where locals buy fresh-caught halibut, redfish, and seal meat. It is a good idea to try the local Greenlandic beer from Godthaab Bryghus if you find it in the supermarket, as it uses meltwater from the ice sheet. One thing tourists expect but rarely find is fresh vegetables; almost all produce is imported and expensive. Locals don't eat salads; they eat protein. If you want the genuine experience, buy a piece of dried cod (mipukkaq) at the market and eat it like a local—as a salty, protein-rich snack while you walk.
| Place | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel Qaqortoq Restaurant | Anders Olsensvej B-1254, 3920 Qaqortoq | +299 64 22 82 | Lunch 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM, Dinner 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM | hotel-qaqortoq.gl | 350 DKK (~$49.50 USD) per person |
| Cafe Nanoq | Kalaaliaraq 3, 3920 Qaqortoq | +299 64 10 03 | 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM | 180 DKK (~$25.50 USD) per person | |
| The Arctic Bar | Anders Olsensvej, 3920 Qaqortoq | +299 64 22 82 | 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM | 95 DKK (~$13.50 USD) per drink |
Hotel Qaqortoq Restaurant
350 DKK (~$49.50 USD) per personPerched on the hill overlooking the harbor, this is the premier dining experience in Southern Greenland. Order the Greenlandic Tapas plate; it is the most efficient way to taste the entire Arctic pantry in one sitting. The view through the floor-to-ceiling windows is the best in town. You should book a window table at least two weeks before your ship arrives, as it fills up with ship officers and savvy passengers immediately upon docking.
Anders Olsensvej B-1254, 3920 Qaqortoq ·+299 64 22 82 ·Lunch 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM, Dinner 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Cafe Nanoq
180 DKK (~$25.50 USD) per personLocated right on the harbor, Nanoq is the social hub of the town. The atmosphere is casual, with a mix of modern decor and local charm. The Musk Ox burger is a revelation—richer than beef and surprisingly lean. It’s the perfect place for a quick but authentic meal before heading back to the tender. One honest limitation: the service can be 'Arctic-paced'—don't expect to be in and out in 30 minutes.
Kalaaliaraq 3, 3920 Qaqortoq ·+299 64 10 03 ·11:00 AM - 8:00 PM
The Arctic Bar
95 DKK (~$13.50 USD) per drinkPart of the Hotel Qaqortoq but with its own distinct personality. This is the place to order a Greenlandic Coffee. The preparation is a theatrical event, involving fire to represent the Northern Lights. It's the ultimate 'warming' drink after a cold day on the water. Locals come here to escape the wind and share news. The walls are decorated with local art and historical photos.
Anders Olsensvej, 3920 Qaqortoq ·+299 64 22 82 ·11:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Getting There & Around
The primary and most efficient way to navigate Qaqortoq is on foot. The town center is essentially a 400-meter radius around the harbor. There are no public buses, trams, or trains. Taxis exist but are used by locals for carrying heavy groceries uphill; they are not a viable touring option. For those heading to the Hvalsey ruins or the hot springs, the only transit is via private boat charter or ship-organized excursion. It is worth noting that the local 'Blue Ice Explorer' or 'Sagafjord' boats are reliable, with fares starting around 750 DKK (~$105.00 USD) for a round-trip to the ruins. Bicycles are not available for rent and would be useless on the stairs and steep granite paths. Navigation is simple: the harbor is your North Star. If you are walking downhill, you are heading back to the ship. One tip most guides omit: the local hospital at the top of the hill has an elevator that can save you several flights of stairs if you are polite and discreet.
Itineraries & Sample Walks
4-Hour Shore Excursion in Qaqortoq
Qaqortoq Museum
9:00 AM (60 min)
Housed in the old 1804 colonial manager's house, this museum is small but dense. It focuses on the Norse era and the history of seal hunting. You'll see traditional kayaks (qajaq) and the famous 'Blue Room' where Knud Rasmussen once stayed.
- Walk 50 meters from the tender pontoon. (Free)
- Entry: 40 DKK ($5.50)
- Ask to see the tupilaks in the back case—small, grotesque figures carved from bone that were meant to destroy enemies. Most people walk past them thinking they are toys.
Stone and Man Trail
10:15 AM (90 min)
This is an open-air gallery of 40 sculptures. The most impressive are the faces carved directly into the granite walls. It requires some scrambling over rocks to see the best ones, but the integration of art into the landscape is profound.
- Walk north 5 minutes behind the museum up the wooden stairs. (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Look for the carving of fish near the riverbank; it’s often partially submerged during high melt, making it look like the stone is coming to life.
Lunch Recommendation
Cafe Nanoq
It’s where the locals actually eat. While the Hotel Qaqortoq is more formal, Nanoq has the harbor view and much better local flavors.
Order: Suaasat (Traditional meat soup with rice and onions), Musk Ox Burger
Kalaaliaraq 3, 3920 Qaqortoq
Cost: 180 DKK (~$25.50 USD)
8-Hour Full Day Experience in Qaqortoq
Hvalsey Church Ruins
8:30 AM (180 min)
The best-preserved Norse ruins in Greenland. You stand inside the 14th-century stone church where the granite walls still reach nearly full height. The silence of the fjord here is immense and chilling.
- Boat charter from the harbor; 40 minutes each way. (750 DKK (~$105.00 USD))
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Look at the window lintels; they are perfectly straight after 600 years. Don't waste time looking for a gift shop—there isn't one.
Great Greenland Furhouse
12:00 PM (60 min)
Greenland's only tanning and fashion house for seal skins. It is a controversial but essential part of local culture. You can tour the facility and see how the skins are processed and turned into high-fashion garments.
- 10-minute walk south from the harbor center. (Free)
- Entry: 50 DKK ($7.00)
- Check the 'seconds' bin in the boutique for small scraps or simple items that are significantly cheaper than the main floor stock.
Getting back to the ship
The absolute latest you should be at the tender pontoon is 60 minutes before the scheduled all-aboard time. Because Qaqortoq is a tender-only port, a sudden fog bank or mechanical issue with a tender boat can create a massive backlog. There is no public transit to the anchorage; you are entirely dependent on the ship's boats. If you are on a private boat excursion, ensure your pilot has you back in the harbor 90 minutes before departure. If you miss the ship, the only way out is a charter flight to Narsarsuaq and then an international flight, which can cost upwards of $3,000 USD. The port authority contact is +299 64 22 22, but your first call should be the ship's emergency number on your daily program. Greenland does not wait for late passengers; the ice and tides dictate the schedule.
Weather & Best Time to Visit Qaqortoq
Weather & What to Pack
Cruise season: July to September
Temps range from 4°C to 11°C (39°F–52°F). Humidity is low, but the wind chill can make it feel sub-zero. Rainfall is moderate, often manifesting as a persistent cold drizzle.
What to wear: Layers are non-negotiable. Start with a moisture-wicking base, add a wool mid-layer, and finish with a windproof/waterproof shell. Footwear must be waterproof hiking boots with excellent ankle support for the uneven granite. Even on sunny days, the temperature on the tender boat will be significantly lower than in town; bring a hat and gloves.
Weather risks: Sea fog is the primary risk. It can roll in within 20 minutes, reducing visibility to meters and forcing the suspension of tender operations. Sudden 'Piteraq' winds from the ice sheet can also make boat transfers dangerous.
In September, the chance of seeing the Northern Lights increases, but daylight hours decrease rapidly.
| Season | Conditions | Hazards | Affected areas | Visitor advice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer (June–August) | Milder temperatures between 5°C and 12°C (41°F–54°F), though fog is frequent and can linger for days. | Wet granite on the 'Stone and Man' trails becomes extremely slippery. Moss-covered rocks near the river are deceptive and can lead to falls. | The walking paths behind the town and the rocky outcrops surrounding the harbor fountain. | Wear hiking boots with deep lugs and a Vibram-style sole. Avoid smooth-soled walking shoes or sneakers if you plan to see more than the two main streets. |
| Late Autumn (September) | Sharply dropping temperatures and increased wind. The first dustings of snow are common. | Black ice forms on the wooden staircases early in the morning and in shaded areas throughout the day. These stairs have no salt treatment. | All wooden stairs leading to the upper town and the boat pontoons at the harbor. | Wait until 10:30 AM for the sun to clear ice from the steps. Use the handrails at all times; they are there for a reason, not for decoration. |
Practical Information
Cultural etiquette
Greenlandic culture is reserved but deeply polite. Locals greet with a soft handshake and direct eye contact; a loud, boisterous greeting is often seen as aggressive. When entering a local home or some small guesthouses, it is customary to remove your shoes—look for a pile of boots by the door as your signal. Dining is casual, and splitting dishes is rare; usually, each person orders their own meal. Photography requires sensitivity: always ask 'Can I?' before photographing locals, especially at the fish market or residential areas. Taking photos of children without parental permission is a serious breach of etiquette. Tipping is not a Greenlandic tradition; service is included in the price, and while a small rounded-up amount is appreciated for exceptional service, it is never expected. One common mistake cruise passengers make is complaining about the smell at the fish market or the presence of seal products. For Greenlanders, seal hunting is a sustainable, vital part of their existence; criticizing it is seen as a direct insult to their survival and culture.
Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake |
|---|
Staying on the ship because it looks cold or grey from the balcony. |
Expecting to find a last-minute boat to Hvalsey at the pier. |
Wearing sneakers or city walking shoes for the art trail. |
Buying seal products without checking home country customs laws. |
Practical tips
The local currency is the Danish Krone (DKK). While major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are accepted at the supermarket, hotel, and museum, you will need cash for small local boat charters or at the fish market. Visitors should withdraw 500 DKK (~$70.00 USD) at the bank ATM near the harbor upon arrival. Tipping is not expected, but rounding up the bill at Cafe Nanoq is a nice gesture. To earn genuine goodwill, learn these five Greenlandic phrases: 'Aluu' (Hello), 'Qujanaq' (Thank you), 'Ajunngilaq' (It's okay), 'Aap' (Yes), and 'Naamik' (No). Be aware of the 'Arctic wind' scam—local boat operators may promise a 'short' trip to the ice, but the wind can make it a 3-hour ordeal; always confirm the total time before boarding. The dress code is purely functional; even at the hotel restaurant, hiking gear is the norm. For the best crowd-avoidance, visit the museum the moment the first tender docks, then head to the 'Stone and Man' trails while the rest of the ship is still having breakfast.
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FAQ — Qaqortoq
Is there any public Wi-Fi available in the town of Qaqortoq?
There is no free public Wi-Fi in Qaqortoq. You can purchase a Wi-Fi card at the Tele-Post building for approximately 50 DKK (~$7.00 USD) for 30 minutes, but the speeds are barely sufficient for email. Most cafes like Nanoq may offer access to customers, but the connection frequently drops when a cruise ship is in port and bandwidth is overwhelmed. You should download all offline maps and guide materials before you leave your home port. If you must connect, do so early in the morning before the majority of the 1,200+ ship passengers attempt to log on simultaneously. It is worth using this port as a 'digital detox' day.
What are the rules for flying a drone in Qaqortoq?
Greenland has strict drone regulations. You cannot fly within 5 km (3 miles) of the local heliport, which covers almost the entire town of Qaqortoq. Additionally, you must stay at least 150 meters away from any buildings, roads, or people. Given the compact nature of the town and the constant helicopter activity for medical and supply runs, drone use is effectively banned within the town limits. If you take a boat excursion to Hvalsey, you may fly there, provided you remain 100 meters away from the ruins to protect the archaeological site. Always check with the local police (114) for the most current 'No-Fly Zone' maps before launching.
Can I use my cell phone data plan in Greenland?
Greenland is not part of the EU/EEA roaming agreements. Most US and European carriers charge exorbitant rates—often $15.00 per MB or more. Even 'International Day Passes' frequently exclude Greenland. Visitors have reported returning to $500 bills for simple background data syncing. Turn off your cellular data and put your phone in airplane mode before the ship docks. If you need to stay in touch, use the ship's Wi-Fi while anchored or wait until your next port in Iceland or Canada. The local carrier is Tusass, and while you can buy a local SIM, it is rarely worth the effort for a 6-hour port call.
Are there polar bears in or around Qaqortoq?
Polar bears are extremely rare in Qaqortoq. They live much further north or on the east coast. Occasionally, a bear may drift south on a stray ice floe in the spring, but this is an exceptional event that would trigger a town-wide alert. You do not need to carry a firearm or travel with an armed guide for protection in this town. Your biggest wildlife concern will be the sled dogs; while they look like pets, they are working animals. Never approach or attempt to pet a sled dog, as they can be aggressive toward strangers.
What happens if the fog prevents the tender boats from running?
Sea fog is a reality in the Labrador Sea. If visibility drops below safe limits, the Captain will suspend tender operations. If you are already on shore, you must wait at the tender pontoon area until the fog clears. The ship will not leave you behind if the delay is caused by their own tender operations. However, this may result in a significantly shortened stay or a late departure. If you are on a private excursion, this is why having a 90-minute buffer is critical. Operators with VHF radio contact with the port authority are recommended.
Is the tap water safe to drink in Qaqortoq?
The tap water in Qaqortoq is among the purest in the world. It is sourced from inland meltwater lakes and is perfectly safe—and delicious—to drink. There is no need to buy bottled water. You should bring a reusable bottle from the ship and fill it at the museum or your lunch spot. This also helps reduce the plastic waste burden on this remote community, which has limited recycling capabilities. Avoid drinking from the 'Stone and Man' river or the fountain, as these are not filtered for bacteria.
Are there any public laundromats in town?
There are no public laundromats in Qaqortoq. Most locals have their own machines or use community centers that are not open to tourists. If you need laundry done, you must use the services provided on your cruise ship. Given the 6-to-8-hour window of a typical port call, wasting time searching for a laundry facility is not recommended. If you have a clothing emergency, the Hotel Qaqortoq may be able to assist for a significant fee, but they prioritize their own guests.
Is Greenlandic difficult to speak or understand?
Kalaallisut (Greenlandic) is a polysynthetic language that is very different from English or Danish. Long words can represent entire sentences. While you won't learn it in a day, the locals greatly appreciate an attempt at 'Aluu' (Hello). Almost everyone in Qaqortoq, especially those under 50, speaks Danish and at least functional English. You will have no trouble communicating in shops, the museum, or the hotel. All official signs are in both Greenlandic and Danish.
What is the best way to see icebergs if I don't book an excursion?
You will likely see 'growlers' and small icebergs from the tender boat itself. For a better view without a paid tour, walk south along the coast past the Great Greenland Furhouse toward the old heliport. This path follows the waterline and provides excellent views of the ice drifting into the harbor from the Labrador Sea. This walk is flat and takes about 15 minutes. It is a quiet, free alternative to the crowded boat tours.
Is it true that I should take my shoes off when entering buildings?
Yes, but primarily in private homes, the local school, and some smaller guesthouses. You do not need to remove your shoes at the museum, the supermarket, the hotel restaurant, or Cafe Nanoq. If you see a large rack of boots at the entrance of a building, it is a clear sign that you should remove yours. This tradition exists to keep the mud, snow, and dog waste out of living spaces.
Fact-checked and co-written by J. Richard, Founder, Waterways Cruise, with the Waterways Cruise Content Team.
Published May 19, 2026 · Last updated October 8, 2026
This guide is researched and reviewed by our editorial team, but prices, hours, and availability change often. Confirm current details directly with venues, excursion operators, and your cruise line before you travel.