greenland to baffin island Kayak and sail expedition

SAil to remote baffin island

Join us on a wild and remote kayak and sail expedition from the west coast of Greenland, across the Davis Strait, to remote Baffin Island. Greenland is the largest island in the world and Baffin, part of the Canadian territory of Nunavut, is the fifth largest. Elsi, our 37 metre sailing yacht, provides the best option to access remote bays and fjords to launch kayaks and explore areas that few have had the pleasure of paddling. Expect amazing wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes and new and inspiring adventures.

Icebergs, wildlife and the Midnight Sun

Our expedition begins in Ilulissat, West Greenland, the iceberg capital of the world. Our first Arctic paddle will take place in Disko Bay, where we experience exceptional kayak outings in the UNESCO listed Icefjord. Sailing across Davis Strait to Baffin Island is an adventure in itself, with time on board spent whale watching from the decks of Elsi, our ocean-going yacht. The next ten days are dedicated to discovering the east coast of Baffin and with plenty of daylight hours, we’ll have countless opportunities for our explorations.

baffin island

Baffin Island, the world’s fifth largest island, is shaped by a mountainous backbone extending along most of its’ 1,500 kilometre length, with peaks rising up to 2,147 metres. We explore this Arctic wilderness by sailboat and kayak, marvelling at jagged mountain peaks, deep valleys and spectacular fjords. Extraordinary Baffin Island wildlife include polar bear, harp and ringed seals, bowhead whales, caribou, Arctic hare, Arctic fox and numerous species of migratory birds. One of the most amazing sights is to observe a pod of narwhal and with approximately 75% of the world’s population migrating to Baffin Island waters every year, we have the best chance of observing the ‘unicorn of the sea’ compared to anywhere else on the planet.

aboard Elsi: Your Home at Sea

Built in 1986 at the German Blumenthaler shipyard, the schooner Elsi began her working life as a training expedition vessel. After extensive renovations in 2013, Elsi embarked on medical humanitarian missions to remote corners of the world. In 2022, she began operating in the Polar regions. She is well fitted for polar travel with heating, satellite communication and comfortable living quarters. With her rich legacy and modern comforts, Elsi offers a cosy and safe haven, making her the perfect vessel for our sailing and kayaking adventure.

Grade

Moderate

This trip is suitable for active individuals with a thirst for adventure. The kayaking option suits paddlers with kayak experience.

Trip Grading

Dates

2026

Coming soon!

Cost

2026 details coming soon!

IncludES

Overnight twin share accommodation in the group hotel in Ilulissat.
Transfer to yacht in Ilulissat and from yacht to Clyde River airport.
Twelve nights ship accommodation.
Flight from Clyde River to Iqaluit.
All meals from dinner on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 14.
Expedition kayaks, paddles, life jackets and safety equipment.
Dedicated kayak guide.
Guided walks and land excursions.
Bed linen and bath towels.
Use of a dry suit.
Wine with dinner on the yacht.
Port taxes and charges imposed by government authorities.

Excludes

Flights, apart from Clyde River to Iqaluit at the end of the trip.
Single supplements.
Personal travel insurance.
Hotels and meals not included in the voyage itinerary.
Optional excursions not included in voyage itinerary.
Laundry, personal clothing, medical expenses, bar charges and phone/email/wifi fees.
Emergency evacuation charges.
Alcohol unless specified.
Tips on board for crew and service personnel.
Visa, passport, vaccination costs and airport departure taxes (if any).

Day 1

Meet in Ilulissat, Greenland. Overnight hotel and group dinner.

Day 2

Board Elsi. Kayak Disko Bay. Commence crossing to Baffin Island.

Day 3

At sea, spying icebergs and whales!

Day 4

Arrive Baffin Island late today. The endless light of the polar summer provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities, including an evening paddle!

Days 5-13

Exploring the east coast of Baffin Island by sail, kayak and short hikes. Be prepared for dramatic mountains, glaciers, ice caps, tundra slopes and incredible wildlife. Highlights included, but not limited to, are Isabella Bay, Sillem (Qikiqaaluk) Island, Sam Ford Fjord (Kangiqtualuk Uqquaqti) and the Clyde River region.

DAY 14

The trip ends today with a flight from Clyde River to Iqaluit.

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