Greenland Urges Cruise Ships to Avoid Fjords Over Wildlife Concerns
More than 20 cruise calls are scheduled at Qaqortoq and Nanortalik in the coming weeks; larger ships are also due at Nuuk, Paamiut, Ilulissat and Narsarsuaq.
Updated September 19, 2026
The Government of Greenland has advised cruise ships to avoid sailing in some fjord areas following concerns from local residents about noise, wildlife disturbance and pressure on natural areas. Where avoidance is impractical, operators are being asked to reduce the time ships spend in affected locations. Naalakkersuisut, Greenland's cabinet and executive authority, issued the voluntary guidance.
The government said the recommendation is intended to preserve local access to recreation, hunting and fishing. It also calls on cruise lines, ship captains and other industry participants to consider local conditions when planning itineraries and to coordinate their activities.
"The purpose of the recommendation is to limit the impact on vulnerable natural areas and wildlife, as well as to meet the local population's wishes to preserve the recreational values of the areas and the opportunities for catching and fishing," the government said.
Naalakkersuisut also described cruise interest in Greenland as positive for tourism development. That development, it said, must proceed sustainably and respect residents, nature and wildlife.
Zoning rules under development
The voluntary guidance could be followed by formal restrictions. Naalakkersuisut and Greenland's municipalities are developing zoning regulations under the Tourism Act that would define which areas are open to cruise ships and where access restrictions would apply. Residents, businesses and other stakeholders are helping shape the proposed rules, which are expected to follow a public consultation.
Cruise traffic in Greenland
Greenland receives dozens of expedition cruise vessels each year, while larger ships also call regularly during the summer. Total tourism increased 8% from 2024 to 2025, reaching 180,000 visitors. Cruise passenger numbers, however, declined 1.4% over the same period.
More than 20 calls are scheduled at Qaqortoq and Nanortalik in the coming weeks. Brands visiting those ports this season include Carnival Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, Azamara, Seabourn, Phoenix Reisen, AIDA Cruises, Viking, Windstar Cruises, Explora Journeys, Holland America Line, Celebrity Cruises and Virgin Voyages. Large cruise ships are also scheduled to visit Nuuk, Paamiut, Ilulissat and Narsarsuaq over the next several years.
Compare current Greenland cruise fares on Cruise Lookup.
