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1 / 10

Scoresby Sound

4.9
·20 reviews·, Greenland

Scoresby Sound: Greenland's vast, majestic fjord system, famed for colossal icebergs, dramatic glaciers, and the remote village of Ittoqqortoormiit.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

August

Best for boat access & milder weather

CrowdLow
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Scoresby Sound - close up, bokeh, macro, blur, blurred background, close focus, bible, old testament, hebrew bible, christian, judaism, history, text, reading, bible study, devotions, text, NIV, New International Version, type, typography, canon, christianity, holy scripture, holy bible, scripture, old testament, hebrew bible, song of songs, שִׁיר הַשִּׁירִים, Šīr hašŠīrīm, ᾎσμα ᾀσμάτων, Âisma āismátōn, canticle of canticles, megillot, tanakh, ketuvim, poem, love poem, love poetry, passover, christ, bride, church, marriage, lovers,

Scoresby Sound

Best Time

August

Best for boat access & milder weather

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Scoresby Sound: Greenland's vast, majestic fjord system, famed for colossal icebergs, dramatic glaciers, and the remote village of Ittoqqortoormiit.

4.9
(20 reviews)

"It is great! Also because I own all this ice, but it is still very good!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Anchor with Care

Navigational charts can be imprecise; anchor with caution and be aware of icebergs. :ocean:

Polar Bear Safety

Polar bears are present and are the top predators. Stay vigilant and informed. :bear:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Scoresby Sund Fjords

Scoresby Sund Fjords

Explore a labyrinth of stunning fjords, ice shelves, and colossal icebergs. A true Arctic wonderland.

Ittoqqortoormiit Village

Ittoqqortoormiit Village

Experience life in the world's northernmost settlement, a gateway to the sound's wonders.

Glacier Fronts

Glacier Fronts

Witness the immense power of glaciers calving into the sea, a breathtaking display of nature.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Greenland's Majestic Fjords

Scoresby Sound's vastness demands careful planning. While charts exist, they aren't always precise, making iceberg and fog vigilance crucial. Polar bears are a real concern, so always be aware of your surroundings.

Experiencing Ittoqqortoormiit

The primary settlement, Ittoqqortoormiit, offers a glimpse into local life and a place to resupply. Anchoring is necessary as there's no harbor. Embrace the remote beauty and take your time exploring this unique Arctic outpost.

Best Times

When
August
Why
Best for boat access & milder weather
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Last summer voyage through Scoresby Sound to King Oscar Fjord and back along the eastern coast of Greenland

Anchor with Care

Navigational charts can be imprecise; anchor with caution and be aware of icebergs. :ocean:

Polar Bear Safety

Polar bears are present and are the top predators. Stay vigilant and informed. :bear:

reddit.com

Sailing the Kangertittivaq fjord / the Scoresby Sound and the eastern coast of Greenland north into the Arctic

reddit.com

Yours truly in Scoresbysund near Ittoqqortoormiit yesterday [OC]

Resupply at Ittoqqortoormiit

The village has a shop for essential supplies. :shopping_cart:

Embrace the Pace

Take your time exploring the sund; it's a vast and awe-inspiring place. :stopwatch:

reddit.com

Just got back! Polar Bears seen yesterday in Scoresbysund near Ittoqqortoormiit [OC]

Tips

from all over the internet

Anchor with Care

Navigational charts can be imprecise; anchor with caution and be aware of icebergs. :ocean:

Polar Bear Safety

Polar bears are present and are the top predators. Stay vigilant and informed. :bear:

Resupply at Ittoqqortoormiit

The village has a shop for essential supplies. :shopping_cart:

Embrace the Pace

Take your time exploring the sund; it's a vast and awe-inspiring place. :stopwatch:

What Travellers Say

4.9
(20 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Scoresby Sound is lauded as a truly fantastic and beautiful fjord system, offering a unique Arctic experience. Visitors appreciate the immense scale of the icebergs and the opportunity to visit the remote settlement of Ittoqqortoormiit. However, the challenging navigation due to imprecise charts and potential fog requires constant vigilance, and the presence of polar bears is a significant safety consideration.

"Approaching East Greenland in August from Svalbard by boat takes 5 days. Entering Scoresby Sund and visit Ittoqqortoormitt. No harbour, need anchoring. There is a shop in village to refill your supplies. Explore the sund, take your time. Some nice anchorplaces, but Terra Incognita, navigational charts are not precise. Watch out for floating icebergs, in particular when fog. Polarbears are present and no.1 predators! Enjoy."

Adrian Birrer

"It is great! Also because I own all this ice, but it is still very good!"

Teodora J

"Another fantastic fjord if that your thing. I love the beauty of the worlds fjords."

Dennis Blum

What People Like

Majestic fjords and icebergs
Remote Ittoqqortoormiit
Unique Arctic beauty

What People Dislike

Imprecise navigational charts
Fog and iceberg hazards

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Access to Scoresby Sound is primarily by boat, often as part of expeditions from Svalbard or other Arctic regions. The journey itself can take around 5 days. Reddit

There are no direct flights into Scoresby Sound itself. The closest settlement with an airport is Ittoqqortoormiit, which has limited flight connections.

The main entry point is the settlement of Ittoqqortoormiit, which serves as a gateway to the extensive fjord system. Reddit

Yes, many visitors arrive via organized expedition cruises that navigate the fjords and visit Ittoqqortoormiit. These tours handle the complex logistics.

Exploring the fjords is best done by boat, whether on a larger expedition vessel or a smaller zodiac for closer access to glaciers and icebergs.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While no specific 'entry ticket' is required for the sound itself, access is typically managed through expedition cruise bookings, which include permits and fees.

Ittoqqortoormiit is a living community, so there are no set 'opening hours.' However, the local shop has specific operating times for resupply. Reddit

Generally, there are no specific entrance fees for natural areas within the sound. Costs are associated with expedition tours and any services used in Ittoqqortoormiit.

Due to the remote nature and limited expedition options, booking 6-12 months in advance is highly recommended, especially for peak season.

Independent travel is extremely challenging due to navigational hazards, lack of infrastructure, and safety concerns (like polar bears). Expedition cruises are the most common and safest method. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Expect to see abundant marine life, seabirds, and the possibility of polar bears on land or ice. Whales are also present in the waters. Reddit

Walking on glaciers requires expert guidance and proper equipment due to crevasses and unstable ice. It's best done with experienced guides on organized tours. Reddit

The primary challenges are floating icebergs, fog, and the imprecision of navigational charts. Constant vigilance is required. Reddit

Pack warm, waterproof, and windproof layers, sturdy waterproof boots, gloves, hats, and sunglasses. Binoculars are also recommended for wildlife viewing.

Mobile reception is extremely limited to non-existent within the sound. Satellite communication is typically used on expedition vessels.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Dining options are very limited in Ittoqqortoormiit, often consisting of a small cafe or restaurant. Most visitors rely on their expedition ship for meals. Reddit

Yes, there is a shop in Ittoqqortoormiit where you can purchase basic supplies and some local products. Reddit

Yes, meals are typically included on expedition cruises, offering a range of options prepared onboard.

Traditional Greenlandic cuisine often features seafood (fish, shrimp, whale) and game (reindeer, musk ox), though modern influences are also present.

Fishing is a traditional activity, but for visitors, it's usually part of organized excursions or done by locals. Check with your expedition provider.

📸 📸 Photography

Icebergs of all shapes and sizes, dramatic fjord landscapes, glaciers, wildlife (birds, seals, potentially polar bears), and the unique settlement of Ittoqqortoormiit are prime subjects.

A wide-angle lens for landscapes, a telephoto lens for wildlife, a sturdy tripod, and plenty of spare batteries (cold drains them faster) are recommended. A waterproof camera or housing is also wise.

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light for landscapes. However, the dramatic Arctic light can be stunning at any time, especially with fog or unique ice formations.

Generally, there are no specific restrictions, but always be respectful of the environment and wildlife. Avoid disturbing animals or damaging fragile ecosystems.

Include a human element (if safe and appropriate) or a smaller object in the frame to provide a sense of scale. Shooting from different angles and elevations can also emphasize size.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Expedition Cruisers

For those arriving by expedition cruise, Scoresby Sound is a dream destination. Your primary focus will be on enjoying the curated itinerary, which typically includes navigating the fjords, zodiac excursions for close-up iceberg viewing, and landings at Ittoqqortoormiit. Listen closely to your expedition team's briefings on safety, wildlife, and the unique geology of the area. Reddit

Embrace the adventure and be prepared for variable weather. The beauty of expedition cruising here is that the experts handle the complex navigation and safety protocols, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the stunning Arctic scenery and the thrill of discovery.

Geology Enthusiasts

Scoresby Sound is a geologist's paradise, offering unparalleled opportunities to study fjords, ice shelves, and glaciers up close. The Reddit tip mentioning a desire to 'get up close and walk on some of these' highlights the appeal. While walking directly on active glaciers can be hazardous and requires expert guidance, the sheer scale and accessibility of glacial features and ice formations provide immense research and observational value. Reddit

Focus on understanding the glacial processes at play. Look for evidence of past ice movements, erosion patterns, and the ongoing impact of climate change on these massive ice bodies. Expedition cruises often have onboard geologists or naturalists who can provide invaluable insights into the region's geological history.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Ice Labyrinth

Scoresby Sound is renowned for its immense icebergs and complex fjord system. Navigational charts, while available, are noted by some travelers as not being entirely precise, demanding constant vigilance from captains and crew. The presence of floating icebergs, especially in foggy conditions, presents a significant hazard that requires careful monitoring. Expedition leaders emphasize the importance of respecting the power of nature and staying aware of your surroundings at all times. Reddit

The sheer scale of the ice formations is a major draw, with visitors often describing the experience as otherworldly. The fjords themselves are incredibly deep and carved by ancient glaciers, creating dramatic cliffs and sheltered anchorages. Planning a trip during the Arctic summer, particularly August, is often recommended for the best chances of accessible navigation and slightly milder weather conditions, though Arctic weather can change rapidly.

The Charm of Ittoqqortoormiit

Ittoqqortoormiit, the largest settlement in Scoresby Sound, offers a unique cultural experience. As the northernmost inhabited place in East Greenland, it provides a glimpse into life in a remote Arctic community. Visitors often note the necessity of anchoring offshore, as there is no harbor. The village does have a shop where essential supplies can be replenished, which is a crucial point for those on longer expeditions. Reddit

Exploring Ittoqqortoormiit allows travelers to interact with the local culture and understand the challenges and beauty of living in such an isolated environment. The community is the primary human element within the vast, wild landscape of Scoresby Sound, serving as a vital hub for those venturing into the fjords.

Wildlife Encounters and Safety

Scoresby Sound is a haven for Arctic wildlife, though sightings are never guaranteed. The waters teem with marine life, including various species of seals and whales. Birdlife is also abundant, with numerous seabirds nesting along the cliffs and foraging in the fjords. However, the most significant wildlife concern for visitors is the presence of polar bears. Reddit

Polar bears are the apex predators of this region, and their presence necessitates a high level of caution. Travelers are strongly advised to be aware of their surroundings, especially when ashore or near the coast. Expedition leaders and guides are trained to manage these encounters safely, ensuring both human and animal well-being. Respecting their habitat and maintaining a safe distance is paramount for a responsible visit.

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