Skjoldungen Island, Greenland

Skjoldungen Island offers dramatic landscapes on Greenland’s southeast coast.

A breathtaking view of a massive, white iceberg floating in a calm body of water in the Skjoldungen Island Fjord in Greenland, with a towering, rocky mountain in the background.

Overview

Skjoldungen Island, Greenland Cruise Port

Skjoldungen Island, a magnificent and remote expanse of land in Southeast Greenland, offers an unparalleled expedition experience amidst some of the world's most dramatic Arctic landscapes. Defined by its immense, deep fjord – Skjoldungen Fjord – which carves through towering mountains and provides a direct gateway to vast ice caps and cascading glaciers, the island is a testament to the raw, untamed power of nature. This uninhabited wilderness, stretching hundreds of kilometers, unveils a pristine environment sculpted by ancient ice and time.

A visit to Skjoldungen is an immersive journey into the heart of the Arctic's grandeur. Beyond its stunning visual appeal, the area holds traces of ancient human habitation, hinting at the resilience of past Inuit communities who once sought sustenance here. Skjoldungen stands as an extraordinary destination for those seeking profound solitude, breathtaking natural wonders, and an authentic encounter with the remote and powerful beauty of Greenland's untouched East Coast.

Top Things to Do in Skjoldungen Island, Greenland

Zodiac Cruise Through Skjoldungen Fjord

Embark on an unforgettable Zodiac cruise through the depths of Skjoldungen Fjord. Glide past towering cliffs, observe cascading waterfalls, and get up close to calving glaciers, experiencing the fjord's immense scale from water level.

Tip: Dress in multiple warm, waterproof layers, including gloves and a hat, as it can be very cold and windy on the water. Keep your camera ready!

Witness Glacial Ice Formations

Be awestruck by the spectacular glacial ice formations that dominate the landscape. Observe massive icebergs, smaller "bergy bits," and the dramatic blue hues of ancient ice that break off from the Greenland Ice Sheet.

Tip: Listen for the thunderous sound of calving ice (when large chunks break off a glacier). It's a powerful and memorable phenomenon.

Land on a Remote Shore for an Arctic Hike

If conditions permit, your expedition team may facilitate a landing on a remote shore for an Arctic hike. Explore the rugged tundra, witness hardy Arctic flora, and gain a different perspective of the surrounding mountains and fjord.

Tip: Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots. Be mindful of uneven terrain and follow your expedition guide's instructions closely.

Observe Arctic Wildlife

Keep a keen eye out for Arctic wildlife adapted to this harsh environment. You might spot various seabirds, seals basking on ice floes, or even the occasional reindeer or Arctic fox on land. Whales might be seen in the open waters near the fjord's entrance.

Tip: Binoculars are essential for good wildlife viewing. Be patient, as wildlife can be elusive in such vast landscapes.

Photography of Dramatic Landscapes

Dedicate time to photography of the dramatic landscapes. The unique light, towering peaks, deep blue ice, and reflective waters provide endless opportunities for stunning scenic shots.

Tip: Bring extra camera batteries, as cold weather can drain them quickly. A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the vastness.

Attend Onboard Lectures and Briefings

Maximize your understanding of this unique environment by attending onboard lectures and briefings from your expedition team. Learn about Greenland's geology, glaciology, wildlife, and the history of its indigenous peoples.

Tip: These sessions provide invaluable context and enhance your appreciation for the remote beauty you are experiencing.

Overview