- The Government of Greenland has advised cruise ships to avoid certain fjord areas
- Local residents raised concerns about noise pollution and wildlife disturbance
- The government recognises cruise tourism’s positive contribution to development
- Qaqortoq and Nanortalik have more than 20 cruise calls scheduled
- Major cruise brands including Carnival, Viking and Celebrity visit Greenland ports
The Government of Greenland has advised cruise ships to avoid sailing in some of its fjord areas following inquiries from local residents. High North News reported that some residents view the ships as a burden that affects natural areas, disturbs wildlife and causes noise pollution. The recommendation was announced in a press release by Naalakkersuisut, the cabinet and chief executive body of the Government of Greenland.
Lobby groups were calling for the preservation of the region’s natural resources and recreational values. The government said that growing cruise ship interest in Greenland is positive, noting that the activity contributes to the development of the region’s tourism industry. The government also noted that any tourism development must occur sustainably and with respect for the local population, nature and wildlife.
The purpose of the recommendation is to limit the impact on vulnerable natural areas and wildlife and to accommodate the wishes of the local population to preserve the areas’ recreational values and opportunities for hunting and fishing. Greenland is a key destination for expedition cruise ships, welcoming dozens of vessels for exploration each year. Qaqortoq and Nanortalik are among the most popular destinations, with more than 20 calls scheduled for the coming weeks. Carnival, Oceania, Azamara, Seabourn, Phoenix Reisen, AIDA, Viking, Windstar, Explora, Holland America, Celebrity and Virgin are among the brands visiting the ports this season. Other ports welcoming vessels in the next few years include Nuuk, Paamiut, Ilulissat and Narsarsuaq.
Naalakkersuisut shared “The purpose of this recommendation is to limit the impact on vulnerable natural areas and wildlife and to accommodate the wishes of the local population to preserve the areas’ recreational values and opportunities for hunting and fishing. Any tourism development must occur sustainably and with respect for the local population, nature and wildlife.”
