Disko Bay, Greenland

Disko Bay (Greenlandic: Qeqertarsuup tunua); the name appeals to the imagination. This large bay located on the western coast of Greenland is known for its stunning landscapes, including towering icebergs and vast glaciers. The bay is also home to a variety of wildlife, including seals, whales, and seabirds. Needless to say, this area has always been high on my ‘Nordic’ list and I knew I wanted to explore it the best way possible: sailing along its coast, making landing at rarely visited spots.

Between 2020 and 2022, I had the privilege to join skipper André Speet on his expedition sailing ship s/v Mae West for some of his travels along the western coast of Greenland. André originally planned to cross the North West Passage in 2020, but found the pandemic in his way. He eventually completed the North West Passage in 2022. While waiting for the opportunity, André explored Greenland’s western coast. I was lucky to join three of his sailings around Disko Bay. The first trip in the autumn 2020 focused on Disko Bay: from Ilulissat to Aasiaat. The second voyage started in Aasiaat and finished in Upernavik, crossing Disko Island, Uummannaq Bay and the Upernavik ice flow. The third we embarked further south in Sisimiut. We disembarked in Ilulissat after a circumnavigation of Disko Island.

Every single one of these sailings was spectacular in its own regard. The varying conditions it also provided me with the opportunity to create this diverse collection of images. I can only end with expressing my gratitude towards André for this rare opportunity.