Arctic Umiaq Line and Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express have unveiled a new partnership to enhance growth and opportunities in Greenland’s tourism industry. Both companies, with a high focus on sustainability, are partnering to develop Arctic Umiaq Line’s unique product for the international market and promote sustainable tourism in Greenland.
Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express (Hurtigruten Norway) and Arctic Umiaq Line share the same operating model where you travel slowly and experience a unique coast together with local passengers. Arctic Umiaq Line’s roots dating back to 1774. It has been a lifeline for the entire western coast of Greenland, transporting passengers and goods between ports from Narsaq in the south to Ilulissat in the north.
Arctic Umiaq Line operates the ship MS Sarfaq Ittuk. It has a capacity of 228-passengers, with accommodation comprising 126 couchettes, 24 cabins, two junior suites – and, since March 2023 – a spacious Igloo Suite.
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“The Greenlandic coastal society is facing a historic shift as new airports make us a part of the global infrastructure. This presents both an opportunity and some serious challenges,” said Jens-Jakob Sandgreen, CEO Arctic Umiaq Line.
“With less than 60,000 people spread mainly along the 3,000 kilometres west coast, this is a delicate society that needs a subtle sustainable approach to tourism and business.”
“This partnership will unlock new and remote destinations for locals and tourists, build on a strategy for sustainable tourism and renew welfare opportunities for Greenland while staying true to the core purpose of being a reliable alternative for local passenger transport,” Sandgreen said.
Hedda Felin, CEO Hurtigruten Norway commented on the partnership, saying: “Our cooperation with Arctic Umiaq Line is an exciting opportunity for Hurtigruten Norway, and a chance to promote our shared view that travel and tourism should be a force for good.
“By combining our own experience with Arctic Umiaq Line’s unique offerings, we aim to develop the most sustainable and unique tourism product in Greenland.”
The partnership agreement between Arctic Umiaq Line and Hurtigruten Norway marks the start of a new chapter for both companies, holding immense potential for expanded cooperation in the future. Further details on the partnership will be unfurled in late August 2023.
Last week, Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express celebrated its 130th anniversary in Stokmarknes in northern Norway.
Lead image: Arctic Umiaq Line’s vessel, MS Sarfaq Ittuk.