Sikuki Nuuk Port Expands Infrastructure for Cruise Ships in Greenland

The Port of Sikuki Nuuk, in Greenland, is constructing an extension with a total of 350 meters of new quay which, once inaugurated in 2028, will move all commercial vessels away from the quays that receive cruise ships, converting them into exclusive destinations for tourist vessels.

Visitor numbers are also expected to increase after the inauguration of a new international airport and the commencement of the first ship calls at the new Port of Sikuki Nuuk terminal in 2025.

Until now, the quays primarily used for cruise ships are Atlantkaj. With a length of 100 meters and a depth of 10, it can accommodate ships up to 300 meters in length. The nearby Feederkaj is 40 meters long and 6.5 meters deep, making it ideal for smaller or expedition ships. Both are approximately one kilometer from the city center, and shuttle buses can be arranged if necessary.

This location also houses the new maneuvering terminal, capable of managing passport control, entry/immigration, and baggage handling, in direct coordination with the airport. Additionally, there is an information center with small local shops (souvenirs) and restrooms.

Anchorage is also available just outside the port, in Malene Bay, about five minutes by tender to an exclusive pier next to the Feederkaj.

Sikuki Nuuk became the first in Greenland to join Cruise Europe. The destination enjoys a strategic location on the west coast, an ice-free Arctic area open for year-round operation.

The cruise sector in Greenland represents a significant portion of international tourism's impact, with USD 117 million out of a total of USD 295 million, accounting for 40%, according to an independent study conducted for Visit Greenland by Ramboll. The expedition sector generated USD 77.7 million, and conventional cruises, USD 41 million.

John Rasmussen, CEO of Sikuki Nuuk Port (SNH), stated that "the new airport, built nearby, has undoubtedly generated new call activity, as we had none before." The air terminal offers direct year-round service to Copenhagen (Air Greenland) and Reykjavik (Icelandair), as well as seasonal service from United Airlines from Newark, USA.

Of the 78 calls (43,670 passengers) managed that year, 27 were from companies such as Viking and Hurtigruten. In 2024, visits amounted to 62 (37,574 passengers). Although figures have decreased this year to 48 calls, of which 27 are port calls, next year an increase to 70 and 45 respectively is expected.

While most arrivals are expedition ships with capacity for up to 600 passengers, the port has also received conventional cruise ships from brands such as AIDA Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, and Royal Caribbean Cruises.

In 2025, cruises accounted for approximately 38% of vessel-related revenue at the port, the most important individual category, and approximately 6% of Sikuki's total turnover, which is dominated by the long-term lease of the container terminal.

Rasmussen also commented that "the economic benefit has increased enormously over the years. Cruises are becoming more than just the icing on the cake for us. They are comparable to the fishing industry in terms of port revenue, but fishing generates a lot of work for the community. Cruises are increasingly doing the same; several analyses indicate that they generate real growth in the city, and that is something we want to continue to promote."

Fuel and potable water are available, but regarding waste disposal, Rasmussen stated that "we would prefer ships to take their waste out of the Arctic. I know we have obligations, but we do not have incineration facilities large enough to process large quantities of waste."

Regarding shore power, which is all hydro-generated, it will be considered for the future. "It is not a priority for the next few years for the cruise industry, although we already provide it for some of the commercial vessels. It will eventually come," the executive added.

As for port agents, there are currently two, Eimskip and Blue Water Shipping, representing the vessels. On the tour operator side, the main players are DMC Nordic, Tupilak Travel, and Greenland Excursions.

In addition, Compliance Manager, Mikkel Nonboe Sorensen, explained that "Nuuk is very easy to explore on your own. The quays are approximately one kilometer from the city center, an easy walk, and the city has a local bus network. Museums, cafes, restaurants, and shops are in the center. Going further is another story, as there are no roads connecting Greenlandic cities, so anything beyond Nuuk and its fjord requires renting a boat or taking a flight."

Joining Cruise Europe is part of the port's desire to continue developing the cruise industry in Greenland.