Sea Kayak Greenland

Sea Kayak Greenland is growing! Meet Maligiaq Padilla - the co owner, and the lead guide joining SKG this year.

Born and raised in Greenland, he started kayaking in 1994. His first memories of being on water are from times spent with his grandfather. Hunting seals and sea birds on his wooden boat. One of the first profound memories was when he saw his grandfather’s kayak, and heard so many hunting stories behind it. Since then he became an expert in guiding, leading and traditional qajaq building.

Maligiaq, means "following waves", and like the waves he has travelled the world, absorbing cultures from the Arctic and beyond. He lived in Alaska for 10 years, learning Alaskan culture, traditions and their qajaq designs and history. Maligiaq has been competing in kayaking since 1994. In 1998 he became a youngest person in history, winning the whole thing being 16 years old. In total he won 10 times. In 1999 he competed in World Kayak Championship in Canada, and came in 8th in 500m sprint, 12th in 23km race, and 7th in 60km race.

You will be able to meet him this summer both in Nuuk and Uummannaq. Join one of our summer kayak expeditions and explore amazing Greenland with us. To find out more, don't hesitate to message us, or visit our website: https://seakayakgreenland.com

Another great paddling in Uummannaq.

First trip of the season is a wrap. Amazing 11 days, plus quality (unexpected) Uummannaq days with an wonderful group of people from
110 miles of Greenlandic wilderness, icebergs, and exploration. What a great adventure.

We are running a 12 day sea kayaking expedition in amazing Uummannaq, Greenland between 13th and 25th of August this summer. There are still few spots available. If you are a keen paddler and would like to go on this amazing trip get in touch. All gear (including kayaks, camping etc.) and food is provided. All details can be provided in person. Feel free to reach out and I will answer all questions.

Uummannaq waters are full of fish. Cod, Red Fish, Capelin, Greenlandic Halibut, Wolffish, Catfish and others. Fishing from a kayak is a thrilling adventure itself especially when the fish is bigger than your arm. Come and join one of our kayaking trips where fishing is often an integral part. There's nothing better than a fresh fish cooked over a fire.

The excitement grows bigger once the sleds approach the finish line. For humans but mostly for dogs. Upon their return, a bag of seal meat is deposited at the finish line which makes the dogs sprint faster right towards. The pile of crimson seal flesh is devoured on the spot by the beasts and after a moment only the red stained snow marks the feast. The seal pieces are chewed, ripped apart and sometimes swallowed by the dogs. Their muzzles painted red show content and satisfaction. Knowing that the reward awaits them, dogs run with an extra motivation.

What would the Arctic be without sled dogs? These amazing animals are an inherent part of the Greenlandic landscape. Despite being tamed and domesticated, they remain true dwellers of the north. Their genetic heritage is ancient, dating back to the earliest human habitation of these regions.

Their remarkable adaptation to the polar environment enables them to endure the harshest cold, and this ancient symbiosis between dogs and men is unparalleled. Although considered "domesticated," sled dogs are far from being pets. Their set on desire to run and pull sleds is only matched by their resilience. Frome their teenage years they go through extensive training of pulling and obedience. While it may sound harsh, dogs that don’t want to pull are often put down, assuring that only the strongest and the most obedient dogs are useful to their mushers. Unlike snowmobiles, you'll never encounter a broken team of dogs and a deserted sled stranded on the ice.

In Greenland, legislation exists to preserve the purity of the Greenlandic dog heritage line. No other dogs are permitted to enter “sled dog districts”, which span from north of Sisimiut in the west and north of Tasilaq in the east of Greenland. These days dogs are used for hunting, fishing, and leisure and all over Greenland there are people that carry on with old traditions.

These shots were taken during a local sled dog race in Uummannaq organized by Qimusseq 85. Racing holds huge significance in Greenland, with mushers dedicating themselves to training their dogs throughout the winter, even though having full-time jobs. Across Greenland, numerous local races take place, with the most prestigious being the "Avannaata Qimussersua". It is a great event for everyone, and a lot of people go out on the ice to enjoy the race. Here I captured the silent heroes of the competition, before, during, and after the race.

Discover Uummannaq, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Greenland. With a population of around 1,400, this picturesque island town is a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Just a short journey north from Ilulissat, Uummannaq will welcome you with its jaw dropping open landscapes, so escape the crowds and embrace the warmth of the local community. Here, among the locals, you'll experience the true essence of Greenlandic life.

For those seeking adventure, there's no better way to explore than by kayak. Paddle through ice filled waters and marvel at breathtaking landscapes that stretch as far as the eye can see.

Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first Greenlandic adventure, Uummannaq promises an unforgettable experience. Reach out to discover more and start planning your journey today.

Greetings from Uummannaq, in anticipation of summer's warmth amidst the Arctic winter! As the icy grip of winter will soon loosen its hold, the fjords of northwest Greenland are preparing to reveal their awe-inspiring beauty once again. Uummannaq, a destination unlike any other, beckons with its “Greenlandic Riviera” charm, offers countless days of sunshine throughout the summer months.

Discover the perfect playground for sea kayaking adventures and expeditions in this beautiful region. Whether you're a seasoned paddler or a novice adventurer, Uummannaq offers an unparalleled setting for unforgettable experiences on the water.

Ready to embark on your next kayaking escapade? Explore our website at www.seakayakgreenland.com for inspiration and start planning your ultimate Greenland adventure.