West Greenland Ski and Sail

“the trip of a lifetime!” - Mary C.

West Greenland Ski and Sail

There’s no better way to discover rugged West Greenland than by going on a ski and sail expedition.

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Trip Details

Destination

Nuuk, West Greenland

Season

April through May

Duration

8 Days

Next available dates

Trip Type

Liveaboard

Difficulty

3/5

Price

6000 Euros p/p

Ski from summit to sea, in the land of ice and snow

Embark on an unforgettable West Greenland ski and sail adventure. This 8-day adventure trip is designed for epic skiing along with the comfort of our luxe and sturdy boat. Spend your days exploring varied terrain with unforgettable runs, and breathtaking mountain and glacier views, and return to the ship to the welcoming captain and crew where you can mingle with your fellow travelers in the cozy gathering spaces, unwind in the onboard sauna, or even fish for Arctic Cod! With a variety of terrain from high summits to gentle glacier skiing, we’ll choose the best objective each day so you can explore this incredible land in the most intimate way possible – step by step.

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Trip highlights

Huge Variety of Ski Terrain

Huge Variety of Ski Terrain

Whether you crave the adrenaline rush of steep couloirs and challenging summits, the endurance test of traverses and loops, or the leisurely pace of gentle glacier skiing, there’s something for everyone. Ski both powder and corn snow, navigate through stunning glaciated landscapes, weave past towering seracs and hanging glaciers, and more!

Ski from Sea to Summit

Ski from Sea to Summit

Experience the unique thrill of starting your ski adventure right from the ocean’s edge and ascending through varied terrain, ending your journey at the breathtaking summit. Spectacular views are guaranteed with 2000m (6,560-foot) peak ski ascents possible. This rare opportunity offers a diverse and exhilarating challenge for avid skiers.

Ski Under the Midnight Sun

Ski Under the Midnight Sun

Glide across pristine snow under the ethereal glow of the midnight sun. This extraordinary experience allows you to ski in continuous daylight, providing an unforgettable adventure that blends the beauty of night and day. 

Activities & Certified Guides

Activities & Certified Guides

You’ll be guided by expert ACMG and IFMGA guides who know the terrain very well, and will navigate the best route for each day, plus help you experience a taste of local culture. Onboard the comfortable and sturdy boat our captain and crew have you covered: fish for Arctic Cod, mingle with your fellow travelers, or unwind in the sauna after an epic ski day.

Itinerary

We will board the M/V Mischief  early afternoon in Nuuk and settle into our allotted cabins. The crew will give us a ship safety briefing as we throw off the lines and head North of Nuuk. After an hour transit, we will head out for our first ski outing of the trip. The afternoon/evening ski will see us doing an avalanche safety briefing. Once everyone feels confident with their trasciever, probe and shove, we will head into the hills to ascend a nearby summit with incredible views over the fiords of West Greenland. We will search out the best snow and enjoy our first few turns of the week in Greenland. We will descend in the beautiful evening arctic light, snapping photos and revelling in the beauty of the Greenland winter wonderland. Once back onboard, enjoy a sauna and a cold ocean plunge, and a cold beverage. We will lift anchor and head north of Maniitsoq to a protected anchorage for the night.

We will wake up in a beautiful protected bay with calm waters, epic glacier views, and a hearty breakfast! We will head out after breakfast and spend the day ascending a perfectly pitched 35 degree glacier. We will top out in a beautiful cirque of 100 m cliffs all around. For those who want a shorter day, one group will descend from the cirque, while those who want a more challenging day will ascend a rocky ridge and find some challenging steeper terrain to play with. Our descent is breathtaking, as we ski past granite cliffs, past easily navigated seracs, and finally ending back at the ocean. Mischief will be waiting to gather us back for an evening meal, relaxing sauna, and stunning views. For those who want to go for an evening kayak, a paddle around the tranquil bay is a perfect way to end the day!

Early on day 3 the captain will lift anchor, and head southwest towards Hambergerland. This island has incredibly accessible and perfect ski touring terrain. With numerous couloirs, traverses and mellow glacier runs, there is something for everyone each day. With valley after valley of different ski objectives, day 3 and 4 will be incredibly memorable as we tour past granite pillars, ascend beautiful glaciers, and descend a variety of terrain. We will seek out north facing powder slopes as we immerse ourselves in the epic terrain of Hambergerland. After our ski on day 4, we will start our transit towards Eternity Fiord. We transit for a few hours towards the village of Kaangamiut. For those interested in the culture of West Greenand, we will organize a tour of the fishing village and get a glimpse into a more traditional life in the remote fiords of West Greenland.

We will find ourselves in transit for the final leg towards Eternity fiord. As we motor deeper and deeper into this fiord system, the glaciers and cliffs get more and more dramatic. The next two days we have the opportunity for some bigger objectives, as the terrain is more complex and the summits taller than Hambergurland. With summits of 2000m, we will break into two groups and guests can decide if they want to partake in bigger days or not. We will ascend past seracs, tour up large glaciers, and stand on summits with breathtaking views of the Greenlandic Icecap, and the endless mountains that run North to South along the coast. We can often spot the Mischief, as a tiny speck on the glistening fiords below. Our descents are long and epic, finding us hooting and hollering as we get into the rhythm of our descent. When not skiing, we will enjoy zodiac tours along stunning bird cliffs, tidewater glaciers, and kayak or supping for those who still have energy at the end of the day.
At the end of day 6, we will start our transit back towards Mantiisoq, finding a protected anchorage for the final day of skiing.

Our final ski day will be a traverse, from Point A to Point B, with options for side trips for those who want one final big-challenging day. Today will be an incredible journey, as we reminisce about all the terrain we have skied through, and the epic lines we have enjoyed.
Today will be a full day of skiing, as we soak up the last that Greenland has to offer. At the end of the day, we will settle onto the back deck of the Mischief, as we transit back to Nuuk. We will sail past many of the lines we skied throughout the week, marvelling at the incredible terrain of this vast and beautiful landscape.
We will arrive at the Nuuk harbour in the wee hours of the morning, and moore alongside the dock. .

Early morning disembarkation in Nuuk for morning flights home.

Map

Accommodation

About the Boat

Our home for the West Greenland ski and sail expedition, M/V Mischief, is a rugged Arctic vessel perfectly matched to the wild fjords and glacier-lined coast of West Greenland. Purpose-built for northern waters, she combines expedition capability with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, providing a comfortable base from which to explore some of the most remote ski terrain on the planet.

At 32 metres in length, Mischief offers an intimate expedition experience, allowing us to access secluded anchorages, sheltered fjords, and untouched ski objectives far beyond the reach of conventional travel. Between ski tours, guests can relax in the vessel’s communal spaces, share stories from the day’s adventures, and enjoy uninterrupted views of Greenland’s dramatic mountains, icebergs, and coastal wilderness.

More than simply transportation, Mischief becomes our floating mountain lodge—carrying us from one spectacular objective to the next while providing the flexibility to follow the best snow, weather, and conditions. Combining authentic Arctic character with practical comfort, she is an ideal platform for an unforgettable ski-and-sail journey through West Greenland.

Ship exterior

With her classic Arctic expedition profile, sturdy steel hull, and spacious deck areas, Mischief is perfectly suited to Greenland’s remote coastline. A distinctive barrel sauna on the aft deck offers the perfect place to warm up after a day in the mountains while taking in views of towering peaks, glaciers, and drifting icebergs.

Ship Cabins

Mischief accommodates guests in four comfortable cabins: two twin-share cabins and two four-berth cabins, offering a simple and welcoming place to rest after a day of skiing and exploration. The vessel is operated by an experienced Greenlandic crew whose deep local knowledge of the coastline, weather, sea ice, and mountain conditions adds an invaluable dimension to the expedition, helping ensure a safe, authentic, and memorable journey through West Greenland.

Ship Interiors

The warm and inviting saloon is the heart of life on board, where guests gather to relax, enjoy meals, and share stories from the day’s adventures. A dedicated dry room keeps ski gear warm and ready for the next outing, while the open bridge welcomes passengers to spend time with the captain and enjoy panoramic views of Greenland’s spectacular coastline. Throughout the voyage, a dedicated chef prepares delicious, hearty meals to fuel each day of exploration.

2027 Dates

March 25-April 1

6000 Euros  p/p

6 SPOTS AVAILABLE

April 1-8

6000 Euros  p/p

FULL

April 8-15

6000 Euros p/p

4 Spots Available

April 15-22

6000 Euros p/p

Full

April 23-30

6000 Euros p/p

Full

What’s included

Not included

Apply to Join the West Greenland Ski Tour Expedition and start your extraordinary adventure.

Weather

weather icon cold

The weather in West Greenland is fairly mild. Temperatures range between -5 to +5 degrees celsius. Generally high pressure moves in during the spring bringing sunny skies and light winds, however it’s still possible to get days with precipitation.

Activities

Skiing
Ski touring is the primary activity onboard, however there are lots of other activities to partake in while on the trip.
kayaks

There are several Sea Kayaks. For those who want to enjoy kayaking on the calm fiord surrounded by towering peaks.

fishing
For those interested in fishing there’s fishing gear onboard and the crew are always happy help you land an Arctic Cod. The fish are plentiful and it’s possible to provide dinner for the whole group in one session of fishing onboard.

FAQs

The trip is a dedicated ski trip, but there are additional activities that guests can partake in during the evenings, or if they want a day off from skiing. Kayak excursions, fishing from the boat, village visits, zodiac cruises along glacier fronts, and short hikes along the coastline are all activities that guests can partake in.

We can have powder on North aspects and spring or corn snow on more south facing aspects.

Participation in any trip is subject to each participant reading and signing our Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims, Assumption of Risks and Indemnity Agreement and any additional waivers that are trip specific (the “Waiver(s)”). If the Waiver(s) are not completed, participation in the trip will not be permitted. PLEASE READ THE WAIVER(S) CAREFULLY! By signing, you will waive or give up certain legal rights, including the right to sue for negligence, breach
of contract, or breach of any Occupiers Liability Act or claim compensation following anaccident. The Waivers are provided for review and completion at the time of booking. A sample of our Waiver can be reviewed HERE.

We will have one longer, transit on night one and night seven if the conditions allow. Everyone will be asleep during this transit to reduce any sea sickness. There is one other short transit to get to Eternity Fiord that is exposed for about two hours. We can experience swell here, but it short lived. If you have a history of sea sickness or car sickness, it’s best if you bring some sea sickness tablets. The rest of the trip is in protected waters and anchorages. 

The food onboard  is excellent with lots of variety. Breakfast is a buffet with lots of different options each day. Lunches are pack lunches with sandwiches and treats. Dinners are hearty meals with salads and desserts each night.

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Reviews

Arthur W Avatar
Arthur W
5 star rating
Unique skiing with great company Skiing in East Greenland with Matt and Ang was a really unique and exciting adventure. Great skiing on corn snow surrounded by miles of sheet ice, imposing landscapes, and not a single other ski group. Some days we skinned directly from the house, some days we dog-sledded, and others by boat. Matt and Ang are incredible guides, hosts, and people and have a knack for making sure that you get the perfect mix of great skiing, cultural experience, and some laughs. Would highly recommend the trip to anyone who likes new ski experiences.
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Claire H Avatar
Claire H
5 star rating
BEST TRIP EVER!! We did this trip with Angela in May of 2024. First off, Angela was an incredible guide. She’s kind, knowledgeable, fun and dialed. Her knowledge of the culture, skiing, navigation of best plan/route is all awesome. Greenland is truly amazing and I highly recommend going with these guys who have such a connection to the place and people. The skiing was also perfect spring corn!!! Don’t think about it too much, just GO!
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Globaltaster Avatar
Globaltaster
5 star rating
All-time Doesn’t get any better than Mestia heli-sking. Everything was epic – the people, the mountains, the snow, the lines, the food and of course the cha-cha
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Thomas M Avatar
Thomas M
5 star rating
Expedition Engineering East Greenland Ski tour Outstanding backcountry ski trip. Our trip was actually went April 2024. Scenery was amazing, ski terrain had everything from easy to as challenging as you could want, conditions for us were mostly corn with some very firm and some powder, getting a ‘taste’ of local culture was cool and the guides, Angela and Matt were great. I had the feeling of sharing an adventure with them rather than being taken on an adventure by them. For lots of other reasons too, would strongly recommend.
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Simon U Avatar
Simon U
5 star rating
Hard to beat I went on EE’s first heli trip to Mestia in early April 2022 (I wasn’t able to select a date this far back in the review, so ignore the April 2024 date) and it was a revelation. If you want the joy of heliskiing in high-alpine ranges, where many peaks are unnamed and the views are as wild as they come – but with the huge added benefit of not being isolated in a lodge but staying in a fascinating historic medieval town with amazing food and locals (and good ski options on down days) – then it’s hard to beat. Add to that experienced, highly professional Canadian guiding, small groups, and top-of-the-range helicopter and it’s a no-brainer.
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Matt R Avatar
Matt R
5 star rating
Once in a lifetime heli skiing experience!! The trip was amazing! Angela and Matt did a fantastic job coordinating everything. The helicopter was new and well maintained. The skiing was phenomenal and everything felt very safe and well thought out. Angela and Matt’s connections with the locals made for an even more authentic and enjoyable experience! Would absolutely go again!!!
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Enrique D Avatar
Enrique D
5 star rating
Magnificent ski touring experience We went there May 2023. If you are willing to rough it a bit, there is no better ski touring experience. Every day we would sail to a glacier terminus into the sea, climb up a peak or two, enjoy sublime unspoilt views on the way to the top, then great powder/corn skiing on the way down.
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Exploration570451 Avatar
Exploration570451
5 star rating
Greenland Heli-skiing – a trip of a lifetime! Actually March 2023, but it wasn’t an option available. Heli skiing in Greenland fulfilled a lifetime ambition for me. It took me three attempts to get there thanks to the pandemic and bad weather shutting down flights. However, when I finally made it, it was truly an amazing experience. Such awesome, large, and uncrowded scenery is second to none. Rising above that though is Matt and Angela’s thoughtful organisation running the expedition with care and great experience. I skied some fantastic long glacier runs, from mountain-top drop off to the frozen ocean’s edge. There were heli-skiing down times, due to the inevitable challenges of the weather, but the sunny days were magnificent.
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Mark N Avatar
Mark N
5 star rating
Trip of a Lifetime – Never using another backcountry ski operation beside them! Short summary: this is the best ski trip I have ever been on. If you love adventures and love to travel you need to come here it is one of the most raw and beautiful places I have been. I went with my father and it was an experience I will never forget. The guides are incredible.Now I will touch on why this trip is so special. Guides: Matt and Angela are the guides. They are also husband and wife. They are some of the sweetest and fun people we have met. Our main guide for the trip was Matt. He was extremely calm safe and fun. Me being 24 years old is always wanting to do extreme and fun things. My mom is very cautious. Matt was nice enough to speak with my mom for an hour walking through all the safety procedures and the risks and how they mitigate them. At no point did I feel unsafe or not in good hands. On these trips you spend many hours with the guides so you want to be comfortable with them. I left seeing Matt as a good friend. Scenery: I like to think I am well traveled and have been many places. In terms of scenery and the rawness of the trip nothing compares. You are in the middle of nowhere and there are not people let alone skiers miles around you. You are by yourself and there is something peaceful about that. It is some of the most beautiful mountains I have seen. I would eat my lunch and look at the mountains and get teary eye because it was so beautiful. My dad and I finished a run and he said this is the most amazing ski run I have ever done (with the biggest smile on his face). We completed a hike to the top of the mountain and did a run all the way to the water. Pictures don’t speak for themselves. You are literally skiing to the ocean.Safety: These are guides they are professionals. They take every precaution necessary. Avalanches are not the biggest dangers. But there are crevasses. We take necessary precautions spacing ourselves out and putting harnesses on. We are not putting ourselves in harms way. You are in the middle of no where so you are not going to go down a dangerous run. There are polar bears. No we never saw one. We do carry a gun in case but the polar bears stay by the ice (where the food is) and we are much higher than that. Food: not my favorite but you’re not there for the food. It’s normal food and at the hotel surprisingly decent. Conclusion: this is one of my favorite trips I have ever been on. The picture from the trip is my Home Screen. I am now begging my dad to do another trip with me with Matt and Angela. My mom would never let me go anywhere she did not do her research on she was very scared for us to do this but was able to get comfortable because of Matt and Angela. Matt and Angela thank you for being such calm and nice people but more importantly for creating a trip I will for always remember and a memory I created with my dad that brought us closer together. I really do get teary thinking about how amazing the trip was. Note: if you can do a private trip. Definitely recommend! Had the ability to use the helicopter to get to amazing areas!
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Paul Lambie Avatar
Paul Lambie
5 star rating
East Greenland Ski touring. We did this trip in April, 2023. Although 2023 was a low snow year we were able to ski from the village every day. We had great weather and the skiing was amazing. Different tours each day were accessed by skinning directly from our accommodation or by snowmobile or dogsled. The trip is based out of Kuummiit, a small and remote village in East Greenland. Matt and Angela are great guides; highly recommended! A very unique ski experience.
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Danny O Avatar
Danny O
5 star rating
AMAZING!!!! In the fall of 2017, I had the oppurunity to experience a magical kayak trip Expedition Engineering in Raja Ampat. It was and will be one of the biggest highlights of mylife. The owners and guides are extraordinary individuals with experience and hospitality that is seldom seen anymore. Both owners have amazing stories and experiences, that make you want to experience more and more trips with them. I am currently planning to go on another Expedition Engineering trip to Greenland to ski, i’m counting down the days for this trip and highly recommend any of the trips they provide.
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Meet your guides

Angela Bueckert Kayaking

Angela Bueckert

ACMG Ski Guide

Angela’s enthusiasm for sharing new experiences with her guests is ever-present. She has been guiding water-based expeditions for over 15 years, and she’s guided sea kayaking expeditions in Iceland, Greenland, Palawan, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, Antarctica, and more.

Matt Edwards

Matt Edwards

ACMG Ski Guide

Finding out what’s around the corner or at the top of the next mountain has taken Matt to some of the remotest places on the planet. He’s been organizing and guiding custom adventures for guests all over the world, for over a decade.

Our Sustainable Travel Commitment

Expedition Engineering is committed to the conservation and sustainability of the environment we enjoy. Above all else we believe it is of the utmost importance to leave the places we visit in the same or in an improved state as we found them.

Benefiting Local Communities

We are committed to reducing our carbon footprint

Reducing our Carbon Footprint

We are committed to benefiting local communities and the ecology in regions where we work

Apply to Join the East Greenland Ski Tour Expedition and start your extraordinary adventure.