Hafen
Paamiut

OVERVIEW

Sail the sheltered waters of the fjord that Paamiut borders and look for wildlife, your boat captain will describe en-route items of interest. Paaimut – formerly known as Frederikshåb – was founded in 1742 as a navigation landmark at the mouth of Kvanefjord, and the town still serves as the entry point to this narrow, steep-walled body of water. The wild and rugged scenery along the 30-mile fjord has changed little over the centuries, and you might even view icebergs during your tour, an experience that will be absolutely breathtaking. Nature reigns supreme in this part of Greenland, with a rich marine life and diverse bird species. You might encounter whales, seals, and various seabirds, such as kittiwakes and fulmars, against the stunning backdrop of fjord cliffs.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Watch for various species of whales, including humpbacks, minkes and orcas.
• Keep an eye out for seabirds, which are plentiful.
• Pass icebergs and view the majesty of nature as the fjord is pristine and sparsely populated.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Escorted around town by a local, you’ll be introduced to life in Greenland’s eighth-largest fishing village. Suffice it to say, rush hour is no big challenge in this burg. But living in Paamiut has its rewards for the 1,500-or-so souls who call it home. Their scattered skyline is colorful, their blue-black mountain backdrop is stunning – they even have a handsome stave church, one hotel and a supermarket. The fishing is excellent, the mitten-makers are busy, and the wildlife is contented. Minke and humpback whales swim by in the fjord, while white-tailed sea eagles (Greenlanders call them “Nattoralik”) guard the sky and bring good luck to those who spot them.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Stroll the streets of tiny Paamiut with a local who knows its story and residents personally.
• You will have an opportunity to view colonial harbor, museum area (no interior visit included), protected buildings, Church, Culture area, institution area, trade and administration area.
• Be on the lookout for exciting wildlife, from majestic sea eagles in the sky to whales in the fjord.

Paamiut means "the people who live at the mouth" in the Greenlandic language - a reference to its location at the mouth of the Kuannersooq Fjord. Its Danish name was "Frederikshåb", which means "Frederik's Hope", when it was a colony. The colorful, historic houses tell stories of whaling and fur trading. Visit the town, and the museum