The day was bright and calm when National Geographic Explorer anchored in a quiet bay east of Sisimiut, home to Sarfannguit. Sarfannguit is a small municipality tucked away in the fjords of western Greenland. Capping in at a population size of only 126, this small village sustains itself mostly on fishing, mainly arctic cod.
With glassy blue water and no wind, the expedition morning started out with a clear goal in mind: kayaking. The team started early, with a quick breakfast and a kayak briefing for the excited guests. After a few cautionary words, a quick break allowed everyone to get ready and run down to the mudroom where kayaking would begin. As each passenger loaded into a boat they dispersed among the bay to explore life on the water in small town Greenland. The fjord coastline in this region is littered with coves and inlets, banked with quaint waterfalls and deep flora. Guests peered deep into the cold blue salty water and worked their way from one end of the bay to the other, admiring amazingly clear views through the sea.
On land further expeditions were being carried out. Guests got out to stretch their legs on either a medium length or long length hike, pressing down on thick beds of moss and lichen along the way. The squishy plant life is typical of this more southern region of the country, while certainly more difficult to find further north.
After all Zodiacs made it back to the ship a most exciting adventure was to take place: the polar plunge! Only the very bravest among the passengers would willingly jump into the polar water above the Arctic Circle, and many certainly did. Not to worry—upon exit each adult was greeted with libations and hot chocolate was available for all plungers.
The morning in Sarfannguit was a splendid and fulfilling way to end such a fantastic journey from Greenland to Baffin Island, up the coast of Devon Island, and back to the port at which it all began. With happy hearts and tired bodies the guests would complete their expeditions with this final journey.
