Greenland urges cruise ships to limit visits in sensitive fjord areas
The guidance comes as the government and municipalities prepare Tourism Act zoning rules for cruise activity.
Greenland’s government, Naalakkersuisut, is recommending that cruise ships avoid affected fjord areas where possible or limit their presence following residents’ concerns about noise, wildlife and the preservation of places used for recreation, hunting and fishing.
The government said the recommendation is intended to reduce impacts on vulnerable natural areas and wildlife while respecting local wishes to maintain recreational values and access to catching and fishing. It called on cruise lines, ship captains and other industry participants to account for local conditions when planning itineraries and to follow the guidance.
Naalakkersuisut and Greenland’s municipalities are also developing zoning rules under the Tourism Act. The planned framework would identify areas open to cruise tourism and locations where restrictions would apply.
Residents, businesses and other stakeholders are contributing to the zoning process. The rules are expected to take effect after a public consultation.
Qaqortoq and Nanortalik are among Greenland’s cruise destinations, with more than 20 calls scheduled in the coming weeks.