“Kalaallit Nunaat” (the Land of the People) is what Greenlanders call their homeland. The name says it all; it reflects the traditions of the Inuit and the hospitality of the people who live there. Hurtigruten’s explorer voyages for 2012 will once again bring contact with the people of Greenland into special focus, with a core component of the voyages including visits to the small townships along Greenland’s coast. This will be to the benefit and enjoyment of Hurtigruten guests and Greenland’s local population alike.

For explorer voyage guests, visits into the Greenland townships will be a rare opportunity to gain insight into the everyday life of the Inuit. Inuit houses will be open for Hurtigruten guests, who will be invited by local families to partake in the traditional “kaffemik” (a Greenlandic cup of coffee). This is a great opportunity for tourists to come into contact with the Inuit and learn about their way of life. And a visit to Uummannaq will include a welcome by the local schoolchildren, happy to mingle with their guests. Another event which has since become a fixed tradition is the football match in Ittileq Township. When the ship docks here, a team drawn from the crew and guests of the Fram goes out to meet the locals –making the encounter between different cultures into a friendly game.

For Jimmy Hymøller, a teacher in the township of Ittileq, the visits by the ships are what he calls a “win-win situation”.

“These exchanges benefit tourists and local residents alike. Our guests gain an insight into the everyday life of the Inuit, while the presence of tourists gives the Inuit a contact with the wider world, which for many would otherwise be unaffordable. It is a way for them to learn about other people and cultures. And on top of that, the ship visits provide a small alternative income for our township.”

Fishing and hunting, once the chief livelihood of village dwellers, no longer bring in sufficient funds, due to fishing quotas and low fish prices. “The payments received from ship visits are therefore highly welcome and are used for the benefit of the community”, says Hymøller.

Hurtigruten’s Early bird savings are now available for Greenland explorer voyages. Clients can save up to 10%* if they book before 31 December, 2011. Prices start from GBP 4109* per person/twin share for the 12-day Glaciers and Ice voyage.

*Terms and conditions apply. Contact Discover the World Marketing for full terms and conditions.

Hurtigruten is a world leader in expedition cruising and is represented in Australia by Discover the World Marketing.

For bookings and more information, contact Discover the World Marketing on 1800 OCEANS (1800 623 267) hurtigruten@discovertheworld.com.au