Disko Bay, Greenland
Humpback, fin and minke whales · June – September
Species in this destination
These are the species seen most often. Other whales also appear in this destination, less regularly.
When to go
Sighting probability
The longer the bar, the likelier you are to see whales that month. The dark bar marks the peak of the season.
In short: whale season in Disko Bay runs from June to September, and August is the best month, with the best mix of calm seas and feeding whales.
Disko Bay, on the west coast of Greenland, combines one of the planet's greatest iceberg spectacles (the Ilulissat Icefjord, a World Heritage Site) with waters rich in krill and fish that draw several whale species every Arctic summer.
Between June and September, humpback, fin and minke whales feed in the bay, often among icebergs calved from the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier. August usually offers the best combination of calm seas and feeding activity.
Watching ethics
Trips leave straight from Ilulissat harbour, in boats that keep a safe distance from both the whales and the icebergs, which can roll over without warning. Local operators work with fishermen and hunters to find recent sightings instead of chasing the animals.
Practical tips
- Book ahead for July–August, which is also high season for iceberg cruises.
- Bring technical warm layers: even in the Arctic summer the wind on the boat cuts through you.
- Combine the whale safari with a trip to the Ilulissat Icefjord (World Heritage Site).
- July's nearly round-the-clock daylight allows some flexibility in timing; ask about last-minute departures if the weather changes.
- A 100-400mm zoom and protection from rain and spray: salty Arctic air is hard on equipment.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to see whales in Greenland?
In Disko Bay, August, with the best mix of calm seas and feeding activity. The season runs from June to September.
Which whales can you see in Ilulissat and Disko Bay?
Humpback, fin and minke whales, which feed in the bay, often among the icebergs from the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier.
Where do whale watching trips in Disko Bay leave from?
From the port of Ilulissat. Boats keep a safe distance from both the whales and the icebergs, which can roll over without warning.
Can I combine whales and icebergs on the same trip?
Yes: the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is right there. Book ahead in July and August, which is also peak season for iceberg cruises.
What should I wear whale watching in Greenland?
Technical warm layers, because even in the Arctic summer the wind on the boat is cold, and rain and spray protection for your camera.
Field photography
Greenland, through our lens.
Photographs by José A. Curto, Blowline's co-founder, taken at this destination.
Subscriber information
Everything you need to plan the perfect outing.
- Month-by-month sighting probability, with notes on each period
- Recommended departure points and which traveler profile fits each one
- Verified operators, with information on each one
- Combinable activities in the area
- Full guide downloadable as a PDF, ready to take on your phone
Would you like to see whales in Greenland?
Tell us when and how you'd like to go, and we'll put you in touch with the operators and agencies we recommend.