New airport in Ilulissat raises concerns over whale-watching pressure

A new international airport set to open in Ilulissat this autumn is expected to significantly boost tourism, according to Visit Greenland, raising concerns among local operators about the impact on humpback whales in Disko Bay.

Ilulissat is Greenland’s most popular tourist destination, with whale-watching a major draw. But unlike many countries, Greenland has no binding laws governing whale-watching—only voluntary guidelines, which some operators say are not always followed.

Morgan Angaju Josefsen, co-founder of Whales of Greenland, said the growing number of visitors is positive for showcasing the country, but stressed the need to protect nature and the whales. “We are guests in the whales’ area,” he said.

Claus Foss, captain at Ilulissat Whale Tours, reported seeing boats approach whales too closely and too quickly, which he said stresses the animals and drives them away. Vilhelmina Nathanielsen, with over 26 years in the industry, echoed concerns that increased tourism could disrupt the whales, though she acknowledged the town’s reliance on tourism.

Malene Simon Hegelund, a whale researcher and head of department at the Greenland Institute of Natural Resources, said tourism—and whale-watching in particular—is growing rapidly, putting pressure on the relatively small number of whales involved. She noted that while whale populations in the area are healthy, responsible practices are essential.

Greenland’s current code of conduct advises boats to reduce speed within 500 metres of a whale, avoid direct approaches from the front or rear, and maintain at least 50 metres’ distance or cut the engine. Studies in Nuup Kangerlua have shown that intensive whale-watching can alter whale behaviour, increasing swimming speeds and reducing surfacing frequency.

Hegelund suggested that before introducing legislation, efforts should focus on ensuring compliance with existing guidelines, possibly through a voluntary certification system that also educates tourists.