Greenland Qajaq
A wooden paddle, a narrow kayak, and a grown man willingly putting his head underwater. There is a practical explanation for most of this.
Greenland kayaking brings together things I enjoy: history, craftsmanship, and learning how to work with the water. These articles gather my experiences with Greenland paddles, bracing, rolling, kayak designs, and wearing a tuilik in Florida, where looking overdressed takes some effort.
I approach these traditions as a student and an instructor, with respect for the Greenlandic paddlers whose knowledge we are learning from. Practicing a skill makes history tangible. It also has a way of revealing what I still need to practice.
You will find equipment observations, older paddling reports, and a few opinions earned while getting wet. I enjoy a beautiful wooden paddle, but I choose my equipment for the person, the conditions, and the journey. Tradition deserves understanding, not blind allegiance.
Bring your curiosity. We can discuss the finer points once everyone is upright.
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How I Teach Greenland Kayaking: Build Skills Before Chasing Rolls
My Greenland kayaking lessons begin on land, before anyone turns upside down. Here is how I use preparation, an avataq, guided practice, and well timed breaks to help…
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🌊⚓ Sea Scouts and Native American Day ⚓🌊
As Skippers, we can connect youth with Scouting’s water traditions and Native American culture. Recent Sea Scout visits revealed rich canoe heritage and storytelling. For Native American Day,…
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Greenland Paddle Pros and Cons: Fit, Technique, and Practical Choices
The practical benefits and limits of a Greenland paddle, including fit, blade technique, wind, speed, maintenance, and how to try one before choosing.
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🎦 Euro Paddlers and Greenland Paddlers, Here is a Greenlander DVD for Your Christmas List
Editorial archive note, October 31, 2026: Chad’s review below was published on November 9, 2011. Its purchase links, telephone number, and statements about stock belong to that original…
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East and West Greenland Kayaks: Looking Beyond the Labels
Look beyond East and West Greenland labels when comparing kayaks. A practical guide to individual hulls, fit, load, historical evidence, and boat choice.
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Test paddling NDK Greenlander Pro
We are getting in shape for an interesting paddle and we are testing out some new pieces of kit. The most dramatic change will be the type of…
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The Sine Qua Non of Greenland Kayaking
I am adding fuel to the fire of debate with this post. Fortunately, we are already surrounded by water. Some of us wear a tuilik and look rather…
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Tuktu Greenland Paddle: My Experience with a Custom Wooden Paddle
My Tuktu Greenland paddle looks simple enough, until someone asks why I prefer that wooden stick. I share what keeps it in my hands: the feel of wood,…
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A brace is better than a roll
Sometimes when I go paddling, I think to myself why this activity is so intimidating to land lovers. I suppose the answer exists within the fear of rolling.…
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Tuktu Canoe Paddle
Tuktu paddles specialize in hand crafted Greenland style kayak paddles, and single blade sea kayak canoe paddles.
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Tuiliks in Florida?
A Greenland paddling garment in the Sunshine State? There is a practical reason beneath that hood. I share why my Bug Head tuilik earned a place in my…
