Working Conditions Aboard the Irena-Arctica

In response to challenging ice conditions, the Royal Arctic Line has made significant adjustments to its sailing schedules. The vessel "Mary Arctica" will now only operate routes to Nuuk and Sisimiut, while the feeder ship "Irena Arctica" will focus its efforts on reaching Aasiaat. The schedule alteration comes as the "Irena Arctica" faces the necessity to still call at Ilulissat and make an attempt to reach Qasigiannguit. Ice build-up between Sisimiut and Aasiaat poses potential delays and complications for the vessels. Following its stops in Sisimiut and Nuuk, the "Mary Arctica" is set to undertake the feeder vessel's original call at Nuuk on its return journey to Aalborg, allowing the "Irena Arctica" additional time to navigate towards the critical ports in Disko Bay. The Royal Arctic Line is optimistic that these schedule modifications will facilitate access to Aasiaat, Ilulissat, and Qasigiannguit despite the ongoing winter challenges.

On October 13, 2014, the 'Irena Arctica' encountered significant engine difficulties, necessitating a return to Nuuk for repairs. Once the necessary fixes were completed, the vessel set sail towards Maniitsoq. However, deteriorating weather conditions hindered access to the port, prompting the ship to navigate further north instead. The vessel is now scheduled to make stops in Ilulissat and Qasigiannguit as part of its revised itinerary.

On the evening of November 21, the 'Irena Arctica' successfully reassembled its engine following necessary repairs. With the repairs completed, the vessel departed from Aalborg on November 22 at 4:00 a.m. after undergoing thorough testing and trials. The technical team disembarked in Skagen, allowing the 'Irena Arctica' to resume its journey toward Greenland. The ship is scheduled to make its first port of call in Tasiilaq on November 27 at 7:00 a.m. before continuing on to Nuuk, Sisimiut, and Aasiaat.