Greenland Paddling Festivals
Inspired by Inuit hunting kayaks, or qajaq, Greenland style kayaking is a traditional style of paddling used in Greenland and Arctic North America.
A growing number of organizations are committed to supporting Greenland paddling. They strive to preserve, study, and promote the traditions and techniques of Qaannat Kattuffiat (the Greenland Kayaking Association). Efforts are also being made to further develop Greenland-style kayaking in the United States.
Two upcoming events will be celebrating and teaching various aspects of Greenland paddling. NBCB’s own Trip Leader and rolling expert, Javier Castaño, will be a mentor at both festivals.
The Hudson River Greenland Festival attracts participants of all levels, as well as talented and renowned mentors from many different regions, including Greenland. They strive to pass along traditional kayaking skills in a "Pay it Forward" method...by observing...by learning...by teaching.
The event is happening Sept 6-8, 2024, at Canopus Lake Beach, located in Fahnestock State Park, Appalachian National Scenic Trail, Hopewell Junction, NY 12533 (10 miles east of Cold Spring, NY). See their Eventbrite Page for more info and to register.
The Delmarva Paddlers Retreat is an annual gathering of Greenland-style sea kayakers who celebrate the origins of kayaking, and hone traditional kayaking techniques and skills. Whether you are looking to learn your first kayak roll, or develop an understanding of advanced traditional techniques, the Delmarva Paddlers Retreat is the place to do it.
Taking place October 11-13, the festival is located on the western shore of Rehoboth Bay, in Lewes, DE. A 3 hours drive from NYC. Visit the retreat’s website for more info and registration.
If these events pique your interest, direct any questions to Javier Castaño. He’s been both a mentor and participant at both festivals. He is open to car pooling.
Javier is also offering an intro to Greenland rolling class on Sept 1st at Queens Landing Boathouse. More details can be found on our calendar.
Designed to fit tightly to the body, Greenland kayaks are low volume, with a V-bottomed hull, hard chine, and high rocker.
The traditional paddles are stick-like in appearance, with thicker shafts and narrower blades than Euroblade styles. Their shape can make rolling and sculling easier to learn and execute.
Today, Greenland style kayaks are often used for recreation, but originally, they were an essential piece of hunting equipment for the Inuit. Used for sealing, whaling, and fishing, Greenlandic boys would often learn to maneuver them as children.
Most Greenland, or "Qajaq" clubs, are scattered among the small villages of Greenland and are a major impetus in keeping the local kayaking traditions alive.
Published on Aug 26, 2024 by Admin.