Kristian Jeremiassen: Navigating Challenges in the Tourist Economy
Kristian Jeremiassen, a seasoned politician and current municipal council member for the Municipality of Qeqertalik, has embarked on a new venture alongside his wife—establishing the family business Experience Qasiginnguit this past May. This exciting endeavor, in collaboration with Topas Travel and Disko Line Explorer, has quickly gained traction, earning commendations in the global tourism market.
However, Jeremiassen faces a significant hurdle as he aims to shape the future of his company; the fate of Arctic Umiaq Line remains uncertain. The lack of announcements regarding its operational outlook casts a shadow over future planning.
Uncertainty Lingers
Arctic Umiaq Line A/S (AUL) has secured a service contract for passenger services from 2021 through 2025, yet discussions of potential closures loom large. Politically, it has been decided to wind down the operations of Arctic Umiaq Line and sell the coastal ship Sarfaq Ittuk following the completion of developments at airports in Nuuk, Qaqortoq, and Ilulissat. Still, clarity concerning whether AUL will continue operations into next year remains elusive. A consensus among many members of Inatsisartut suggests that the shipping line is integral to the region and warrants further development.
Experience Qasiginnguit has already set plans for welcoming tourists through an Italian travel agency next summer, but Jeremiassen expresses his frustration over the inability to finalize plans due to the absence of a sailing schedule from Arctic Umiaq Line.
“If the Arctic Umiaq Line ceases operations, the visitors we hope to serve will not be able to reach us, effectively nullifying our agreements,” he explains. “For tourism operators, the need for foresight is paramount. We must communicate sailing schedules to our customers long before travel dates.”
While they are up-to-date on the plans laid out by Air Greenland and Disko Line, Jeremiassen notes that the vagueness surrounding sea passenger traffic hampers their planning efforts. “Without the full passenger schedules, we’re navigating in the dark, which is simply unacceptable,” he emphasizes.
Disko Line provides summer transport to Qasigiannguit, and Air Greenland offers helicopter services during winter months. The potential closure of Arctic Umiaq Line is a source of concern for both Jeremiassen and the tourism sector at large.
Collaborative Spirit
Experience Qasiginnguit flourishes thanks to its partnerships with Topas Travel and Disko Line Explorer. “These agencies prioritize collaborations with locals, which is invaluable for us. They appreciate our societal values, fostering a robust partnership,” Jeremiassen shares.
Currently, the team operates a small boat accommodating just three passengers, but given the rising interest, they are working towards acquiring a larger vessel to meet future demand.
Negotiations in Progress
While discussions about the future of Arctic Umiaq Line are ongoing, Director Taitsiannguaq Olsen acknowledges the negotiations with the Self-Government but refrains from sharing specifics at this time. As reporters at Sermitsiaq seek further details from the Department for Housing, Infrastructure, and Outer Districts, the community waits with bated breath, hoping for a resolution that supports both their infrastructure and expanding tourism industry.
The path ahead may be fraught with uncertainties, but for Kristian Jeremiassen and his budding enterprise, the spirit of resilience and collaboration remains steadfast.