Disko Line to Retire Maliina Ittuk Amid Port Challenges Following Qaqortoq Airport Opening
In a strategic move, Disko Line has announced that its latest and largest vessel, the Maliina Ittuk, will be taken out of service when the new airport in Qaqortoq opens. This decision, though significant, reflects the ongoing challenges surrounding port facilities necessary for the ship’s operation.
Maliina Ittuk was initially slated to relocate to Disko Bay after the airport’s debut, specifically to enhance service on the popular route connecting Ilulissat and Qeqertarsuaq, accommodating up to 113 passengers. However, after years of investing time and resources, the company has faced insurmountable hurdles in securing the required port conditions.
Michael Højgaard, managing director of Disko Line, explained the technical requirements needed for the ship’s safe and efficient operation. “Maliina Ittuk necessitates a permanent berth with reliable access to shore power and stable docking—critical, especially during the winter months,” he noted. Unfortunately, these conditions have proven elusive in both Qaqortoq and Ilulissat, where the ship was expected to operate.
Addressing Port Stability
The focus on stable port infrastructure can’t be overstated. Højgaard elaborated, “We need stable port facilities that don’t require us to shift the ship constantly. Unfortunately, this lack of stability has posed operational challenges, increased risks in adverse weather, and led to multiple instances of nighttime relocations to prevent damage.”
Such circumstances have not only strained operations but also heavily impacted staff, making it unsustainable in the long run. “We would prefer our employees to be navigating passengers rather than relocating the vessel repeatedly,” he added, emphasizing the need for a shift in focus.
The decision to pull Maliina Ittuk from service was not made lightly. “We’ve examined every possible scenario from both technical and operational perspectives, and our crew has demonstrated remarkable dedication. However, when basic port conditions are inadequate, we must prioritize safety and operational responsibility,” Højgaard reflected.
As the current contract runs its course, Disko Line plans to maintain service until the airport opens. Staff were informed of this development during a meeting yesterday.
Facing Uncertain Waters
Looking ahead, the future of Maliina Ittuk remains uncertain. Højgaard did not dismiss the possibility of selling the ship abroad, acknowledging the challenges it has posed for Topas Explorer Group, which owns Disko Line. The journey for this vessel began back in 2019, but construction delays—exacerbated by the pandemic and various accidents—have pushed its operational debut to fall 2025.
With costs skyrocketing, Maliina Ittuk is currently listed in Topas Explorer Group’s 2024 annual reports under “Tangible Fixed Assets Under Construction,” carrying a value of DKK 93,467,692.
Recognized as Disko Line’s crown jewel, this hybrid ship is designed to operate on both diesel and electricity. For now, though, its fate hangs in the balance as the company navigates the complexities of safe and sustainable maritime operations.