Marmorilik (GLMML)

The port is currently closed for commercial operations. Information for the port is retained should the port reopen. The port has a loading facility for marble which is quarried on the opposite side of the inlet near Sorte Engel, the E entrance point. The port is navigable day and night from the end of May until mid Oct, when it is closed by ice. The port was operated by Cominco Ltd over the period 1973-86 and from 1986 by Boliden AB. The mine was closed down in 1990 when most of the ore body has been mined. The remaining ore reserve as a basis for reopening the mine.

North Atlantic Winter Seasonal Zone II, Winter Nov 1 to Mar 31, Summer Apr 1 to Oct 31.

Marmorilik is situated close within the W entrance point of Agfardlikavsa, also called Arfsak Fjord.

Directions: Approach the entrance to Perdlerfiup Kangerdlua from Agpat ikerat, or by the channel between Sagdleq. Perdlerfiup kangerdlua and Qaumarajuk can both be safely navigated in mid channel as far as the entrance to Agfardlikavsa which can be recognised by a dark mark resembling an angel with outstretched wings on a steep, light coloured mountain slope within Sorte Engel. A dangerous rock lies 370m NW of the W entrance point of Agfardlikavsa. A large quantity of rock has been deposited in the fjord and therefore depths may be less than charted. Leading beacons (red triangular topmarks, rear beacon triangle point down, front beacon triangle point up) stand on the W side of the fjord 0.75nm S of Marmorilik. In line bearing 167° they lead into the fjord.

BA 235. Admiralty Pilot NP12, NP286(5).

Pilotage is optional for coastal vessels entering Davis Straits. Agents are to make arrangements if pilot is required. Information about navigational conditions can be obtained by radio telephone from the Quarry Manager who acts as the Harbour Authority.

Two aerial ropeways for the transport of marble from the quarry to the loading position, extends across Argfardlikavsa between Sorte Engel and Marmorilik, approx 370m within the entrance. There is a vertical clearance of 39m.

The mean high water height of spring tides at Marmorilik is approx 2.0m and neap tides 1.3m. The tide attains a maximum height of approx 2.3m. There is a weak tidal stream.

A tug/icebreaker of 720hp is available to assist if required and will break up any thin ice in the vicinity of the berth or entrance to the fjord. A harbour launch is available to assist vessels to berth.

Local weather: There is a period of polar darkness from mid November until late January and of midnight sun from early May to early August.

There is ship to shore radio facilities. Information on ice conditions in the fjord can be obtained from shore personnel during loading operations.