Qajaq

Kayak (qajaq in inuit) is a long miniature boat. It was invented about 4400 years ago by ancient Greenlandic Inuits, as a piece of hunting equipment. It’s a symbol of Greenland.

Qajaq was made of the few available materials – driftwood, skin, bone, and sinew, kayaks are most generally associated with seal hunting and whale hunting.

For individuals, the progressive nature of enskilment in kayak hunting also marked life-stages of increasing importance and connection within the community.