Northwest Passage
Northwest Passage
from £8,881 excluding flights
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Highlights
Navigate the Northwest Passage and visit historic sites
Land on Beechey Island, a Canadian National Historic Site
Search for whales including humpbacks and narwhals
Watch out for wildlife in abundance including polar bears
Learn about Arctic history and ecology from expert guides
Spend time ashore and see how the Inuit live
Why this trip...
Expertly guided
In-depth knowledge and expertise will enrich your experience on this trip
Immersive exploration
Immerse yourself in your surroundings on a true exploration of remote and spectacular areas
Culture
Experience local culture and heritage as part of this holiday
Overview
Join an adventurous cruise following one of the Arctic's most iconic routes; this voyage provides a comprehensive overview of the key areas within the Northwest Passage, taking in both western Greenland and the Canadian Arctic islands in the Baffin Bay area.
The epic quest to find the Northwest Passage occupied some of the best minds of European civilisation for half a millennium. Today this elusive route offers a fascinating history, spectacular icebergs and the chance to see wildlife including polar bears and narwhals.
In addition to its long history of exploration, this region also offers a chance to visit local communities to experience the isolated way of life faced by the Inuits of the Canadian Arctic. The Northwest Passage may now be an established sailing route, but it remains a legendary voyage of discovery to this day!
Itinerary
Day 1 Toronto - Kangerlussuaq, Embarkation
This morning, board your charter flight to Kangerlussuaq in Greenland, from where you will make your way to the ship. Your voyage begins with a cruise down one of the world’s longest fjords, Sondre Stromfjord, crossing the Arctic Circle as you go.
This morning, board your charter flight to Kangerlussuaq in Greenland, from where you will make your way to the ship. Your voyage begins with a cruise down one of the world’s longest fjords, Sondre Stromfjord, crossing the Arctic Circle as you go.
Days 2-5 West Greenland
Over the next few days you will take in some of the natural and cultural highlights of West Greenland. Uncover the fascinating history of the Sisimiut region, first inhabited around 4,500 years ago by the Saqqaq people, followed by Dorset and then Thule cultures, and meet the descendants who call this area home today. You will also witness the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Ilulissat Icefjord, known for its many icebergs which calve off the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier.
Over the next few days you will take in some of the natural and cultural highlights of West Greenland. Uncover the fascinating history of the Sisimiut region, first inhabited around 4,500 years ago by the Saqqaq people, followed by Dorset and then Thule cultures, and meet the descendants who call this area home today. You will also witness the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Ilulissat Icefjord, known for its many icebergs which calve off the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier.
Days 6-16 Canadian High Arctic & the Northwest Passage
Explore the highlights of the Canadian Arctic as you navigate the Northwest Passage. Many factors play a role in shaping the expedition's itinerary, including sea, ice and weather conditions, but your Expedition Team will ensure you see as much as possible with regular shore landings and Zodiac cruises.
Possible highlights may include the busy Arctic community of Mittimatalik, a fascinating place to wander in a beautiful setting. As you travel through the waters of Lancaster Sound, you could spot narwhals, belugas and bowhead whales and also visit Devon Island, the largest uninhabited island on earth. There may be a chance to go ashore on Beechey Island, home to the lonely graves of three members of Sir John Franklin’s ill-fated 1845 expedition team. And conditions permitting you may also sail close to the wrecks of Franklin’s HMS Erebus and HMS Terror, near Victory Point on King William Island. Along the way enjoy dramatic landscapes, wildlife sightings and informative presentations from your knowledgeable Expedition Team.
Explore the highlights of the Canadian Arctic as you navigate the Northwest Passage. Many factors play a role in shaping the expedition's itinerary, including sea, ice and weather conditions, but your Expedition Team will ensure you see as much as possible with regular shore landings and Zodiac cruises.
Possible highlights may include the busy Arctic community of Mittimatalik, a fascinating place to wander in a beautiful setting. As you travel through the waters of Lancaster Sound, you could spot narwhals, belugas and bowhead whales and also visit Devon Island, the largest uninhabited island on earth. There may be a chance to go ashore on Beechey Island, home to the lonely graves of three members of Sir John Franklin’s ill-fated 1845 expedition team. And conditions permitting you may also sail close to the wrecks of Franklin’s HMS Erebus and HMS Terror, near Victory Point on King William Island. Along the way enjoy dramatic landscapes, wildlife sightings and informative presentations from your knowledgeable Expedition Team.
Day 17 disembarkation, Kugluktuk – Yellowknife
This morning disembark your ship and transfer to Kugluktuk airport. Board the flight to Yellowknife where you will bid farewell to your fellow polar explorers.
This morning disembark your ship and transfer to Kugluktuk airport. Board the flight to Yellowknife where you will bid farewell to your fellow polar explorers.
Vessel Finder
There are a choice of vessels available for this voyage. Compare the facilities at a glance then talk to our Travel Specialists who will be happy to advise which one is right for you.
Prices and Departures
Price from £8,881 excluding flights
Airfares are quoted separately to the holiday price. When enquiring, our Travel Specialists will provide the best fare possible from your preferred airline / airport.
What's Included
- Shipboard accommodation
- All breakfasts, lunches & dinners on board
- Tea & coffee available around the clock
- All Zodiac transfers, cruising & shore landings
- Contribution to the Discovery Fund, supporting local community projects
- Presentations by the Expedition Team and guest speakers
- Loan of rubber boots during voyage
- All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges
- 24 hour emergency assistance from our team during your holiday
- No surcharge guarantee
- Full financial protection
2022 Departures
Prices are per person, based on a twin cabin
| Departure | Duration | Vessel | Activities | Prices from (pp) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 Aug 2022 | 17 days | Ultramarine | [kayak-taster] | £18,141 |
| 15 Aug 2022 | 9 days | Ultramarine | [kayak-taster] | £8,881 |
| 21 Aug 2022 | 12 days | Ultramarine | [kayak-taster] | £12,363 |
| 30 Aug 2022 | 17 days | Ultramarine | [kayak-taster] | £18,141 |
2023 Departures
Prices are per person, based on a twin cabin
| Departure | Duration | Vessel | Activities | Prices from (pp) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 Jul 2023 | 17 days | Ultramarine | [kayak-taster] | £18,437 |
| 13 Aug 2023 | 9 days | Ultramarine | [kayak-taster] | £9,252 |
| 19 Aug 2023 | 9 days | Ultramarine | [kayak-taster] | £12,585 |
| 28 Aug 2023 | 17 days | Ultramarine | [kayak-taster] | £18,437 |
Activity Icon Key
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Kayaking
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Kayak taster session
On voyages aboard the Ultramarine, helicopter flight-seeing and helicopter hiking excursions are also included (weather permitting).
Offers
Meet our expert
One of our specialists
Meet Doug2 Polar plunges
8 Canada provinces visited
11 Species of whale seen
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