Newfoundland and Wild Labrador: A Torngat Mountains Adventure

Newfoundland and Wild Labrador: A Torngat Mountains Adventure (15 days)

Embark on an exhilarating adventure through the captivating landscapes of Newfoundland and Wild Labrador, where every moment brings a new and awe-inspiring experience. Begin by indulging in a European flavor on the enchanting French island of Saint-Pierre, a unique cultural detour. From there you will board and embark on the Ocean Endeavor, your home for the next 15 days. You will have plenty of opportunities for hiking and zodiac cruising amidst the burgeoning foliage of Torngat Mountains National Park, an embodiment of Inuit leadership that encapsulates the region's unique cultural tapestry. Immerse yourself in the Illusuak Cultural Centre's intriguing architectural marvel and take in the breathtaking panorama of Nain harbour. Journey through time at Battle Harbour, a meticulously restored 19th-century fishing village that once reigned as the global hub for salt fish production, offering a glimpse into its rugged history and unparalleled beauty. Explore the otherworldly Tablelands at Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Centre, as you traverse stunning hiking trails.

Venture into the rich waters of the Hudson Strait, a haven for polar bears, marine life, and seabirds, promising thrilling wildlife encounters. Delve into the heart of Newfoundland's charm as you connect with the warm culture and hospitality of remote outports and fishing villages, leaving you with cherished memories of their world-renowned way of life. Traverse early summer ice on sailing expeditions, an ideal opportunity for witnessing the region's incredible wildlife in their natural habitat. This tour to Newfoundland and Wild Labrador is a symphony of natural wonders, cultural immersion, and unparalleled adventures, promising an extraordinary journey that will etch itself into your heart and mind forever.

Dates

Highlights

Itinerary

DAY 1: Saint-Pierre, France Welcome to France
Just off the shores of Newfoundland lie the islands of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon—an official territory of the French Republic.

Admire colourful and charming shops and the town’s unique historical character before you board the Ocean Endeavour for an evening departure.

DAYS 2-3: The South Coast Newfoundland, NL, Canada
Explore Scenic Coastlines & Remote Outports
Journey through the beautiful and windswept coast of southern Newfoundland, dotted with bays, coves, and a few remaining remote outport communities. Admire outstanding geology and gorgeous botanical life.

Spot an abundance of birds, whales, and other wildlife as we make the most of every opportunity for Zodiac cruises and land excursions. A visit here is sure to be one of the many highlights of your trip!

DAY 4: Gros Morne National Park & Woody Point
Hike through Incredible Geology and stretch your legs with a walk or hike at Gros Morne National Park. Soak in the extraordinary views of beautiful Bonne Bay and be sure to take time to explore the park’s excellent interpretation centre and the town of Woody Point.

Witness for yourself, the spectacular Tablelands, a six-hundred-metre plateau that forms one of the world’s best examples of exposed mantle. Normally found below the Earth’s crust, the mineral-rich rocks support very little life, making the Tablelands an eerie landscape.

DAY 5: Battle Harbour
Experience the rugged beauty and fascinating history of Battle Harbour, Newfoundland and Labrador's hidden gem! This restored 19th-century fishing village is located on a small island in the Labrador Sea and was once the salt fish capital of the world.

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the village's rich history as you explore the National Historic District, where the village has been lovingly restored to its original state. Walk in the footsteps of traditional fishermen and merchants, and experience life as it was in the 1800s.

DAY 6: Labrador Coast
Wander the southern Labrador coast, where you’ll find diverse geography of coastal barrens, high subarctic tundra, high boreal forest, mid-boreal forest, string bog, and islands.

We will look for opportunities for an exciting Zodiac cruise or hike whenever possible during expedition landings in this beautiful and serene region.

DAY 7: Nain Experience Inuit Culture
Visit thriving Nain, the most northerly community in Labrador and the administrative capital of Nunatsiavut. Stop in at the historic Moravian church and learn about its history, listen to the brass band, and visit Illusuak—the stunning new cultural centre by the waterfront in Nain. The cultural center showcases the history, language and culture of the Inuit of Labrador and is a community gathering place. Expect a warm welcome and the opportunity to peruse plenty of arts and handicrafts during this dynamic visit. Many of our expedition team members call Nain home. You’ll have the opportunity to explore their community through walking tours and scenic hikes, as you create meaningful cultural connections.

DAY 8: Hebron
Step back in time to the historical site of Hebron, which preserves a Moravian Mission station dating from the 1830s. Call in at the old church, which is where Inuit who resided here in 1959 learned they would be forced to relocate. Take a moment to read the plaque that commemorates this history and the apology to people affected by the relocations, issued by the government of Newfoundland & Labrador in 2005. Listen to the stories shared by our guides and meet former Hebron residents and their kin, who continue to visit the site to hunt and fish nearby.

DAYS 9-12: Torngat Mountains National Park
Spend four days exploring an area of treeless, mountainous tundra in Torngat Mountains National Park, where some of Canada’s highest peaks east of the Rockies are found. Enjoy your time hiking, visiting archaeological sites, and Zodiac cruising. Here, Inuit of Nunatsiavut will be your guides in their spiritual homeland.

Inuit of Nunavik and Nunatsiavut play a key role as partners in the management of Torngat Mountains National Park. Many see the park as a portal for better understanding of Inuit culture. The word Torngat is derived from the Inuttut word tongait, meaning “place of spirits,” where Inuit shamans travelled to connect with higher powers. It is not hard, even for a visitor, to feel the power of the place. Also be on the lookout for marine mammals, polar and black bears, caribou, falcons, and eagles.

DAYS 13-14: Hudson Strait & Frobisher Bay
Sail through this beautiful bay named for bygone explorer Martin Frobisher and stay on the lookout for wildlife, such as polar bears, seabirds, walruses, and different species of whales and seals. Our geologists will have you raving about rocks! Expect compelling scenery and soak up the Arctic splendour.

DAY 15: Iqaluit, NU, Canada - Wave a Fond Farewell
Iqaluit, at the head of Frobisher Bay, is Nunavut’s capital. A population of nearly 8,000 residents call the city home. Local attractions include the territorial Legislature, igloo-inspired St. Jude’s Cathedral, art shops, and more.

Transfer from the Ocean Endeavour by Zodiac through the Iqaluit harbour for your charter flight to Ottawa, ON.

Rates (CAD)

Category 3 - Interior Twin, private bath (125 sq ft)	$11,295
Category 4 - Exterior Twin with a porthole window, private bath (100 sq ft twin, 90 sq ft single)	$12,595
Category 5 - Main Twin with a picture window, private bath (115 sq ft)	$13,595
Category 6 - Comfort Twin with two porthole windows, optional large bed, and private bath (Deck four 175 sq ft, deck seven 135 sq ft, deck eight 160 sq ft)	$14,595
Category 7 - Select Twin with picture windows, with large bed and private bath (deck five 190 sq ft, deck eight 145 sq ft)	$15,595
Category 8 - Superior Twin with two picture windows, large bed, and private bath (deck five 210 sq ft, deck seven forward 180 sq ft, deck seven midship 190 sq ft)	$16,595
Category 9 - Junior Suite with picture windows and large bed, private bath and refrigerator (deck five 270 sq ft, deck seven 290 sq ft)	$17,595
Category 10 - Suite with front facing picture windows and large bed, private bath, and refrigerator (310 sq ft)	$18,595