Out of the Northwest Passage (17 days)
Welcome to a remarkable Arctic expedition, embarking on a journey of a lifetime through the fabled Northwest Passage. This adventure promises to be an unforgettable exploration of some of the world's most pristine natural environments and a chance to encounter the incredible wildlife that calls the Arctic home. The Arctic is a place where nature and wildlife reigns supreme, and you'll have the privilege of witnessing its wonders up close. Be dazzled as the Northern Lights dance across the sky. Be fascinated by history and a visit to the graves of the ill-fated Franklin Expedition on Beechey Island. These historic graves bear witness to the incredible challenges faced by early Arctic explorers and are a poignant reminder of their sacrifices.
As we continue our voyage, we'll navigate the pristine waters of Lancaster Sound National Marine Conservation Area. Here, you'll keep your eyes peeled for marine mammals, including seals, whales, and the elusive narwhal, all thriving in this protected Arctic sanctuary. Our exploration extends to Ausuittuq, also known as Grise Fiord, Canada's northernmost community. This remote outpost offers a glimpse into the lives of the resilient individuals who call this harsh environment home and provides a unique perspective on Arctic culture and traditions. Hop on a thrilling Zodiac cruise amongst colossal icebergs at the breathtaking Ilulissat Icefjord, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Finally, navigate the formidable Kangerlussuaq Fjord, an impressive 190-kilometer-long fjord known as S'ndre Str'mfjord. As you sail through this majestic waterway, you'll be surrounded by towering cliffs and glaciers, an epic conclusion to an epic Arctic adventure. This journey is not just a voyage; it's an Arctic experience like no other, one that will leave an indelible mark on your soul.
Dates
Highlights
Sail the fabled Northwest Passage
Experience the majesty of the Northern Lights
See the Franklin Expedition graves at Beechey Island
Tallurutiup Imanga (Lancaster Sound) National Marine Conservation Area
Ausuittuq (Grise Fiord), Canada's northernmost community
Smith Sound
Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Kangerlussuaq Fjord (S'ndre Str'mfjord)
Passage aboard the Ocean Endeavour
Applicable taxes and credit card fees
Complimentary expedition jacket
Contribution to Adventure Canada's Discovery Fund
Special access permits, entry, and park fees
Expert expedition team, Guided activities, Sightseeing and community visits, Educational program, Interactive workshops, and All Zodiac excursions
Port fees
Pre-departure materials
Photo Equipment Trial Program
Evening entertainment
All shipboard meals
Optional Ocean Kayaking Addons:
Explore at sea level in small groups with our experienced kayak guides. We offer excursions on double kayaks, as well as the essential gear for safety and comfort.
Itinerary
DAY 1: Kugluktuk (Coppermine), NU, Canada
Located at the mouth of the Coppermine River, Kugluktuk is the westernmost community in Nunavut. Known for many years as Coppermine, the community reverted to its original Inuinnaqtun name'meaning 'place of moving waters''on January 1st, 1996. Our charter flight will land in Kugluktuk and we will embark the Ocean Endeavour by Zodiac.
Iqaluktuuttiaq (Cambridge Bay), NU, is an alternate embarkation point, and may be used based on sea, ice, and weather conditions.
DAYS 2'4: Kitikmeot Region
Navigate the ice-strewn waters of this infamous waterway in search of wildlife. Although this is Nunavut's least-populated region, wildlife abounds here both in the sea and on land.
Listen to the stories shared by locals of Roald Amundsen, who overwintered in the bay for two years while searching for the Northwest Passage. Amundsen became the first European to cross the Northwest Passage, thanks to the knowledge and largesse of Inuit.
DAY 5: Prince Regent Inlet
This passage marks an area rich in marine and avian life. Thick-billed murres, ivory gulls, beluga, narwhal, and bowhead whales reside in the ice-strewn waters. In addition to abundant wildlife, we'll delve deeper into the exploration of the Northwest Passage and mercantile efforts of the Hudson's Bay Company.
DAY 6: Beechey Island
In 1845, Sir John Franklin set out from England with HMS Erebus and HMS Terror, attempting to sail through the Northwest Passage. His crew overwintered at Beechey Island, where three of his men died.
Numerous search parties later used Beechey as a depot and rendezvous. Amundsen,
Bernier, and Larsen visited Beechey. Thomas Morgan of HMS Investigator was buried here in 1854 alongside Franklin's men. The graves and the ruins of Northumberland House are a haunting memorial.
DAYS 7'8: Tallurutiup Imanga (Lancaster Sound)
We will spend two days exploring Tallurutiup Imanga (Lancaster Sound), one of Canada's newest National Marine Conservation Areas.
Large populations of marine mammals, including narwhal, beluga, and bowhead whales, transit and feed in this area. There is a great selection of landing sites available to choose from, depending on weather, wildlife, and sea conditions.
DAY 9: Ausuittuq (Grise Fjord)
Ausuittuq means "place that never thaws." 1,150 kilometres above the Arctic Circle, Canada's northernmost community originated during the Cold War. In 1953, Inuit were relocated here by the Canadian government under false pretenses, with the aim of asserting Canadian sovereignty.
We'll be welcomed into the hamlet, where we will have a chance to meet members of the community, learn about their way of life, and hear their poignant stories.
DAYS 10'11: Smith Sound
Smith Sound, an ancient Inuit travel route, divides Ellesmere Island from Greenland, and served as the main route for explorers and adventurers searching for the North Pole. Adolphus Greely, Sir George Nares, and Elisha Kent Kane all travelled these waters with varying degrees of success.
DAY 12: At Sea
On this exploration day, we'll be making the most of what the wind, weather, and wildlife have to offer. Our expedition team will scan for polar bears, walrus, whales, seals, and seabirds as we go.
DAYS 13'14: Northwest Greenland
We will explore stunning fjords that line the coast. Glaciers and icebergs abound here. In true expedition style, we will seek opportunities to hike, explore, and view wildlife as conditions allow.
DAY 15: Ilulissat
Ilulissat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, translates literally into 'iceberg.' The outlet of the Sermeq Kujalleq Glacier, lulissat Icefjord is the source of many of the icebergs in the North Atlantic.
Here, we will cruise in Zodiacs to appreciate the icebergs. And we'll visit the bustling town of Ilulissat, with its museums, cafes, craft shops, and busy fishing harbour.
DAY 16: Itilleq Fjord
The west Greenland coastline is a rich mixture of islands and complex coastal waterways. As we enter the Arctic autumn, the tundra foliage will be in gorgeous colour. We will be making an expedition stop here to explore the landscape of wild Greenland.
DAY 17: Kanferlussuaq, Greenland
Kangerlussuaq Fjord (S'ndre Str'mfjord) is one of the longest fjords in the world and boasts 190 kilometres of superb scenery. We end our adventure by sailing up this dramatic fjord.
Kangerlussuaq, the town at its eastern head, is a former U.S. Air Force base and Greenland's primary flight hub. Here we will disembark the Ocean Endeavour for our return charter flight to Toronto, ON.
Rates (CAD)
Rates
Category 3 - Interior Twin, private bath (125 sq ft) | $17,995 |
Category 4 - Exterior Twin with a porthole window, private bath (100 sq ft twin, 90 sq ft single) | $19,495 |
Category 5 - Main Twin with a picture window, private bath (115 sq ft) | $20,995 |
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) | $22,495 |
Category 7 - Select Twin with picture windows, with large bed and private bath (deck five 190 sq ft, deck eight 145 sq ft) | $23,995 |
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) | $25,495 |
Category 9 - Junior Suite with picture windows and large bed, private bath and refrigerator (deck five 270 sq ft, deck seven 290 sq ft) | $26,995 |
Category 10 - Suite with front facing picture windows and large bed, private bath, and refrigerator (310 sq ft) | $28,495 |
Rates in USD
Rates include HST/GST
Charter Flights in USD, HST/GST Included
September 12, 2024: Yellowknife, NT to Kugluktuk, NU (Early-morning departure) $1320
September 28, 2024: Kangerlussuaq, GL to Toronto, ON (Evening arrival) $1375
EXPEDITION COSTS DO NOT INCLUDE:
Commercial and charter flights
Program enhancements/optional excursions
Gratuities
Personal expenses
Mandatory medical evacuation insurance
Additional expenses in the event of delays or itinerary changes
Possible fuel surcharges and administrative fees
Pre- and post-trip hotel accommodation
Ask an Agent
Our trained and experienced agents are here to help!