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Arctic cruise through the northwest passage

| CA-AC1701

Zodiac cruise, fjords, icebergs, wildlife watching in greenland and nunavut

Overview

Join a 17-Day authentic Arctic expedition and sail through living history in the Far North!

Highlights

  • Zodiac cruise among icebergs in Ilulissat Icefjord
  • Polar bears, seabirds, other marine wildlife
  • Tallurutiup Imanga (Lancaster Sound)
  • The Continent's Northernmost point at Bellot Strait
  • Franklin Expedition graves
  • Mittimatalik (Pond Inlet)
  • Mars-like Devon Island

Walk in the footsteps of Arctic explorers and enjoy unparalleled views from the deck as we drift along the once-unpassable Northwest Passage! During this unforgettable 17-day voyage, you’ll get to know what life is like above the Arctic Circle and become a polar explorer yourself.

Every day is one-of-a-kind: cruise among the icebergs, watch Arctic animals and visit historical sites from the era of Arctic exploration. Meet Nunavut communities, experience an Inuit cultural welcome and explore remote Arctic hamlets along the way. Board a Zodiac and discover quaint coastal villages, soul-stirring fjords, mighty glaciers and enjoy stories and legends from the expert guides! This once-in-a-lifetime tour is full of eye-opening experiences that will nourish your entire being.

Please Note: On booking, choose your preferred starting and ending point.

Greenland to Nunavut: Start your trip in Kangerlussuaq and end it in Kugluktuk (Coppermine).

OR

Nunavut to Greenland: Start your trip in Kugluktuk (Coppermine) and end it in Kangerlussuaq.

The itinerary of the trip either way is completely the same, though departure dates differ.

  • No single supplement in select cabin categories
  • Expert guides
  • Zodiac boats
  • lectures by expedition leaders
Availability Aug-Sept
Duration 17 days
Departs From Nunavut/Greenland
Minimum age No limit
Difficulty Easy / Moderate
Group maximum 198
Meet on Location No
Pick Up Yes

From

14 107
Per
Adult
  • Best Price Guarantee
  • International number: +1 778 348 1676
  • Please note that you will be charged in USD for this tour

Availability (2025):
Greenland to Nunavut: Aug 16 - Sept 1
Nunavut to Greenland: Sept 1 - 17

For further information about dates and prices please check the details below.

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What's Included

Find out what is included and what to bring.

Included

  • 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
  • All Zodiac excursions
  • Port fees
  • Pre-departure materials
  • Educational program
  • Photo Equipment Trial Program
  • Interactive workshops
  • Evening entertainment
  • All shipboard meals

What to bring

  • Camera
  • Sunglasses, Sunscreen, Water bottle
  • Warm clothing and layers
  • Windproof jacket, Windproof pants
  • Waterproof gear, Rubber boots
  • Hiking boots
  • Daypack
  • *Full must-have list will be supplied upon booking

Not Included

  • 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
  • *Charter flights between Toronto and Greenland and Kugluktuk and Yellowknife can be added to the package for an additional cost

Contact us for more Information about this tour

INTERNATIONAL NUMBER: +1 778 348 1676

You can also send an email to info@adventures.com, or use the contact form here below.

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Itinerary

Find out more details about the tour and its highlights

Information

Greenland Ice Glacier

Frost and ice aside, the Arctic region offers some of the most spectacular experiences in the world! On this Arctic cruise from Greenland to Nunavut or other way around, we’ll take you to historical places, unparalleled landscapes, and authentic Arctic communities, following in the footsteps of early European explorers. 

The voyage either begins on the west coast of Greenland or Nunavut, Canada. We’ll navigate through pristine fjords and floating icebergs and we’ll sail along the fabled sea route creating incredible memories as we go.

Prepare for an action-packed holiday among places that breathe history, see the mysteries of the North and watch rare Arctic animals in their natural habitats. The Arctic wilderness may be cold, but the warmth of its people will leave you wanting to spend more time there.

Pack your suitcase and depart on your perfect Arctic getaway!

cabin near Kangerlussuaq in greenland

Kangerlussuaq was a U.S. military base during WWII and is now Greenland’s major flight hub - also referred to as the gateway to Greenland. This small settlement is located at the eastern end of the Kangerlussuaq fjord on the west coast. Most of the approximately 500 residents work at the airfield.

After landing, hop on a bus along Greenland’s longest road - stretching less than twenty kilometers to the port. There Zodiacs will be waiting to take you to our vessel, the Ocean Endeavor. Once aboard, we’ll begin our adventure by sailing down dramatic Sondre Stromfjord as the sun sets, crossing the Arctic Circle line on the way. This fjord is one of the longest in the world, encompassing 168 km (104.3 mi) of wondrous polar scenery and serene waters.

houses in Sisimiut area in greenland

On the second day, we’ll continue to explore western Greenland visiting its beating arctic heart, tucked away 40 km north of the Arctic Circle. The Sisimiut area has been populated by a diverse group of cultures for 4,500 years. First to settle were the Inuit people of the Saqqaq culture, followed by the Dorsets and then the Thule people - the ancestors of the current Inuit population. Its harbor remains ice-free harbor throughout the year, allowing them to fish and hunt to survive.

Today it’s the fastest growing Greenlandic community with about 5,600 residents. Sisimiut is the second largest city in Greenland with some of the deepest fjords, that are home to whales, seals and other marine mammals. This remote winter wonderland never sleeps: visitors can take in pristine nature while on a snowmobile ride, go fishing, take a hike or do some wildlife watching!

lulissat Northwest area in greenland at winter

Today we visit one of Greenland’s most iconic destinations. Ilulissat, literally translated as “iceberg,” is a vibrant town in the vicinity of Ilulissat Icefjord—a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Ilulissat Icefjord is an outlet of the massive Sermeq Kujalleq, also known as Jakobshavn Glacier, which calves many icebergs into the North Atlantic. This glacial mass is a part of the Greenland ice sheet, the fastest moving ice sheet in the world, in part due to global warming. The mass flows at a speed of around 40 meters every 24 hours!

Here we’ll board Zodiacs and cruise among the enormous icebergs--taking in their pristine beauty and learning all about glaciology. After floating in this iceberg paradise, we’ll make our way to the colorful town of Ilulissat, famed for its cozy cafes and craft shops, antiquated museums and busy fishing harbor.

 

floating iceberg in greenland at sunset

As our Northwest passage adventure unfolds, we’ll explore the polar scenery of Western Greenland, passing dramatic fjords and icebergs that are surrounded by towering cliffs.These exhilarating icy landscapes abound with wildlife, and we’ll keep an eye out for seals and colonies of dovekies (little auks).

Savor your moments on deck and don’t miss the picture-perfect stops as we sail past fields of icebergs and snowy mountain peaks!

We’ll have many opportunities for expeditions along the way to hop in the Zodiacs and check out some incredible Arctic wildlife! On our final day in Greenlandic waters, we’ll head west and cross Baffin Bay on the way to Nunavut. Be sure to make use of our onboard presentation schedule to stay up-to-date with everything that is going on.

watching icebergs float from a ship deck

As we steam toward Nunavut, our staff will deepen your understanding of the Arctic. This is an excellent time to enjoy workshops, watch a documentary, or get out on deck. Keep your binoculars ready for minke and humpback whales, as well as the seabirds that are sure to mark our passage.

leather cutting tools in greenland

Mittimatalik is a busy Arctic community in a beautiful setting, a fascinating place to wander. The cultural presentation at the Community Hall is not to be missed—arts and crafts may be available here too.

misty mountain shore near zodiac boat

Seek Whales, Seabirds, and Polar Bears

We will spend ample time exploring Tallurutiup Imanga (Lancaster Sound), one of the newest National Marine Conservation Areas in Nunavut. Narwhal, beluga, and bowhead whales transit and feed in this area.

Cruise by ship and Zodiac in search of wildlife with expert biologists and ecologists. Learn more about the crucial role the Inuit play in conserving the vibrant biodiversity of these waterways and the enduring connection between the ocean and the Inuit.

On the northern border of Tallurutiup Imanga lies Devon Island, the largest uninhabited island on Earth at over 50,000 square kilometers. Flat-topped mountains, glacial valleys, and a substantial ice cap give Devon Island its unique character. We will hike the tundra, cruise a glacier face, and seek wildlife from the ship and onshore.

Visit archaeological sites and the remains of an RCMP and Hudson's Bay Company site at Dundas Harbour.

 

Visit a Franklin Expedition Historical Site

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 the HMS Investigator was buried here in 1854 alongside Franklin’s men. The graves and ruins of Northumberland House are a haunting memorial.

hikers resting near a shore in greenland

Enjoy Birdwatching and Zodiac Cruising

This passage marks an area rich in marine and avian life. Thick-billed murres, ivory gulls, beluga whales, narwhals, 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 the mercantile efforts of the Hudson's Bay Company.

exploring greenland shores with a zodiac boat

Witness the Most Northerly Point of Continental North America

Discover the famed Bellot Strait, a narrow passage separating Somerset Island from the Boothia Peninsula. As we sail through this two-kilometre-wide waterway, get the unique opportunity to reach the northernmost part of mainland North America.

Keep watch for an array of enchanting marine mammals from beluga whales to narwhals and seals.

Delve into the region's fascinating history and learn about Joseph René Bellot, French naval officer and Arctic explorer who joined an 1850s expedition in search for Sir John Franklin, who inspired the strait's namesake.

inuit women in greenland

Sail the Northwest Passage

Navigate the ice-strewn waters of this fabled waterway in search of wildlife. Although this is Nunavut’s least-populated region, wildlife abounds here both in the sea and on land.

Visit a local community where Inuit hosts will share their knowledge of their home and the area's history.

Discover the legacy of this important waterway and the captivating story of Roald Amundsen, who overwintered in the bay for two years while searching for the Northwest Passage. Learn more about the triumphs of explorers like Amundsen and the vital role that Inuit knowledge played in successful crossings.

icebergs near mountains in greenland

Wave a Fond Farewell

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.

Iqaluktuuttiaq (Cambridge Bay), NU, is an alternate disembarkation point, and may be used based on sea, ice, and weather conditions.

Today we will disembark and make our way to the airport to meet our charter flights to Yellowknife, NT.

 

large cruise ship in greenland

Our vessel for this voyage is the Ocean Endeavour. A 1B ice-class sailing boat that holds a maximum of 198-passengers and is outfitted with 20 Zodiac boats, our ship is perfect for expedition cruises. Facilities include a top deck observation room, swimming pool, outdoor dining, sauna spa, library, and top-class navigation equipment.

Our three onboard lounges are excellent public spaces for our educational seminars, workshops, and entertainment. Launched in 1982, the Ocean Endeavour has been upgraded many times, most recently in 2010 and 2014. At 137-m (450-ft) length and 21-m (69-ft) breadth, it’s the pride of our cruises in Canada and beyond.

Learn more about the Ocean Endeavour.

No Single Supplement! Solo Adventurers are welcome. Most cabin categories on the ship are available as a private cabin to single travelers at no additional cost.
Temperatures run around 8-15° Celsius (46-60° Fahrenheit) on average. That said, guests have been known to enjoy a day of shorts and t-shirts in the Canadian Arctic! Do note that temperatures can fall below zero (especially at night) and snowfall could happen at any time.

This program features activities such as walking, wildlife viewing, and Zodiac cruising, all at a relatively easy to moderate level of exertion. The majority of shore landings are undertaken using Zodiacs. Zodiac embarkations involve descending gangway stairs with double handrails and stepping into the Zodiac from a small platform at the water level (assistance is provided).

Prices and Availability

Availability (2025):

  • Greenland to Nunavut: Aug 16 - Sept 1
  • Nunavut to Greenland: Sept 1-17

Category 1. Quad occupancy. Quad cabin. Deck four. Interior Cabin, four lower berths, private bath.
Price: $14,495 per person / USD.

Category 2. Triple occupancy. Triple cabin. Deck four. Interior Cabin, three lower berths, private bath.
Price: $15,995 per person / USD.

Category 3. Double occupancy. Interior twin cabin. Deck five. Interior Cabin, two lower berths, private bath.
Price: $17,995 per person / USD.

Category 4. Double occupancy. Exterior twin cabin. Deck four. Porthole window, two lower berths, private bath.
Price: $19,495 per person / USD.

Category 5. Double occupancy. Main twin cabin. Deck five. Picture window, two lower berths, private bath.
Price: $20,995 per person / USD.

Category 6. Double occupancy. Comfort twin cabin. Deck seven. Picture windows (partial obstruction), two lower berths, a private bath, refrigerator.
Price: $22,495 per person / USD.

Category 7. Double occupancy. Top deck twin cabin. Deck eight. Large picture windows (partial obstruction), matrimonial bed, private bath, refrigerator.
Price: $23,995 per person / USD.

Category 8. Double occupancy. Superior twin cabin. Deck five & seven. Picture windows, twin or matrimonial bed, private bath, refrigerator.
Price: $25,495 per person / USD.

Category 9. Double occupancy. Junior suite. Deck five & seven. Picture windows, separate sitting area, sofa, desk, refrigerator, matrimonial bed, and private bath.
Price: $27,495 per person / USD.

Category 10. Double occupancy. Suite. Deck seven. Picture windows overlooking the bow, separate sitting area, sofa, desk, refrigerator, matrimonial bed, and private bath with full tub.
Price: $28,495 per person / USD.

Payment Details

Deposit, Taxes and Discounts

  • A $2000.00 USD deposit is required to hold your reservation.
  • Balance of payment is due 120 days before trip commencement.
  • Travelers under 30 receive a 30% discount.
  • No single supplement charge on most of the cabin categories.

CANCELLATION POLICY & DETAILS

  • Cancellation from the date of booking to 121 days before the Departure Date
    Penalty: $1,000 USD per person per Cruise
    Refund: Balance paid less penalty

 

  • Cancellation from 91 to 120 days before Departure Date
    Penalty: 65%  of total cruise and charter flight costs
    Refund: 35%  of total cruise and charter flight costs

 

  • Cancellation 90 days or less before the Departure Date 
    Penalty: 100%   
    Refund: 0%