Northwest Passage

Explore the fabled Northwest Passage, crossing from Greenland to the Canadian High Arctic. Discover remote Inuit settlements, legendary explorer grave sites, stunning glacial geology, and iconic Arctic wildlife, including polar bears and narwhals.


Canadian Arctic and Greenland
© S. Scott

Duration: 16 days / 15 nights
Starts: Toronto, Canada
Ends: Calgary, Canada
Language: English speaking voyage

The itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather and ice conditions. Your Captain and Expedition Leader will make the necessary adjustments to ensure the best possible experience.
Includes an overnight hotel stay in Toronto upon arrival and an overnight hotel stay in Calgary before departure. Includes charter flights from Toronto to Nuuk (Greenland) and from Resolute (Canada) to Calgary.


Included
Optional


The legendary Northwest Passage, with its labyrinthine channels, has fascinated explorers and adventurers for centuries. This comprehensive 16-day expedition offers a profound glimpse into the world that captivated historical figures such as Franklin, Amundsen, and Larsen. Beginning with a flight from Toronto to Nuuk, Greenland, the voyage traverses the stunning high Arctic, moving from the glacial magnificence of Greenland to the vast, historical archipelago of Canada's High Arctic region.

As we navigate variable sea ice, we experience the compelling element of adventure integral to a genuine polar expedition. We will explore the final resting places of lost expeditions, witness breathtaking geology on Devon Island, and engage with local Inuit communities whose ancestors have thrived in this remote wilderness for millennia, preserving ancient cultures and traditions. We hope to spot iconic Arctic wildlife, including the majestic polar bear, musk oxen, seals, and the elusive narwhal, all while enjoying expert-led talks and excursions on land and by Zodiac, concluding with a flight from Resolute to Calgary.

Highlights:
Hike on Devon Island, the world’s largest uninhabited island, with stunning geology and glacial valleys.
Visit the graves of explorers from John Franklin’s expedition on Beechey Island.
Be greeted by the warm hospitality of the local Inuit, whose deep connection to the land is evident.
We hope to spot iconic Arctic wildlife, including musk oxen, polar bears, beluga whales, seals and perhaps the elusive narwhal.
In Ilulissat, hike to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Icefjord and stand in awe of its immensity.

Itinerary

© Michelle Valberg
© AUE
© AUE

Day 1: Arrive Toronto
Arrival and Check-in at the Group Hotel
After making your way to Toronto, take the complimentary hotel shuttle to check into our group hotel near the airport. Please visit the Aurora Expeditions hospitality desk to collect your luggage cabin tags and obtain information regarding pre-embarkation procedures and the charter flight scheduled for tomorrow to Nuuk. The remainder of your time is at leisure; please note that all meals today are at your own expense.

Day 2: Fly to Nuuk, Embarkation
Charter Flight to Greenland and Boarding the Sylvia Earle
Ensure your luggage is tagged and ready for transfer directly to your cabin. After breakfast, board the charter flight to Nuuk, the capital of Greenland, where the Sylvia Earle awaits. After embarkation, you will have time to settle into your cabin before attending important safety briefings. This evening, you will meet your expedition team and the crew.

Day 3: Sisimiut
Exploring Greenland’s Second Largest Town
After a morning of sailing north toward the Arctic Circle, we arrive at Sisimiut, located approximately 54 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle, offering the chance to experience the midnight sun in summer. The town is famous for its historical blue church and its cozy museum, which features an excellent reconstruction of an Inuit turf house and exhibits on local history. The area has a rich ancient history, having been inhabited sequentially by the Saqqaq, Dorset, and Thule cultures, with the majority of the current population being descendants of the Thule people.

Day 4: Ilulissat
The Birthplace of Icebergs and UNESCO Icefjord
We arrive in Ilulissat, renowned as the ‘birthplace of icebergs’ for producing some of the most spectacular ice formations on Earth. In the afternoon, we will hike to the viewpoint of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Icefjord, offering an awe-inspiring vista of its immensity. The Sermeq Kujalleq, or Jakobshavn Glacier, is the Northern Hemisphere's most productive glacier, releasing 20 million tonnes of ice daily into the Ilulissat Icefjord and Disko Bay.

Days 5–6: Northwest Greenland Expedition Cruising
Exploring Remote Fjord Systems and Tundra
These days are dedicated to exploring the remote northern reaches of West Greenland. Guided by the expedition team, we will hunt for perfect locations to explore stunning fjord systems by Zodiac, such as Uummannaq Fjord. The opportunities for adventure are endless: cruising silently through ice-choked waters, hiking across colorful tundra, or visiting remote coastal communities. Kayakers may choose to paddle among the floating icebergs, keeping watch for humpback and minke whales. This is a chance to fully immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Greenland’s northern frontier.

Day 7: At Sea
Voyage Preparation and Informative Lectures
Enjoy a relaxing day at sea as we sail toward the Canadian Arctic. Find a comfortable spot in one of the observation lounges to take in the surrounding landscapes. Our talented and knowledgeable expedition members will present informative and entertaining talks about the region we are traversing, preparing you for the next stage of the journey.

Day 8: Pond Inlet (Mittimatalik), Nunavut, Canada
Arrival in Canada and Cultural Encounter
After clearance into Canada, we hope to visit Pond Inlet (Mittimatalik), an engaging Inuit community located on the northern tip of Baffin Island. This remote outpost is surrounded by stunning ice-capped mountains, vast glaciers, and pristine fjords. Stepping ashore, you will be welcomed by the local Inuit hospitality. You will gain insight into their deep connection to the land and their unique culture, traditions, and lifestyle through engaging cultural encounters.

Days 9–14: Northwest Passage Expedition Cruising
Navigating the Legendary Passage and High Arctic History
Following genuine expeditionary style, the itinerary for these days is heavily reliant on weather and sea ice conditions. We aim to explore a selection of sites crucial to the history of the Northwest Passage:

Devon Island (Tallurutit):
At almost 75° north, we enter the High Arctic’s ‘wildlife superhighway.’ Devon Island is the largest uninhabited island on Earth, featuring stunning flat-topped mountains and glacial valleys. We hope to visit Dundas Harbour for tundra walks and birdwatching, where remnants of an old RCMP and Hudson’s Bay Company post remain.
Maxwell Bay (Tasiujaq):
This broad, sheltered inlet offers outstanding opportunities for Zodiac cruises and shore landings. Look for abundant wildlife, including muskoxen, caribou, polar bears, and various seals (harp, ringed, bearded). The landscapes are excellent for hiking.
Beechey Island (Iluvilik):
A planned landing at this Canadian National Historic Site, famous as the wintering location of the doomed Franklin expedition (1845–46), where three men are buried. Roald Amundsen also landed here during the first successful transit of the Passage.
Radstock Bay:
Disembark onto a beach scattered with history. Explore the ruins of a Thule village beneath Caswell Tower, witnessing well-preserved stone dwellings and artifacts from later explorers.
Prince Leopold Island (Appait):
Located on Lancaster Sound, this is the most important bird sanctuary in the Canadian Arctic, with approximately 500,000 birds nesting here. Ringed seals and polar bears are often spotted nearby.
Port Leopold:
A windswept bay on Somerset Island, marked by the overwintering of search parties for the Franklin expedition. We hope to hike, exploring the lone Hudson Bay Company hut and intriguing Inuit archaeological sites.
Elwin Bay (Ikpiarjuk):
A wide inlet on Somerset Island famous for wildlife, especially polar bears hunting along the ice edge. Beluga whales are sometimes seen offshore, and the scenery contrasts rolling tundra with rugged limestone cliffs.
Batty Bay, Somerset Island:
A narrow, sheltered fjord that served as a winter refuge for search expeditions in the 1850s. The calm waters are ideal for Zodiac cruising to spot seals and polar bears, and the surrounding slopes offer hiking opportunities.
Bellot Strait:
Cruise this legendary, narrow, fast-flowing channel that separates the Boothia Peninsula from Somerset Island. It is known for dramatic scenery, strong currents, and potential sightings of polar bears, seals, and beluga whales.

Day 15: Disembark in Resolute, Fly to Calgary
Farewell and Charter Flight to Calgary
In Resolute, you will bid farewell to the crew and fellow travelers. A Zodiac shuttle will take you ashore, from where you will transfer to the airport for a charter flight to Calgary. Upon arrival in Calgary, you will transfer to your group hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 16: Depart Calgary
Departure from the Canadian Rockies
After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, check out of your room. A transfer will be provided to the Calgary airport, where you will continue your onward journey.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Toronto
Arrival and Check-in at the Group Hotel
After making your way to Toronto, take the complimentary hotel shuttle to check into our group hotel near the airport. Please visit the Aurora Expeditions hospitality desk to collect your luggage cabin tags and obtain information regarding pre-embarkation procedures and the charter flight scheduled for tomorrow to Nuuk. The remainder of your time is at leisure; please note that all meals today are at your own expense.

Day 2: Fly to Nuuk, Embarkation
Charter Flight to Greenland and Boarding the Sylvia Earle
Ensure your luggage is tagged and ready for transfer directly to your cabin. After breakfast, board the charter flight to Nuuk, the capital of Greenland, where the Sylvia Earle awaits. After embarkation, you will have time to settle into your cabin before attending important safety briefings. This evening, you will meet your expedition team and the crew.

Day 3: Sisimiut
Exploring Greenland’s Second Largest Town
After a morning of sailing north toward the Arctic Circle, we arrive at Sisimiut, located approximately 54 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle, offering the chance to experience the midnight sun in summer. The town is famous for its historical blue church and its cozy museum, which features an excellent reconstruction of an Inuit turf house and exhibits on local history. The area has a rich ancient history, having been inhabited sequentially by the Saqqaq, Dorset, and Thule cultures, with the majority of the current population being descendants of the Thule people.

Day 4: Ilulissat
The Birthplace of Icebergs and UNESCO Icefjord
We arrive in Ilulissat, renowned as the ‘birthplace of icebergs’ for producing some of the most spectacular ice formations on Earth. In the afternoon, we will hike to the viewpoint of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Icefjord, offering an awe-inspiring vista of its immensity. The Sermeq Kujalleq, or Jakobshavn Glacier, is the Northern Hemisphere's most productive glacier, releasing 20 million tonnes of ice daily into the Ilulissat Icefjord and Disko Bay.

Days 5–6: Northwest Greenland Expedition Cruising
Exploring Remote Fjord Systems and Tundra
These days are dedicated to exploring the remote northern reaches of West Greenland. Guided by the expedition team, we will hunt for perfect locations to explore stunning fjord systems by Zodiac, such as Uummannaq Fjord. The opportunities for adventure are endless: cruising silently through ice-choked waters, hiking across colorful tundra, or visiting remote coastal communities. Kayakers may choose to paddle among the floating icebergs, keeping watch for humpback and minke whales. This is a chance to fully immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Greenland’s northern frontier.

Day 7: At Sea
Voyage Preparation and Informative Lectures
Enjoy a relaxing day at sea as we sail toward the Canadian Arctic. Find a comfortable spot in one of the observation lounges to take in the surrounding landscapes. Our talented and knowledgeable expedition members will present informative and entertaining talks about the region we are traversing, preparing you for the next stage of the journey.

Day 8: Pond Inlet (Mittimatalik), Nunavut, Canada
Arrival in Canada and Cultural Encounter
After clearance into Canada, we hope to visit Pond Inlet (Mittimatalik), an engaging Inuit community located on the northern tip of Baffin Island. This remote outpost is surrounded by stunning ice-capped mountains, vast glaciers, and pristine fjords. Stepping ashore, you will be welcomed by the local Inuit hospitality. You will gain insight into their deep connection to the land and their unique culture, traditions, and lifestyle through engaging cultural encounters.

Days 9–14: Northwest Passage Expedition Cruising
Navigating the Legendary Passage and High Arctic History
Following genuine expeditionary style, the itinerary for these days is heavily reliant on weather and sea ice conditions. We aim to explore a selection of sites crucial to the history of the Northwest Passage:

Devon Island (Tallurutit):
At almost 75° north, we enter the High Arctic’s ‘wildlife superhighway.’ Devon Island is the largest uninhabited island on Earth, featuring stunning flat-topped mountains and glacial valleys. We hope to visit Dundas Harbour for tundra walks and birdwatching, where remnants of an old RCMP and Hudson’s Bay Company post remain.
Maxwell Bay (Tasiujaq):
This broad, sheltered inlet offers outstanding opportunities for Zodiac cruises and shore landings. Look for abundant wildlife, including muskoxen, caribou, polar bears, and various seals (harp, ringed, bearded). The landscapes are excellent for hiking.
Beechey Island (Iluvilik):
A planned landing at this Canadian National Historic Site, famous as the wintering location of the doomed Franklin expedition (1845–46), where three men are buried. Roald Amundsen also landed here during the first successful transit of the Passage.
Radstock Bay:
Disembark onto a beach scattered with history. Explore the ruins of a Thule village beneath Caswell Tower, witnessing well-preserved stone dwellings and artifacts from later explorers.
Prince Leopold Island (Appait):
Located on Lancaster Sound, this is the most important bird sanctuary in the Canadian Arctic, with approximately 500,000 birds nesting here. Ringed seals and polar bears are often spotted nearby.
Port Leopold:
A windswept bay on Somerset Island, marked by the overwintering of search parties for the Franklin expedition. We hope to hike, exploring the lone Hudson Bay Company hut and intriguing Inuit archaeological sites.
Elwin Bay (Ikpiarjuk):
A wide inlet on Somerset Island famous for wildlife, especially polar bears hunting along the ice edge. Beluga whales are sometimes seen offshore, and the scenery contrasts rolling tundra with rugged limestone cliffs.
Batty Bay, Somerset Island:
A narrow, sheltered fjord that served as a winter refuge for search expeditions in the 1850s. The calm waters are ideal for Zodiac cruising to spot seals and polar bears, and the surrounding slopes offer hiking opportunities.
Bellot Strait:
Cruise this legendary, narrow, fast-flowing channel that separates the Boothia Peninsula from Somerset Island. It is known for dramatic scenery, strong currents, and potential sightings of polar bears, seals, and beluga whales.

Day 15: Disembark in Resolute, Fly to Calgary
Farewell and Charter Flight to Calgary
In Resolute, you will bid farewell to the crew and fellow travelers. A Zodiac shuttle will take you ashore, from where you will transfer to the airport for a charter flight to Calgary. Upon arrival in Calgary, you will transfer to your group hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 16: Depart Calgary
Departure from the Canadian Rockies
After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, check out of your room. A transfer will be provided to the Calgary airport, where you will continue your onward journey.


© Michelle Valberg
© AUE
© AUE


INCLUSIONS

All transfers as mentioned in the itinerary.
One night’s hotel accommodation including breakfast, in Toronto on Day 1.
One night’s hotel accommodation including breakfast, in Calgary on Day 15.
Charter flight from Toronto to Nuuk on Day 2.
Charter flight from Resolute to Calgary on Day 15.
On-board accommodation during voyage including daily cabin service.
All meals, snacks, tea, coffee, soft drinks and juices during voyage.
Beer and house wine with dinner.
Captain’s Farewell reception including four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic beverages.
All shore excursions and Zodiac cruises.
Educational lectures and guiding services provided by Expedition Team.
Complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consultation).
One 3-in-1 waterproof polar expedition jacket.
Complimentary use of Muck Boots during the voyage.
Comprehensive pre-departure information.
Port surcharges, permits and landing fees.
Gratuities during excursions and enrichment program for local guides, drivers, venues and local sites.
Wi-Fi*.

*Please note we travel to remote regions and therefore the connection can be unreliable.

EXCLUSIONS

International or domestic flights – unless specified in itinerary.
Transfers – unless specified in itinerary.
Airport arrival or departure taxes.
Passport, visa, reciprocity and vaccination fees and charges.
Travel insurance or emergency evacuation charges.
Hotels and meals – unless specified in the itinerary.
Optional excursions and optional activity surcharges.
All items of a personal nature, including but not limited to, alcoholic beverages (outside of dinner service), on board gratuities*, laundry services, personal clothing, medical expenses, email or phone charges.

Note: *A $15 USD per person per day gratuity for the crew is automatically added to your onboard account. It is at your discretion if you would like to remove the tip (or adjust the amount) when you settle your bill. It is not necessary to tip the expedition team members. This gratuity amount is included for suites as part of their ‘Suite Benefits’.


Dates & Rates


Ship: Sylvia Earle | Date: 30 Aug 2027 - 14 Sept 2027 (4717)
Aurora Stateroom Triple Share
$25,495
$20,396
Aurora Stateroom Superior
$27,695
$22,156
Balcony Cat. C
$28,495
$22,796
Balcony Cat. B
$29,995
$23,996
Balcony Cat. A
$32,195
$25,756
Balcony Stateroom Superior
$35,195
$28,156
Junior Suite
$41,995
$33,596
Captain´s Suite
$47,995
$38,396
Ship: Sylvia Earle | Date: 12 Sept 2027 - 27 Sept 2027 (4718)
Aurora Stateroom Triple Share
$25,495
$20,396
Aurora Stateroom Superior
$27,695
$22,156
Balcony Cat. C
$28,495
$22,796
Balcony Cat. B
$29,995
$23,996
Balcony Cat. A
$32,195
$25,756
Balcony Stateroom Superior
$35,195
$28,156
Junior Suite
$41,995
$33,596
Captain´s Suite
$47,995
$38,396

* The prices are per person in US Dollars, unless expressly specified in a different currency. In that case, payment will be in US dollars at the exchange rate of the day.
** Rates are correct at the time of publication. All prices will be re-confirmed by email at the time of booking.
NOTE: Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy—and excitement—of expedition travel. When traveling in extremely remote regions, your expedition staff must allow the sea, the ice and the weather to guide route and itinerary details. This itinerary is a tentative outline of what you’ll experience on this voyage; please be aware that no specific itinerary can be guaranteed.

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