Activities in the Northwest Passage
This is your odyssey into the ice of the High Arctic where wildlife abounds. As conditions allow, the Expedition Team will navigate the ice floes and bring you ashore to visit historic trading posts, local settlements, archaeological sites and natural habitats.
Your expedition comes with a full programme of included and optional activities designed to immerse you in the many wonders the Northwest Passage has to offer. No matter your activity level or interests, there will be something that suits you. Here are some of the activities you can enjoy on your expedition cruise to Antarctica with us.
Included activities in the Northwest Passage
Your expedition comes with a full programme of included activities designed to immerse you in the many wonders along the Northwest Passage.
Here are some of the activities that are included in your expedition cruise to the Northwest Passage with us.
Landings
As wind, waves and sea ice allow, our Expedition Team experts will escort you safely ashore for a variety of highlights: Visit Beechey Island where you can pay your respects to the fallen maritime explorers of 1845’s ill-fated Franklin Expedition; explore Ulukhaktok, a hamlet rich in arts and crafts; or stop at Gjoa Haven, 'the finest little harbour in the world.'
Small-Boat Cruising
Although your expedition ship is compact, there are limits on where it can go due to its size. This is where our small expedition boats come in. Launching from the tender pit of the ship, these expedition boats are small and agile, letting you experience this pristine wilderness up close.
Wildlife Watching
Some 60% of the world’s polar bears live in the Canadian Arctic – increasing your chances of spotting this impressive apex predator. Keep an eye out for the majestic minke, bowhead and beluga whales. At Pond Inlet, try to spot narwhal, which many believe inspired the legend of the mythological unicorn.
Add caribou and Arctic foxes to your list of wildlife to look out for. Avid birdwatchers might spot the kittiwakes and auklets of the Bering Strait or the gulls and guillemots of Prince Christian Sound. We are also always on the lookout for the elusive Ivory Gull and other species unique to the Arctic.
Onboard Lectures
With each exciting new discovery come questions — many of which will be answered at our informative onboard lectures. Topics range from tectonic activity, glaciology and local history, to culture, wildlife and photography. The knowledgeable Expedition Team aims to enhance your appreciation for your surroundings and to inform you of your upcoming landings.
Science Center
The ship’s Science Center is a hub for information and education. You’ll have access to scientific equipment such as advanced geological microscopes, as well as an extensive library. Learn about the wildlife and ecosystems of the Arctic or be a part of live scientific research with the Citizen Science programme.
Optional Activties in the Northwest Passage
Get the most out of your cruise with activities run by our Expedition Team. They start from the ship, and are available for reservation once you get onboard. Activities are subject to change.
Please note that these are optional activities and additional costs apply.
Hiking
Our experienced guides will take the lead on optional hikes to areas of natural beauty. In Greenland, try the long hike through Paradise Valley and around Mt. Lille Malene. Or for the very fit climber, Isimiut’s Palaasip Qaqqa mountain path is well worth the scenery at the top. At Red Bay in Labrador, Canada, a hike up Tracey Hill will reward you with a fantastic view.
* Please note that this is an optional activity and additional cost applies
Kayaking
The kayak or ‘man’s boat’ originated in the Arctic region. Channel the Inuit kayakers of centuries past as you glide silently through still Arctic waters, with icebergs and glaciers towering in the distance.
* Please note that this is an optional activity and additional cost applies
Weather on your expedition
One important piece of kit you’ll need is awareness; awareness that it’s the elements that dictate what activities we are able to offer you on your cruise and when. Every expedition is unique. Changeable weather and shifting conditions may mean we need to tweak our planned programme of activities. But rest assured, whatever activities you are able to do, you’ll be in for an adventure of a lifetime.