Journey above the Arctic Circle on an unforgettable expedition. Explore the northerly shores of Canada’s Baffin Island and the western coast of Greenland, searching for the wildlife and visiting the local communities. Zodiac excursions provide the best perspective of icebergs, glaciers and fjords, while community visits immerse you in life in the north. The rugged beauty of the Arctic will have you in awe – soaring cliffs and shimmering icebergs dot the landscape. Watch for whales in their natural surroundings or get a glimpse of one of the Arctic’s most iconic animals – the polar bear.
Circling the Western Arctic on such a thorough expedition means you have more time and opportunity to see the iconic wildlife of the arctic. Watch for muskoxen, walrus, whales, polar bears or, if you’re really lucky, maybe you’ll even spot a narwhal.
Float through icy waters as the steep walls of a fjord surround you, the thunderous sound of glaciers calve in the distance, and an iceberg shimmers in the water ahead. The best way to to experience the arctic is from sea level in a zodiac.
Expedition leaders and staff bring every moment of your adventure to life. Experts In polar history, marine biology, glaciology and photography immerse you in a true Arctic experience – with cultural stories, educational presentations, or helping you capture that perfect moment with photography tips.
Think of this itinerary as just a starting point. Our experienced Canadian Insiders will create a personalized experience for you that matches your schedule, travel style and budget.
Your arctic expedition begins upon arrival in Reykjavik. Explore Iceland’s capital city on your own before your journey continues north tomorrow.
(1 of 1 activities)
Upon arrival at the Keflavik Airport you will make your own way into downtown Reykjavik for the night. An expedition representative will be available at your hotel this evening to answer any last-minute questions you may have before your journey begins tomorrow.
Overnight in a conveniently located hotel, such as the Fosshotel Reykjavík. Only a short walk from the main shopping area and the heart of the city, you can explore Reykjavík's architecture, history, vibrant markets and rich culture – an ideal starting point for exploration.
The excitement builds as you join fellow passengers on a transfer to the airport and board a charter flight to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland where you will set sail on your Arctic expedition.
(1 of 3 activities)
Kangerlussuaq is a small town at the eastern head of Sondre Stromfjord, one of the longest fjords in the world. After embarking your ship in the afternoon, enjoy time out on deck, taking in your new surroundings as your adventure begins.
(2 of 3 activities)
The Ocean Adventurer is an Ice Class 1A expedition cruise vessel. Renovated in 2017, the newly refurbished vessel features a dining room, boutique and library, multi-purpose lounge, and exercise room. There is a maximum of 128 guests to 87 staff and crew.
(3 of 3 activities)
Add-on a kayaking program and discover what it means to be one with the sea. Imagine gliding across the surface of a bay in the presence of icebergs and glaciers. A small group of kayakers will plan to go out multiple times per voyage instead of shore landings. Kayaking is weather dependent and previous experience is required.
A Lower Deck Twin cabin has two lower berths, private facilities, and a porthole with exterior views. Please note that porthole covers may be closed during sea days or during inclement weather as a safety precaution.
As you cruise across the Davis Strait, your Expedition Team will prepare you for the adventures that await. Learn about the storied history and politics of the Arctic, its fascinating wildlife, geology, ecology and climate, and the incredible sights you will soon explore.
(1 of 1 activities)
Throughout your journey, expedition staff will also keep a lookout for seabirds soaring above your ship, as well as whales that frequent the waters here. Make sure to keep your camera ready for photo opportunities.
Today your cruise reaches the shores of the Canadian Arctic. Baffin Island is the fifth-largest island in the world, it was named for English navigator William Baffin, who ventured to the area in the early 17th century in search of the fabled Northwest Passage.
(1 of 1 activities)
Your days sailing along Baffin Island’s eastern coast will be guided by weather and ice conditions, with each day providing new adventures. Favourite destinations include Qikiqtarjuaq, Isabella Bay and Sam Ford Fjord. Towering mountains, deep fjords, colourful tundra, and Inuit settlements are sure to please!
The Inuit community of Qikiqtarjuaq (which means “the big island” in Inuktitut) is located just north of the Arctic Circle, on Broughton Island. Fondly called Qik by locals, the welcoming hamlet offers a superb vantage point of the Davis Strait.
(1 of 1 activities)
When making landings to visit local communities you’ll have a chance to support local Inuit artisans by purchasing unique artwork, crafts and jewelry. Enjoy unique cultural experiences and learning opportunities.
The rarely explored Sam Ford Fjord is one of the most isolated places on the planet. It is a spectacular big-wall playground, attracting adventurous climbers eager to scale the dozens of towering vertical granite cliffs that erupt from the sea.
(1 of 1 activities)
Have your camera handy as you cruise along this impressive coastline carved by ancient glaciers – the towering formations, stacked side by side, are simply majestic. Onboard photography guides can help you capture the perfect picture.
As your ship sails farther north, take in a presentation by the onboard experts, sip an icy cocktail in the bar, watch a movie or join your Expedition Team on the bridge as they scan for wildlife, there is no shortage of activities while at sea.
(1 of 1 activities)
These Arctic waters have been inspiring explorers for hundreds of years. Breathe deep and take in your own moment of exploration as you sail through the crisp fresh air of these remote Arctic regions.
Lancaster sound is the gateway to the Northwest Passage and one of the richest marine habitats in the Arctic. With open-water areas staying ice-free all year, it is an important summer feeding area for whales and marine wildlife. Polar bear sightings are possible too.
(1 of 1 activities)
Your days here will be spent exploring several of the sound’s beautiful bays and inlets, discovering historical sites, enjoying Zodiac cruises and searching for iconic wildlife such as walrus, seals and, of course, whales. You may even spot the elusive narwhal!
There may be a chance for a shore visit at Radstock Bay, the location of one of the most impressive ancient Thule sites in the Arctic. The Thule people were the ancestors of the modern Inuit.
(1 of 1 activities)
Exploring the well-preserved remains of the subterranean houses, including the whale bones used as supports for the dwellings, will give you an understanding of how these pre-Inuit people thrived in the far north.
Attempt to land at Beechey Island today. This Canadian National Historic Site is named after explorer Frederick William Beechey, the island is the final resting place of members of Sir John Franklin’s 1845–46 expedition to find the Northwest Passage.
(1 of 1 activities)
The graves of the Franklin Expedition will leave a lasting memory. Located on a desolate rocky beach, they were discovered in 1850 by a team searching for signs of the ill-fated expedition.
Covered in glaciers and ice fields, Coburg Island and the surrounding waters make up the Nirjutiqavvik National Wildlife Area. Steep coastal cliffs are an ideal habitat for thousands of nesting seabirds like Brünnich’s guillemots (thick-billed murres), black-legged kittiwakes, northern fulmars and black guillemots.
(1 of 1 activities)
The past few days of adventuring through Lancaster Sound highlights the best of the Canadian Arctic. The order of activities and locations visited is dependent on weather and ice in the region. Your expedition team will modify your itinerary to provide the best possible experience.
Before saying goodbye to Canada, the expedition team will lead you as far north as possible, exploring both sides of Smith Sound, the uninhabited passage between Ellesmere Island and Greenland.
(1 of 1 activities)
Experience the nature of true expedition travel as the weather and ice determine how far north the ship can explore. This will be the farthest north you will travel into the Arctic.
Your return to Greenland will have you sailing along the remote northwest coast, a land of impressive icebergs and massive glaciers.
(1 of 1 activities)
In Greenland the town of Qaanaaq, previously known as Thule, is one of the northernmost communities in the world. Here, local Inuit people share their culture and traditions, while a visit to the museum tells the story of life near the top of the world.
Your expedition will explore Melville Bay today as long as the ice allows. Melville Bay was an important whaling site until the early 1900s. Learn about the importance of this industry for the local communities and the world.
(1 of 2 activities)
Opening up to Baffin Bay, the Melville Bay area is a major egress for the Greenland ice cap and is home to spectacular icebergs in all shapes and sizes, making it an ideal spot for Zodiac cruising.
(2 of 2 activities)
Add-on a one-time paddling excursion. Imagine gliding across the water's surface in the presence of icebergs and glaciers. Explore using sit-on-top kayaks, which are stable and perfect for anyone with little to no kayak experience. Expert guides take groups on calm days to connect with the sea.
Your expedition cruise continues to sail south along the west coast of Greenland today.
(1 of 1 activities)
While you spend the day at sea presentations by on-board experts will prepare you for the adventures that lie ahead and are ready to chat about history, ornithology, biology, geology and more.
Featuring spectacular glaciers, mountainous landscapes, dramatic fjords and vibrant communities, the west coast of Greenland will leave you in awe. Possible highlights include stops at Uummannaq, Itilleq and the impressive Ilulissat Icefjord. Have your camera ready!
(1 of 1 activities)
One of the most picturesque places in Greenland is the Inuit town of Uummannaq, named after the red heart-shaped mountain that rises 1,170 m (3,840 ft) behind it. Be ready on deck with your camera to capture the twin peaks soaring above the colourful houses dotting the coastline.
Another beautiful location is the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Home to Jakobshavn, one of the most active glaciers in the world, this is a great spot to enjoy a Zodiac excursion past towering icebergs.
(1 of 1 activities)
Venturing ashore in the town of Ilulissat (which means “iceberg”) will allow you to visit the icefjord on foot and gaze at this unforgettable river of ice from the rocky shore. Get up close and feel the chill in the air flowing over the ice.
Surrounded by sea and mountains, Itilleq sits on a small island about 2 km (1 mile) above the Arctic Circle. Learn about the Greenlandic sled dog which are not allowed farther south and are the only dogs allowed this far north to keep the breed pure.
(1 of 1 activities)
Explore the town’s traditional wooden houses painted in a rainbow of colours, chat with the locals and learn about their main trade of fishing, and maybe join in a game of football (soccer) – it won’t be long before you’re experiencing Itilleq’s friendly vibe.
Savour one last Zodiac ride as you travel for the last time between ship and shore. Back in Kangerlussuaq your expedition team will handle all the details with a transfer to the airport.
(1 of 1 activities)
Board your charter flight from Kangerlussuaq, Greenland back to Reykjavik, Iceland. Upon arrival at the Keflavik Airport, a transfer is included to your conveniently located hotel for one last night.
Overnight in a conveniently located hotel, such as the Park Inn, situated in Keflavik city center, just 5 km (3 miles) from Keflavik International Airport. Walk to the seaside and attractions like Viking World. The world-famous Blue Lagoon is only a 20-minute drive, and Reykjavik is 45 km (28 miles).
Your journey comes to an end today as you depart Iceland at your leisure or spend time exploring the vibrant city of Reykjavik.
(1 of 1 activities)
A transfer is included between your hotel located near the airport and the airport today. If you would like to spend time exploring the city of Reykjavik before you depart you may transfer independently into the city.
Below you'll find examples of this trip's accommodation options.
Please call us for the full list or advice on how to customize your experience.
To make sure that your holiday is full of only good surprises, here's a comprehensive list of what is (and isn't) included in your package.
This trip is available for departures in September.
based on double occupancy, September 2020 departure and our base class.
We offer a range of packages across all four seasons. Please speak with one of our travel advisors about personalizing your trip and getting a comprehensive quote.
WORKING TOGETHER
INSIDER EXPERTISE
HELP ON HAND
Toll-free