DESCRIPTION:

Canada’s Ellesmere Island stretches farther north than any other land in the world, save for Greenland—explore both on this epic Arctic expedition. This is a region of ancient ice, where tidewater glaciers of exceptional beauty dominate the landscape. Few humans have ever been here. It is home to hunting polar bears, muskox, and extremely rare wildlife, including narwhal. Rely on the expedition team’s experience in Baffin Island and Lancaster Sound at the entrance to the Northwest Passage to ensure peak exploration and wildlife encounters; and then strike as far north at the ice allows, tracing the rarely visited coast of northwest Greenland and Ellesmere Islands into parts largely unknown, where the only assurance is great wonder, beauty, and genuine exploration.

The High Arctic in its full glory is a lifetime experience. Venture to new frontiers deep into the far reaches of the ice to Zodiac cruise, kayak, and hike the tundra. Trace the rugged fjords of rarely explored northwest Greenland to the massive ice cap, spotting arctic wildlife and marveling at hardy Inuit communities. Glide between soaring icebergs at the mouth of Greenland’s Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Follow in the wake of legendary explorers and hear their dramatic stories as we explore Lancaster Sound, the gateway to the Northwest Passage, and then venture even farther north. Observe polar bears, arctic foxes and caribou, ringed seals, humpback, minke, and beluga whales, and perhaps elusive narwhals. Discover the incredible landscapes and wildlife of legendary Baffin Island on hikes and excursions by Zodiac. Encounter the legacy of the ancient Inuit, Thule, Dorset. Archaeological sites abound in the areas we visit, some unexcavated but marvelously preserved by the temperatures of the Far North. Explore the geologic phenomena of Iceland’s capital, Reykjavík.

CONSIDER:

There are various iterations of this itinerary, and it is also possible to visit these destinations by land as well. Please inquire.

OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS & ADD-ONS:

Please inquire.

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL:

For expedition cruises, the season is usually spring and summer.