Expedition in the Canadian Arctic and Greenland – Tour of Baffin Bay

Overview

Day 1 Welcome to Reykjavik

Day 2 Boarding Day in Nuuk

Day 3 At Sea

Days 4-6 East Coast of Baffin Island (Qikiqtaaluk)

Day 7 Relaxation at Sea

Days 8-11 At Sea

Day 12 Expedition Day

Days 13-14 Exploration of the Thule Region

Day 15 Melville Bay

Days 16-18 West Greenland

Day 19 Headed to Nuuk

Day 20 End of the Expedition in Nuuk

Day 21 Return to Reykjavik

Highlights of the Journey

• Explore the best of the Western Arctic as you navigate the icy waters of Baffin Bay, exploring Baffin Island, Devon Island, Northwest Greenland, and Disko Bay.
• Visit isolated communities in the Canadian Arctic and Greenland and get acquainted with life in the Far North while enjoying incredible landscapes and Arctic wildlife.
• Discover the renowned Tallurutiup Imanga National Marine Conservation Area and the UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord aboard the MS Roald Amundsen, a ship specially designed for exploration.

Itinerary

DAY 1 | WELCOME TO REYKJAVIK

EXPLORE REYKJAVIK, THE NORTHERNMOST CAPITAL IN THE WORLD

Your adventure begins with a night in Reykjavik. A city of art, culture, and history with a laid-back atmosphere, delightful Reykjavik is worth taking the time to explore. Stroll along Laugavegur, lined with shops and outdoor activity equipment stores, admire the striking Hallgrímskirkja Cathedral, or visit the fascinating Reykjavik Art Museum. If you have time, we recommend booking a pre-program with us to discover a selection of Iceland’s natural wonders before the start of your cruise.

DAY 2 | EMBARKATION DAY IN NUUK

WELCOME TO THE CAPITAL OF GREENLAND

Today, your day starts early as we head to Reykjavik Airport to fly to Nuuk. Nuuk is the capital of Greenland, colorful and compact, with less than 20,000 inhabitants. Located just 150 miles from the Arctic Circle, this picturesque city is a striking blend of old and modern buildings, with the Quassussuaq and Ukkusissat mountain peaks in the background. Your expedition ship awaits you at the port. You will be welcomed on board, receive your complimentary expedition jacket, and then it’s time to settle into your cabin and enjoy your first meal on the ship.

DAY 3 | AT SEA

CROSSING THE ARCTIC CIRCLE

As we sail towards the Arctic Circle, your expedition team will provide information on the rules and recommendations of the AECO for visiting the Arctic region safely and responsibly. Make sure to attend these mandatory presentations if you wish to participate in planned landings in the High North.

You can also take advantage of the ship’s state-of-the-art facilities and attend the first lectures on topics related to the Canadian Arctic, such as ornithology, geopolitics, and culture. You will also learn about the citizen science projects conducted on board the ship. At some point during the journey, we will cross the Arctic Circle, marking the entrance to the Midnight Sun territory in the heart of summer.

DAYS 4-6 | EAST COAST OF BAFFIN ISLAND (QIKIQTAALUK)

TRAVERSE THE MAJESTY OF THE UNKNOWN

The shores of Baffin Island (Qikiqtaaluk) are shrouded in ice for most of the year. In August, the ice begins to recede, allowing ships to navigate these waters for a brief period. The sea ice environment around the island is a natural wonder that creates a rich habitat for wildlife and flora.

Our goal is to reach the small village of Qikiqtarjuaq, where we hope to commence our adventures in the Canadian Arctic. As true explorers, our itinerary will be determined by the presence and concentration of sea ice. We will plan our excursions and landing sites in consultation with local communities to avoid disrupting their seasonal activities.

Possible destinations include:

Isabella Bay (Ninginganiq) The Isabella Bay Wildlife Sanctuary (Isabella Bay) is a crucial habitat for Arctic wildlife, particularly for bowhead whales. This area is vital for the preservation of these gigantic marine mammals, as they feed here during the summer.

Sam Ford Fjord (Kangiqtualuk Uqquqti) and Gibbs Fjord Recognizable for their towering peaks and spectacular glaciers, these fjords are famous for their grand landscapes and are highly sought after by nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. This region is home to abundant wildlife, including marine mammals such as seals and whales, as well as a variety of bird species.

Coutts Inlet (Inalugaarjuup Kangiqłua) Experience the solitude and serenity of this remote and rarely visited wilderness. The fjord system, with a depth of 80 kilometers, consists of two arms: the “north arm” and the main inlet. One of the most elusive species in the Arctic, the narwhal, can be found here.

DAY 7 | DAY AT SEA

SAILING TOWARDS THE GATES OF THE NORTHWEST PASSAGE

After a few days of exploration, take advantage of a day at sea and prepare for the next leg of your journey as we head north towards the entrance of the Northwest Passage.

Days at sea provide the ideal opportunity for relaxation on board. Engage in conversations with your new friends in the Expedition Lounge & Bar, take the chance to attend lectures, and relish delightful meals. If you haven’t tried the hot tubs yet, now is the time to do so.

DAYS  8-11 | DAYS AT SEA

LANCASTER SOUND AND DEVON ISLAND

Welcome to Lancaster Sound (Tallurutiup Imanga), the gateway to the Northwest Passage. This breathtaking region is home to incredible landscapes, iconic Arctic wildlife, and vibrant Inuit communities. We plan to sail through the heart of the sound, and over the course of three days in the area, we’ll explore, if possible, the following sites:

Dundas Harbour

This historical and picturesque site is located on the south coast of Devon Island. The harbor served as a former post of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and was also a base for scientific research and exploration. The peninsula is a stunning hiking ground where musk oxen are frequently spotted.

Beechey Island (Iluvilik)

This site holds significance in the history of Arctic exploration, notably known for Franklin’s ill-fated expedition in the mid-19th century. The island is home to several well-preserved graves of expedition members and a monument commemorating Arctic exploration efforts.

Croker Bay

A scenic bay on the south coast of Devon Island. With two large glaciers descending from the island’s ice cap, the location is perfect for excursions in expedition boats. You might even spot walruses lounging around the crevassed ice floes.

Coburg Island (Nirjutiqarvik)

Designated as a protected nature reserve, this island aptly bears its Inuktitut name, Nirjutiqarvik, meaning “the place of animals.” The island is renowned for its significant colonies of seabirds, including large populations of Brünnich’s guillemots and northern fulmars, serving as an important feeding ground for marine mammals.

DAY 12 | EXPEDITION DAY

EXPERIENCE A DAY OF ADVENTURE IN THE HIGH ARCTIC

Before your journey continues towards northwest Greenland, enjoy an expedition day in the northern part of Baffin Bay. Landings, kayak excursions – be prepared for anything! The captain and the expedition team will decide on the best sites and activities based on the day’s conditions. We will land at sites related to early explorations, visit Inuit communities, and observe Arctic wildlife such as whales, narwhals, seals, and seabirds.Haut du formulaire

DAYS 13-14 | DISCOVERY OF THE THULE REGION

EXPLORE A WORLD AT THE EDGE OF THE EARTH

Named in the 5th century BC by the Greek explorer Pytheas, “Ultima Thule” referred to a mythical land located in the Far North. No one knows exactly which territory Pytheas was referring to. However, some say it was the northern part of Greenland. As we explore the region, expect to experience wild beauty at the edge of civilization. Extreme weather conditions throughout the year impose isolation and challenging living conditions on the inhabitants. Even by Arctic standards, Thule is a particularly harsh and isolated region. Yet, it was the first region in Greenland to be colonized by the predecessors of the Inuit, about 4,500 years ago. Arctic archaeologists still don’t fully understand how they managed to survive and establish themselves in such a hostile environment. The rich animal life, especially avian, is a significant source of sustenance, and hunting culture in this region remains rooted in traditions compared to the rest of Greenland. At one point, the Arctic travel experience of the locals, who served as guides or rescuers, was highly sought after by European or American expedition leaders. This was because, due to its geographical location, the region served as the natural starting point for many journeys to the North Pole. We will spend the next few days exploring the region. Keep in mind that our program depends on the fluctuating weather and ice conditions. We plan to visit local communities, make landings with expedition boats in the heart of breathtaking nature, navigate through icy channels, and, if luck is on our side, observe Arctic giants, including walruses, orcas, narwhals, belugas, and perhaps even polar bears.

DAY 15 | MELVILLE BAY

RELAXATION AND LEARNING AT SEA

We will spend the day on the high seas, crossing Melville Bay. This vast bay borders the frozen coast of Lauge Koch, where the ice cap meets the sea. Locally known as Qimusseriarsuaq, « the great dog sled trail, » the bay was renamed by British explorers in honor of Robert Dundas, the second Viscount Melville, in the mid-19th century. Enjoy this day of sailing well beyond the 70th degree north. Relax on board, participate in wildlife observations on the deck with the expedition team, and enhance your knowledge of the Arctic through the lecture program covering topics such as nature, geology, and mythology.

DAYS 16-18 | WEST GREENLAND

DISCOVER THE WONDERS OF WEST GREENLAND

The final chapter of our thrilling adventure around Baffin Bay takes us to a region of extreme natural beauty: the fjords of West Greenland and Disko Bay. Nicknamed the “Arctic iceberg factory,” this region produces the most ice in the entire Northern Hemisphere.

As always, nature is in control, and our exact itinerary will depend on the weather conditions and ice conditions on the day. Potential landing sites include:

Uummannaq Fjord

In the Greenlandic “Great North,” the beauty of the land and the relative productivity of the environment have fascinated for thousands of years. Intriguing archaeological sites reveal, without a word, the ability of Arctic peoples to thrive in such a hostile environment. We may visit the community of Uummannaq – a charming island town housing a heart-shaped mountain – or the archaeological site of Qilakitsok, where the famous Greenlandic mummies were discovered.

Viagat Sound

Also known as Sullorsuaq Strait, this beautiful waterway is located between two rugged land masses at the northern end of Disko Bay. Depending on weather conditions and opportunities to observe wildlife, we may use our small expedition boats to land on a beach or perhaps approach a glacier. Keep your binoculars and camera ready for the chance to admire humpback whales, orcas, and bowhead whales, as well as several species of seals.

Ilulissat Icefjord UNESCO World Heritage Site

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this spectacular location is regularly among Greenland’s must-see sites. Marvel at the giant icebergs floating peacefully in the deep blue waters, displaying different shades of white, gray, and blue. All photographers, whether amateur or seasoned, will return to the ship with envy-inducing shots. Visit the Ilulissat Icefjord Center to learn more about the ice in this fascinating region and take a hike to Sermermiut to soak in the incredible views.

DAY 19 | HEADING TO NUUK

A LAST DAY AT SEA FOR REST AND REFLECTION

After exploring the ethereal and wild beauty of West Greenland, you’ll enjoy a day at sea to reflect on the highlights of your journey with the expedition team, learn more about Greenland’s fragile ecology in the Science Center, and relax.

On the deck, you might catch a glimpse of whales or seabirds that enjoy following our ship. Our onboard photographer can provide tips for capturing them in action. You can even contribute to our Happywhale citizen science project by documenting the whales you spot.

This will also be the perfect time to enjoy the panoramic sauna, the hot tubs on the deck, or the heated pool. Or, you can book a treatment in our wellness area. You can also socialize with fellow explorers by sharing a drink at the Explorer Lounge & Bar.

DAY 20 | END OF THE EXPEDITION IN NUUK

RETURN TO NUUK

Today, our return to Nuuk marks the end of your journey around Baffin Bay. It’s time to bid farewell to the MS Roald Amundsen, its crew, and the expedition team. Nuuk is a relative metropolis compared to all the other cities you have visited in the country over the past two weeks, providing a fascinating glimpse into modern Greenland.

From there, you will take a flight to Reykjavik and spend the night in a local hotel.

DAY 21 | RETURN TO REYKJAVIK

EXPLORE THE ICELANDIC CAPITAL MORE DEEPLY

Your adventure concludes in Reykjavik, providing a new opportunity to explore Iceland’s stylish capital. If you wish to extend your exploration, you can sign up for our optional post-program before your return or simply prolong your stay to enjoy Reykjavik and its surrounding geothermal attractions a little longer.