Expedition to 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 Relaxing Day 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 Heading back to Nuuk

Day 20 End of Expedition in Nuuk

Day 21 Return to Reykjavik

Highlights of the Journey

• Experience 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, immersing yourself in life in the Far North while taking in incredible landscapes and Arctic wildlife.
• Discover the renowned Tallurutiup Imanga National Marine Conservation Area and UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord aboard the MS Roald Amundsen, a ship specially designed for exploration.

Itinerary

JOUR 1 | BIENVENUE À REYKJAVIK

EXPLORE REYKJAVIK, THE WORLD’S NORTHERNMOST CAPITAL CITY

Your adventure begins with a night in Reykjavik.

A city of art, culture, and history with a relaxed atmosphere, delightful Reykjavik is well worth exploring. Stroll along Laugavegur, lined with shops and outdoor gear 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 explore a selection of Iceland’s natural wonders before your cruise departure.

DAY 2 | BOARDING 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, the capital of Greenland, is colorful and compact, home to fewer than 20,000 residents. Located just 150 miles south of the Arctic Circle, this picturesque city is a striking blend of old and modern buildings, set against the backdrop of the Quassussuaq and Ukkusissat mountain peaks.

Your expedition ship awaits at the port. Upon boarding, you’ll be welcomed on board and receive your complimentary expedition jacket. 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

During the navigation towards the Arctic Circle, your expedition team will brief you on the rules and recommendations of the AECO (Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators) for safely and responsibly visiting the Arctic region. Make sure to attend these mandatory presentations if you wish to participate in the planned landings in the Far North.

You’ll also have the opportunity to enjoy the ship’s state-of-the-art facilities and attend initial lectures on topics related to the Canadian Arctic, such as ornithology, geopolitics, and culture. You’ll also learn about the citizen science projects we conduct on board the ship.

At some point during the journey, we will cross the Arctic Circle, marking the entry into the territory of the Midnight Sun, in the heart of summer.

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

EMBRACE THE MAJESTY OF THE UNKNOWN

The coasts of Baffin Island (Qikiqtaaluk) are ice-covered for much 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 Ninginganiq National Wildlife Area (Isabella Bay) is a crucial habitat for Arctic wildlife, particularly bowhead whales. This area is vital for the preservation of these massive marine mammals, which feed here during the summer.

Sam Ford Fjord (Kangiqtualuk Uqquqti) and Gibbs Fjord

Known 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. The region hosts abundant wildlife, including marine mammals such as seals and whales, as well as a wide variety of bird species.

Coutts Inlet (Inalugaarjuup Kangiqłua)

Experience the solitude and serenity of this isolated and rarely visited wilderness area. The fjord system, with a depth of 80 kilometers, consists of two arms: the “north arm” and the main inlet. It is home to one of the most elusive species in the Arctic, the narwhal.

DAY 7 | RELAXATION AT SEA

NAVIGATING TOWARDS THE GATES OF THE NORTHWEST PASSAGE

After a few days of exploration, enjoy 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 are the perfect opportunity to unwind on board. Chat with your new friends in the Expedition Lounge & Bar, attend informative lectures, and savor delightful meals. If you haven’t tried the hot tubs yet, now is the time.

DAYS 8-11 | 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 aim to explore the following sites if conditions permit:

Dundas Harbour

This historic and picturesque site is located on the south coast of Devon Island. The harbor served as a former Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) post and has been a base for scientific research and exploration. The peninsula offers superb hiking opportunities with frequent sightings of muskoxen.

Beechey Island (Iluvilik)

Significant in Arctic exploration history, Beechey Island is known for the ill-fated Franklin 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 picturesque bay on the south coast of Devon Island, characterized by two large glaciers descending from the island’s ice cap. This area is perfect for expedition boat outings, with opportunities to spot walruses lounging on the crevassed ice floes.

Coburg Island (Nirjutiqarvik)

Designated as a protected nature reserve, Coburg Island lives up to its Inuktitut name, Nirjutiqarvik, meaning “place of many animals.” The island is renowned for its significant seabird colonies, including large populations of Brünnich’s guillemots and northern fulmars, and serves as an important feeding ground for marine mammals.

DAY 12 | EXPEDITION DAY

EXPERIENCE A DAY OF ADVENTURE IN THE FAR NORTH

Before your adventure continues towards northwest Greenland, enjoy an expedition day in the northern reaches of Baffin Bay.

Landings, kayak excursions—be prepared for anything! The captain and expedition team will decide on the best sites and activities based on the day’s conditions. We’ll explore sites connected to early explorations, visit Inuit communities, and observe Arctic wildlife such as whales, narwhals, seals, and seabirds.

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 for certain which territory Pytheas was referring to, but some believe it was the northern part of Greenland.

As we explore this region, expect to experience wild beauty at the edge of civilization. Extreme weather conditions year-round impose isolation and harsh living conditions on the inhabitants. Even by Arctic standards, Thule is an exceptionally rugged and isolated region. Yet, it was the first region of Greenland to be colonized by predecessors of the Inuit around 4,500 years ago. Arctic archaeologists still puzzle over how they managed to survive and establish themselves in such a hostile environment.

The rich animal life, especially bird species, provides a vital source of sustenance, and hunting culture in this region remains deeply rooted in tradition compared to the rest of Greenland. At one time, the local expertise in Arctic travel, serving as guides or rescuers, was highly sought after by European or American expedition leaders. Due to its geographical location, the region served as a natural starting point for many journeys to the North Pole.

In the coming days, we will explore the region. Keep in mind that our schedule depends on fluctuating weather and ice conditions. We plan to visit local communities, embark on expedition boat landings amidst stunning nature, navigate through icy channels, and, if luck is on our side, observe Arctic giants such as walruses, orcas, narwhals, belugas, and perhaps even polar bears.

DAY 15 | MELVILLE BAY

RELAXATION AND LEARNING AT SEA

We will spend the day at high sea, crossing Melville Bay. This vast bay borders the icy coast of Lauge Koch, where the ice cap meets the sea. Locally known as Qimusseriarsuaq, “the great dogsled trail,” the bay was renamed by British explorers in honor of Robert Dundas, the 2nd Viscount Melville, in the mid-19th century.

Enjoy this day of navigation well beyond the 70th parallel north. Relax on board, participate in wildlife observations on deck with the expedition team, and enrich your knowledge of the Arctic through lectures on 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. Dubbed “the iceberg factory of the Arctic,” this region produces more ice than anywhere else in the Northern Hemisphere.

As always, nature dictates, and our exact itinerary will depend on the weather conditions and ice conditions on the day. Possible landing sites include:

Uummannaq Fjord

In Greenland’s “Far North,” the beauty of the land and the relative productivity of the environment have fascinated for thousands of years. Intriguing archaeological sites silently reveal the Arctic peoples’ ability to thrive in such a harsh environment. We may visit the community of Uummannaq—a charming island town with a heart-shaped mountain—or the archaeological site of Qilakitsok, where famous Greenlandic mummies were discovered.

Viagat Sound

Also known as Sullorsuaq Strait, this stunning waterway lies between two rugged land masses at the northern tip of Disko Bay. Depending on weather and wildlife-viewing opportunities, we may use our expedition boats to land on a beach or approach a glacier. Keep your binoculars and camera ready for the chance to spot humpback whales, orcas, bowhead whales, and various seal species.

Ilulissat Icefjord UNESCO World Heritage Site

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this spectacular location is regularly ranked among Greenland’s must-see destinations. Marvel at giant icebergs peacefully floating in deep blue waters, displaying shades of white, gray, and blue. Whether you’re an amateur or seasoned photographer, you’ll return to the ship with envy-inducing shots. Visit the Ilulissat Icefjord Center to learn more about the ice in this fascinating region and hike to Sermermiut for incredible views.

DAY 19 | HEADING TOWARDS NUUK

A FINAL DAY AT SEA TO REST AND REFLECT

After exploring the ethereal and wild beauty of West Greenland, you will 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 deck, you may spot whales or seabirds that often follow our ship. Our onboard photographer will be available to offer tips for capturing these moments. You can also participate in counting whales for our Happywhale citizen science project.

This will be the perfect time to enjoy the sauna with panoramic views, the hot tubs on deck, or the heated swimming pool. You can also book a treatment in our wellness area or enjoy the company of fellow explorers over 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’ve visited in the country over the past two weeks, offering a fascinating glimpse into modern Greenland.

From here, you will catch a flight to Reykjavik and spend the night at a local hotel.

DAY 21 | RETURN TO REYKJAVIK

EXPLORE MORE OF THE ICELANDIC CAPITAL

Your adventure concludes in Reykjavik, providing a new opportunity to explore Iceland’s elegant capital.

If you wish to further your exploration, you can sign up for our optional post-program before your return. Alternatively, extend your stay and enjoy Reykjavik and its surrounding geothermal attractions a little longer.