Exploring the Canadian Arctic

Discover the ice floe in springtime, where you may be lucky enough to spot polar bears, narwhals and icebergs under the midnight sun. Head to northern Baffin Island, where the ice floe meets the ocean, a vital area for many marine and wild animals, also known as the ‘lifeline’ or ‘Sinaaq’ in Inuktitut.

Sirmilik National Park is a veritable natural treasure trove. Between granite cliffs, imposing glaciers and glistening icebergs, discover the local wildlife. Stay in a tented safari camp, with a breathtaking view of Bylot Island and privileged access to the ice floe of Eclipse Sound.

Guided by Inuit and travelling in small groups, journey to the floe edge for days of discovery, with good conditions there’s fantastic narwhal watching with the chance to see a variety of seabirds, polar bears, seals as well as possibly beluga and bowhead whales. Perfect for families, first-time visitors to the Arctic, and also professional photographers looking for the ultimate floe edge experience.

DAY 1 | OTTAWA / POND INLET

Upon landing in Pond Inlet, you will be welcomed by your Expedition Leader and transferred to a local hotel, where you will enjoy a hot dinner and trip briefing. Overnight in hotel.

Meals: Breakfast and snack (in-flight), Dinner

DAY 2 | POND INLET / ARCTIC SAFARI CAMP

After breakfast, participate in an orientation from Parks Canada and meet your guides on the beach in preparation for your departure for the camp on Eclipse Sound. Travelling to the camp by qamutik (a traditional Inuit wooden sled with suspension and foam-padded seats, pulled behind a snowmobile), you will experience the exhilarating experience of gliding across the ice. The journey’s time will vary depending on ice conditions but will include tea and coffee stops. The Arctic Safari camp will be set up a few kilometres back from the floe edge.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner included

DAY 3 – 6 | EXCURSIONS

Excursions will include trips out to the floe edge in search of the local wildlife. Enjoy the mild spring weather to engage in a variety of activities at the floe edge. Snorkel and kayak amongst sea ice when conditions permit.

One of the greatest highlights of this safari is the opportunity to observe a wide variety of Arctic wildlife in their natural habitat. Migratory birds are also in abundance, and with the stillness of the Arctic, you are able to hear the songs of the birds before you even see them. Ice conditions permitting, you may also visit the Bylot Island Migratory Bird Sanctuary, where more than 200,000 birds choose to nest each year. For birders, the earlier departures are best for this activity.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner included

DAY 7 | POND INLET

After breakfast, depart camp by qamutik and snowmobile to Pond Inlet. Enjoy your final night in Pond Inlet with a special Inuit cultural presentation. Overnight in hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 8 | POND INLET / OTTAWA

Depart for Ottawa with the spirit of the Arctic, and a full album of memories and friendships.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (in flight)