Intrepid Travel
Northwest Passage: The Legendary Arctic Sea Route
Northwest Passage: The Legendary Arctic Sea Route
Put down your mobile phone and answer the call of the wild on this adventure across the waters of the Canadian Arctic. Encounter Inuit culture, explore landscapes that bring the drama, spot unique wildlife and holiday like an explorer of old (except, you know, with a sauna and helicopters). From Reykjavik, fly to the western shores of Greenland and begin your Arctic exploration on board a state-of-the-art expedition vessel. Cross the Davis Strait to remote landing sites on Baffin Island, scouring the skies for migrating birds and the waters for whale pods. Your journey will take you high to the Northwest Passage, sailing through immense fjords, past calving glaciers and to some of the world’s most remote shores. True wilderness has never been closer than during these 17 days in the Arctic.
Activities
Highlights
- Discover highlights of both Greenland and the Canadian Arctic on a polar expedition that focuses on remote natural landscapes, ancient Inuit cultures and unique wildlife sightings.
- See the colourful villages of Greenland’s western shores, framed by natural canals and jagged peaks, stopping in to learn about Inuit and Thule histories.
- Take to the water – and the skies – on a series of included Zodiac cruises and helicopter jaunts, taking you to places otherwise inaccessible to human beings.
- After days spent exploring the Arctic wilderness, chill out (and warm up) in an ultra-modern vessel complete with multiple dining, bar and lounge areas, plus health and wellness facilities.
- Enjoy encounters with the Arctic’s impressive wildlife, including whales, walrus and musk oxen, and appreciate the sweeping vistas of colourful tundra, striking fjords and calving glaciers.
Booking Dates
05/16/2025 through 08/13/2026
Travel Dates
05/16/2025 through 09/02/2026
| Day 1 |
On coastal Iceland, the globe's northernmost capital, Reykjavík, invites visitors to discover its unique charms. Iceland is rife with natural wonders: geysers, geothermic spas, waterfalls and the spectacular Northern Lights. Reykjavik, dating back to 870 AD, offers world-class museums, restaurants, shopping and nightlife.
Reykjavík is a popular destination for tourists, with attractions including the towering cathedral Hallgrimskirkja, the steel boat sculpture Sun Voyager, the bustling cafe district Laufavegur, and Perlan, a combination restaurant/planetarium/observatory. You might time your visit to New Year's Eve, when the city is in party mode and the sky is alight with fireworks. |
| Day 2 |
Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, is a gateway to the stunning Arctic wilderness and an essential stop for any intrepid traveler seeking adventure in the icy realms of the north. This remote town, located on the western coast of Greenland, is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, including the vast Søndre Strømfjord, one of the longest fjords in the world. A highlight of visiting Kangerlussuaq is the opportunity to experience the Greenland Ice Sheet firsthand. Just a short drive from the town, the Ice Cap offers breathtaking views and a chance to explore one of the planet’s most significant ice masses. Here, you can embark on guided tours that provide insight into the ice sheet’s geology and its impact on global sea levels. The town is also known for its rich wildlife, including the chance to spot wild reindeer, arctic foxes, and an array of bird species. Kangerlussuaq serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding tundra and for engaging in activities such as hiking and dog sledding. The area’s unique environment, characterized by its stark beauty and remote location, creates an unparalleled experience for nature enthusiasts. Fun Fact: Kangerlussuaq is one of the best places in Greenland to witness the aurora borealis or Northern Lights, especially from September to April. The town's clear skies and minimal light pollution provide exceptional visibility of this natural light display. For a truly memorable visit, consider traveling during the winter months when the Arctic landscape is at its most dramatic, and the auroras are most active. Kangerlussuaq’s remote charm and its access to extraordinary natural wonders make it a must-visit destination for those seeking an adventure off the beaten path. |
| Day 3 |
No place on Earth quite compares to Antarctica, this stunning and vast continent is cold and windy, containing 90% of the ice in the world. Those who brave a visit here are rewarded with beautiful glaciers that must be seen to be believed, and a vast array of wildlife such as whales, penguins, Arctic foxes and seals. Antarctica is the only permanent landing area for the Emperor Penguins. Many of the historic explorer huts remain on the island for visitors to see. |
| Day 4 |
"At Sea" typically refers to the vast and diverse marine environments that span our planet, rather than a specific city or destination. However, exploring the concept of being "at sea" can lead to a variety of fascinating experiences and attractions related to maritime adventures and oceanic wonders. One of the most enticing ways to experience "at sea" is through a luxury cruise. Cruises offer a unique opportunity to explore various destinations while enjoying the comforts and amenities of a floating resort. Modern cruise ships provide a blend of relaxation and adventure with activities ranging from fine dining and Broadway-style shows to excursions exploring tropical islands or historical coastal cities. For those interested in marine life, exploring the world's oceans through scuba diving or snorkeling can be an unforgettable experience. Locations such as the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the coral reefs of Belize offer stunning underwater vistas and an opportunity to observe diverse marine species in their natural habitats. National Geographic provides insights into the best diving spots and conservation efforts that protect these underwater treasures. |
| Day 5 |
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| Day 6 |
This cosmopolitan city beckons with an elegant skyline dotted with numerous skyscrapers. Despite the modern look, Calgary is still steeped in the western culture that earned it the nickname “Cowtown,” as evidenced in the Calgary Stampede, a July rodeo and festival that grew out of the farming exhibitions once presented here. Calgary is a popular filming location including The Assassination of Jesse James, Brokeback Mountain, Dances with Wolves, Doctor Zhivago, Inception, Legends of the Fall, Unforgiven, and The Revenant. |
| Day 7 |
This cosmopolitan city beckons with an elegant skyline dotted with numerous skyscrapers. Despite the modern look, Calgary is still steeped in the western culture that earned it the nickname “Cowtown,” as evidenced in the Calgary Stampede, a July rodeo and festival that grew out of the farming exhibitions once presented here. Calgary is a popular filming location including The Assassination of Jesse James, Brokeback Mountain, Dances with Wolves, Doctor Zhivago, Inception, Legends of the Fall, Unforgiven, and The Revenant. |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
08/26/25 - 09/11/25 |
Starting At $15,894 |
Get A Quote | |
|
08/17/26 - 09/02/26 |
Starting At $20,222 |
Get A Quote |
Offer subject to availability and change without notice. Some restrictions may apply.
