Discover epic ice, dramatic far-north landscapes, polar bears & more

Venture deep into the far northern reaches of the Arctic, on a quest for arctic wildlife and the magisterial scenery of the ice––occurring at an epic scale in Greenland. And share the experience of explorers from ancient to modern, goaded by the desire to discover the Northwest Passage. Another facet of our multifaceted focus on the vital Arctic region, this itinerary provides unique opportunities to:

Navigate the eastern entrance of Canada's fabled Northwest PassageExplore Greenland's fjords, and the Ilulissat Glacier, a UNESCO site and a tongue of the Greenland ice capSpend a week in the Canadian High Arctic observing polar bears and other denizens of the iceVisit an historic Inuit fishing village and former whaling ports

See the roots of human history in the ice
It's one thing to meet people who thrive in the extreme conditions of the Arctic, it's another to see deeply into their culture, history, and traditions. This expedition reveals the deep connection of the Inuit people to these ice lands, as we visit Inuit villages sustained by fishing and artistic traditions. And, it also illuminates the dramatic exploration history of the region––and the changing conditions of the ice that is the topic of much scientific discussion today.

The drama of fjords, crystalline sounds & the ice creatures
We'll look for polar bears hunting along the far reaches of the ice. And will have the opportunity to see the other beautiful creatures of the Arctic: walruses and ringed seals, which have played such a key role in the life of the Inuit. And arctic foxes, plus many of the 60 species of birds that breed in Greenland, including the white-tailed eagle. In the summer months, when we'll be there, it's likely we'll see whales: beluga, bowhead, and perhaps even the elusive narwhal.

Every day is active and engaging
You'll get out on adventures every day––to Zodiac cruise, hike and walk, or kayak in spectacular fjords and crystalline waters like Lancaster Sound, a vital Inuit hunting ground for centuries. You'll have a choice of activities, plus your choice of naturalists to join––for a moveable feast of personalities, insights, and interests. Choice also includes opting to relax too. Enjoy the view from behind Explorer's panoramic glass windows. Or visit the fitness center with its generous views of the ice vistas, or ease into the sauna or a massage in the wellness center.

Day to Day Itinerary

DAY 1-2: U.S./Keflavík, Iceland/Reykjavík

Depart on an overnight flight to Keflavík and transfer to our hotel in Reykjavík. Take a guided overview of the old town, including Hallgrímskirkja Cathedral. Or choose to explore the Blue Lagoon and soak in the geothermal waters. (Day 2: Lunch, Dinner)

DAY 3: Reykjavík/Kangerlussuaq, Greenland/Embark

Fly by chartered aircraft to Greenland. Embark National Geographic Explorer. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

DAY 4: Greenland's West Coast & Sisimiut

Dozens of deep fjords carve into Greenland's west coast, many with glaciers fed by the ice cap that covers 80% of the country. Trace this ragged coastline, and search for humpback and minke whales. At Sisimiut, a former whaling port, visit the museum and wander amid a jumble of wooden 18th-century buildings. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

DAY 5: Disko Bay & Ilulissat

Sail into Disko Bay and set out to explore a tongue of the Greenland ice cap. Take an extraordinary cruise among towering icebergs. Explore the archaeological site at Sermermiut, and view the Jakobshavn Icefjord and its immense, calving glacier. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

DAY 6: At Sea in Baffin Bay

A relaxing day at sea allows for time to hear talks from our staff about the fascinating history of polar exploration. Go up to the bridge to watch for whales. Head up to the library. Enjoy the sauna or have a rigorous workout in the fitness center, with its "million dollar views." Or simply relax in the Observation Lounge. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

DAY 7-10: Exploring The Canadian High Arctic

Carved by Ice Age glaciers, Lancaster Sound is the eastern gateway to the Arctic Archipelago. European explorers like William Baffin first ventured here in the 15th century to search for the Northwest Passage. The sound has been a favorite Inuit hunting and fishing location for hundreds of years. Our days here will be spent searching for ringed seals, arctic foxes, walruses, and polar bears, as well as beluga and bowhead whales. We may even see the elusive narwhal, an arctic whale known for the long, spiraling tooth that projects up to ten feet from its upper jaw. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

DAY 11-13: Eastern Baffin Island

Using our years of experience in judging ice conditions, we make the most of the eastern Baffin shores. Hike the tundra in search of caribou and arctic foxes, or follow our botanist to learn more about the hardy arctic plants. We'll cruise the coastline in search of walrus and other icons of the Canadian North. (B,L,D)

DAY 14-15: Kangerlussuaq/ Disembark/ Reykjavík/ Keflavík/U.S.

Disembark in Kangerlussuaq and take a charter flight to Reykjavík and overnight in our fine hotel. The next day transfer to the airport in Keflavík for flightshome. (Day 14: B,L,D, Day 15: B,L)

For more information and pricing, please contact us directly at 604 733 1010 or by email