ocean adventurer greenland cruise

Best of the Western Arctic: Canada and Greenland

  • Overview

    Venture far above the Arctic Circle, in a land where the sun never sets and polar bears roam, with the Best of the Western Arctic: Canada and Greenland itinerary.


    VOYAGE PROMOTION: Free Charter Flight Package + Pay in full by 31 Mar '19 for a further 10% cabin discount. 


    You’ll be exploring the northerly shores of Canada’s Baffin Island and the western coast of Greenland, searching for the wildlife and visiting the communities that call this mysterious realm home. Zodiac cruising gives you an awe-inspiring perspective of impressive icebergs, glaciers and fjords, while visits to communities immerse you in their traditional and modern way of life. The rugged beauty of these pristine places will have you marvelling at the soaring cliffs of Sam Ford Fjord and the dazzling icebergs dotting the Ilulissat Icefjord. In this remote, wildlife-rich region, you may spot whales in their natural surroundings or get a glimpse of one of the Arctic’s most iconic animals; the polar bear.

    The Arctic has been inspiring explorers for centuries, and our expeditions offer the chance for you to discover why.

    IMPORTANT VOYAGE INFORMATION: This voyage has a charter flight component with an additional cost of AU$2,400 per person.

    Duration: 20 days
    Passengers: 132 passengers
    Embarkation Point: Reykjavik, Iceland
    Disembarkation Point: Reykjavik, Iceland
    Physical rating: Soft Adventure
    Fly/Cruise: Mandatory extra flight
    Single Supplement: 1.7x - 2.0x twin rate or share options
  • Itinerary
    • Day 1 - Reykjavik, Iceland: Arrival day

      Your arctic expedition begins in Reykjavik. Arrive in the Icelandic capital in the morning and make your way to your included hotel. You will have the day to explore the city on your own.

    • Day 2 - Embarkation Day in Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

      In the morning, the group will transfer to the airport and board our private charter flight to Kangerlussuaq, a small town at the eastern head of Sondre Stromfjord, one of the longest fjords in the world. After embarking your ship in the afternoon, enjoy time out on deck, taking in your new surroundings as you set sail on your Arctic expedition.

    • Day 3 - At Sea

      As we cruise across the Davis Strait, your Expedition Team will prepare you for the adventures that await. Learn about the storied history and politics of the Arctic, its fascinating wildlife, geology, ecology and climate, and the incredible sights you will soon explore. Staff will also keep a lookout for seabirds soaring above your ship, as well as whales that frequent the waters here.

    • Day 4/6 - Exploring Baffin Island, Canada

      Baffin Island is the fifth-largest island in the world, it was named for English navigator William Baffin, who ventured to the area in the early 17th century in search of the fabled Northwest Passage. Your days sailing along the island’s eastern coast will be guided by weather and ice conditions,
      with each day and each landing presenting new adventures. Some of our favourite destinations include Qikiqtarjuaq, Isabella Bay and Sam Ford Fjord. Towering mountains, deep fjords, colourful tundra, and Inuit settlements await!

      The Inuit community of Qikiqtarjuaq (which means “the big island” in Inuktitut) is located just north of the Arctic Circle, on Broughton Island. Fondly called Qik by locals, the welcoming hamlet offers a superb vantage point of the Davis Strait. You’ll also have a chance to support local Inuit artisans here by purchasing unique artwork, crafts and jewellery.

      The rarely explored Sam Ford Fjord is one of the most isolated places on the planet. It is a spectacular big-wall playground, attracting adventurous climbers eager to scale the dozens of towering vertical granite cliffs that erupt from the sea. Have your camera handy as you cruise along this impressive coastline carved by ancient glaciers—the towering formations, stacked side by side, are simply majestic.

    • Day 7 - At Sea

      As our ship sails farther north, take in a presentation by our on-board experts, sip an icy cocktail in the bar, watch a movie or join your Expedition Team on the bridge as they scan for wildlife—there is no shortage of activities while at sea.

    • Day 8/11 - Lancaster Sound

      The gateway to the Northwest Passage, Lancaster Sound is one of the richest marine habitats in the Arctic. With open water areas staying ice-free all year, it is an important summer feeding area for whales and other marine wildlife. Our days here will be spent exploring several of the sound’s beautiful bays and inlets, discovering historical sites, enjoying Zodiac cruises and searching for such iconic wildlife as walrus, seals and, of course, whales. Polar bear sightings are possible too, as Lancaster Sound is known for polar bear sightings. If you’re fortunate, you may even spot the elusive narwhal.

      There may be a possibility for a shore visit at Radstock Bay, the location of one of the most impressive ancient Thule sites in the Arctic. Exploring the well-preserved remains of the subterranean houses, including the whale bones used as supports for the dwellings, will give you an understanding of how these pre-Inuit people thrived in the Far North.

      We will attempt to land at Beechey Island, a Canadian National Historic Site. Named after explorer Frederick William Beechey, the island is the final resting place of members of Sir John Franklin’s 1845–46 expedition to find the Northwest Passage. The graves, on a desolate rocky beach, were discovered in 1850 by a team searching for signs of the ill-fated expedition.

      Predominantly covered in glaciers and ice fields, Coburg Island and its surrounding waters comprise the Nirjutiqavvik National Wildlife Area. The island’s steep coastal cliffs are an ideal habitat for hundreds of thousands of nesting seabirds like Brünnich’s guillemots (thick-billed murres), blacklegged
      kittiwakes, northern fulmars and black guillemots.

    • Day 12 - Smith Sound

      Before saying goodbye to Canada, we’ll push as far north as possible, exploring both sides of Smith Sound, the uninhabited passage between Ellesmere Island and Greenland. Experience a true expedition as weather and ice determine how far north we explore.

    • Day 13/14 - Exploring Northwest Greenland

      Your return to Greenland will have you sailing along the remote northwest coast, a land of impressive icebergs and massive glaciers. Qaanaaq, formerly known as Thule, is one of the northernmost towns in the world. Here, local Inuit share their culture and traditions, while the museum sheds more light on life near the top of the world.

      We hope to explore Melville Bay, a significant whaling site until the early 1900s. Opening up to Baffin Bay, the area is a major egress for the Greenland ice cap and is home to spectacular icebergs in all shapes and sizes, making it an ideal spot for Zodiac cruising. If you’re feeling adventurous, perhaps you’ll treat yourself to a unique arctic experience by partaking in an optional paddling excursion (additional cost).

    • Day 15 - At Sea

      As we continue sailing south along the west coast of Greenland, presentations by our on-board experts will prepare you for the adventures that lie ahead.

    • Day 16/18 - Exploring West Greenland

      Boasting spectacular glaciers, mountainous landscapes, dramatic fjords and vibrant communities, the west coast of Greenland will leave you breathless. Some areas we hope to explore here are Uummannaq, Itilleq and the impressive Ilulissat Icefjord.

      Quite possibly the most picturesque place in Greenland, the traditional Inuit town of Uummannaq (which means “heart-like”) takes its name from the red heart-shaped mountain that rises up a staggering 3,840 feet (1,170 meters) behind it. You’ll want to be positioned on deck as your ship approaches the shore, with your camera ready to capture the inspiring vistas of the twin peaks soaring high above the colorful houses dotting the rugged coastline.

      Another beautiful locale is the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Home to Jakobshavn, one of the most active glaciers in the world, this is a great spot to enjoy a Zodiac excursion past towering icebergs. Venturing ashore in the town of Ilulissat (which means “iceberg”) will allow you to visit the icefjord on foot and gaze at this unforgettable river of ice from the rocky shore.

      Surrounded by sea and mountains, Itilleq (meaning “crossing place”) is situated about a mile (2 km) above the Arctic Circle, in a scenic hollow on a small island. It is the southern limit of the Greenlandic sled dog. To keep the breed pure, the dogs are not permitted south of this community and all other dog breeds are prohibited this far north. Explore the town’s traditional wooden houses painted in a rainbow of colors, chat with the locals, whose main trade is fishing, and maybe challenge them to a game of football (soccer) —it won’t be long before you’re experiencing Itilleq’s famous friendly vibe.

    • Day 19 - Disembark in Kangerlussuaq

      Enjoy one more Zodiac ride to shore, where you’ll board your charter flight back to Ottawa, Canada. Upon arrival in Ottawa, we will transfer you to your included hotel.

    • Day 20 - Depart Rekyjavik

      Today, you can make your way home at your leisure or spend some time exploring this artistic city

    Please consider that our voyages are expeditionary in nature. This means, that there are no concrete itineraries, your captain and expedition leader will utilise their vast experience to chart the best course for your expedition depending on the climatic and environmental conditions. Mentioned highlights and wildlife cannot be guaranteed.

  • Adventure Activities

    Kayaking

    Kayaking is probably one of the most intimate and inspiring ways you can explore the rugged coastlines and calm bays of the Polar regions.

    Kayaking in the Polar Regions is highly weather-dependent, however we guarantee at least one outing throughout your voyage, but your kayak guides will take you out as many times as possible throughout your voyage.

    USD$ 639 per person

    Hiking

    There are options on most excursions for shorter walks, often to take advantage of excellent lookouts, that don’t require hiking boots and other equipment. Hiking participation is optional and your Expedition Team will advise you of what you can expect prior to each excursion.

    Included

    Presentations

    Daily chats with on-board experts—our guides, scientists and other special guests—let guests rub shoulders with historians, ornithologists, biologists, geologists and more.

    Included

    Polar Plunge

    This rite of passage, experienced just once per expedition, sees you safely jumping into icy ocean waters under the watchful eye of our staff—and just about every single camera lens on board!

    Included

    Photography

    Documenting your voyage so you can take the memories home is a rewarding experience. Our photography guides will help you learn skills to capture the beauty of the Polar Regions.

    Included

    Zodiac Cruising

    Zodiacs are the workhorses of polar expeditions, safely transporting guests to remote shorelines and shallow inlets—places the ships can’t reach. Expedition staff make stepping in and out of them safe and comfortable.

    Included

    Paddling Excursion

    If you’re interested in kayaking and would like to try something less in depth than Sea Kayaking, you can still enjoy the benefits of adding an on-water experience to your expedition with a Paddling Excursion. Sign up for a onetime paddle on our sit-on-top kayaks, which are stable and unencumbered— perfect for anyone with little to no kayak experience. Expert guides take rotating groups of passengers on calm days to connect with the sea.

    USD$ 187 per person

    Best of Western Arctic - Transfer Package (Mandatory)

    Best of Western Arctic - Transfer Package
    Includes pre and post accommodation in Reykjavik and charter flights to/from Kangerlussuaq, Greenland.

    USD$ 1,608 per person

    Explore Greenland

    Vast swaths of beautiful, unfenced wilderness give you unique freedom to wander at will, whether on foot, by ski or by dogsled.

    Inuit Communities

    Picturesque communities on the East and Wests costs of Greenland, are vibrant and ever welcoming and our time here is spent bonding with the local Inuit people and understanding their way of life. You are welcome to support the community by purchasing unique handicrafts from the local Inuit artisans.

  • Inclusions

    Expedition Gear

    Comfortable expedition boots and a high quality expedition parka, specifically designed for the polar regions.

    Inclusions / Exclusions

    Included in your Expedition

    - All shipboard accommodation and meals
    - All shore excursions and lectures in the itinerary
    - Photographic journal of your expedition
    - Comprehensive pre-departure information
    - Service taxes and port charges
    - Emergency evacuation insurance up to USD$500,000

    Not included in your Expedition

    - Items of a personal nature such as; Beverages / Laundry / Medical expenses / Gratuities / Internet & Wifi
    - International and internal flights that are not specified
    - Baggage / cancellation / interruption and medical travel insurance
    - Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned
    - Passport and Visa expenses
    - Mandatory transfer package
  • Map
    Map coming soon
  • Gallery
  • Vessel

    OCEAN ADVENTURER

    The new and improved Ocean Adventurer is designed to carry 132 travelers in comfort to the most remote corners of the world. Originally built in Yugoslavia in 1976, this nimble, ice-strengthened ship has become a passenger favourite over the years and underwent refurbishments in 1999 and 2002 with the most significant being in 2017. With the latest rounds of refurbishments guests will enjoy: A refreshed, contemporary new look and feel throughout the ship. - The addition of six new twin cabins and three new suites. - All existing cabins will be furnished with all new soft furnishings and brand new bathrooms. - Main common areas such as the Lounge and Dining Room will be remodeled as well as the Bar. - Major technical enhancements – include two new Rolls Royce engines, which will significantly increase fuel efficiency and minimized carbon footprint.

    Features & Facilities
    • Recently refurbished
    • superior accommodation
    • Lounge/Dining Room
    • Bar
    • Gym
    • Internet/Wifi
    • Library
    Key Facts
    Luxury star rating: 4
    Guests #: 132
    Crew #: 87
    Ice Class: 1A
    Speed: 14
    Refurbished:
    Technical Specs
    Year built:
    Length: 100m
    Width: 16
    Draft:
    Tonnage: 4376
    Registry: Bahamas
    Elec Outlets: 220V / 2 Round Pin
Check Voyage Dates, Pricing and Availability
All available dates
Ready to book your expedition?

We understand that the trip of a lifetime takes planning, so we make the financial commitments easy to manage.

  • Confirm your booking today with just USD$ 1,000 per passenger.
  • Pay your 25% deposit 5 day later.
  • Final payment due 120 days prior to departure.
ocean adventurer triple cabin

Triple

10 Sep 2020 - 29 Sep 2020
Triple cabin with upper and lower bunks, porthole and private facilities. Please note this voyage may require a charter flight at an additional cost.
USD$ 11,792pp
USD$ 11,792pp
ocean adventurer lower deck twin cabin

Lower Deck Twin

10 Sep 2020 - 29 Sep 2020
Two lower berths with private facilities and porthole. Please note this voyage may require a charter flight at an additional cost.
USD$ 15,209pp
USD$ 15,209pp
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ocean adventurer main deck porthole cabin

Main Deck Twin Porthole

10 Sep 2020 - 29 Sep 2020
Two lower berths with private facilities and window. Please note this voyage may require a charter flight at an additional cost.
USD$ 17,152pp
USD$ 17,152pp
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ocean adventurer main deck window cabin

Main Deck Twin Window

10 Sep 2020 - 29 Sep 2020
Two lower berths with private facilities and window. Please note this voyage may require a charter flight at an additional cost.
USD$ 18,626pp
USD$ 18,626pp
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ocean adventurer superior twin cabin

Superior

10 Sep 2020 - 29 Sep 2020
Two lower berths with private facilities and window. Please note this voyage may require a charter flight at an additional cost.
USD$ 19,631pp
USD$ 19,631pp
ocean adventurer deluxe twin cabin

Deluxe

10 Sep 2020 - 29 Sep 2020
Two lower berths with private facilities and window. Please note this voyage may require a charter flight at an additional cost.
USD$ 22,043pp
USD$ 22,043pp
ocean adventurer suite twin cabin

Suite

10 Sep 2020 - 29 Sep 2020
Two lower berths with private facilities and window. Please note this voyage may require a charter flight at an additional cost.
USD$ 24,522pp
USD$ 24,522pp
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ocean adventurer owners suite twin cabin

Owner's Suite

10 Sep 2020 - 29 Sep 2020
Brand new cabin with double bed, private facilities and window. Please note this voyage may require a charter flight at an additional cost.
USD$ 26,465pp
USD$ 26,465pp
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