national geographic explorer luxury greenland and canada cruise

Exploring Greenland and the Canadian High Arctic

  • Overview
    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. Share the experience of explorers from ancient to modern, goaded by the desire to discover the Northwest Passage.
    Duration: 14 days
    Passengers: 148 passengers
    Embarkation Point: Keflavik, Iceland
    Disembarkation Point: Keflavik, Iceland
    Physical rating: Soft Adventure
    Fly/Cruise: Mandatory extra flight
    Single Supplement: Unavailable
  • Itinerary
    • Day 1 - Newark, USA to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland/Embark

      Fly direct from Newark to Kangerlussuaq and embark National Geographic Explorer.

    • Day 2 - 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. There are several walking options to explore in and around town.

    • Day 3 - 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.

    • Day 4 - 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.

    • Day 5 - 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.

    • Day 6/9 - 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.

    • Day 10/12 - 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

    • Day 13/14 - Kangerlussuaq/ Disembark/ Reykjavík/ Keflavík

      Disembark in Kangerlussuaq and take a charter flight to Reykjavík where we will stay two nights at our fine hotel. The next day features either a full-day tour of the Golden Circle or choose a walking or city-by-bike tour of Reykjavík. Our final day in Reykjavík you have your choice of options: a soak in the Blue Lagoon; a tour of the Reykjanes Peninsula; or a visit to the hot springs, geothermal power plant and horse farm. After lunch, transfer to the airport in Keflavík for flights home.

    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

    We pioneered kayaking in polar geographies, allowing our guests to have unprecedented personal experiences in the ice.

    Now, nearly all our ships carry types of kayaks designed to get guests of all experience and fitness levels out on the water comfortably and safely. And more than just a token few, we carry a veritable fleet to ensure everyone who wants to can.

    Included

    Charter Flights

    The National Geographic Explorer operates with a mandatory charter flight package on this departure;

    Reykjavik, Iceland - Kangerlussuaq, Greenland - Reykjavik, Iceland

    USD$ 1,230 per person

    Inspiring Inuit communities

    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.

    Dramatic fjords, crystalline sounds & the ice creatures

    Search 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.

  • Inclusions

    Expedition Team

    Every expedition sails with a veteran expedition leader, an assistant expedition leader, and a team of eight naturalists, many of them polar veterans, of a variety of specialties: zoology, biology, ornithology, geology, polar history, and more. Other members of the 15-person team include an undersea specialist, a photographer, plus a certified photo instructor, a Global Perspectives guest speaker, a video chronicler, and a wellness specialist. Together they provide you with a greater understanding and appreciation for this extraordinary and diverse geography.

    Excellent food

    Our chefs use fresh, local ingredients whenever possible, including sustainably caught fish, and other local and indigenous products. Breakfast and lunch are buffet-style; dinner is served. There are fish or meat choices at every meal, and our chef will happily accommodate vegan or other special diet requests.

    Inclusions / Exclusions

    Included in your Expedition

    Not included in your Expedition

    - Massage services
    - Gratuities
    - Internet and Wifi expenses
    - Airfares unless stated in the itinerary
    - Bar expenses
    - Laundry expenses
    - Mandatory waterproof gear not provided
    - Baggage / cancellation / interruption and medical travel insurance
    - Passport and Visa expenses
  • Map
    Screen shot 2017 07 05 at 2.16.13 pm
  • Gallery
  • Vessel

    NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPLORER

    Inaugurated in 2008, National Geographic Explorer is the world’s ultimate expedition ship. The embodiment of the National Geographic alliance, her design and equipment is the result of almost 200 years of collective expedition experience. Originally built for service along Norway’s coast as part of the famed Hurtigruten, or Coastal Express, her excellent maneuverability and just-right size made her a natural choice for addition to our fleet. Drawing on our nearly 50 years of pioneering expedition history and expertise, we completely redesigned and rebuilt her. Explorer is uniquely equipped with an ice-strengthened hull and advanced navigation equipment for polar expeditions; a roster of tools for exploration; and a well-appointed interior with vast expanses of glass for an unprecedented connection to the regions we explore. She provides a peerless expedition experience. Explorer accommodates 148 guests in 81 cabins, including 13 cabins with private balconies, six spacious suites and 14 cabins specifically designed for solo travelers. At 367 feet with six decks, she is spacious and modern, with a variety of public rooms that offer startling views of the passing landscape. Friendly and informal, Explorer instantly fosters a welcoming environment where enthused and curious passengers share in exceptional experiences and enrichment.

    Features & Facilities
    • Luxury expedition vessel
    • Affiliated with National Geographic
    • Dining room & Bistro
    • Large observation decks
    • Open Bridge
    • Library
    • Observation lounge
    • 24 hour beverage station
    • Wellness Centre
    • Gym
    • laundry
    • Spa
    • Internet/Wifi
    Key Facts
    Luxury star rating: 5
    Guests #: 148
    Crew #: 70
    Ice Class: 1A
    Speed: 18
    Refurbished:
    Technical Specs
    Year built:
    Length: 112m
    Width: 16
    Draft:
    Tonnage: 6471
    Registry: Bahamas
    Elec Outlets: 220V / 2 Round Pin
Check Voyage Dates, Pricing and Availability
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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.

1 - Twin Cabin with Porthole

08 Aug 2018 - 21 Aug 2018
Twin cabin, with private facilities with plenty of luxury finishings
USD$ 11,893pp
USD$ 11,893pp

2 - Twin Cabin with Window

08 Aug 2018 - 21 Aug 2018
Twin or double cabin, with private facilities with plenty of luxury finishings
USD$ 12,743pp
USD$ 12,743pp

3 - Twin Cabin with Window

08 Aug 2018 - 21 Aug 2018
Twin or double cabin, with private facilities with plenty of luxury finishings
USD$ 13,260pp
USD$ 13,260pp

4 - Superior cabin with Window

08 Aug 2018 - 21 Aug 2018
Twin or double cabin, with private facilities with plenty of luxury finishings
USD$ 14,239pp
USD$ 14,239pp

SA - Single cabin with Porthole

08 Aug 2018 - 21 Aug 2018
Single cabin, perfect for the decerning solo traveller
USD$ 15,932pp
USD$ 15,932pp

SB - Single cabin with Window

08 Aug 2018 - 21 Aug 2018
Single cabin, perfect for the decerning solo traveller
USD$ 16,578pp
USD$ 16,578pp

5 - Superior cabin with Balcony

08 Aug 2018 - 21 Aug 2018
Superior cabins with Balcony and luxury finishings
USD$ 17,170pp
USD$ 17,170pp

6 - Suite with Balcony

08 Aug 2018 - 21 Aug 2018
Suite cabin with Balcony and luxury finishings
USD$ 19,801pp
USD$ 19,801pp

7 - Suite with Balcony

08 Aug 2018 - 21 Aug 2018
The largest suites with Balcony and luxury finishings
USD$ 22,950pp
USD$ 22,950pp