Set Off on this National Geographic Expedition to Explore the Northwest Passage!
If you have ever dreamed of exploring the Arctic, this trip is for you! This expedition cruise will have you exploring the Northwest Passage over 22 days, aboard the National Geographic Resolution. Travelers will sail to the northernmost coastlines of the planet, which few have explored! Venture into the Northwest Passage and hear dramatic stories of the explorers and adventurers who sought this magnificent, icy frontier! In addition, observe polar bears, walruses, ringed seals, beluga, bowhead, and killer whales, and maybe even the elusive narwhal in the wild. Let’s check out this amazing vacation.
Itinerary Overview
Arrive in Western Greenland by chartered aircraft, them embark the National Geographic Resolution at the head of the picturesque Kangerlussuaq Fjord. While in Greenland, you’ll see dozens of fjords and glaciers as you sail the western coast. Look for humpback and minke whales before exploring the former whaling port of Sisimut. Here, visit the museum and stroll amongst 18th-century wooden buildings.
In Disko Bay, see the UNESCO World Heritage Site the Ilulissat Icefjord. This fantastic site is the tongue of Greenland’s massive ice sheet that extends into the bay. While here, explore the remains of an Inuit fishing village called Sermermiut. Finally, take in spectacular views of the ice-choked mouth of this incredible fjord.
Then, spend a day at sea sailing across Baffin Bay to Lancaster Sound, a favorite Inuit hunting and fishing location for thousands of years. This is also the eastern gateway to the Artic Archipelago.
ENTERING THE NORTHWEST PASSAGE
Adjusting for weather and ice conditions, sail through the Northwest Passage, following nature’s path. See a stunning display of raw geology as you explore ice-choked channels and glacier-carved islands that stretch hundreds of miles. Along the journey, discover the rocky, Mars-like terrain of the uninhabited Devon Island. This is one Canada’s largest islands. At this point in the voyage, with expert guides, take your cues from nature as you take part in activities like following wildlife, stopping for hikes, or drop anchor in a beautiful fjord or iceberg-strewn bay to explore and kayak beneath massive ice sculptures and soaring cliffs!
The northernmost part of mainland North America, the Bellot Strait, is the next pass. This is one of the narrowest and most infamous straits in the whole of the Northwest Passage. As you cross the top of the northwest territories of Canada, you’ll search for ringed seals, arctic foxes, musk oxen, walruses, beluga and bowhead whales, and, of course, polar bears. I LOVE POLAR BEARS! Additionally, learn about the Inuit peoples and early explorers.
Explore Herschel Island and the National Environment Park. This island protect local wildlife alongside the heritage of the Inuvialuit people. Go ahead and wander through historic dwellings while keeping an eye out for resident wildlife. Finally, arrive in the remote city of Nome, Alaska, on the coast of the Bering Sea, and explore, before boarding a charter flight to Anchorage. From Anchorage, you’ll fly home, thus ending this incredible tour of the Northwest Passage!!
What To Expect
In the true nature of an expedition, expect a flexible schedule. This will allow plenty of opportunities to take advantage of the unexpected. National Geographic will adapt course to conditions and opportunities that arise along the journey. Your expedition can be tailored to any activity level you choose. Travelers should be in good health, comfortable walking or standing for extended periods of time. And able to get into and out of expedition landing craft.
National Geographic Resolution
During this expedition, you will sail aboard the National Geographic Resolution, purpose-built for polar navigation. A fully-stabilized vessel of the highest ice class (PC5 Category A), she will enable adventurous guests to go where few have or can. Resolution’s most striking exterior feature is her distinctive profile, the patented X-Bow, a game-changing design that guarantees the smoothest, most comfortable ride in all kinds of conditions; and since it eliminates bow impact, a quieter ride, as well.
What’s Included
- Transfers upon arrival/departure
- Accommodations
- Meals
- Daily Activities and excursions as detailed in the itinerary
- Alcohol
- Gratuities
What’s Not Included
- Airfare to/from destination
- Trip Insurance
- Visas
If you’re interested in this, or any National Geographic Expedition, contact me for more information!
