Northwest Passage
16 Days - Greg Mortimer
The labyrinthine channels of the legendary Northwest Passage have enchanted explorers and adventurers for centuries. Get a glimpse into the world that captivated early explorers such as Franklin, Amundsen and Larsen, by exploring a portion of the fabled Northwest Passage. Visit the final resting places of some of the legendary explorers to have ventured here and experience the archipelago of islands and channels that make up Canada’s High Arctic region. Along the way, we hope to meet local indigenous people who call this remote wilderness home, and perhaps catch glimpses of the wildlife that inhabit the region: polar fox, bowhead whale, polar bear and the elusive narwhal. We may encounter the variable sea ice that once prevented ships from traversing the Northwest Passage, adding a compelling element of adventure that is integral to any genuine expedition.
from NZD $39885 $33903pp
Subject to availability
Home » 16 Day Greg Mortimer: Northwest Passage ex Toronto
Itinerary Highlights
- Stand in awe of Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Hike on Devon Island, the world’s largest uninhabited island
- On Beechey Island, visit the graves of explorers from John Franklin’s expedition
- Be awed by spectacular scenery of soaring cliffs, impressive geology, icy bays where luck might reward you with glimpses of arctic wildlife polar bears, whales, seals and perhaps narwhal
Itinerary in Brief
- Day 1: Arrive in Toronto
- Day 2: Fly to Nuuk, embarkation
- Day 3: At sea, Sisimiut
- Day 4: Ilulissat
- Day 5-6: Northwest Greenland expedition cruising
- Day 7: At Sea
- Day 8: Pond Inlet (Mittimatalik), Nunavut, Canada
- Day 9-14: Northwest Passage expedition cruising
- Day 15: Disembark in Cambridge Bay, fly to Calgary
- Day 16: Depart Calgary
Day 1: Arrive in Toronto
Having made your way to Toronto, check in at our group hotel at Toronto Airport. Please visit the hospitality desk to collect your luggage cabin tags and to speak with our ground operations team, who may have information to share with you about pre-embarkation procedures and also the charter flight to Nuuk tomorrow. You will receive cabin tags for your luggage. Please clearly label the tags with your name and ship cabin number.
Accommodation: Westin Toronto Airport Hotel (or similar)
Day 2: Fly to Nuuk, embarkation
Please ensure that your luggage is fitted with cabin tags clearly labelled with your name and cabin number. Any valuables or personal items should be kept on you throughout the day. Your luggage will be delivered to your cabin ahead of your arrival on board.
After breakfast at the hotel, board our charter flight to Nuuk, where the Greg Mortimer awaits. After boarding, there is time to settle into your cabin before our important safety briefings. This evening, meet your expedition team and crew.
Day 3: At sea, Sisimiut
After a morning sailing north towards the Arctic Circle, we arrive in Sisimiut, Greenland’s second largest town. Sisimiut is located approximately 54 kilometres (33.5 miles) north of the Arctic Circle, meaning that during summer, you can experience the midnight sun here. The town is famous for the old blue church with the gate made of whale bone. In the cosy museum next door to the church, you will find an excellent reconstruction of an Inuit turf house as well as exhibits of local history and early life in Greenland.
Sisimiut offers hiking trails with various degrees of difficulty. The easier trails take you through the town itself, its outskirts and into the mountains, where you will find spectacular vantage points.
Approximately 4,500 years ago, the Saqqaq culture arrived from Canada and settled in the area. They lived here for approximately 2,000 years, after which they mysteriously disappeared from the area. The Dorset culture arrived around 500 CE and stayed until the 1200s until they were replaced by the Thule culture, and today, the majority of the population of Sisimiut are descendants of the Thule culture.
Day 4: Ilulissat
In the afternoon we arrive in Ilulissat. Known as the ‘birthplace of icebergs’, this region produces some of the most dazzling icebergs found anywhere on Earth. Hike to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Icefjord viewpoint and stand in awe of its immensity. Sermeq Kujalleq, also known as Jakobshavn Glacier, is the most productive glacier – not only in Greenland but the entire Northern Hemisphere. It produces 20 million tonnes of ice each day, all floating into the Ilulissat Icefjord and Disko Bay.
Day 5-6: Northwest Greenland expedition cruising
Explore the northern stretches of West Greenland, home to traditional settlements and enormous icebergs that Greenland is famous for. Possibilities include Zodiac cruises, hikes and a visit to one of the small communities that are dotted along the coast. Kayakers can enjoy paddling among the icebergs and keeping watch for whales that frequent the area.
Day 7: At Sea
Find a spot in one of our many observation lounges and enjoy the spectacular surrounding landscapes. Our talented and knowledgeable expedition members will present informative and entertaining talks about the region that you’re travelling through.
Day 8: Pond Inlet (Mittimatalik), Nunavut, Canada
After clearance into Canada, we hope to visit Pond Inlet (Mittimatalik), a captivating Inuit community nestled on the northern tip of Baffin Island. Surrounded by towering ice-capped mountains, vast glaciers, and pristine fjords, this remote outpost offers an unparalleled wilderness experience. As you step ashore, you'll be greeted by the warm hospitality of the local Inuit, whose deep connection to the land is evident in their culture and lifestyle. Immerse yourself in their traditions through engaging cultural encounters and gain insights into their unique perspective on life in the Arctic.
Day 9-14: Northwest Passage expedition cruising
In genuine expeditionary style, our itinerary for the following days is heavily dependent on weather conditions and unpredictable sea ice. The following places are some that we hope to visit.
Devon Island (Tallurutit)
At a latitude of almost 75° degrees north, we are now truly in the High Arctic. Here, nutrient-rich waters support an abundance of wildlife, giving the area the moniker ‘wildlife superhighway’ of the Arctic. Devon Island (Tallurutit) is the largest uninhabited island on Earth and features stunning geology, with flat-topped mountains and glacial valleys giving Devon Island its unique character. We hope to visit Dundas Harbour to enjoy offers walks on undulating tundra, and perhaps some birdwatching. A dilapidated Royal Canadian Mounted Police outpost and remnants of a Hudson’s Bay Company trading post can be found here. In the bay, walruses are often present. Other possible places that we might visit include Croker Bay and Maxwell Bay.
Beechey Island (Iluvilik)
At the western end of Devon Island lies Beechey Island (Iluvilik), where we plan to land. Named after Frederick William Beechey, the island is a designated Canadian National Historic Site. During the Franklin expedition of 1845–46, Franklin attempted to sail through the Northwest Passage with HMS Erebus and HMS Terror, with perilous results – three of his men are buried here. Roald Amundsen landed at Beechey Island in 1903, during the first successful voyage by ship to fully transit the Northwest Passage from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean.
Radstock Bay
Just a short distance away, Radstock Bay offers a captivating contrast to the open sea. Here, we’ll disembark via Zodiac onto a beach strewn with remnants of the past. Explore the ruins of a Thule village nestled beneath the imposing Caswell Tower, where well preserved stone dwellings coexist with artifacts from later explorers. Witness the stark beauty of this remote bay, characterised by its dramatic cliffs, gravelly beaches, and the scattered remains of whale skeletons that have shaped the landscape and the lives of those who called it home.
Prince Leopold Island (Appait)
On the southern side of Lancaster Sound from Beechey Island lie the towering bird cliffs of Prince Leopold Island (Appait), a historic site where in 1848, English explorer James Clark Ross overwintered during the search for the missing Franklin expedition. Prince Leopold Island is the most important bird sanctuary in the Canadian Arctic, with approximately 500,000 birds nesting here in summer. Ringed seals are often spotted on the sea ice around the island and polar bears often lurk nearby.
Port Leopold
Port Leopold, a barren, windswept bay on the northeastern corner of Somerset Island (Inuktitut Kuuganajuk), is steeped in history. Here, the crews of HMS Enterprise and Investigator were forced to endure a harsh winter while searching for the lost Franklin expedition. Their presence is indelibly marked on a rock engraved with "1849" and the ships' initials. The desolate landscape is punctuated by a lone Hudson Bay Company hut, a failed trading post from the 1920s.
We hope to hike and explore the coastline, discovering the historic Hudson Bay Company house and intriguing Inuit archaeological sites. Be amazed by the otherworldly formations shaped by the region’s freezing and thawing cycles, which our expedition team will detail during recap. Nearby, a cairn marks the spot where Ross's rescue expedition left vital supplies.
Bellot Strait
A deep and windy waterway bordered by steep slopes, Bellot Strait is characterised by strong, swirling, tidal currents that require navigation to be undertaken close to times of slack water (four times a day).
Note: Due to swirling currents up to 10 knots, Bellot Strait is better transited during eastbound voyages because if it is blocked, there is the alternative to continue north through Peel Sound. On a westbound voyage, it would be necessary to make a long detour back north through Prince Regent Inlet.
Hazard Inlet (Qariaraajuk)
We hope to visit an Inuit site inhabited by bowhead whale hunters during the 15th and 16th centuries. The remains of over 100 bowheads are scattered across the village and beach, a testament to the community's reliance on this marine giant. Excavations have uncovered around 20 sod houses, though evidence suggests there may have been as many as 40. The cliff face behind the site holds community burial grounds, while caches, kayak, and umiak stands line the shore. This remarkable site offers a poignant glimpse into the lives of these Inuit families, who worked cooperatively to hunt bowhead whales for sustenance and building materials. It's an extraordinary privilege to experience this piece of history firsthand.
Point Zenith
Point Zenith, a rocky promontory jutting into the ocean, offers breathtaking panoramic views. As you step ashore, you'll feel a profound sense of isolation and wonder. This is a place where time seems to stand still, and the only sounds are the wind and the crunch beneath your boots.
Day 15: Disembark in Cambridge Bay, fly to Calgary
In Cambridge Bay (Iqaluktuuttiaq), farewell the crew, expedition team and fellow travellers before a Zodiac shuttle whisks you ashore. Transfer to the airport for a charter flight to Calgary, where you will transfer to your group hotel and stay overnight.
Accommodation: Residence Inn by Marriott Calgary Downtown/Beltline District
Day 16: Depart Calgary
After breakfast, check-out your hotel and transfer to the airport for your onward journey.
Dates | Cabin | From | Special Offer |
---|---|---|---|
25 Aug 2025 - 09 Sep 2025 | NZD $33903pp | Save 15% | |
Aurora Triple Stateroom | NZD $33903pp | Save 15% | |
Aurora Twin Stateroom | NZD $34837pp | Save 15% | |
Balcony Stateroom (C) | NZD $37919pp | Save 15% | |
Balcony Stateroom (B) | NZD $39973pp | Save 15% | |
Balcony Stateroom (A) | NZD $42963pp | Save 15% | |
Balcony Stateroom Superior | NZD $46886pp | Save 15% | |
Junior Suite | NZD $58842pp | Save 15% | |
Captain's Suite | NZD $69770pp | Save 15% |
**Prices are per person based on twin / shared accommodation.
**Single supplements may apply
Cabin Details
Aurora Triple Stateroom
21.4 - 22.8sqm, located on deck 3, 3 single beds, private en-suite bathroom, porthole window, desk area, closet, room-controlled thermostat & 42" flat screen TV.
*Please note the Aurora Stateroom (Triple) cabins are only available on certain departures.
Aurora Twin Stateroom
15.8 - 22.8sqm, located on deck 3, 2 single beds, private en-suite bathroom, porthole window, desk area, closet space, room-controlled thermostat, safe & 42" flat-screen TV.
Balcony Stateroom (C)
20.9 - 24.8sqm (cabin + balcony), located on deck 4 & 6, twin or double bedding, private en-suite bathroom, floor to ceiling window, desk space, closet space, private balcony, room-controlled thermostat, safe & 42" flat screen TV.
Balcony Stateroom (B)
Standard Balcony Stateroom
23.6 - 24.8sqm (cabin + balcony), located on deck 4 & 6 (fore and aft), twin or double bedding, private en-suite bathroom, floor to ceiling window, desk area, closet space, private balcony, room-controlled thermostat, safe & 42" flat screen TV.
* Many fitted with interconnecting features making them great for families or groups.
Balcony Stateroom (A)
Premium and most abundant Balcony Stateroom
24.1 - 31.3sqm (cabin + balcony), located on deck 4 & 6 (close to internal stairs/elevator), twin or double bedding, private en-suite bathroom, floor to ceiling window, desk area, closet space, private balcony, room-controlled thermostat, safe & 42" flat screen TV.
Balcony Stateroom Superior
30.5 - 40.2sqm (cabin + balcony), located on deck 4, twin or double bedding, private en-suite bathroom, full size window, desk area, closet space, private balcony, room-controlled thermostat, safe & 42" flat screen TV.
Benefits:
- One free pair of binoculars per suite
- One free bottle of champagne per suite and free stocked mini bar (stocked once only)
- 1-hour massage or facial treatment per person
- Gratuities/tips for crew included - to the value of USD$15 per person per day
Junior Suite
38.9sqm (cabin + balcony), located on deck 7, twin or double bedding, private en-suite bathroom, full size window, desk area, closet space, private balcony, room-controlled thermostat, safe, 42" flat screen TV & separate lounge area.
Benefits:
- One free pair of binoculars per suite
- One free bottle of champagne per suite and free stocked mini bar (stocked once only)
- 1-hour massage or facial treatment per person
- Gratuities/tips for crew included - to the value of USD$15 per person per day
Captain's Suite
44.5sqm (cabin + balcony), located on deck 4, twin or double bedding, private en-suite bathroom, full size window, desk area, closet space, private balcony, room-controlled thermostat, safe, 42" flat screen TV & separate lounge area.
Benefits:
- One free pair of binoculars per suite
- One free bottle of champagne per suite and free stocked mini bar (replenished as needed)
- 1-hour massage or facial treatment per person
- Gratuities/tips for crew included - to the value of USD$15 per person per day
Greg Mortimer Deckplan
Specifications
- Capacity (Antarctica): 120
- European Arctic: 120 (excluding ‘Inuit Arctic & Beyond’ which accommodates up to 160 passengers)
- Americas: Up to 160
- Expedition team: 14-24
- Hotel team: 47-56
- Deck and Engine crew: 24
- Cabins: 79
- Decks: 8
- Year built: 2019
- Length: 104.4m
- Breadth: 18.2 metres
- Draught: 5.3 metres
- Cruising speed: 12 knots
- Full speed: 15.5 knots
- Gross tonnage: 7400
- Registry: Bahamas
- Voltage: 220V, 50Hz AC. European round, two pin plug.
- Ice Class 1A and Polar Code 6 compliant, holds Bureau Veritas class and is fully compliant with the latest SOLAS requirements.
Whats included?
- All transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
- One night’s hotel accommodation including breakfast, in Toronto on Day 1.
- One night’s hotel accommodation including breakfast, in Calgary on Day 15.
- Charter flight from Toronto to Nuuk on Day 2.
- Charter flight from Cambridge Bay to Calgary on Day 15.
- On-board accommodation during voyage including daily cabin service.
- All meals, snacks, tea and coffee during voyage.
- Beer, house wine and soft drinks with dinner.
- Captain’s Farewell reception including four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic beverages.
- All shore excursions and Zodiac cruises.
- Educational lectures and guiding services provided by Expedition Team.
- Complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consultation).
- One 3-in-1 waterproof polar expedition jacket.
- Complimentary use of Muck Boots during the voyage.
- Comprehensive pre-departure information.
- Port surcharges, permits and landing fees.
- Wi-Fi. Please note we travel to remote regions and therefore the connection can be unreliable.
What’s not included?
- International or domestic flights – unless specified in itinerary.
- Transfers – unless specified in itinerary.
- Airport arrival or departure taxes.
- Passport, visa, reciprocity and vaccination fees and charges.
- Travel insurance or emergency evacuation charges.
- Hotels and meals – unless specified in the itinerary.
- Optional excursions and optional activity surcharges.
- All items of a personal nature, including but not limited to alcoholic beverages and soft drinks (outside of dinner service), gratuities, laundry services, personal clothing, medical expenses or phone charges.
Notes
Note: A $15 USD per person per day gratuity for the crew is automatically added to your onboard account. It is at your discretion if you would like to remove the tip (or adjust the amount) when you settle your bill. It is not necessary to tip the expedition team members. This gratuity amount is included for suites as part of their ‘Suite Benefits’.