This one-time offering will be led/hosted by Senior Tour Leader, Martin Charlton, who in 2025 celebrates his 30th anniversary with Adventures Abroad. He invites you to join him on this spectacular journey.
One of the world's greatest voyages is calling! Witness pristine fjords, coastal communities, looming glaciers, jagged icebergs, grand vistas and historic sites. Search for marine mammals, bears, and birds.
Find a warm welcome in Nunavut's communities, and enjoy Greenland's geology, geography, and culture with a European flair.
Every day is a new adventure: hiking, beachcombing, photography, birding, botany & geology. Explore and discover with your tour leader and the onboard experts, and meet the people who call the Arctic home.
The spirit of exploration is what draws us to visit places seldom seen, off the beaten path... and even off the map! That means visiting new places as often as possible. It means travelling with experts and local cultural ambassadors.
This journey from Iqaluit in Nunavut to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland is set to be an unforgettable journey.
Prices below are per person, twin-sharing costs in US Dollars (USD). Pricing does not include airfare to/from the tour and any applicable taxes. For single supplement rates and taxes (if any), please refer to below Prices & Dates table. For general information on flights to/from the tour, click here.
Select a date below to reserve your spot:
$3000 PER PERSON DEPOSIT REQUIRED. The final payment date for this journey is 150 days prior to tour start date (March 2025). Contrary to our usual terms & conditions governing payments, for this trip your deposit is 100% non-refundable non-transferable once the tour becomes 'guaranteed.' SINGLES - We have a limited quantity of single cabins with no single supplement. Once these cabins are sold, the single supplement fee (in order to secure a cabin to yourself) is as listed below.
Optional Single Supplement: $4630 USD (number of singles limited).
Download Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Ottawa, Ontario
Arrival in Ottawa - WELCOME TO CANADA!
Overnight in Ottawa.
Included Meal(s): Dinner
Day 2 Iqaluit, NU, Canada
We depart early this morning for our charter flight to Iqaluit, Canada’s coolest arctic city. Upon arrival we will transfer by zodiac through Iqaluit harbour to the Ocean Endeavour in order to commence our adventure!
Iqaluit, at the head of Frobisher Bay, has a population of nearly 8,000. This is the largest city and territorial capital of the Canadian territory of Nunavut. Until 1987 this city was called Frobisher Bay, a name that is still occasionally used. The vibrant community is home to the Iqalummiut, a diverse mix of people from across Nunavut, Canada and around the world. Iqaluit serves as a gateway to all of the Baffin region communities. It is also the gateway to Greenland and points east. Nunavut is the largest, northernmost and newest territory of Canada.
The city of is rich with Inuit culture and has the distinction of being the smallest Canadian capital in terms of population and the only capital that is not connected to other settlements by a highway. Located on an island remote from the Canadian highway system, Iqaluit is generally only accessible by aircraft and, subject to ice conditions, by boat.
The Ocean Endeavour: This is the perfect vessel for expedition cruising. Outfitted with twenty Zodiacs, advanced navigation equipment, multiple lounges, and a top deck observation room, she is purpose-built for passenger experiences in remote environments. The Ocean Endeavour boasts a 1B ice class, enabling her to explore throughout the Arctic summer. Launched in 1982, she has had numerous upgrades, most recently in 2018. At 137 metres in length, the Ocean Endeavour has plenty of interior and exterior space. Ample deck space offers comfortable lounge chairs, a swimming pool, two saunas, and a hot tub. The spacious interior allows for varied workshops and presentations to occur simultaneously. The three lounges aboard the Ocean Endeavour are optimal locations for seminars, events, and conversation. This vessel has been purpose-built for passenger experiences in remote environments.
In true expedition style, we will seek opportunities to hike, explore, and view wildlife as conditions allow.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 3 Kitigtung (Lady Franklin Island): Marvel at Incredible Geology
Our journey brings us to the uninhabited and breathtaking Lady Franklin Island, one of the many rugged and wildlife-rich islands dotting the south Baffin Island coast. Located off Baffin Island's Hall Peninsula, here we will explore the coastline by zodiac keeping watch for seabirds, polar bears, and marine life. The island is home to breeding seabirds, ducks and walrus and with a bit of luck it may be possible to see Atlantic puffins and even the rare Sabine’s gull.
Lady Franklin Island lies in Davis Strait that separates Baffin Island and Greenland. The island was named by American Arctic explorer Charles Hall while searching for answers to the fate of Sir John Franklin’s lost expedition, lost while trying to find the Northwest Passage
Today offers a wonderful introduction to the geology of Nunavut, and you will have the opportunity to examine the rock formations from the sea. The rock here is some of the oldest on Earth, having been formed some 2.5 to 4 billion years ago. With Inuit expedition team members by your side, you'll gain an intimate perspective on the captivating wildlife and geological wonders that cross our path.
Meals On Board: We will enjoy sumptuous meals in the roomy Polaris Restaurant, surrounded by ocean views. Buffet-style breakfasts and lunches include a wide variety of fresh and healthy choices. Globally inspired a la carte suppers offer options to suit every taste, including fish and vegetarian options. Desserts, made fresh daily, are a highlight! Food sensitivities, special diets, and personal choices can be accommodated with advance notice.
Early-bird breakfast, afternoon tea, late-night snacks, and treats round out the offerings. And tea, coffee, and cookies are always available!
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 4 Southeast Baffin Island: Explore Southeast Baffin Island
Today we will spend time on the nuna—the Inuktitut name for land. Here you will have the opportunity to enjoy a hike that best suits your interest accompanied by a member of the expert expedition team who offer insightful interpretations of the surroundings.
Soak in the full seasonal blooms at the height of Arctic summer as you explore the rolling tundra. A stop here will give you a unique opportunity to connect with nature on a profound level.
The biggest island in Canada (and fifth largest in the world), Baffin Island is a grand wild landscape and the spectacular homeland of the Inuit. The island's immensity and bewildering coastline confused early explorers and concealed its geography until recent times.
Shore Excursions: Wherever possible while on shore excursions, we will break into smaller, guided groups according to interest and physical ability. This may mean one small group going off on a strenuous, two-hour hike on steep terrain, while another explores the area in and around the landing beach, keeping to relatively level terrain and short distances. Generally speaking, once a few people are ready to return to the ship, the Zodiacs are usually available to take you back at the time of your choosing.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 5 Panniqtuuq (Pangnirtung): Immerse yourself in Inuit art
Today we will experience the Inuit hamlet of Panniqtuuq (Pangnirtung), nestled on a coastal plain amidst stunning mountains and a winding river valley. Meaning “the place of the bull caribou” in Inuktitut, this charming community is embraced by snow-capped peaks and the ocean.
This community is located just 45km (28mi) south of the Arctic Circle, and the Inuit (and their ancestors, Paleo-Eskimo) have inhabited the area for thousands of years, perhaps up to 4000 years.
Inuit have long used the Pangnirtung area as important hunting and fishing ground and this tradition continues today. Known for abundant sea mammals such as seals and whales, Pangnirtung is also an important player in the Nunavut economy, exporting wild turbot around the world. Contact with European Canadians has been limited to less than the last century. In 1921, the Hudson's Bay Company established a trading post in here, and two years later, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police erected a permanent office.
Here you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in renowned Inuit art at the internationally known Uqqurmiut Inuit Arts Centre. Maybe you will want to step inside the print and weave shop, where talented Inuit artists create beautifully woven tapestries and prints. Pangnirtung is internationally known for its dark green serpentine stone and whale bone used in carvings plus its tapestries and woven accessories such as the ‘Pang Hat’ This visit will provide you with the opportunity to purchase one of the acclaimed "Pang" hats—colourfully patterned crocheted toques—at the centre's gift shop.
Weather permitting, we do get off the ship at least once and sometimes twice a day. We may visit communities, go exploring in our Zodiacs to look for wildlife, or hike where possibly no one has been before. On shore, when possible, we will break into guided groups depending on interest and physical ability, so you will never be left behind.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 6 Cumberland Peninsula: Experience the Rugged Beauty of the Cumberland Peninsula
Today and tomorrow will be spent exploring the Cumberland Peninsula, a stunning Arctic region in the southeastern part of Baffin Island, and a place steeped in cultural heritage.
Jutting from the southeastern coast of Baffin Island, this peninsula encompasses Cumberland Sound, whose profuse wildlife sustained Inuit and their predecessors for thousands of years. We hope to experience the same natural wonders as we sail through the marine-rich waterway.
It was even considered a potential missing link in the early search for the Northwest Passage. While exploring, you'll have the opportunity to delve into the captivating maritime history of the region, gaining a deeper understanding of its past and present significance.
We'll make the most of every opportunity to hike the vast tundra and Zodiac in the ice-strewn waters. Make sure to keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife that calls this region home.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 7 Cumberland Peninsula: Experience the Rugged Beauty of the Cumberland Peninsula
Today we continue with our exploration of Cumberland Peninsula.
Sailing aboard this ice-class expedition vessel is engaging and exciting, featuring an unparalleled mix of discovery, learning, and fun. Above all, expedition life means true adaptability; each day features unique programming, and there’s something for everyone! There’s never a shortage of things to do - from lively talks, to workshops and presentations.
Enjoy the on-board spa, pool, and hot tub; enjoy a therapeutic massage or a quiet sauna after a day out in the Zodiacs. Top it all off with unbeatable gourmet food. Travelling aboard the Ocean Endeavour is an experience like no other: all the comforts of a boutique hotel, at sea in one of the world's most remote environments!
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 8 At Sea - Davis Strait: Learn From Inuit in Their Homeland
Deepen your understanding of the environment, cultures, and history of the region as we sail across the Davis Strait towards Greenland. Davis Strait is the entrance to Baffin Bay from the North Atlantic, and it stretches over 950 km across at its greatest width (and never less than 300 km). Some of the greatest depths in the eastern Arctic are reached here (3660 m) in the southern end of the strait. The surface waters are strongly affected by counterclockwise-flowing currents.
At the eastern entrance to the Northwest Passage, the biologically rich waters of Baffin Bay and Davis Strait have supported Indigenous groups for millennia. Located between Canada and Greenland, these waters connect the Arctic Ocean with the Atlantic and stretch over 1.1 million square kilometres. A strong current that runs up the coast of Greenland and back down the steep Baffin Island shoreline sends cold water and ice southward, creating an Arctic climate as far south as Labrador and Newfoundland. In this icy habitat, marine life flourishes.
During our time here we will have the privileged opportunity to engage with and learn from Inuit in their homeland. Enjoy onboard workshops and presentations, watch a documentary, and get out on deck! Perhaps try your hand at athletic feats during an interactive cultural performance of Inuit games.
The spirit of exploration is what draws us to visit places seldom seen, off the beaten trail—even off the map! That means visiting new places as often as possible. It means travelling with experienced experts, and local cultural ambassadors. If the itinerary makes a deviation from the expected route, it’s all part of the adventure! Keep your binoculars ready to spot whales and seabirds who follow in our wake.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 9 Western Greenland: Hike the Tundra
Welcome to Kalaallit Nunaat, or Greenland! Greenland is officially the world’s largest island that is not a continent. Home to 56,000 people, Greenland has its own extensive local government, but it is also part of the Realm of Denmark. The first humans to set foot on Greenland arrived some 4,000-5,000 years ago from the North American continent via Canada, after the sea froze in the narrow strait at Thule in Northern Greenland.
During our time here you will have the opportunity to choose the activity you like best during an expedition landing on Greenland’s spectacular west coast. Whether you prefer hiking, walking, photography, or sitting contemplatively, you’ll be delighted!
Alongside a team of knowledgeable naturalists, marine biologists, and geologists, embrace every opportunity to learn and deepen your connection to the landscapes we explore. Admire the mighty mountains and the tiniest tundra flowers—a stop in this area will offer many outstanding features to pique your interest.
The west Greenland coastline is a rich mixture of fishing communities, many islands and complex coastal waterways. The waters are relatively warm here, due to the West Greenland current and the more southerly location. This makes for lusher vegetation.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 10 Western Greenland: Hike the Tundra
Today we continue to explore Western Greenland.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 11 Ilulissat: Take a Cruise Around Towering Icebergs
Today we will experience the remarkable beauty of Ilulissat Icefjord, renowned for its enormous icebergs. Ilulissat translates literally into “iceberg”, an apt name for this site at the mouth of the Ilulissat Icefjord—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The icefjord is the outlet of the Sermeq Kujalleq Glacier, source of many of the icebergs in the north Atlantic. Sermeq Kujalleq is one of the fastest and most active glaciers in the world.
Here, we will cruise in Zodiacs to appreciate the icebergs. You will marvel at the sheer grandeur of the towering icebergs from the shore as you walk along the boardwalk in town —truly a sight to behold!
But Ilulissat is not only about icebergs. It is rich in Inuit history, a favourite feeding ground for migrating whales, a paradise for outdoor adventurers both on land and at sea, and a modern and vibrant city. We will visit the town, with its museums, charming cafes, craft shops, and bustling fishing harbour. Be sure to make your way to the Ilulissat Icefjord Centre, where you can delve into the fascinating narratives surrounding the ice and gain a deeper appreciation for this awe-inspiring natural wonder.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 12 Sisimiut Coast: Witness Stunning Glaciers, Islands, and Fjords
Today we explore West Greenland’s complex coastal waterways that include glaciers, islands, and fjords against a towering mountain backdrop, with plentiful opportunities for hiking and Zodiac cruising. Greenland is stunning nature and endless landscapes. From our ship you always have a front seat view to the spectacular scenery as you cruise along the coast.
Learn about the Saqqaq, Dorset, Thule, and modern Inuit cultures that have called the Sisimiut region home for the past 4,500 years. The waters are relatively warm here, due to the West Greenland Current and the subarctic location.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 13 Kangerlussuaq, Greenland - Toronto, Canada
Sondre Stromfjord is framed by dramatic, glacial-carved mountains, 40 miles (60 km) north of the Arctic Circle and is one of the longest fjords in the world and boasts 168 kilometres of superb scenery. We end our adventure by sailing up this dramatic fjord as the sun rises to greet us. Sondre Stromfjord is the Danish name for the place the Inuit call Kangerlussuaq which translates as "The long fjord".
Kangerlussuaq, the town at its eastern head, is a former US Air Force base and Greenland’s primary flight hub. This comparatively small village of approximately 500 inhabitants was originally established by the Americans during World War 2 under the name Bluie West-8. The airport played a major role as a stopover site for aircraft missions between America and Europe.
Here we will disembark the Ocean Endeavour and transfer to the airport for our evening charter flight to Toronto.
Tonight we enjoy our last dinner at our airport hotel in Toronto before saying our goodbyes!
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 14 Departure
Departure from Toronto.
BON VOYAGE!
Included Meal(s): Breakfast
Inclusions
Passage aboard the Ocean Endeavour, one night of accommodation in Ottawa & one night of accommodation in Toronto, complimentary expedition jacket, special access permits, entry and park fees, all guided activities, sightseeing and community visits, all Zodiac excursions, all port fees, pre-departure materials, educational program, interactive workshops, evening entertainment, all shipboard meals, including water, tea & coffee (other meals as per tour itinerary); Adventures Abroad Tour Leader and Expert on-board expedition team. Prior to departure, all participants will receive a detailed pre-departure guide booklet.
SINGLES - We have a limited quantity of single cabins with no single supplement. Once these cabins are sold, the single supplement fee (in order to secure a cabin to yourself) is as listed above.
Taxes - Any taxes applicable to the expedition portion of the tour are included in the tour price (see also 'exclusions').
Adventures Abroad will also include gratuities for ship's crew at a level commensurate with satisfactory service. You are, of course, welcome to augment directly yourself should you feel the service warranted.
Our tour price also includes the charter flights Ottawa to Iqaluit & Kangerlussuaq, Greenland to Toronto (a US$2400 per person value).
Exclusions
Flights to Ottawa/From Toronto.
Program Enhancements/optional excursions (see pre-trip notes sent after reservation); personal expenses, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages on board the ship, additional expenses in the event of delays or itinerary changes, possible fuel surcharges.
Optional single supplement fees - We have a limited quantity of single cabins with no single supplement. Once these cabins are sold, the single supplement fee (in order to secure a cabin to yourself) is as listed above.
It is customary to offer your Adventures Abroad Tour Leader a gratuity upon conclusion of the trip.
Taxes - Any taxes applicable to the expedition portion of the tour are included in the tour price; however, the two hotel nights (Ottawa & Toronto) are subject to an additional Canadian tax (GST) which we are required to list separately on your bill.
Emergency Medical Evacuation Insurance: All travellers must obtain Medical and Emergency Evacuation Insurance (not included), including without limitation, emergency medical evacuation insurance in a minimum amount of USD$500,000 per passenger, which includes evacuation by air ambulance.
Seasonality and Weather
Greenland and Nunavut are vast, and therefore the climate throughout these regions is subsequently hugely varied, reflecting the variation in latitude.
Greenland’s west coast (including the Disko Bay region) tends to have a cooler but more stable climate than the south of the country. Expect temperatures between 8-12°C (46-54°F). These temperatures can be exceeded in sheltered areas, especially far up fjords – Kangerlussuaq, situated 160km inland for instance regularly records summer temperatures in excess of 20°C/68°F. The weather is generally calm and sunny, although cool rainy or foggy days do occur. It is very rare for snowfall or sub-zero temperatures to occur in summer, although this does occasionally happen.
Nunavut does not benefit from the same warm ocean currents as Greenland, and even southern Baffin Island is cooler and much more stark than similar latitudes in Greenland. While summer days are still long and bright, expect temperatures to be slightly colder on the western side of the Davis Strait.
We therefore remind our guests to be prepared for all weather conditions! We highly recommend to our guests to dress in layers (ideally in woolen or synthetic fibers) so that layers can be adjusted as the weather dictates.
Transport and Travel Conditions
This expedition is best suited for people with an adventurous spirit, who still want comfortable accommodations and good food!
We will be cruising aboard the Ocean Endeavour. Outfitted with twenty Zodiacs, advanced navigation equipment, multiple lounges, and a top-deck observation room, she is purpose-built for passenger experiences in remote environments. The Ocean Endeavour boasts a 1B ice class, enabling her to explore throughout the Arctic summer.
Specifications:
Capacity - 198 passengers
Registry - Bahamas
Year built - 1982, Szczecin, Poland
Refurbished - 001, 2004, 2010, 2015, 2016, 2018
Length - 137m (450 ft); Breadth - 21m (69 feet); Draft - 5.8m (19 feet)
Stabilizers - Gyrofin stabilizers
The ship also offers laundry service, a medical clinic, panoramic top-deck observation platform, elevators.
Our Excursions & Activities:
Weather-permitting, we get off the ship at least once, and sometimes twice a day. We may visit communities, go exploring in our Zodiacs to look for wildlife, or hike where possibly no one has been before. On shore, when possible, we will break into guided groups depending on interest and physical ability, so you will never be left behind. This is not a strenuous trip, but it is busy; you'll need to be sure on your feet and able to manage getting into/out of small boats and bravely face a wide range of weather conditions. Though we travel mostly in protected waters and the ship has stabilizers, we have some open water crossings; you should be comfortable with wave motion in the event that we encounter weather and/or swells.
Zodiacs are the favoured means of transportation for all our expeditions and, indeed, wherever shallow waters and beaches ring the shoreline. Zodiacs are inflatable, rigid-hulled watercraft, powered by outboard motors.
CLOSER TO DEPARTURE we will provide a full expedition guide to all participants.
Am I suitable for this tour? Please refer to our self-assessment form.
Accommodation
Life aboard the Ocean Endeavour is as relaxed or as engaged as you want it to be. The onboard library, lounges, gym, sauna, gift shop, and viewing areas offer comfort and ease. Programming is designed to enhance your understanding and appreciation of the regions we visit. Presentations, workshops, entertainment, and special events complete the excursions.
Buffet-style breakfasts and lunches include a wide variety of fresh and healthy choices. Globally inspired a la carte dinners offer options to suit every taste, including fish and vegetarian options. Desserts, made fresh daily, are a highlight! Food sensitivities, special diets, and personal choices can be accommodated with advance notice. Early-bird breakfast, afternoon tea, late-night snacks, and treats round out the offerings. And tea, coffee, and cookies are always available!
Cabins Amenities:
Private bath, telephone, flat screen TV, intercom, hair dryer, bathrobe, towels, body wash, and hair care products.
Our Cabins:
Category 6, 'Comfort Twin'
Twins will be accommodated on Deck 4: Two porthole windows, unobstructed view; two lower berths - approx. 175 sq ft.
Singles will be accommodated on Deck 7: Picture windows, partial obstruction, two lower berths – approx 135 sq ft.
Due to our contractual agreement with the ship's operator regarding cabin location/type, we do not offer the opportunity for upgrades.
For the expedition we have a limited quantity of single cabins with no single supplement! Yes, you read that right; but once these cabins are sold, the single supplement fee (in order to secure a cabin to yourself) is 1.5 times the berth cost. A single supplement will apply for single hotel accommodation requested in Ottawa & Toronto (2 nights total).
For more information, please click on the 'Map & Hotels' tab elsewhere on this page.
Staff and Support
The ship is, of course, fully-crewed, including wildlife/cultural specialists, medical personnel, expert Zodiac captains, and local cultural ambassadors.
This tour will be lead/hosted by senior Tour Leader, Martin Charlton, who in 2025 celebrates 30 years of leadership for Adventures Abroad.
Group Size
Maximum 16-18 (depending on final room list) plus Tour Leader
Regions visited: North America and Western Europe
Countries visited: Canada and Greenland
*The red tour trail on the map does not represent the actual travel path.
The following is a list of sample hotels at some locations included on this tour. The hotels shown here are meant to provide a general sense of the standard of hotel we usually aim for; they are not necessarily confirmed for your chosen departure.
