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Venture far above the Arctic Circle, in a land where the sun never sets and Polar bears roam
Your Arctic expedition begins in Toronto. Explore this vibrant city on your own before spending the night at your well-appointed hotel.
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 the ship in the afternoon, enjoy time out on deck, taking in your new surroundings as you set sail on your Arctic expedition.
As we cruise across the Davis Strait, the 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.
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. Our 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.
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 the Expedition Team on the bridge as they scan for wildlife—there is no shortage of activities while at sea.
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), Black-legged kittiwakes, Northern fulmars and Black guillemots.
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.
Return to Greenland and sail 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 worldWe 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.
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.
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 metres) 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 colours, 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.
Enjoy one more Zodiac ride to shore, where you’ll board your charter flight back to Toronto, Canada. Upon arrival in Toronto, we will transfer you to your included hotel.
Today, you can make your way home at your leisure or spend time exploring this fascinating city.
17 nights on the ship, 2 nights hotel in TorontoExpedition cruising in
comfortable conditions
All meals while on the ship included.Typical MealsThe ships galley offers
good quality service and cuisine throughout, with excellent chefs preparing
international menus including vegetarian dishes, accompanied by a wide
variety of drinks from around the world on sale.Breakfast: Buffet style –
unlimited tea and coffee, a selection of fruit juices, hot options including
bacon and eggs or omelettes, a selection of bread and toast and
jam/honey/marmalade, fruit and cereal.Lunch: Three course set meal, or the
occasional buffet or BBQ.Dinner: Three courses with a starter of soup, salad
or anti-pasto, a choice of three mains with at least one vegetarian and one
seafood option and a dessert of sweet pudding or ice cream or fruit, tea and
coffee.Vegetarians and vegans can be well catered for on this holiday -
please do inform us before departure of any special dietary requests so that
our local team can be well prepared.
17 nights on the ship, 2 nights hotel in TorontoExpedition cruising in
comfortable conditions
Travelling ConditionsThe voyages are designed to be as flexible as possible,
taking advantage of circumstances and events as they occur, as well as
passengers' wishes and particular interests wherever possible. The atmosphere
on board is relaxed and friendly with expedition staff, including naturalists
and Polar experts, on hand and the opportunity to mingle with people from all
over the world. The ship is kept warm, clean and comfortable with a wet/mud
room in which to hang gear and store boots ready for the next adventure.On
the Zodiac cruises you are sitting still for most of the time with the
potential for some sea spray and a cold headwind - if you are not dressed
appropriately you will get cold. On the shore excursions, the majority of
landings are wet which means that the Zodiacs beach and you are helped to
slide into the ankle deep shore break before walking up onto dry land
(wellington boots are issued to all passengers). There are, of course, no
paths, so be prepared for slippery, rough terrain and sometimes fairly deep
snow. Back on board the cosy ship after each adventure, you can have a sauna
and/or a hot shower and then relax with a tea, coffee, hot chocolate or
something stronger from the bar.Optional activitiesSea kayaking
option:Kayaking in the Arctic is probably one of the most intimate and
inspiring ways you can explore the rugged coastlines and calm bays of the
regions we visit.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.Offered on most Arctic voyages, spaces are limited and require some
kayaking experience. All equipment, guides and instructions are provided by
Quark.Paddling Excursion: Explore the ocean from a more intimate vantage
point on a sit-on-top kayak. No experience is required to manoeuvre these
very stable kayaks, allowing you to enjoy an unforgettable experience on the
water, taking in breathtaking landscapes and wildlife. Whether it’s your
first time in a kayak or you want greater flexibility to try other Adventure
options, this shorter excursion is for you. Paddling in the Polar
Regions is highly weather-dependent and a one-time experience. Your kayak
guides will attempt to take you out on the water for 1-1.5 hours of paddling.
Offered on most voyages, spaces are limited. All equipment, guides and
instructions are provided by Quark. Booking ConditionsPlease note that,
as with all Polar holidays and voyages, the booking conditions for this
trip differ from our standard conditions. The required deposit is 25% per
person of your selected travel arrangements (minimum £1000 per person or
equivalent in booking currency) and the balance of the price of your travel
arrangements must be paid at least 133 days before your departure date. The
deposit is non-refundable, and at 133 days before departure date, our
cancellation penalties are 100% of the holiday cost. COVID-19 Vaccination:
Please note that as a condition of travel on any of our Polar voyages,
clients must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Clients must provide
proof of their vaccination status to Quark staff before boarding the
ship. For full terms and conditions please refer to our Quark Book and
Travel with Confidence Policy, found here:
https://www.exodus.co.uk/quark-book-and-travel-confidence If you have any
questions, please contact our specialist Polar sales team on 020 8003 9957 or
at polar@exodus.co.uk for further details.
ULTRAMARINEThe Best of the Western Arctic: Canada and Greenland voyage is offered on
the Ultramarine which is a Polar Adventure Ship. Two nights in a standard
hotel in Toronto are included. Full board accommodation on the ship,
generally on a twin share basis in a variety of cabin types, all with en
suite facilities. Polar Adventure ShipsThese are small ice rated vessels
well qualified for Polar waters. Intimate adventures are always more
enjoyable with like-minded passengers and staff, so these voyages are for
people who like flexible itineraries and plenty to keep them busy. Activities
include frequent Zodiac excursions, trekking and many hours on deck in areas
that other ships only dream about accessing. Food and staff are superb and
every guest benefits from the technical advances of this superb fleet. Rest
assured our Polar Adventure Ships enable any traveller to maximize their
experience sensitively in the Poles.
Ultramarine[[{"fid":"246396","view_mode":"default","fields":{"format":"default"},"type":"media","field_deltas":{"1":{"format":"default"}},"attributes":{"class":"media-element
file-default","data-delta":"1"}}]]The newest ship in Quark’s fleet,
Ultramarine, is designed to go beyond the familiar in Polar exploration, to
discover new places, and to immerse you in the best the region has to
offer.Equipped with two twin-engine helicopters, Ultramarine offers the most
robust portfolio of adventure activities in the industry, the most spacious
suites in its category, breath-taking public spaces, and more outdoor
wildlife viewing spaces than other expedition ships its size. It also
features an innovative mix of sustainability features that exceed all
industry standards. With all this and more, Ultramarine is set to deliver the
ultimate Polar expedition experience.[caption caption="Balcony Suite -
Ultramarine"][/caption][caption caption="Panorama Lounge -
Ultramarine"][/caption][caption caption="Dining Area -
Ultramarine"][/caption]Cabin Class:SOLO PANORAMA: Located on Deck 6, and
approximately 132 sq. ft. (12.3 m2). This suite is perfect for solo guests
who appreciate privacy and want to wake up to sweeping views from the comfort
of their bed. These are the only solo suites with floor-to-ceiling windows
available onboard any ship in its class. Features: single bed,
floor-to-ceiling window, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower
and heated floors.EXPLORER TRIPLE: Located on Deck 3, and approximately 285
sq. ft. (26.5 m2). This suite is perfect for guests traveling solo who want
to share their experience with other like-minded travellers of the same
gender, or for groups of three traveling together. Featuring three separate
single beds, and amenities for each of the three guests. Features: three
single beds (two of which can be combined into a double bed), sitting area,
picture window, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and
heated floors. EXPLORER SUITE: Located on Deck 3, and approximately 285 sq.
ft. (26.5 m2). These suites are perfect for people traveling together or solo
guests looking to share with like-minded individuals. This suite maximizes
interior living space while still offering guests the opportunity to stay
connected to the outdoors. Our entry-level twin suites are the largest
available on a ship of this class.Features: one double or two single beds,
sitting area with sofa bed, picture window, desk, refrigerator, TV, private
bathroom with shower and heated floors.BALCONY SUITE: Located on Decks 4 and
6, with approximately 226 sq. ft. (21 m2) of indoor living space, and a 52
sq. ft. (4.8 m2) balcony, this entry-level balcony suite is one of the
largest available on a ship of this class. This suite is perfect for guests
who are looking for both indoor and outdoor living spaces. There are four
connecting suites in this category, making this an excellent option for
families or groups wanting to stay connected to each other during their
expedition.Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa
bed, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower
and heated floors.DELUXE BALCONY SUITE: Located on Decks 4 and 6, with
approximately 299 sq. ft. (27.8 m2) of indoor living space, and a 70 sq. ft.
(6.5 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests wanting a larger living
space, full bathroom, and a substantial balcony. Deluxe Balcony Suites are
the first suite type to offer additional privacy in the bathroom with an
enclosed toilet, a full bath and shower to make it easier for guests to get
ready together in the morning.Features: one double or two single beds,
sitting area with sofa bed, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private
bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors.TERRACE SUITE: Located on
Deck 6, with approximately 350 sq. ft. (32.5 m2) of indoor living space, and
a 100 sq. ft. (9.3 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests wanting
generous interiors with a wide layout and the largest balconies on the ship.
Centrally located on Deck 6, guests will enjoy minimal movement and motion
from the comfort of these suites.Features: one double or two single beds,
sitting area with sofa bed, private extra-wide balcony, desk, refrigerator,
TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors.PENTHOUSE
SUITE:The only suite category to be located on Deck 7, with approximately 369
sq. ft. (34.3 m2) of indoor living space, and a 67 sq. ft. (6.2 m2) balcony.
This suite is perfect for guests wanting to wake up to unobstructed polar
views from the warmth and comfort of their bed onboard the ship. These suites
offer the best of everything—views, spacious interiors, full bathrooms and
generous balcony sizes—as well as easy access to the wellness
centre.Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed,
private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower,
bathtub and heated floors.OWNER’S SUITE: Located on Deck 6, with
approximately 446 sq. ft. (41.4 m2) of indoor living space and a 46.3 sq. ft.
(4.3 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests who want it all. A large,
luxurious suite featuring a private bedroom, full bathroom, powder room, and
two separate living spaces. This suite is perfect for families or couples who
want all the comforts of home onboard the ship.Features: one double or two
single beds in a private bedroom with walk-in closet, sitting area with sofa
bed and additional closet, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private
bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors and separate powder
room.ULTRA SUITE: Located on Deck 6, with approximately 563 sq. ft. (52.3m2)
of interior living space, and a 46 sq. ft. (4.3 m2) balcony. This suite is
perfect for guests who want to travel without compromise. Our largest and
most luxurious suite features the most sleeping, entertainment and storage
space onboard the ship. It is perfect for families or travellers who want all
the comforts of home onboard the ship.Features: one double or two single beds
in a private bedroom with walk-in closet, sitting area with sofa bed and
additional walk-in hallway closet, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV,
private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors and separate powder
room.DECKPLAN:
The Exodus group forms part of the ship’s complement (max of approx. 100),
enjoying the relaxed, intimate and informal atmosphere, which breaks into
smaller groups to facilitate the frequent excursions. We offer these cruises
in conjunction with our partner, Quark Expeditions, and Exodus participants
will join an international group, not all of whom have booked through Exodus.
Occasionally some of these may be younger than 12 years old, the Exodus'
stated minimum age for this trip. We work with many fine Expedition Leaders
and Polar Experts, bringing a diversity of interests including zoology, Polar
history, geology, ornithology and ocean sciences. The ship’s operating crew
have many years of experience in Polar Regions and are committed to ensuring
a safe and memorable journey. Each day your cabin will be serviced by the
housekeeping crew, and your meals served by the friendly and attentive
restaurant staff. There is also a resident medical officer.
All meals while on the ship included.Typical MealsThe ships galley offers
good quality service and cuisine throughout, with excellent chefs preparing
international menus including vegetarian dishes, accompanied by a wide
variety of drinks from around the world on sale.Breakfast: Buffet style –
unlimited tea and coffee, a selection of fruit juices, hot options including
bacon and eggs or omelettes, a selection of bread and toast and
jam/honey/marmalade, fruit and cereal.Lunch: Three course set meal, or the
occasional buffet or BBQ.Dinner: Three courses with a starter of soup, salad
or anti-pasto, a choice of three mains with at least one vegetarian and one
seafood option and a dessert of sweet pudding or ice cream or fruit, tea and
coffee.Vegetarians and vegans can be well catered for on this holiday -
please do inform us before departure of any special dietary requests so that
our local team can be well prepared.
During the expedition, you will visit remote and isolated sites that are
accessible only by Zodiac landing craft. Designed for expedition work, these
large and heavy-duty inflatable vessels are extremely safe.
Travelling land only: 20 days starting and ending in Toronto Your trip
normally starts at our hotel in Toronto in the afternoon of Day 1 of the
itinerary. Details of how to reach the start point are provided in the Final
Joining Instructions - sent approximately two weeks before departure.
Both the Canadian Arctic and Greenland have an Arctic climate with average
temperatures that do not exceed 10° C in the warmest summer months.
However, the conditions in the coastal regions of the Arctic during the
northern summer are both mild and changeable. Enjoyable sunny days can
swiftly change to cold, windy storms with snow flurries and rolling seas.
Average daily temperatures in mid-season are between -4 and +2 Celsius;
however, wind conditions can make it seem colder. It is common that you will
experience daytime temperatures below freezing.
Boots – Rubber boots are essential for a Polar expedition, but to eliminate
these from your packing list we will loan you a pair for the duration of the
voyage.Parkas – A complementary Quark parka will be provided on the
ship.Trousers – Waterproof trousers are essential for Zodiac travel as well
as activities on shore.Gloves – To keep your hands warm and dry, pack a
minimum of two pairs of gloves: a pair of thin polypropylene gloves to be
worn underneath warm outer gloves.Hat and Scarf – Pack a warm, woollen hat
or cap that covers your ears, as well as a scarf, neck gaiter or other face
protection.Socks – For maximum warmth, we suggest that you wear two pairs
of socks to wear inside the rubber boots.Outer Clothing – Pack woollen or
fleece jumpers and tops, plus several turtlenecks for layering.Underclothing
– Pack silk or polypropylene underwear since it will keep you warm without
adding bulk.Knapsack or Backpack – To keep your hands free for shooting
photograph, bring a water resistant or waterproof knapsack or backpack.Shoes
– Non-slip shoes for walking around the vessel.
SwimsuitSunglassesBinocularsCamera, extra batteries, film or memory
cardsProtective sunscreenElectric converter with adapter plug setSmall
medical kit containing prescription medicines and over-the-counter medication
for basic ailments such as stomach upsets, allergies, headaches and
seasicknessSnow poles or trekking poles
On board the ships all transactions are in US dollars. At the conclusion of
your voyage, you will be presented with an account. This will include any
drinks from the bar, laundry or ship’s shop purchases for which you have
signed. You may pay for this in US Dollars cash, credit card (Visa or
MasterCard ONLY) or US dollars Traveller’s Cheques.Please note: on the last
evening, once your ship account has been settled, credit card payments are no
longer accepted. It is therefore advisable to bring at least some US$ cash if
you wish to purchase drinks from the bar or any items from the on board shop
at this time.
The appropriate amount to tip the staff and crew is a personal matter but it
is customary to provide an end-of-cruise gratuity (as a rough guide
approximately US$13-15 per day per passenger would be appreciated)
Travel insuranceSingle accommodation (available on request)Visas or
vaccinations
Ved skriftlig aksept av vårt tilbud bekrefter du/dere at våre betingelser er både lest og forstått og at evt kansellerings gebyrer kan tilkomme ved en evt. avbestilling av reisen.