HX Hurtigruten Expeditions From Cambridge Bay to Portland - The Northwest Passage

21-day itinerary

Day 1: Explore Edmonton

Welcome to your Arctic Canada and Northwest Passage cruise!

Before embarking on your exciting expedition and to Cambridge Bay, your first destination, enjoy the vibrant and colourful city of Edmonton during your overnight stay. There is so much to see and do in Alberta’s capital province, so why not join one of the optional pre-programme packages to experience more of the joys of Edmonton in greater depth.

Day 2: Wildlife of Cambridge Bay

Before boarding your state-of-the-art MS Fram cruise ship, experience a utopia for wildlife – Cambridge Bay. Home to only 2,000 residents, this isolated bay has been sparsely occupied since around 4,000 years ago and still holds on to much of its cultural history. Known locally as ‘Iqaluktuuttiaq’ which translates to ‘a good fishing place’, the bay is very popular with fly-fishers who are looking to catch the Arctic char or lake trout, while musk oxen and caribou can frequently be seen roaming the region’s landscape.

Prior to meeting your Expedition Team and going through the regulations and guidelines for your trip, why not take some time to explore more of what Cambridge Bay has to offer. The Canadian High Arctic Research Station, an important centre for climate change research is also nearby if travellers wish to further bolster the scientific knowledge they have acquired over the course of this trip.

Day 3-10: The Northwest Passage

Prepare to enter full adventure mode as the cruise begins its crossing of Canada’s stunning Arctic archipelago. Due to conditions being continually interchangeable, you will get to fully experience the trials and tribulations suffered by pioneering explorers who have previously visited the region. However, your spectacular MS Fram cruise ship is completely acclimated to these harsher conditions, with your experienced captain navigating the surroundings to successfully travel from the Atlantic to the Pacific via this iconic sea route.

Some potential destinations on your journey include Pond Inlet, Dundas Harbour, Fort Ross, Gjoa Haven, Cambridge Bay and Smoking Hills. While exploring these sites, be sure to keep a keen eye out for the abundant array of different Arctic wildlife, such as whales, seals, narwhals and even the elusive polar bear.

As ever, ice and sea conditions may change unexpectedly, and the veteran Expedition Team will adapt to conditions to ensure landings are carried out as efficiently as possible.  If weather permits, the team will take you on small expedition boats cruising through ice floes, whilst also heading ashore to witness the idyllic wilderness up close and personal.

The cruise will attempt to reach Pond Inlet and the  Inuit community of Mittimatalik on Baffin Island. There will also be an effort to visit the world’s largest uninhabited island, Devon Island, to learn about Dundas Harbour’s Thule heritage.

You’ll also head to an historic Hudson Bay Trading Post in Fort Ross, before gaining insights about how the legendary Roald Amundsen learned polar survival tips from the Netsilik Inuit while at Gjoa Haven.

Day 11: Sailing across Baffin Bay

After completing the wondrous adventures in Canada’s Northwest Passage, the cruise expedition will then be sailing towards Greenland via the Davis Strait and Baffin Bay. Spend this time broadening your knowledge of Arctic Canada by attending one of the fascinating lectures held by the onboard Expedition Team, or visit the Science Centre to check out some of the Citizen Science on offer for you to contribute towards.

Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely day making the most of the hot-tub and sauna facilities on the MS Fram as you sail serenely past the iceberg-studded waters. The onboard team will also be on hand to carry out wildlife watches so that you can witness more of Greenland’s ecosystem, with the Explorer Lounge and Bar being open to travellers who wish to catch up with their fellow travellers over a refreshing drink.

Day 12: UNESCO recognised Ilulissat Icefjord

A modern-day utopia for a wide variety of wildlife, Disko Bay will be the next stop on your adventure. With the waters scattered by icebergs in many shapes and sizes after coming from the Ilulissat Icefjord, this outstanding UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see destination on this cruise. Immerse yourself in the scenery as you walk along the wooden gangway towards the eye-catching icefjord.

Take advantage of this amazing opportunity to capture stunning images of the pristine landscape, while marvelling at the giant icebergs floating in the serene blue waters. Once back in Ilulissat, visit the icefjord Centre to learn more about the history of the ice is in this otherworldly area, whilst also taking a hike to Sermermiut to revel in some more of the fascinating views.

Day 13: Spectacular Sisimiut

Enjoy a warm welcome to the Arctic Greenland as your expedition reaches Sisimiut, located 25 miles north of the Arctic Circle. With its location making it an ideal place to witness the unique Midnight Sun at the height of Summer, Sisimiut is a must-see destination while on this journey.

Old traditions are still alive and well here, and you can visit the local museum to gain further insights into the ancient Saqqaq culture.  If you’re looking for a special souvenir, pick up a scarf, hat or mittens made of qiviut, the inner wool of a musk ox, said to be 10 times warmer than sheep wool.

Day 14: Nuuk, Greenland’s vibrant capital

Despite its population of less than 20,000 residents, Greenland’s capital is an enticing mix of old and modern buildings. If you’re a fan of the former, take a leisurely stroll down to the old part of town, where you’ll be able to see the picturesque Nuuk Cathedral, as well as the statue of Hans Egede standing on a hill.

Gain an insight into life here from 500 years ago in the National Museum, whilst taking advantage of the many shopping opportunities and the variation of cafes and restaurants you can drop in to. Alternatively,  join a long nature walk through Paradise Valley and around Mt. Lille Malene as part of an optional excursion.

Day 15: Day of expedition

A land of stark contrasts, the Central West Coast of Greenland is home to some of the longest fjords in the country and a scattering of charming settlements. Due to the vastness of the land in comparison to the sparsely populated region, the sense remoteness and tranquillity is just a part of everyday life.

The Captain and Expedition Team will continually monitor surroundings to carve out the best opportunities for adventure, with hikes and kayak trips being possible, depending on suitable weather conditions.

Day 16: Crossing the Labrador Sea

As the expedition leaves Greenland behind, you will then be continuing to Canada, crossing the Labrador Sea in the process. Upon entering the Davis Strait, named after British explorer John Davis, you will be able to gain more insights from the Expedition Team regarding a range of different topics including, Northern Labrador’s wildlife, Inuit culture and the history of Arctic exploration.

Passengers will be offered the unique opportunity to join Citizen Science programmes, contributing towards scientific study. With the strait being rich in wildlife, help photograph and track whales, or observe the clouds in the skies above, to aid research in the GLOBE programme.

Day 17: The history of Red Bay

Look out for humpback and minke whales as the expedition heads to Red Bay. Considered to be one of the world’s most crucial underwater archaeological sites because of its ice-cold waters which conceal a number of wrecked whaling boats, Red Bay also holds a significant historical importance, with it being used as a mooring site for naval vessels during WW2.

Check out the local museum to see a 26 ft chalupa, whaling boat, whilst also visiting the Red Bay National Historic Site to search for whale bones. Why not also take a fun detour to try and find Kidd’s buried treasure around Tracy Hill, with the spectacular viewpoint at the hill’s summit making the journey completely worth it.

Day 18: Classic Corner Brook

Following in the legendary footsteps of Captain James Cook, the cruise will then be sailing into the Bay of Islands towards the historic city of Corner Brook. Immerse yourself in the region’s fascinating culture and traditions, whilst also paying a visit to the Corner Brook Museum to discover a collection of interesting artifacts.

Marvel at the captivating views at the summit of Crow Hill, or take a scenic hike around the Corner Brook Stream trail. Alternatively, the stunning Gros Morne National Park is certainly worth seeing first hand, along with the picturesque Lobster Cove Head lighthouse, which also features a scenic drive.

Day 19-20: Final days at sea

During your penultimate days on your unforgettable expedition journey, take this time to unwind and reflect on your amazing experiences aboard the excellent MS Fram cruise ship.

Recount your favourite memories with your fellow travellers while in the Explorer lounge and bar, and take advantage of the outstanding spa and wellness facilities onboard. Fancy bolstering your knowledge about Arctic Canada and the Northwest Passage? Join the Expedition Team in the Science Centre discuss your final Citizen Science observations, and choose your favourite pictures with the onboard photographer.

Day 21: Arriving in Portland

Your exciting expedition through the Northwest Passage unfortunately comes to its conclusion in Portland. After arriving here, a bus transfer will take you back to Boston prior to your flight home.

Flights

• Economy class flight from Edmonton to Cambridge Bay

Hotel

• Overnight in Edmonton before the expedition cruise, including breakfast

Transfers

• Transfer from the hotel to the airport in Edmonton before the expedition cruise
• Transfer from the airport to the ship in Cambridge Bay before the expedition cruise
• Transfer from the ship in Portland to Boston airport or city centre

Expedition Cruise

• A stay in a cabin of your choice
• Breakfast, lunch and dinner including beverages* in restaurant Aune
• À la carte restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests
• Complimentary tea and coffee
• Complimentary Wi-Fi on board†
• Complimentary reusable water bottle
• English-speaking Expedition Team who organise and accompany activities on board and ashore
• Range of included activities

Onboard Activities

• In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team
• Full use of our Science Centre, library and advanced biological and geological equipment
• Citizen Science Programme where you can assist with ongoing scientific research
• Photography tips and techniques for capturing landscapes and wildlife from our onboard professional photographer
• Use of the ship’s hot tubs, sauna and indoor gym
• Informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings

Landing Activities

• Escorted landings with small expedition boats
• Loan of boots, trekking poles and all equipment for activities
• Complimentary wind- and water-resistant expedition jacket
• Expedition photographers on hand to assist you

Notes

• All planned activities are subject to weather and ice conditions
• Excursions and activities are subject to change
• Please make sure you meet all entry and boarding requirements
• No gratuities expected

What’s not included

• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Luggage handling
• Optional shore excursions with our local partners
• Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Team

MS Fram