Hurtigruten Expeditions Arctic Canada and Greenland Expedition - Circumnavigating Baffin Bay

21-day itinerary

Day 1: Cosmopolitan Reykjavik

Located in southwestern Iceland, Reykjavik will be the first destination on your captivating expedition cruise.  A city which boasts a rich variety of cultural, historical, and artistic context, Reykjavik is a place worth immersing yourself in.

Take a scenic walk along Laugavegur wits its charming boutiques and outdoor shops, or drop in at the fascinating Reykjavik Art Museum – before you travel to Nuuk on the second expedition day.

Depending on how much time you have, there are pre-programme packages available to travellers who wish to experience the highlights of Reykjavik in greater depth.

Day 2: Embarking in Nuuk

Despite its population of less than 20,000 residents, Greenland’s vibrant 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. From here, you will be boarding the MS Roald Amundsen ahead of your expedition cruise, brimming with excitement as your unforgettable adventure awaits.

Day 3: Crossing the Arctic Circle

As the cruise journey’s on towards the Arctic Circle, the onboard Expedition Team will take you through the AECO regulations to ensure that operations and landings are carried out safely and respectfully in the fragile Arctic environment. Make sure you set aside time to attend these meetings if you wish to join the planned landings ahead.

Just as importantly, take time to familiarise yourself with the ship’s layout and take advantage of the excellent facilities, including sumptuous restaurants, an onboard gym, and sauna and pool areas.

As you pass through the Arctic Circle, experience the surreal beauty of the midnight sun as the real expedition commence

Day 4-6: East coast Baffin Island (Qikiqtaaluk)

Concealed by ice for the majority of the year, the conditions around the Baffin Island region will be optimal for your expedition cruise in August as the sea ice begins to recede. The Roald Amundsen will be able to navigate these waters for a short period of time as a result of this, with the sea ice environment around the island creating a rich habitat for abundant wildlife that you will be able to witness.

The expedition’s objective is to reach the small settlement of Qikiqtaaluk, where the plan is to commence your adventure into Arctic Canada. Prepare to enter full explorer mode as you enter the misanthropic wilderness, with the onboard Captain and Expedition Team continually monitoring the presence and concentration of sea ice, to ensure conditions are suitable for continuing the journey through this route.

It is also important for the expedition to be respectful of the seasonal activities held by the local communities in the area, and any landings will be in consultation with this to ensure that no disruptions to these events is caused.

Possible landings include:

 Isabella Bay (Ninginganiq) 

This National Wildlife area is a crucial habitat for Arctic wildlife, and for bowhead whales in particular. Isabella Bay provides a critical feeding ground for these titanic marine mammals, with the continued conservation of the area therefore being of extreme importance.

Sam Ford Fjord (Kangiqtualuk Uqquqti) and Gibbs Fjord

With looming peaks and huge glaciers, this collection of fjords are recognised for their remarkable scenery, and are popular with both nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The region is abundant in wildlife, with iconic mammals such as seals, whales and a wide variety of bird species being native to the area.

Coutts Inlet (Inalugaarjuup Kangiqłua)

Discover the peace and serenity of this isolated and untouched wilderness. At its core, the 50-mile fjord system contains two arms; ‘The North Arm’ and the main inlet itself, while the narwhal, one of the Arctic’s most elusive species, can be found here.

Day 7: Sailing towards the Northwest Passage

As the expedition sets sail northwards to the entrance of the Northwest Passage. The onboard Expedition Team will be on hand to offer their insights into what to expect from the next stage of your adventure.

Take some time to relax before the start of your adventure by capitalising on the onboard sauna, hot-tub and lounge facilities. Alternatively, passengers will be able to join one of the available Citizen Science project’s while onboard, an exciting and engaging way for anyone to contribute toward global research.

Day 8-11: At sea

Lancaster Sound and Devon Island

Welcome to Lancaster Sound, also known as Tallurutiup Imanga, and the gateway to the Northwest Passage.

This outstanding region is home to absorbing Arctic wildlife, stunning scenery, and vibrant Inuit communities. The plan for the expedition here is to sail deep into the south, and over the course of the next three days, possible exploration sites include:

Dundas Harbour

Located on the southern shores of Devon Island, this harbour was previously used as the Royal Canadian Mounted Police post (RCMP), as well as a base for scientific research and exploration. Musk oxen can be frequently spotted in the region, so keep a keen eye out for them during one of the planned hiking trips.

Beechey Island (Iluvilik) 

Holding a significant place in the history of Arctic exploration, this spot is known in particular for the ill-fated Franklin expedition back in 19^th century. Home to several well-preserved grave sites of expeditions members, the island also has a distinct monument dedicated to commemorating previous Arctic exploration efforts.

Croker Bay

Possibly the most scenic and idyllic bay on the south coast of Devon island, Croker Bay is home to two large outlet glaciers plunging down from the island’s ice-cap. With the conditions making it an optimal area for small boat cruising, see if you can spot walruses lounging around the calved ice floes.

Coburg Island (Nirjutiqarvik) 

With the island being an officially protected National Wildlife Area, the abundance od wildlife and ecosystems make this a must-see on your journey. Nirjutiqarvik, meaning ‘The Place of Animals’, is widely renowned for its large seabird colonies, with large populations of thick-billed murres and northern fulmars, while also being a critical feeding ground for large mammals such as whales.

Day 12: Expedition day

After completing the wondrous adventures in the Northwest Passage, the cruise expedition will then be sailing towards Northwest Greenland. Spend this time broadening your knowledge of the region 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 Roald Amundsen 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 the Arctic 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 13-14: Discovering the Thule region

Referred to by the Greek explorer, Pytheas, in the 4^th Century BC as ‘Ultima Thule’ to describe the mythical land in the far north, the Thule region represents life at the edge of the world. With the extremely challenging climatic conditions creating a tough living environment for the inhabitants all year round, experience a true expedition in one of planet Earth’s harshest and remote areas.

Being the first region in Greenland to be colonised around 4,500 years ago by the Inuit forerunners, Arctic archaeologists are still perplexed as to how the colonisers were able to survive such difficult circumstances. The abundance of bird and animal life provides a resistance against the icy backdrop, while Greenland’s traditional hunting culture has survived well over the course of history. The outstanding knowledge and expertise of the locals to continually navigate the conditions efficiently has led to them being highly sought after to work on European and American expeditions, working as either guides or saviours. Due to its geographical location, the region has been a natural starting point for many expeditions towards the North Pole.

As the weather conditions are so extreme at times, the Captain and Expedition Team will be continually adapting the programme to suit the surroundings. The main aims of the expedition will be to visit unique local communities, make landings with small expedition boats, and sail through the misanthropic icy channels. Also, be sure to keep an eye out for some of the so-called giants of the Arctic, including walruses, whales, orcas and even the elusive polar bear.

Day 15: Melville Bay

The next day will be a time for relaxation and tranquillity as the expedition crosses the Melville Bay. Referred to by the locals as Qimusseriarsuaq, meaning ’The Great Dog Sledding Place‘, this is a huge bay which borders the icy coast of Lauge Koch, where the ice caps meet the sea. During the mid-19^th century, the bay was renamed after Robert Dundas, 2^nd Viscount of Melville by British explorers, with the expedition aiming to sail 70 degrees north of this region.

Take advantage of MS Roald Amundsen’s outstanding facilities to relax and de-stress before the next leg in your journey. Learn more about the Arctic with the ongoing series of lectures held by the Expedition Team on topics such as nature, geology and mythology, or join in with wildlife watches out on deck.

Day 16-18: Western Greenland

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. Possible landing sites in this area include:

Uummannaq Fjord

Beyond the Nuussuaq peninsula, distances start to mean everything, because it’s here that Greenland’s ‘Far North’ begins. It’s the perfect place for your expedition as weather and ice conditions are firmly in charge. Your experienced Captain and Expedition Team will lean on their wealth of knowledge to monitor the surroundings to ensure that all waters are navigated safely and any landings are carried out in suitable conditions.

The first settlers in the area came down the coast more than 4,000 years ago, with the land’s sheer beauty and the surprising productivity of the landscape attracting people ever since the arrival of the first settlers. The incredible skills and abilities of the Arctic people to thrive in such a challenging environment are still clear to see in the intriguing archaeological sites remaining in the area.

As part of the expedition, possible activities include calls into some of the local communities such as Uummannaq – a scenic island with a heart-shaped mountain, also known as Ukkusissat. You may visit archaeological sites, take part in nature landings, or with weather permitting, make ice-cruising attempts in the inner fjords with the ship’s small expedition boats.

Vaigat Sound

The remote region of Vaigat Sound will be the most northernly point of your journey, with its untamed landscapes being firmly in Mother Nature’s control. As ever, the Expedition Team will identify the best possible sites for landings, and where possible, you’ll be taking expedition boats out on shore landings, or go on optional kayaking trips between the floating icebergs.

The team may also take you on treks across tundra, wildlife sightings, and close to glaciers so you can monitor their movement. Utilise your newly improved photography skills to capture the abundant wildlife in the area, including orcas, bowhead whales, and a variety of different species of seal.

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 19: Towards Nuuk

After completing the wondrous adventures in the ethereal Greenland, the cruise expedition will then be sailing towards the capital of this desolate region, Nuuk. Spend this time broadening your knowledge of the Arctic 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 Roald Amundsen 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 the Artic 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 20: Expedition concludes in Nuuk

The voyage of discovery will sadly conclude in Nuuk, saying a fond farewell to the ship, crew and Expedition Team. Despite its population of less than 20,000 residents, the vibrant capital is positively bustling compared to the other settlements and villages you have visited on this trip.

From here, you will be boarding a flight back to Reykjavik, taking with you a wealth of excellent experiences and memories you will likely never forget.

Day 21: Reykjavik return

Your Greenland expedition cruise circumnavigating Baffin Bay, ends back in the fascinating city of Reykjavik. Miss any sights when you first arrived? This is the best opportunity to experience more of what the city has to offer.

Immerse yourself in more of the Icelandic culture by visiting a geothermal pool or a ‘heittur pottur’, translating to a ‘hot-pot’. Still feel as though you haven’t quenched your desire to fully experience Iceland’s natural beauty? If so, be sure to visit the ‘Blue Lagoon’, often regarded as one of the true natural wonders of the world with the blend of silica, algae and minerals in its geothermal waters.

Guests will also have the option to join one of the post-programme packages to explore more of the joys of Iceland.

Hotel

• Overnight in Reykjavík before and after the expedition cruise, including breakfast

Flights

• Flights in economy class between Reykjavík and Nuuk

Transfers

• Transfers between the hotel and the airport in Reykjavík before and after the flight to Nuuk
• Transfers between the airport and the ship in Nuuk

Expedition Cruise

• A stay in a cabin of your choice
• Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Wine, beer and spirits available at meals and throughout the day and evening (subject to licensing laws, excludes premium drinks)
• All day coffee, tea and soft drinks
• Meals and take-away available throughout the day during Fredheim restaurant opening hours
• Fine dining in restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests
• A complimentary water bottle to refill on board and take home
• A polar expedition jacket, a backpack, or another piece of HX kit
• Professional photos from your trip taken by our onboard photographer
• Complimentary Wi-Fi. Please note, streaming is not supported
• Use of sauna, hot tubs, pool, fitness room, lounges and more
• Gratuities included. Fantastic service is standard at HX – though if you’d like to leave something extra, it’s always appreciated
• Range of included activities

Onboard Activities

• In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team
• Full access to the ship’s Science Centre
• Citizen Science Programme allows guests to assist with ongoing scientific research
• Professional onboard photographer gives tips and tricks for the best landscape and wildlife photos
• 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
• 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
• Depending on your flight times, an additional overnight might be needed (not included)

What’s not included

• International flights
• Additional overnight(s) if required due to international flight timings
• Travel insurance
• Luggage handling
• Optional shore excursions with our local partners
• Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Team
• Optional treatments in the onboard wellness and spa area

MS Roald Amundsen