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Baffin Island - Jewel of the Arctic North

ITINERARY

 

Day 1 ~ Ottawa, Canada

Depart Ottawa on your scheduled flight to Iqaluit, Baffin Island. Upon arrival into Iqaluit you’ll enjoy a walking tour of the town and board your expedition ship, in the afternoon. Excitement is in the air as you enjoy a welcome cocktail and cast off to explore one of the most remote places on earth – Baffin Island. (L, D)

 

Day 2 ~ Monumental Island

Situated in the Davis Strait, Monumental Island is a well-known location for walrus. We explore by zodiac along the shoreline looking for these fascinating creatures. We sometimes encounter polar bears around here as well – they have been known to chase walrus off their haul into the water. (B, L, D)

 

Day 3 ~ Pangnirtung

Nestled in the heart of Cumberland Sound and the western gateway to Auyuittuq National Park, the village of Pangniqtuuq (Pangnirtung) is beautifully situated between the mountains and the sea. This remote community is a well-known centre for traditional and contemporary arts and crafts – including carvings, prints and textiles. The Angmarlik Visitor Centre has a wonderful interpretive display sharing the lifestyle and history of the Thule and the modern Inuit. (B, L, D)

 

Day 4 ~ Sunshine Fjord

Sunshine Fjord straddles the Arctic Circle at 66 degrees, 33 minutes north of latitude. Depending on the weather, we might cruise across the Circle on the ship, by zodiac boats, or maybe by foot. Whichever way, it’s a thrill to be above the Arctic Circle. Sunshine Fjord offers terrific hiking opportunities, from long routes that offer wonderful views of our surroundings to less strenuous options along the shoreline. For the sea kayakers, the sheltered waters of the fjord provide great conditions for paddling. (B, L, D)

 

Day 5 ~ Auyuittuq National Park

On the eastern coast of Baffin Island lies one of Canada’s most spectacular National Parks: Auyuittuq. The landscape is dominated by steep and rugged mountain scenery, extensive glacial systems and powerful rivers. In partnership with Parks Canada, we venture into the park with skilled local guides who are able to interpret the flora, fauna, geological and glacial systems. It’s a fascinating place, experienced by only a few fortunate visitors every season. We also plan a visit to Qikiqtarjuaq, a small settlement which is home to several Inuit families. After an inspiring day of exploration we continue north along the coastline of Baffin Island, venturing deeper into the Arctic wilderness. (B, L, D)

 

Day 6 ~ Niginganiq (Isabella Bay)

Isabella Bay (Niginganiq) is an important summer habitat and feeding area for endangered bowhead whales. These remarkable marine mammals are able to break sea ice with the crown of their head. Polar bears, ringed seals, Canada geese, snow geese and narwhal are also commonly sighted in this area. (B, L, D)

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Day 7 ~ Gibbs Fjord

This morning we enter the spectacular Gibbs Fjord with towering cliffs all around us. Our expedition ship will be dwarfed by the giant peaks and snowy glaciers as we cruise slowly along the dark waters. (B, L, D)

 

Day 8 ~ Mittimatalik (Pond Inlet)

Nearing the far north of Baffin Island, we enter a broad channel which is home to the remote Inuit community of Mittimatalik (Pond Inlet). A highlight is a visit to the Natinnak Centre, where a fascinating cultural exhibit showcases the daily life, culture and history of the people of the North. Inuit carvings, jewellery and other traditional craft are on display. Mittimatalik is also the main access point to the pristine wilderness of Sirmilik National Park. This jewel in the crown of Canada's Arctic Park system features the most spectacular scenery, with rugged mountains, ice fields, glaciers, coastal lowlands and large seabird colonies. (B, L, D)

 

Day 9 ~ Devon Island

Leaving the wild landscapes of Baffin Island, we cross Lancaster Sound to Devon Island. Lancaster Sound, which separates Devon and Baffin Island, has been named the wildlife ‘super highway’ of the Arctic. Waters from the Atlantic Ocean, Arctic Ocean, and the northern archipelago of islands meet here, combining to create a rich source of nutrients and food for an abundance of Arctic wildlife. We plan on visiting the old Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) outpost at Dundas Harbour. In the afternoon we reposition the ship into Crocker Bay, home to a substantial glacial system. (B, L, D)

 

Day 10 ~ Prince Leopold Island

Prince Leopold Island is an important migratory bird sanctuary, home to thick-billed murres, black guillemots, northern fulmars and black-legged kittiwakes. A population of several hundred thousand birds makes this one of the most significant bird sanctuaries in the entire Arctic ecosystem. Given the abundance of food found in the nutrient-rich waters here, we often sight beluga, narwhal and bowhead whales, several species of seal, as well as polar bear. (B, L, D)

 

Day 11 ~ Beechey Island

Our final shore landing - Beechey Island, is a place of great historic significance and a suitable finale to our voyage. It is here that Sir John Franklin’s ill-fated expedition spent its last ‘comfortable’ winter in 1845 before disappearing into the icy vastness, sparking an incredible series of search expeditions that last almost three decades. The mystery of what happened to Franklin was partially solved in September 2014, when a joint Parks Canada and Royal Canadian Geographic Society expedition found the HMS Erebus in the Victoria Strait. One Ocean Expeditions played a vital role in the discovery by carrying underwater search equipment on our ship as well as scientists, historians, researchers, dignitaries and sponsors. A trip ashore at Beechey Island to visit the grave markers on a remote windswept beach is a thrilling experience for history buffs. This evening we enjoy a special dinner attended by the Captain. It’s a great time to reflect on the wildlife, history and dramatic scenery of the High Arctic. (B, L, D)

 

Day 12 ~ Edmonton

Our expedition comes to an end as we arrive into Resolute and then take our flight to Edmonton. A transfer is provided from the airport into a central downtown location. (B)

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End of Cruise

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(Code: B - Breakfast, L - Lunch, D - Dinner)

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CRUISE COST FROM: $7,895 per person

ITINERARY SUMMARY

 

Day 1 : Fly from Ottawa to Iqaluit, Nunavut (Baffin Island) | Embark
Day 2 : Monumental Island
Day 3 : Pangniqtuuq
Day 4 : Sunshine Fjord
Day 5 : Auyittuq National Park
Day 6 : Isabella Bay
Day 7 : Gibbs Fjord
Day 8 : Pond Inlet | Sirmilik National Park
Day 9 : Devon Island
Day 10 : Prince Leopold Island
Day 11 : Beechey Island
Day 12 : Resolute, Nunavut | Disembark | Fly to Edmonton, Alberta

 Includes

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  • Comprehensive pre-voyage information package including details to help you prepare for your trip in Canada's Atlantic provinces

  • Transfers from the airport to your hotel upon arrival

  • Transfers to the ship on embarkation day and from the ship to the airport or local hotel on disembarkation

  • Shipboard accommodation in your selected cabin category with daily housekeeping. Cabins feature outside views with windows or portholes that open on each deck

  • High quality, eco friendly, Canadian made natural amenities in every cabin

  • All breakfasts, lunches and dinners on board throughout your voyage with daily afternoon tea

  • 24 hour tea, coffee, hot chocolate in bar lounge plus in cabin tea, coffee, hot chocolate replenished daily

  • Experienced Expedition Leader and professional expedition team of marine bioligists, naturalists, historians, adventure guides and photographers

  • Daily off-ship excursions by Zodiac boat breaking into small groups for shore landings

  • Guided hikes and walks on shore of various durations for guests of all abilities

  • Visits to wildlife colonies, historic sites, places of outstanding natural beauty and community visits

  • Educational presentations and talks by polar experts in their field (ie. marine biologists, naturalists, historians etc). Onboard or on shore

  • Resident photography guide available to assist all guests

  • Access to computers in the multimedia lab for image downloads, file back up and management

  • An emergency trained Physician onboard every voyage

  • Dedicated hospitality team including Hotel Manager, four chefs, professional bar staff and Adventure Concierge staff

  • Onboard sauna, plunge pool, Jacuzzi and fitness center including personal trainer and massage options (charge applies for massage and spa treatments)

  • Sea Kayaking program available (additional charge of $695pp) – must be reserved at the time of booking your voyage and you must have some prior paddling experience

  • Access to well stocked library full of polar reference books

  • An activity program that includes stand-up paddle boarding, sea kayaking and cycling options on shore

  • End of voyage video, photos and take home USB

  • Port fees and all permits to access visited areas

   

   Excludes

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  • 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST)

  • Charter flights from Ottawa-Iqaluit & Resolute-Edmonton is an additional cost

  • Any international or local airfare unless otherwise specified in the voyage itinerary

  • Visa and passport expenses

  • Pre or post-cruise hotel accommodation unless otherwise specified in the itinerary (or pre-arranged)

  • Pre or post-cruise transfers unless otherwise specified in the itinerary (or pre-arranged)

  • Personal expenses on board such as alcoholic beverages, bar charges or laundry expenses

  • Telecommunication charges (ie. email, satellite phone)

  • Baggage, cancellation or medical travel insurance related expenses (comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory on all trips)

  • A voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for expedition staff and ship crew (suggested amount – $US12-15 per day)

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