A Taste of the Northwest Passage

The legendary Northwest Passage is a route that has captivated explorers for centuries. In recent years, successful voyages through this remote and challenging region have provided a rare opportunity to experience its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and unparalleled sense of adventure.

One of the most profound moments of this journey is a visit to Beechey Island, a place deeply tied to the story of Arctic exploration and the fate of the Franklin Expedition.

A Unique Arctic Voyage: From Pond Inlet to Nuuk

This exceptional three-week expedition sets sail from Pond Inlet, a remote Inuit community on the northern coast of Baffin Island, Canada. The journey takes you across Lancaster Sound, into the heart of the Northwest Passage, and onward to Nuuk, Greenland’s capital.

Along the way, you’ll sail past towering icebergs, navigate through shifting sea ice, and explore historic sites that tell the tale of those who braved these waters before.

Discover Beechey Island: A Step Into History

Beechey Island is one of the most significant sites in Arctic exploration. It was here that the ill-fated Franklin Expedition left its last known traces, and where later rescue missions sought answers to their disappearance.

During your visit, you will:

• Walk amidst the icy landscapes, surrounded by the raw beauty of the Arctic.
• Stand before the Franklin Expedition daymark, a silent witness to history.
• Explore the ruins of Northumberland House, a relic of 19th-century rescue efforts.
• Visit the graves of Franklin’s crew members, a solemn reminder of their sacrifice.

This experience offers a rare connection to the explorers of the past while standing on the very edge of the Arctic wilderness.

Highlights of the Journey

• Pond Inlet: The “Gateway to the Northwest Passage,” a remote Inuit community offering spectacular views of glaciers, fjords, and drifting sea ice.
• Baffin Bay Crossing: Sail among massive icebergs and witness the vast expanse of Arctic waters.
• Lancaster Sound: A critical passageway in Arctic exploration, home to diverse wildlife including seals, narwhals, and polar bears.
• Beechey Island: A historic landing by dinghy to explore this legendary site.

Life Onboard: A Home at Sea

This expedition vessel offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, where adventure and comfort go hand in hand. Life onboard is shaped by the Arctic’s ever-changing conditions, requiring adaptability and teamwork. A well-stocked collection of books—including Michael Palin’s Erebus—is available to deepen your understanding of the region’s fascinating history.

Experienced crew members will guide you onshore and provide expert navigation through ice-strewn waters, ensuring a safe and enriching experience.

Ice, Weather & the Spirit of Adventure

The Arctic is a place of constant change, where shifting ice and unpredictable weather demand flexibility. Sheltered anchorages may be needed as conditions dictate the course of travel. Patience and adaptability are key to fully embracing this unique adventure.

A Final Stop in Nuuk: Greenland’s Capital

The voyage concludes in Nuuk, a city that contrasts the remote Arctic with its colorful houses, Greenlandic culture, and dramatic coastal scenery. After weeks in the wilderness, this final stop offers a moment to reflect on an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s last great frontiers.

Taste of the Northwest Passage. A voyage from Pond Inlet into the Northwest Passage area and then back out into Baffin Bay. This leg offers breathtaking views of glaciers and fjords, with the opportunity to see polar bears, big icebergs and other Arctic wildlife. Request full details!