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Northwest Passage: Legendary Arctic Sea Route | Ultramarine

17 Days
Save Up To 29%

WAS From USD 26,490   Now From USD 19,447

STYLE: Luxury Small Ship Expedition Cruise

Trip Code: ACQENPLA

DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)

Start: Toronto, Canada

Finish: Calgary, Canada

SHIP: Ultramarine

DestinationDestination

Greenland & Canadian Arctic

MealsMeals

All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage. select beer and wine during dinner; and coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock

TransportTransport

Economy Flights from Toronto to Kangerlussuaq & from Resolute to Calgary with Group transfers to/from the ship

TransportAccommodation

Cabin on board ship & Hotel

DEPARTURE DATES



Enquire Now
map

Included SightseeingIncluded Sightseeing

Daily Arctic Excursions, Zodiac Cruising, Onboard Expert Lectures & Briefings by the Experienced Expedition Team

 

NOTE: Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather & ice conditions 

OVERVIEW

This adventure to the Canadian High Arctic and Greenland brings history to life as you navigate the frigid passages of the fabled North-west Passage. Passengers retrace the steps of the daring Franklin Expedition, which departed England's coasts in 1845 in quest of the last undiscovered section of the North-west Passage—only to become inextricably icebound—on this gripping 17-day voyage aboard our game-changing new ship Ultramarine. Its discovery by the Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen over 150 years later was a significant turning point in polar history.

The Ultramarine offers more outdoor wildlife viewing areas than any other expedition ship of its size, two twin-engine helicopters that will give guests breathtaking aerial views of the Arctic landscape, the most extensive range of adventure options in the business, and 20 quick-launching Zodiacs that will bring you closer to historic glaciers, dramatic fjords, and towering icebergs. Discover vibrant Inuit villages and browse artisanal Inuit goods. Trek through the infinite Arctic landscape and take in the wide, vibrant tundra. Keep a watch out for the beautiful and elusive animals that call this area home, including polar bears, muskoxen, whales, and walruses. Join Ultramarine on this unforgettable voyage via the fabled Arctic sea route, and you'll leave with memories that will live with you forever.

 

*Current Discounts, promotions and pricing are available until 31 October 2024, however discounts may be withdrawn or changed at any time and are subject to availability on selected cabins and departure dates. Some current in market offers may be combinable and Shackleton Club Past Passenger and multi trip discounts may be applied subject to confirmation at the time of booking. Prices are subject to change based on currency fluctuations, fuel surcharges, and other external factors. No discount applies to any transfer packages, additional activities or pre/post services. The advertised prices may also include a 'Pay in full at time of booking' which is a 5-10% early payment discount, which requires the full balance to be paid at the time of booking to apply. Further conditions may apply, contact us for more information.

**PLEASE NOTE: Voyages that stay entirely within Canadian borders will be subject to a 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on top of all amounts paid and IS NOT included in advertised "From" price or in cabin prices.

ITINERARY

Arrive in Toronto

Your Arctic expedition begins in Toronto. Explore this vibrant city on your own before spending the night enjoying the comfort and amenities of your designated hotel.

Fly to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland and Embark

After breakfast, board your charter flight to Kangerlussuaq, a small community nestled deep inside a 118 mile (190 km) long fjord. Enjoy your first Zodiac ride as you’re transferred from shore to ship. Out on deck, take in your new surroundings before you set sail on your Arctic adventure.

Exploring West Greenland - Day 3 to 4

Cruising around the remote regions of Greenland and the Canadian Arctic aboard Ultramarine, the newest ship in our fleet, you’ll navigate the same icy inlets, channels and bays that fascinated legendary explorers of long ago. Designed to give polar adventurers unprecedented access to the hardest-to-reach places on the planet—and equipped with two onboard twin-engine helicopters for unparalleled access to areas only Quark Expeditions can bring you—this one-of-a-kind ship will take you beyond the familiar in polar exploration. Throughout your journey, your Expedition Team will keep an eye toward immersing you in the best the Arctic has to offer at the top of the world. Locals call Maniitsoq the Venice of Greenland, as it’s situated in an archipelago intersected by natural canals. Soaring, snow-capped mountains surround the small, rocky town, whose name means “the uneven place.” Playful humpback whales spend summer in the waters around here.

The Greenlandic capital of Nuuk is a haven for history and culture lovers. See for yourself the unique and thriving culture of contemporary Greenland that mingles the ancient with the modern in surprising and wonderful ways. Stroll down to the waterfront to see the Hans Egede Church and Hans Egede statue, named for the missionary who established the settlement in 1728. Marvel at the famous remains of 500-year-old fully dressed mummies, discovered under a rock outcrop in 1972 by two brothers out hunting, at the Greenland National Museum. The Nuuk Art Museum and Katuaq Culture Centre are also worth visiting.

Crossing the Davis Strait

Say goodbye to Greenland’s shores as you traverse the Davis Strait in pursuit of the Canadian Arctic. Presentations by on-board experts will prepare you for the adventures that lie ahead.

Exploring Canada's High Arctic - Day 6 to 15

Visit towering fjords, historical sites and Inuit communities as you follow in the footsteps of famous explorers from long ago in the Canadian High Arctic.

At the southern tip of the Cumberland Sound, you’ll visit Cape Mercy, which was named by British explorer John Davis (yes, he of the Davis Strait), who sailed through it in 1585. This is the site of an old Distant Early Warning Line installation, dating back to the Cold War. These and many other stations were set up to detect Soviet bombers. It’s an ideal spot to go ashore for a hike.

As icebergs travel down the Davis Strait, they’re naturally trapped at Qikiqtarjuaq (formerly known as Broughton Island). The icy waters here are also home to ring and harp seals. A hike up to the hilltop inuksuk rewards with spectacular views of the community. Inuksuks are stone figures or cairns that traditionally call attention to the location for navigation, abundant harvesting or spiritual significance.

Cruising further north along the mountainous east shore of Baffin Island, we’ll approach Isabella Bay, an important summer and fall feeding area for the largest concentration of bowhead whales in Canada. Bowheads are a truly a remarkable arctic leviathan that research has revealed may live more than 200 years of age - the oldest mammal.

At the northern tip of Baffin Island, near the eastern entrance to the Northwest Passage, is the Inuit hamlet of Pond Inlet, surrounded by scenic mountains, fjords, glaciers and icebergs. Many in the community still follow a nomadic lifestyle and hunt for their food.

At the top of Baffin Island sits Lancaster Sound, a true arctic oasis. Known by the Inuit and their predecessors for thousands of years, this channel and the surrounding lands are extremely rich in wildlife and history, both indigenous and European.

The area around Lancaster Sound affords several hiking opportunities. At Dundas Harbour, on Devon Island, you’ll visit an abandoned beachside outpost of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. At nearby Croker Bay, cruise in a Zodiac (at a safe distance) along the face of an actively calving glacier. Your Expedition Team will also keep its eyes peeled for walrus that are known to visit the bay. Farther west, some of the best ancient Thule remains in the Arctic are at Radstock Bay, beside the soaring Caswell Towers.

At the western end of Devon Island, the windswept Beechey Island is steeped in history. Named after famed British explorer Frederick William Beechey, it’s a Canadian National Historic Site. You’ll visit the small marked graves of three crew members who died during Sir John Franklin’s tragic 1845–46 expedition. Over 150 years later, Roald Amundsen landed here in 1903, during the first successful voyage by ship through the Northwest Passage.

Sailing down the east coast of Somerset Island, you may be fortunate to spot beluga whales and if you’re very fortunate, narwhals, as they feed at Creswell Bay. An Important Bird Area, the bay also attracts such species as black-bellied plovers, king eiders and white-rumped sandpipers. You’ll also have time to explore Fort Ross, where the Hudson’s Bay Company established a now-abandoned trading post in 1937. At the midpoint of the Bellot Strait, the narrow channel that separates Somerset Island from mainland North America, you’ll reach the northernmost area of the continental landmass, Zenith Point.

Disembark in Resolute, Canada and Fly to Calgary

After disembarking in Resolute, you’ll be transferred to your charter flight to Calgary, where you’ll spend the night at your included hotel.

Depart Calgary

Today, make your way to the airport to catch your homeward flights, or spend the day exploring this unique Western Canadian city.

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDF

WHY CHOOSE THIS CRUISE?

  • Explore colorful Greenlandic villages and shop for traditional Inuit handicrafts

  • View iconic Arctic wildlife, such as whales, walrus and muskoxen

  • Hike the colorful tundra and cruise in a Zodiac to get up close to glaciers, fjords, icebergs and more

  • Enjoy flightseeing on one of Ultramarine’s two twin-engine helicopters.

Ultramarine

Ultramarine

Step onboard the Ultramarine! This premium expedition vessel takes guests to the most isolated and breathtaking wildernesses on the planet. The ship has been purpose-built to meet the specific demands of the polar regions and is well appointed to let guests explore The Arctic and Antarctica safely and comfortably.  It offers a robust portfolio of adventure activities. The mix of sustainability features create innovative operations to offer ultra-immersive polar experiences to guests on board .The vessel is one of the few to offer a suite of flight-seeing activities, travelling in one of the two twin-engine helicopters. This really opens up the possibilities to go further and see more. 

The Expedition Ship  can accommodate a maximum of 199 passengers and offers the most spacious suites in its category . The cabins are all elegantly designed and feature oversized windows with sleeping views and spa-inspired bathrooms.

Ultramarine offers breathtaking public spaces, and more outdoor wildlife viewing spaces than other expedition ships its size. It also features a best-in-class 70-day operational range, four embarkation points to load and embark zodiacs and get you to shore faster. The ship has a water level Zodiac hangar, which allows for more spontaneous off-ship adventures where the opportunity presents itself. This allows you to get off the ship in less than half the time of some other vessels. 

Ice Class: Length: 128m (420ft)
Breadth: 21.5m (70.5ft)Max
Draft: Cruising
Speed:
Electricity: Passenger
Capacity:
199

View Ship Details

Accommodation

We believe that appropriate accommodation should add to the authentic travel experience, as well as providing utmost enjoyment. For that reason our accommodation is scrutinised by our staff on the ground frequently, ensuring the properties adhere to our high standards. This key will help you understand the levels of accommodation available on this tour.

Standard

Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.

Superior

Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.

Deluxe

Luxurious properties with impeccable facilities and service.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES

Optional Activities vary for each itinerary. Limited spaces available. Contact your Destination Specialist for pricing & availability.

Kayaking

Experience the unforgettable thrill and serenity of kayaking in Antarctica as part of a small, expertly guided paddling group.

Learn More

Day Paddling

If you are looking for another way to nurture your inner adventurer, our day paddle excursion might be the perfect fit! Absorb the majestic scenery from a more intimate vantage point as you paddle through the pristine waters of Antarctica on a sit-on-top kayak.Our expertly guided, one-time, Paddle Program gives you the rare chance to see Antarctica from the same perspective as most of the wildlife – at the surface of the sea.

Learn More

Pricing per person

Solo Panorama

Features:-

  • single bed
  • floor-to-ceiling window
  • desk
  • refrigerator
  • TV
  • private bathroom with shower and heated floors. Standard Amenities: hair dryer
  • bathrobe
  • slippers
  • shampoo
  • conditioner
  • shower gel
  • complimentary water bottle.

29 % off

USD 36,290 USD 26,430

Unavailable

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)

Explorer Triple

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. Standard Amenities: hair dryer
  • bathrobe
  • slippers
  • shampoo
  • conditioner
  • shower gel
  • complimentary water bottle.

29 % off

USD 20,390 USD 15,101

Unavailable

Enquire Now
  • Triple (3 berths)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

Explorer Suite

Features:-

  • one double or two single beds
  • sitting area with sofa bed
  • picture window
  • desk
  • refrigerator
  • TV
  • private bathroom with shower and heated floors. Standard Amenities: hair dryer
  • bathrobe
  • slippers
  • shampoo
  • conditioner
  • shower gel
  • complimentary water bottle.

29 % off

USD 26,490 USD 19,447

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

Balcony Suite

Features:-

  • one double or two single beds
  • sitting area with sofa bed
  • private balcony
  • desk
  • refrigerator
  • TV
  • private bathroom with shower and heated floors. Standard Amenities: hair dryer
  • bathrobe
  • slippers
  • shampoo
  • conditioner
  • shower gel
  • complimentary water bottle.

29 % off

USD 28,890 USD 21,157

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

Deluxe Balcony Suite

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. Standard Amenities: hair dryer
  • bathrobe
  • slippers
  • shampoo
  • conditioner
  • shower gel
  • complimentary water bottle.

29 % off

USD 33,890 USD 24,720

Available

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Single (1 berth)

Terrace Suite

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. Standard Amenities: hair dryer
  • bathrobe
  • slippers
  • shampoo
  • conditioner
  • shower gel
  • complimentary water bottle. Premium Amenities: upgraded bedding
  • in suite coffee. Services: onboard WiFi credit*
  • included laundry**
  • in suite dining during scheduled meals. *terms & conditions apply
  • WiFi may be limited in duration or data **terms & conditions apply
  • limited number of laundry loads per voyage

29 % off

USD 35,090 USD 25,575

Unavailable

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)

Penthouse Suite

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. Standard Amenities: hair dryer
  • bathrobe
  • slippers
  • shampoo
  • conditioner
  • shower gel
  • complimentary water bottle. Premium Amenities: upgraded bedding
  • in suite coffee. Services: onboard WiFi credit*
  • included laundry**
  • in suite dining during scheduled meals. *terms & conditions apply
  • WiFi may be limited in duration or data **terms & conditions apply
  • limited number of laundry loads per voyage

29 % off

USD 36,290 USD 26,430

Available

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Single (1 berth)

Owner's Suite

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. Standard Amenities: hair dryer
  • bathrobe
  • slippers
  • shampoo
  • conditioner
  • shower gel
  • complimentary water bottle. Premium Amenities: upgraded bedding
  • in suite coffee
  • binoculars on loan. Services: onboard WiFi credit*
  • included laundry**
  • in suite dining during scheduled meals
  • included spa package
  • upgraded hotel accommodation pre-/post-expedition where applicable
  • included arrival transfers where applicable. *terms & conditions apply
  • WiFi may be limited in duration or data **terms & conditions apply
  • limited number of laundry loads per voyage

29 % off

USD 46,090 USD 33,412

Unavailable

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Single (1 berth)

Ultra Suite

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. Standard Amenities: hair dryer
  • bathrobe
  • slippers
  • shampoo
  • conditioner
  • shower gel
  • complimentary water bottle. Premium Amenities: upgraded bedding
  • in suite coffee
  • binoculars on loan. Services: onboard WiFi credit*
  • included laundry**
  • in suite dining during scheduled meals
  • included spa package
  • upgraded hotel accommodation pre-/post-expedition where applicable
  • included arrival transfers where applicable. *terms & conditions apply
  • WiFi may be limited in duration or data **terms & conditions apply
  • limited number of laundry loads per voyage

29 % off

USD 50,890 USD 36,832

Available

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Single (1 berth)

Important Information

  • Prices are based on per person, and vary from single, quad, triple, and twin cabins.
    Prices are correct at time of publishing but are subject to change at any time.
    All entrance fees are subject to change without prior notice.
    Please note this itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and ice conditions.

    Includes charter flights from Toronto to Kangerlussuaq and Resolute to Calgary

  • INCLUSIONS    

    Cabin accommodation on board ship  
    All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage.   
    Select beer and wine during dinner; and coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock  
    All scheduled landings and excursions  
    Guiding and leadership by expert exploration team and crew  
    A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions  
    An Expedition parka (yours to keep)  
    Emergency Evacuation insurance for all passengers to a maximum benefit of USD $500,000 per person  
    Greenland voyages cruise passenger tax

    MANDATORY TRANSFER PACKAGE (INCLUDED)   
    Includes one night pre expedition hotel accommodation in Toronto & one night post expedition in Calgary   
    Group transfers from Toronto Hotel to airport on day 2 and Calgary Airport to Hotel post expedition   
    Charter flights between Toronto and Kangerlussuaq and Resolute to Calgary   
    Return group transfers between Kangerlussuaq Airport and the ship and the ship and Resolute Airport 
     

     

    EXCLUSIONS

    International flights  
    Any other pre or post land arrangements not mentioned above  
    Passport and visa expenses  
    Canadian eTA required for non-Canadian or U.S. visa-exempt passengers  
    Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above  
    Baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended  
    Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned  
    Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew  
    Meals ashore unless otherwise specified  
    Excess-baggage fees on international and domestic flights  
    Laundry, bar and other personal charges unless specified 
    Phone and Internet charges (connectivity may vary by location) 
    Optional Adventure Activities 

  • 2 (light adventure)
  • A single supplement surcharge applies and is subject to availability. Please contact us for more information.

  • Departure date, seasonality, currency fluctuation and availability.