Remains of a explorers hut in the Northwest Passage.

Northwest Passage - Westbound - 16 Days

Onboard  Greg Mortimer – 130 passengers

The labyrinthine channels of the legendary Northwest Passage have enchanted explorers and adventurers for centuries and have been home to the local Inuit and their ancestors for many more. Get a glimpse into the world that captivated early explorers such as Franklin, Amundsen and Larsen, by exploring a portion of the fabled Northwest Passage. Experience landscapes and communities of West Greenland before entering the archipelago of islands and channels that make up Canada’s High Arctic region. Along the way, we hope to meet local indigenous people who call this remote wilderness home, and perhaps catch glimpses of the wildlife that inhabit the region, including ringed and bearded seals, beluga whale, polar bear and the scores of seabirds that migrate here every summer. Like the many explorers and seafarers before us, the seasonal variability of pack ice always threatens to halt our voyage through the passage, adding a compelling element of adventure that is integral to any genuine expedition.

Voyage Highlights:

  • Stand in awe of Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Hike on Devon Island, the world’s largest uninhabited island
  • On Beechey Island, visit the graves of explorers from John Franklin’s expedition
  • Keep watch with the hope of spotting iconic arctic wildlife including ringed seals, musk ox, polar bears, and perhaps beluga whales

Tour Dates

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Toronto
Having made your way to Toronto Airport, check-in at our group hotel located near the airport for an overnight stay. Accommodation: Westin Toronto Airport Hotel (or similar)

Day 2: Charter flight to Nuuk, Greenland & Embarkation
After breakfast at the hotel, board our charter flight to Nuuk, Greenland, where our vessel the Greg Mortimer awaits. After boarding, there is time to settle into your cabin before our important safety briefings. This evening, meet your expedition team and crew at the Welcome Dinner.

Day 3: At Sea, Sisimiut
After a morning sailing north towards the Arctic Circle, we arrive in Sisimiut, Greenland’s second largest town. Sisimiut is located approximately 54 kilometres (33.5 miles) north of the Arctic Circle, meaning that during summer, you can experience the midnight sun here. The town is famous for the old blue church with the gate made of whale bone. In the cosy museum next door to the church, you will find an excellent reconstruction of an Inuit turf house as well as exhibits of local history and early life in Greenland.  Sisimiut offers hiking trails with various degrees of difficulty. The easier trails take you through the town itself, its outskirts and into the mountains, where you will find spectacular vantage points.  Approximately 4,500 years ago, the Saqqaq culture arrived from Canada and settled in the area. They lived here for approximately 2,000 years, after which they mysteriously disappeared from the area.  The Dorset culture arrived around 500 CE and stayed until the 1200s until they were replaced by the Thule culture, and today, the majority of the population of Sisimiut are descendants of the Thule culture.

Day 4: Illulissat
Known as the ‘birthplace of icebergs’, this region produces some of the most dazzling icebergs found anywhere on Earth. Hike to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Icefjord and stand in awe of its immensity. Sermeq Kujalleq, also known as Jakobshavn Glacier, is the most productive glacier – not only in Greenland but the entire Northern Hemisphere. It produces 20 million tonnes of ice each day, all floating into the Ilulissat Icefjord and Disko Bay. Conditions permitting, enjoy a Zodiac cruise at the mouth of the fjord and kayak through sea ice and icebergs.

Day 5-6: Northwest Greenland expedition cruising
Explore the northern stretches of West Greenland, home to traditional settlements and enormous icebergs that Greenland is famous for. Possibilities include Zodiac cruises, hikes and a visit to one of the small communities that are dotted along the coast. Kayakers can enjoy paddling among the icebergs and keeping watch for whales that frequent the area.  

Day 7: At Sea
Find a spot in one of our many observation lounges and enjoy the spectacular surrounding landscapes. Our talented and knowledgeable expedition members will present informative and entertaining talks about the region that you’re travelling through.

Day 8: Pond Inlet (Mittimatalik), Nunavut, Canada
After clearance into Canada, we hope to visit Pond Inlet (Mittimatalik), a captivating Inuit community nestled on the northern tip of Baffin Island. Surrounded by towering ice-capped mountains, vast glaciers, and pristine fjords, this remote outpost offers an unparalleled wilderness experience. As you step ashore, you’ll be greeted by the warm hospitality of the local Inuit, whose deep connection to the land is evident in their culture and lifestyle. Immerse yourself in their traditions through engaging cultural encounters and gain insights into their unique perspective on life in the Arctic. 

Days 9–14: Northwest Passage expedition cruising
In genuine expeditionary style, our itinerary for the following days is heavily dependent on weather conditions and unpredictable sea ice. The following places are some that we hope to visit.

Devon Island (Tallurutit)
At a latitude of almost 75° degrees north, we are now truly in the High Arctic. Here, nutrient-rich waters support an abundance of wildlife, giving the area the moniker ‘wildlife superhighway’ of the Arctic. Devon Island (Tallurutit) is the largest uninhabited island on Earth and features stunning geology, with flat-topped mountains and glacial valleys giving Devon Island its unique character. We hope to visit Dundas Harbour to enjoy offers walks on undulating tundra, and perhaps some birdwatching. A dilapidated Royal Canadian Mounted Police outpost and remnants of a Hudson’s Bay Company trading post can be found here. In the bay, walruses are often present. Other possible places that we might visit include Croker Bay and Maxwell Bay.  

Beechey Island (Iluvilik)
At the western end of Devon Island lies Beechey Island (Iluvilik), where we plan to land. Named after Frederick William Beechey, the island is a designated Canadian National Historic Site. During the Franklin expedition of 1845–46, Franklin attempted to sail through the Northwest Passage with HMS Erebus and HMS Terror, with perilous results – three of his men are buried here. Roald Amundsen landed at Beechey Island in 1903, during the first successful voyage by ship to fully transit the Northwest Passage from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean.

Radstock Bay
Just a short distance away, Radstock Bay offers a captivating contrast to the open sea. Here, we’ll disembark via Zodiac onto a beach strewn with remnants of the past. Explore the ruins of a Thule village nestled beneath the imposing Caswell Tower, where well preserved stone dwellings coexist with artifacts from later explorers. Witness the stark beauty of this remote bay, characterised by its dramatic cliffs, gravelly beaches, and the scattered remains of whale skeletons that have shaped the landscape and the lives of those who called it home.

Prince Leopold Island (Appait)
On the southern side of Lancaster Sound from Beechey Island lie the towering bird cliffs of Prince Leopold Island (Appait), a historic site where in 1848, English explorer James Clark Ross overwintered during the search for the missing Franklin expedition. Prince Leopold Island is the most important bird sanctuary in the Canadian Arctic, with approximately 500,000 birds nesting here in summer. Ringed seals are often spotted on the sea ice around the island and polar bears often lurk nearby.  

Port Leopold
Port Leopold, a barren, windswept bay on the northeastern corner of Somerset Island (Inuktitut Kuuganajuk), is steeped in history. Here, the crews of HMS Enterprise and Investigator were forced to endure a harsh winter while searching for the lost Franklin expedition. Their presence is indelibly marked on a rock engraved with “1849” and the ships’ initials. The desolate landscape is punctuated by a lone Hudson Bay Company hut, a failed trading post from the 1920s. We hope to hike and explore the coastline, discovering the historic Hudson Bay Company house and intriguing Inuit archaeological sites. Be amazed by the otherworldly formations shaped by the region’s freezing and thawing cycles, which our expedition team will detail during recap. Nearby, a cairn marks the spot where Ross’s rescue expedition left vital supplies.

Bellot Strait 
A deep and windy waterway bordered by steep slopes, Bellot Strait is characterised by strong, swirling, tidal currents that require navigation to be undertaken close to times of slack water (four times a day). Note: Due to swirling currents up to 10 knots, Bellot Strait is better transited during eastbound voyages because if it is blocked, there is the alternative to continue north through Peel Sound. On a westbound voyage, it would be necessary to make a long detour back north through Prince Regent Inlet. 

Hazard Inlet (Qariaraajuk)
We hope to visit an Inuit site inhabited by bowhead whale hunters during the 15th and 16th centuries. The remains of over 100 bowheads are scattered across the village and beach, a testament to the community’s reliance on this marine giant. Excavations have uncovered around 20 sod houses, though evidence suggests there may have been as many as 40. The cliff face behind the site holds community burial grounds, while caches, kayak, and umiak stands line the shore. This remarkable site offers a poignant glimpse into the lives of these Inuit families, who worked cooperatively to hunt bowhead whales for sustenance and building materials. It’s an extraordinary privilege to experience this piece of history firsthand.

Point Zenith
Point Zenith, a rocky promontory jutting into the ocean, offers breathtaking panoramic views. As you step ashore, you’ll feel a profound sense of isolation and wonder. This is a place where time seems to stand still, and the only sounds are the wind and the crunch beneath your boots.

Day 15: Disembarkation in Cambridge Bay & charter flight to Calgary
In Cambridge Bay, farewell the crew, expedition team and fellow travellers before a Zodiac shuttle whisks you ashore. Transfer to the airport for a charter flight to Calgary, where you will stay overnight. Accommodation: Residence Inn by Marriott Calgary Downtown / Beltline District (or similar)

Day 16: Depart Calgary
After breakfast, check-out your hotel and transfer to the airport for your onward journey.

In true expedition style we encourage exploration and adventure, offering flexibility in challenging environments in a way that puts you among the action to see and do as much as possible. This itinerary is only a guide and subject to change due to ice and weather conditions.

Route Map

Trips and Rates

Please note, rates are Per Person in USD

Northwest Passage – Westbound

Aug 25 - Sep 9, 2025 (16 days)
Kayaking
Aurora Stateroom Triple
$24,795
Save 15%
$21,076
Full
Aurora Stateroom Twin
$25,495
Save 15%
$21,671
Full
Balcony Stateroom C
$27,695
Save 15%
$23,541
Full
Balcony Stateroom B
$29,195
Save 15%
$2000 Air Credit
$22,816
Limited
Balcony Stateroom A
$31,395
Save 15%
$3145 Free upgrade from C
$23,541
 
Balcony Stateroom Superior
$34,295
Save 15%
$4335 Free upgrade from B
$24,816
 
Junior Suite
$42,995
Save 15%
$36,546
Full
Captain's Suite
$50,995
Save 15%
$2000 Air Credit
$41,346
Limited

Single Travelers:

  • If willing to share a cabin, we can match you with another passenger of the same gender to avoid a single supplement.
  • Single occupancy price for a double/twin cabin is 1.5x the per person share price
  • Starting the Arctic 2026 season there will be 6 dedicated Solo Balcony Stateroom A cabins, 2 Solo Balcony Stateroom B and 2 Solo Balcony Stateroom C cabins available with no single supplements. Pricing based on full brochure fare. See pricing grid for details.

Adventure Options:

  • Kayaking Program – requires previous kayaking experience and an intermediate paddling level:
  • 2025 pricing:
    • $690/person on Spitsbergen: Realm of the Ice Bear (8 days)
    • $830/person on Wild Landscapes of West Greenland
    • $870/person on Jewels of the Arctic (12 day trips)
    • $980/person on Svalbard Odyssey, Jewels of the Arctic (15 Days), Greenland Odyssey, Southern Greenland
    • $1,190/person on Svalbard in Depth, Northwest Passage (16-17 day trips) & Northern Lights Explorer
    • $1,660/person on Arctic Complete
  • 2026 pricing:
    • $495/person on Iceland Circumnavigation
    • $595/person on Spitsbergen: Realm of the Ice Bear (8 days)
    • $795/person on Wild Scotland and Scotland, Faroes & Iceland
    • $895/person on Svalbard Odyssey, Jewels of the Arctic (15 Days)
    • $1,395/person on Traversing the Northwest Passage

Single Travelers:

  • If willing to share a cabin, we can match you with another passenger of the same gender to avoid a single supplement.
  • Single occupancy price is 1.5x the per person share price

Adventure Options:

  • Kayaking Program: $1,330/person on 12-15 day Antarctica voyages, $1,745/person on 20+ day Antarctica & South Georgia voyages and $1,030/person on 9 day Express trip. Requires previous kayaking experience and an intermediate paddling level.
  • Paddling: $640/person. $480/person on 9 day Express Trip.
  • Camping: $165/person
  • Snorkeling: $675/person on 12-14 day Antarctica voyages, $835/person on 20+ day Antarctica & South Georgia voyages and $515/person on 9 day Express trip.
  • Alpine Trekking: $1260/person
  • Snowshoeing: $370/person on 12-15 day Antarctica voyages and $440/person on 20+ day Antarctica & South Georgia voyages
  • Ski/Snowboard Touring: $1395/person – experience required
  • Shackleton Crossing on Skis: $2,220/person – experience required

Availability & prices are subject to change at anytime. Please contact us for the real time availability & prices.

Cabin Descriptions

Captain Suite

The largest of all the cabins, the Greg Mortimer’s singular Captain’s Suite will take you to the polar regions in ultimate style and comfort. Complete with large lounge area, balcony, walk-in wardrobe and en-suite, you’ll need to book early to secure this suite. The Captain’s Suite features additional amenities including 1 free pair of binoculars per suite, free stocked mini bar (replenished as needed) and 1 free bottle of champagne.

Cabin & balcony combined size: 479 sq. ft.  (44.5m2 )

Junior Suite

The Greg Mortimer’s four Junior Suites take in some impressive scenery from their vantage points on Deck 7. When you aren’t enjoying a landing, you can relax in the suites’ separate lounge area, or just watch the world float by from the private balcony. The Junior Suite features additional amenities including 1 free pair of binoculars per suite, free stocked mini bar (stocked once only) and 1 free bottle of champagne.

Cabin & balcony combined size: 419 sq. ft.  (39m2)

Balcony Stateroom Superior

With a bit more room to stretch the legs, the Balcony Stateroom Superior cabins are perfect for polar adventurers who travel with plenty of gear. Located on Deck 4 & 6, the Staterooms feature floor to ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area. Some of these rooms are equipped with wheelchair accessible bathrooms.

Cabin & balcony combined size: 303 – 432 sq. ft. (28.2 – 40.2m2 )

Balcony Stateroom A

The 23 Balcony Stateroom A cabins are a premium cabin and the most abundant on board. These cabins are located in preferred positions on Deck 4 and 6 which provides easy access between Decks via the internal stairs or elevator.

Cabin & balcony combined size: 259 – 301 sq. ft. (24 – 28m2)

Balcony Stateroom B

The 21 Balcony Stateroom B Cabins are located at the fore and aft of Deck 4 & 6. Many are fitted with interconnecting features making them great for families or groups.

Cabin & balcony combined size: 254  – 267 sq. ft. (23.6 – 24.8 m2 )

Balcony Stateroom C

The 14 Balcony Stateroom C’s are the most economical balcony cabins fitted with all the necessities and comfortable for up to 2 people. These cabins are on Deck 4 & 6, either in the most forward or aft location or in a mid-ship location with a smaller cabin size.

Cabin & balcony combined size: 225 – 267 sq. ft. (21-24.8 m²)

Aurora Stateroom Twin

The Greg Mortimer features eight Aurora Stateroom Twin cabins featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they’re close to the mudroom and loading platforms, perfect for adventurers who are looking for a comfortable base that’s close to the action.

Cabin size: 170 – 245 sq. ft. (15.8 – 22.8 m²)

Aurora Stateroom Triple

There are six Aurora Stateroom Triple cabins featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they’re close to the mudroom and loading platforms. *Please note the Aurora Stateroom Triple cabins are only available on certain departures.

Cabin size: 230 – 245 sq. ft. (21 – 23 m²)

Deck Plan

Inclusions & Exclusions

Inclusions: 

  • Airport arrival and departure transfers to/from our group hotel on the first day and the final day of your voyage package. 
  • One night’s hotel accommodation including breakfast, in Toronto on Day 1.
  • One night’s hotel accommodation including breakfast, in Calgary on Day 15.
  • Charter flight from Toronto to Nuuk on Day 2.
  • Charter flight from Cambridge Bay to Calgary on Day 15.
  • On-board accommodation during voyage including daily cabin service.
  • All meals, snacks, tea, coffee, soft drinks & juices during voyage.
  • Beer and house wine with dinner.
  • Captain’s Farewell reception including four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic beverages.
  • All shore excursions and Zodiac cruises.
  • Educational lectures and guiding services provided by Expedition Team.
  • Complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consultation).
  • One 3-in-1 waterproof polar expedition jacket.
  • Complimentary use of Muck Boots during the voyage.
  • Comprehensive pre-departure information.
  • Port surcharges, permits and landing fees.
  • Wi-Fi. Please note we travel to remote regions and therefore the connection can be unreliable. 

Exclusions: 

  • International or domestic flights not mentioned in the itinerary, unless specified in the itinerary.
  • Transfers – unless specified in the itinerary.
  • Airport arrival or departure taxes.
  • Passport, visa, reciprocity and vaccination fees and charges.
  • Travel insurance or emergency evacuation charges.
  • Hotel accommodation and meals unless specified in the itinerary.
  • Optional excursions and optional activity surcharges.
  • All items of a personal nature, including but not limited to alcoholic beverages outside of dinner service, gratuities, laundry services, personal clothing, medical expenses or phone charges.

Note: A $15 USD per person per day gratuity for the crew is automatically added to your onboard account. It is at your discretion if you would like to remove the tip (or adjust the amount) when you settle your bill. It is not necessary to tip the expedition team members. This gratuity amount is included for suites as part of their ‘Suite Benefits’.