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Peregrine Travel Centre

Iceland, Greenland and East Canada

Iceland, Greenland and East Canada

From AUD $22,400

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Description

From the world’s youngest volcano to some of the oldest rocks found anywhere on Earth, you’ll encounter traditional Inuit communities whose strong cultures have remained relatively unchanged for tens of thousands of years and discover the history and hear stories about ancient Viking cultures that inhabited the region. Experience some of the most splendid scenery in remote South Greenland and Torngat Mountains, home to polar bears and caribou. Experience mid-Autumn in this wild and remote corner of the world where the dark night sky could very well reward you with a dazzling display of Aurora Borealis, the Northern Lights. Join us on our first expedition from Iceland to South Greenland, and all the way down East Coast Canada. We’re excited about this trip and we can’t wait to share it with you. It’s a fine way to celebrate the end our inaugural polar season on board our new purpose-built expedition vessel, the Greg Mortimer.

Trip Name
Iceland, Greenland and East Canada
Days
21
Overview
Vessel Type: Expedition
Length: 104 metres
Passenger Capacity: 120
Built: 2018
Capable of negotiating the strongest winds and waves, the Greg Mortimer is built to world-class polar standards – designed in close consultation with our expedition specialists, taking advantage of our more than 25 years of experience.
The Greg Mortimer redefines expedition cruising for the future, with just 120 passengers on board in the polar regions. Not only is the ship bigger to contend with adverse weather conditions, its added creature comforts make for a more enjoyable journey out on the open ocean. The Greg Mortimer remains true to our ethos and focus on multiple landings, flexible itineraries and family atmosphere – just with an improved home base!
As a modern and custom-designed ship, the Greg Mortimer is at the cutting edge of nautical technology. Robust, powerful and built with our guests in mind, this ship marks a significant investment in our fleet's capabilities. From the European Arctic to the depths of Antarctica, and other far-flung destinations in-between, the Greg Mortimer will make your journey a breeze!
Greg Mortimer X-BOWX-BOW™
Our expeditions face some of the worst Mother Nature can throw at us. However, this won't be problem on the Greg Mortimer with the introduction of the patented X-BOW™, created by Norwegian ship designer ULSTEIN. As one of the leaders in marine engineering, ULSTEIN's X-BOW™ is an inverted bow concept that's been built on over 100 vessels in the shipping industry. Excitingly, we are the first expedition cruise operator to utilise this technology for the challenging open ocean waves! 
Hydraulic viewing platforms 
Although there is no doubt that you'll love the aesthetics of the Greg Mortimer, we are all here to admire the spectacular landscape and spot the elusive wildlife in their natural habitat. To ensure you get the best views possible, the new ship features unique viewing platforms, custom-built for the Greg Mortimer. Accessed from Deck 5, the two platforms fold out hydraulically for unobstructed views of passing marine life and seabirds – make sure your camera is locked and loaded!
Zodiac launching platform
Zodiacs are a vital part of getting up close and personal on your adventure – sneaking into areas that the Greg Mortimer can't reach. On this new ship, there are specially designed launching platforms that enables us to load Zodiacs easily and quickly, allowing you to spend more time exploring on the two to three daily landings. There are 15 Zodiacs that are boarded from either side of Deck 3 (sea level), perfect for when there is a group of fluffy cute penguin chicks that we need a photo of! 
Activity Platform
Regardless of your destination, we offer a number of additional activities to allow you to see more of the environment. From kayaking and diving to climbing and ski touring, it's these optional activities that often leave the biggest impression on your trip as a whole. Onboard the Greg Mortimer, there is a spacious prep and loading platform for these activities and more – designed in consultation with our expert activity guides.
Environmentally friendly
Climate change and carbon emissions continue to be major issues that everyone needs to be aware of and actively managing. This includes reduced emissions into the air and sea, lower energy consumption, high fuel efficiency, reduced light pollution for minimal wildlife disruption and lower on-board plastic use. It's vital to also mention the state-of-the-art virtual anchoring technology of the X-BOW™, which means the ship can float anchorless while launching Zodiacs, kayaks etc, without disturbing delicate sea floor areas. 
Safety features
This starts with the return-to-port equipment – not compulsory on a ship of this size – which duplicates the propulsion system. This enables the ship to maintain operating systems and comfort in the event of engine failure. Furthermore, the Greg Mortimer is Polar Code 6 compliant, holds BV class and is fully compliant with the latest SOLAS requirements. It's also built with a Rolls Royce stabiliser system.  If there's an incident or accident during your adventure, the ship has an on-board, fully-stocked medical centre – where our trained medical team can provide necessary treatment in a timely fashion. Safety continues to be an issue that our team takes very serious and the Greg Mortimer allows us to create an environment where you can concentrate on the brilliant landscape and wildlife, without worrying about your wellbeing.
Ship Life
Greg Mortimer is designed to serve your every need. It's your bedroom, bathroom, lounge, dining room and even your observatory. Make yourself at home, the Greg Mortimer is yours to enjoy!
Observation Points
Let's face it – you don't want windowless rooms when travelling around some of the most beautiful locations around the world. This is why the Greg Mortimer is designed with plenty of dedicated observation spaces – ideal for keen bird spotters, wildlife watchers and those wanting to watch the scenery go past. From the indoor 180-degree lounge and outdoor 360-degree open deck, both on deck 8, to the 270-degree open sundeck on level 7, there are plenty of observation points to share around the ship! If these are full, then you can take up a spot on one of the two hydraulic viewing platforms on deck 5. Aurora Expeditions also has an open bridge policy, which means at any point you can come up to the bridge and check out what the captain and officers are up to. From watching navigational practices to observing mapping techniques, you can get a firsthand look at the inner workings of the Greg Mortimer. 
Shore excursions
Although the ship is fun, the real enjoyment comes from the many shore excursions that are available. Depending on the weather and itinerary, it's possible to take two to three landings daily, taking a look at everything from rock formations and ancient ruins to cute groups of penguins. We know time is of the essence in these wild locations, so the Greg Mortimer has been designed with 15 Zodiacs, which means you can maximise your time on shore. From four dedicated sea level launching platforms, transfers are quicker, safer and enable you to get closer to the action for a longer period of time. Just remember to charge your camera before you step onto the Zodiac!
Activity options
From kayaking and skiing to diving and climbing, these are one-in-a-lifetime opportunities that you need to take advantage of.  Aboard the Greg Mortimer there is a specially designed launching platform for all activities, a concept overseen by our activity experts. This area also includes individual lockers in the expansive mudroom and rapid drying areas for wetsuits so you can quickly get warm after exploring in the elements!  
Dining
From the moment you step onto the Greg Mortimer, we aim to give you the best hospitality service possible. Starting with the official Captain's welcome, as our guests, you're welcome to 24 hours complimentary coffee, tea and snack facilities in addition to the range of different menu options and courses for each meal. Meals are served in large dining room/restaurant with family style dining, perfect to swap stories with your new expedition family. Enjoy the range of house wine, beers and soft drinks included with dinner after a long day in the wild, preparing yourself for another exciting day to follow. On the last day of your trip, the team on the Greg Mortimer put on a special farewell four-course dinner and cocktails – a perfect way to reflect on your time on the ship and consolidate lifelong friendships with the people you've met on-board.
On-board entertainment
When you’re relaxing during a sea day or you have a little downtime on the ship between excursions, what is there to do onboard the Greg Mortimer? Plenty! On all our expeditions, there are experts who lead presentations in the spacious lecture room so you can understand the region a little better. These often include topics as broad as history and culture to biology and climate change, these presentations aim to educate and entertain. If you're keen to just watch the surroundings and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, you have access to two bars/lounges where the stunning floor to ceiling windows offer a special perspective on the landscape. The Greg Mortimer is also decked out with other facilities for your enjoyment. There is a library on Deck 5 with books and maps and a Wellness Centre complete with gym equipment, sauna and spa. Feeling a little sore after walking around all day? Treat yourself to a massage at the Wellness Centre and feels the aches disappear! Keen photographers and artists will revel in the multimedia room on Deck 5.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 – Reykjavik, Iceland
In Reykjavik, make your own way to our group hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure.
Day 2 - Day 2 – Reykjavik, Iceland
Drive to Thingvellir National Park, a historical area where the Icelandic Parliament was founded in the 10th century. After enjoying a walk amongst the unique landscape of Thingvellir, continue to Gullfoss, a magnificent waterfall, considered to be one of the most beautiful in Iceland before transferring to the pier to board the Greg Mortimer in the late afternoon.
Day 3 - Day 3 – Westman Islands, Iceland
The Westman Islands are situated just off the south coast of Iceland. The main island, Heimaey, has a population of about 4,000. Heimay’s main attractions are accessible on foot and you have the option of a guided walking tour including a visit to Eldfell volcano. Alternatively, discover the main attractions of the island on a city tour including Herjólfsdalur valley, to see the ruins of old Viking houses, drive Helgafell and ldfell volcanoes, and visit the Eldheimar museum that features specific exhibitions dedicated to the volcanic eruption that created Surtsey Island, a UNESCO world-heritage site.
Day 4 - Days 4 & 5 – At Sea
As we cross the Greenland Sea, our series of informative onboard lectures continues. Enjoy presentations about volcanology and geothermal activity, Greenland’s massive ice shelf, sea ice, glaciers and icebergs. Sea days also offer a great opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers and expedition team.
Day 5 - Day 6 – Prince Christian Sound, Southeast Greenland
We enter magnificent Prince Christian Sound - a famous channel in Southern Greenland connecting the Labrador Sea with the Irminger Sea. It is around 100 km (60 miles) long and can be as narrow as only 500 metres (1,600 ft) wide. The fjord is surrounded by steep mountains, reaching over 2,200 metres (7,200 ft) high. Many glaciers go straight into its waters where they calve icebergs. Enjoy a slow ship cruise through the sound soaking in the splendid scenery, great for photography. At Kangersuneq Qinngorleq fjord, weather permitting, we may take a Zodiac cruise and kayak at the glacier. At the southern part of the sound, pass Appilatoq, a tiny settlement famed for the extraordinary sharp mountain peaks that surround it, a delight for photographers.
Day 6 - Day 7 – Tasermiut Fjord, Klosterdal, Nanortalik, South Greenland
Tasermiut fjord is known as one of the most beautiful fjords in Greenland for its majestic mountains and lush valleys. At Klosterdal, we find ourselves amongst the three giant mountains of the area: Napasorsuaq, Ketil, and Nalumasortoq, where we may go ashore for a hike into the valley or explore the area by kayak. Sail through the fjord towards Nanortalik, an area with a landscape unlike other areas in the country featuring deep fjords, small woodlands and grasslands, and rugged mountainside cliffs. Receive a very warm welcome from the local community who have opened up their town for you to explore. Visit Nanortalik Church, a wooden, Danish Lutheran church built in 1916, and Nanortalik Museum with exhibits featuring summer tents, kayaks and the oldest cargo boat ever discovered.
Day 7 - Day 8 – Narsarsuaq and Uunartoq, South Greenland
Narsarsuaq offers easy walks, which include Norse ruins, Inuit graves, and old farm houses. Paddlers may also have the opportunity to explore the little peninsular on kayaks. Uunartoq island is located halfway between Qaqortoq and Nanortalik. Hot springs are abundant in South and West Greenland, but Uunartoq island is home to the only hot springs in the country that are warm enough to bathe in. What’s unique about Uunartoq is that the hot springs are in a completely natural environment in the middle of a grassy field. People have appreciated Uunartoq's remedial springs for more than 1,000 years and now you can too. Aside from soaking in the thermal springs, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the remnants of 500 years of different building styles and communal graves in the area.
Day 8 - Day 9 – Hvalsey church ruin and Qaqortoq, South Greenland
Hvalsey Church is the best-preserved Norse ruin in Greenland. ‘Hvalsey’ is old Norse for Whale Island. Christianity arrived in Greenland around 1,000 and gradually churches began to be built. Hvalsey itself was built in the early 14th century, but it was not the first church built on this site. The overall Hvalsey site comprises farm and church buildings. The church might have been built by Scots-Norse stonemasons, as similar structures are found in Norway and Orkney. After exploring Hvalsey ruins, we continue to Qaqortoq, where our Zodiacs take us ashore. Qaqortoq is the capital of South Greenland, and the town offers many cultural activities and just walking around, you will experience the “Man and Stone” art project, designed to transform the town into an open-air art gallery. Other activities may include a walking tour guided by local students, watch a kayak performance, sample local delicacies, or simply stroll around the picturesque lake.
Day 9 - Days 10 & 11 – At Sea
After a busy first week, enjoy some down time to attend informative and entertaining lectures ahead of our arrival into Canada’s spectacular and remote East Coast. Our team of experts may present on the incredible geology or the rich wildlife found in the Torngat Mountains National Park.
Day 10 - Day 12 – George River (Kangiqsualujjuaq), Newfoundland & Labrador, East Coast Canada
Kangiqsualujjuaq (George River) is the easternmost village of Nunavik region in Quebec province. For adventure and nature lovers, the surroundings of Kangiqsualujjuaq are full of natural attractions and common wildlife found of the area include Caribou, black bear, fox and wolf. About 100 km to the east of Kangiqsualujjuaq are the Torngat Mountains. We are privileged to visit Kangiqsualujjuaq community, where you will meet with friendly locals who are proud to show you their home and introduce you to the distinctive characteristics of their cultural and linguistic heritage, art and stories. Discover the splendid Autumn tundra on a short hike. The world's largest caribou herds roam freely in Nunavik.
Day 11 - Days 13 & 14 – Torngat Mountains National Park, Newfoundland & Labrador, East Coast Canada
Torngat Mountains National Park is a mysteriously beautiful landscape reminiscent of Earth a million years ago. It takes its name from the Inuktitut word ‘Tongait’, meaning place of spirits. It is 9,700 square kilometres of spectacular wilderness, a land of mountains and polar bears, small glaciers, and caribou, where the Inuit hunt, fish, and travel, as their predecessors did for thousands of years.The Torngat Mountains are also home to some rock formations about 3.92 billion years old, making them the second oldest in the world! Over the next two days, we’ll explore the deep fjords and channels by ship, Zodiac cruising through some of the most spectacular and dramatic landscapes found anywhere in the world, and getting out for hikes, searching for wildlife, visiting archaeological sites. Weather conditions and tides will determine our itinerary and landings during our time exploring Torngat Mountains National Park. We may sail through Eclipse Channel or Nachvak Fjord, a deep and narrow fjord stretching more than 20 kilometres with rocky walls of the fjord soaring almost 900 metre above us at several points. Around the southern part of the national park in places such as Saglek Fjord, we’ll attempt look for polar bears roaming the rocky shores of the outlying islands of the park on their hunt for food. Autumn brings shorter days and when the sun goes down, look up. Chances are, you’ll see something to take your breath away – bright green ribbons of light dancing and swirling across the night sky. You are in the zone of the Aurora Borealis. Brilliant, exhilarating and utterly unforgettable, the Northern Lights are the crowning glory to the dramatically beautiful Torngats.
Day 12 - Day 15 – At Sea
As we sail south to Nain, our onboard lecture series continues and you’ll learn about the history of Moravian missionaries as we sail south to Nain. Spend your free time catching up on editing photos and relaxing in the various public areas, stay active in the fitness centre or unwind in the wellness centre.
Day 13 - Day 16 – Nain, Newfoundland & Labrador, East Coast Canada
Nain is the most northern and largest community in Nunatsiavut. Founded in 1771 by Moravian Missionaries, Nain was an important outpost for the missionizing efforts of the Moravians. Beautiful artefacts and buildings built by the Moravians remain in the community to this day. In smaller groups accompanied by local guides, you will be taken on a walking tour visiting the town’s key sites including the Moravian church; Torngat Arts and Crafts Gift Shop; Illusuak Cultural Centre and perhaps see a demonstration of stone carving by a local carver. Time permitting, there may be a chance for a hike to Mount Sophie, escorted by local Inuit bear guards as bears are frequent in the area outside of town.
Day 14 - Day 17 – Hopedale, Newfoundland & Labrador, East Coast Canada
Located in the heart of Nunatsiavut, Hopedale is the legislative capital of the Nunatsiavut Government. Originally known by its Inuktitut name Arvertok, which translates to "the place of whales", the community was renamed Hopedale by Moravian Missionaries arriving from Germany in 1782. Today, there remains an incredible legacy of structures and artefacts from the Moravians in Hopedale. Some of the oldest wooden-framed buildings in Canada still stand in Hopedale. Take a walk through the Nunatsiavut Assembly Building and learn about the local labradorite and seal skin materials found throughout. Browse through the Moravian Mission Museum Interpretation Centre to view three storeys of artefacts and written materials collected since the late 1700's.
Day 15 - Day 18 – Battle Harbour, Newfoundland & Labrador, East Coast Canada
Battle Harbour is a restored, 19th-century fishing village on a small island in the Labrador Sea. Regarded by generations as the unofficial capital of Labrador, it was once the salt fish capital of the world and also a government centre bringing medicine and supplies to Indigenous communities to the north. Welcome to a place without power lines or cell towers, without cars or paved roads, you can walk footpaths worn by fishermen and merchants centuries ago. Spend a few hours in Battle Harbour exploring the buildings and walking the trails on this island with local, knowledgeable hosts. Hiking the island reveals its Arctic vegetation and rock formations. In this sub-Arctic region, the dark Autumn night sky is full of bright, gigantic stars occasionally joined by the northern lights.
Day 16 - Day 19 – L'Anse aux Meadows, Newfoundland & Labrador, East Coast Canada
L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site contains the excavated remains of a complete 11th-century Viking settlement, the earliest evidence of Europeans in North America. This and subsequent archaeological discoveries proved Leif Erickson and crews of Norse explorers settled here in Newfoundland and Labrador (or Vinland as they called it). L’Anse aux Meadows was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978 and is the first authenticated Norse settlement in North America. Wander the new world home of Leif Ericson and learn about the sagas and technologies of the Norse that explored North America over 10 centuries ago. On today’s other shore excursion, learn the fascinating story of Dr. Wilfred Grenfell, a young English doctor renowned for bringing medicine and education to the Inuit and poor European settlers along the harsh Labrador Coast.
Day 17 - Day 20 – Twilingate, Newfoundland & Labrador, East Coast Canada
Twillingate is known as the “Iceberg Capital of The World” because of the many icebergs that flow past its shores from Greenland in early spring and summer. Twillingate offers many features and attractions that Newfoundland and Labrador outports are famous for: stunning coastline, and historical and picturesque streets. Our shore excursions today will use local guides and school buses (Long Point Hike option available) to travel between the region’s most popular attractions: the Auk Island Winery, the Prime Berth, the Long Point Lighthouse and the Twillingate Museum.
Day 18 - Day 21 – St John's, Newfoundland
After a leisurely breakfast, bid your fellow travellers, new friends and expedition team a fond farewell before disembarking in St. John’s. Since 1497, explorers, adventurers, pirates and all manner of seafarers have found their way into the spectacular harbour of St John’s. A legendary seaport on the edge of the continent with a rich 500-year seafaring history. St. John's is North America's oldest European-settled city and is the capital of Newfoundland and a place well worth spending a few days at the end of your voyage. Wander the colourful Victorian streets with plenty of heritage shops, boutiques, art galleries, fine restaurants, bistros, and pubs – just steps from dockside.
Day 19 - Please Note:
Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
23-09-202013-10-2020AUD $22,400Balcony Stateroom
23-09-202013-10-2020AUD $23,300Balcony Stateroom A
23-09-202013-10-2020AUD $31,400Balcony Stateroom Superior
23-09-202013-10-2020AUD $37,000Junior Suite
23-09-202013-10-2020AUD $42,600Captain's Suite

Inclusions

    • Enjoy thrilling Zodiac cruises and keep an eye out for whales, caribou, and nesting bird colonies
    • Hike through remote Inuit land while looking out for polar bears
    • Experience dramatic scenery of Torngat Mountains National Park
    • At L’anse Aux Meadows, visit the remains of 11th-century Viking settlement
    • Kayak amongst South Greenland’s most spectacular fjords and glaciers
    • Maybe spot Aurora Borealis in South Greenland and northeast Canada!

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