Northwest Passage - In the Wake of the Great Explorers (Roald Amundsen)

Description

Be among an elite few to attempt a journey through the rarely-traveled and legendary Northwest Passage. We will be following in the wake of historical explorers like Norwegian Roald Amundsen, sailing aboard an advanced expedition ship bearing his name. You will experience the raw beauty of the remote Arctic on this route and visit close-knit communities in Canada and Greenland.

Included in your voyage: Overnight in Vancouver before the Expedition cruise including breakfast, Economy flight from Vancouver to Nome, Transfer from the hotel in Vancouver to the airport before the Expedition cruise, Transfer from the airport to the ship in Nome before the Expedition cruise.

Trip Name

Northwest Passage - In the Wake of the Great Explorers (Roald Amundsen)

Days

Overview

Vessel Type: Expedition Ship Length: 140 metres Passenger Capacity: 530 Built: 2019 In 2019, Hurtigruten adds a brand new ship to its fleet: the MS Roald Amundsen. The state of the art vessel features new and environmentally sustainable hybrid technology that will reduce fuel consumption and show the world that hybrid propulsion on large ships is possible. MS Roald Amundsen is the first of two hybrid ships Hurtigruten will add to its fleet over the next few years, cutting emissions by sailing with electrical propulsion. Hybrid technology, combined with the advanced construction of the hull and effective use of electricity on board will reduce fuel consumption and CO2-emissions on the ships by 20 percent. The build of these two ships represents the largest single investment in the history of Hurtigruten. The future of shipping will be silent and emission free. MS Roald Amundsen will lead the way towards an even more sustainable way of traveling. Sailing on electrical power is not only a great benefit for the environment, but it will also enhance the impact of experiencing nature for the guests. The ship will be specially constructed for voyages in polar waters and serve as a comfortable basecamp at sea – bringing adventurers from all over the world to the most spectacular destinations in the most sustainable way. Facilities on board One of the most eye-catching exterior design features of the ships will be the two-level indoor/outdoor Observation Deck wrapped around the top of the ships’ raked bow. In a vast area behind it, you’ll find the core of the onboard experience: Amundsen Science Center. Packed with state of the art technology and high tech gadgets such as touch screens and science equipment, the immersive edutainment area will be the place guests and staff/crew meet, mingle and create a deeper understanding for the areas they explore. The flexible venue will feature lecture spaces, a small library, and speciality areas for workshops in photography, biology, and more. The area, featuring large windows, will also be the onboard HQ for Hurtigruten’s hand picked Expedition Team. The stunning scenery will be reflected in a rich and comfortable interior design. Scandinavian materials from nature, such as granite, oak, birch and wool will be used to create relaxed and stylish cabins and public areas. All cabins are outside, 50 % will have private balconies, aft suites will feature private outdoor Jacuzzis with spectacular views. MS Roald Amundsen will feature three restaurants inspired by Nordic and Norwegian heritage: Aune Main Dining, named after the Norwegian ship chandler and polar expedition supplier Tinus Aune. Fredheim - the ships’ informal and social meeting place – named after a 1900s hunting station on Svalbard. Lindstrøm, a speciality restaurant named after Adolf Lindstrøm, the favorite chef of the Norwegian polar heroes. Artwork on board When the world’s first hybrid powered expedition ship embarks on her maiden voyage, every piece of art on board will be handpicked by HM Queen Sonja of Norway’s art foundation - the Queen Sonja Print Award. Read more about the exciting collaboration here.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Day 1 Vancouver Modern City, Stunning Setting

Your journey begins with an overnight stay in Vancouver, giving you the chance to get a taste of the Canadian city’s rich culture, great restaurants and undeniable natural beauty.To experience more of the region before your voyage begins, join an optional Pre-Programme travelling on the scenic Rocky Mountaineer train.

Day 2 - Day 2 There’s No Place Like Nome

We fly to Nome to board MS Roald Amundsen. Set at the tip of the Seward Peninsula, overlooking the Bering Sea, Nome is perhaps the most famous gold rush town in Alaskan history. There are artifacts of the gold rush era to be seen everywhere, including abandoned dredges, turn-of-the-century steam engines, and old railroad tracks.

Day 3 - Day 3-8 Seeing the Sights while Sailing the Seas

Days at sea are spent at your leisure aboard the ship. Relax while gazing out at the view, learn more from the knowledgeable Expedition Team in our lecture series, or chat with your fellow explorers.We sail through the Bering Strait, before heading into the Chukchi Sea. As we reach Point Barrow, the northernmost point of the USA, we enter the Beaufort Sea. We will keep a sharp eye open here for bowhead and grey whales and we might also start seeing sea ice. We continue into the Amundsen Gulf, where we hope to observe the remarkable Smoking Hills - an amazing sight, with smoke billowing from the cliffs on the east coast of Cape Bathurst. Lignite – a combination of eroded shale and pyrite – spontaneously ignites when exposed to air, creating this photogenic phenomenon.

Day 4 - Day 9 - 17 Heading into the Heart of the Northwest Passage

Almost 40 expeditions tried to navigate this seaway as far back as 1497. James Cook attempted it in 1776 and many are familiar with the ill-fated Franklin expedition of 1845.The first to conquer the Northwest Passage by ship was Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen on an expedition that lasted from 1903 to 1906. Now in our modern era, we aim to follow the wake of their ships and sail through the centre of the Northwest Passage too.During our journey, we will land at sites that are linked to early exploration history, visit Inuit communities, and hope to spot Arctic wildlife such as polar bears, whales, seals, and large colonies of seabirds. There will also be opportunities for small boat cruising between ice floes, and in true expedition style, we will go ashore and experience the pristine wilderness firsthand.The ship captain and Expedition Leader will continuously assess the current weather and sea conditions, adapt activities accordingly, and adjust the itinerary to where the sea ice allows us to go. Like all good explorers, we respect and work with nature, not against it.Here are some of the places in the region that we plan to explore together, subject to favourable conditions: UlukhaktokMany in the 500-strong community are involved in the local artists co-op, producing prints, tapestries, and other crafts. This is also the location of the the world's northernmost golf course which plays host a tournament each summer.Cambridge BayLocated on Victoria Island, this is the largest stop for vessels traversing the Northwest Passage. It is also called ‘Iqaluktuuttiaq', or ‘A Good Fishing Place’ due to the Ekalluk River which attracts giant char, muskoxen, and caribou.Gjøa HavenNorwegian explorer Roald Amundsen wintered at this hamlet in 1903 on his Gjøa expedition. There is an informative walking tour, Heritage Centre, and Hamlet Centre dedicated to the history and culture of the area.Fort RossAn abandoned Hudson’s Bay Trading post located at the southern end of Sommerset Island. The storehouse here is still used as a shelter by occasional travellers, with bunk beds and shelves of canned goods.Beechey IslandThis is the final resting place for three members of the lost Franklin expedition which sailed into the Northwest Passage in 1845 but never returned. It is customary for explorers to stop and pay their respects, as did Roald Amundsen in 1903.Devon IslandWelcome to the largest uninhabited island on Earth. The only signs of human life are at the long abandoned settlement of Dundas Harbour along with several archaeological sites from the Thule period. Pond InletPicturesque Pond Inlet, called 'Mittimatalik' in Inuktitut, is a traditional Inuit community on Baffin Island. It overlooks Eclipse Sound and the mountains of Bylot Island and is known as a great place to see large pods of narwhal.

Day 5 - Day 18 Crossing the Davis Strait

This strait was named after English explorer John Davis who searched for a route through the Northwest Passage between 1585 and 1587. Wind down and watch the waves aboard the ship, or enjoy a lecture from the Expedition Team as we head north towards Greenland.

Day 6 - Day 19 Where Icebergs are Born - Ilulissat

This small town is set in the stunning scenery of the Ilulissat Icefjord UNESCO World Heritage Site. At the mouth of the fjord you can see enormous icebergs that have run aground. These ice masses originate from the Jakobshavn Glacier, one of the fastest-moving glaciers in the world. Join one of our many optional excursions here.

Day 7 - Day 20 `The People Living in a Place of Fox Dens’

Sisimiut is the second largest town in Greenland, situated 40 km north of the Arctic Circle. It is a modern, growing settlement with a history that goes back 4,500 years. For example, its name means `The People Living in a Place of Fox Dens´. There are a variety of optional excursions to discover the area.

Day 8 - Day 21-22 Across the Labrador Sea

It is time to say goodbye to Greenland, and head out on another stretch of open sea. We will cross the southern part of the Labrador Sea, this time towards Newfoundland and Labrador in Canada.

Day 9 - Day 23 Canada’s Hidden but Rich Maritime History

Preserved in the ice-cold waters, the remains of several 17th century Basque whaling ships have led to the town being designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the local museum that documents this interesting history or take the trail up to Tracey Hill for scenic views, and where, legends say, pirate captain Kidd buried treasure.

Day 10 - Day 24 A Classic Canadian City

Located at the mouth of the Bay of Islands and Humber River, Corner Brook is the second largest city in the province and local to the core. Explore the city centre or enjoy its many walking trails along the Humber River, decorated at this time of year with vibrant autumn leaves.

Day 11 - Day 25 Relaxing Day

The adventure is drawing to an end. Spend time with the other guests and the Expedition Team reviewing the many exciting experiences you shared during our voyage together.

Day 12 - Day 26 The End of the Passage

Your journey exploring the Northwest Passage comes to an end in Halifax, capital of Nova Scotia. There are red-brick heritage buildings, parks, a landmark citadel, some world-class museums, and a 4km seafront boardwalk. If you can, we definitely recommend spending an extra day or two here on one of our Post-Programmes before you head home.

Day 13 - Please Note:

Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

Start	End	Price From	Room Type

Inclusions

A voyage of legend that attempts to cross the Arctic through the famous Northwest Passage
Meet local Inuits during visits to remote yet welcoming communities in Canada and Greenland
Spot magnificent Arctic wildlife, with good chances to see polar bears, whales, and walrus
Beautiful, pristine, and rarely-seen landscape made up of mountains, icebergs, and fjords