Northwest Passage Cruises
This labryinthine waterway was long sought by early adventurers as a sea route linking the Northern Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Canada's Arctic archipelago is therefore no …
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Things to Consider
The Northwest Passage ships vary considerably in terms of size, comfort level and style, so choosing the right ship is a key decision when planning your trip.
- Ice is a major factor in these waters and a ship with a high ice-class can make a big difference to your experience
- Distances are vast in this part of the world - choosing a ship with a good average speed reduces overall sailing time
- Generous outer decks ensure everyone has ample space, while decent viewing platforms are important too
- For those with an interest in the educational side, the size of the expedition team of experts is worth considering
- With wildlife generally being fairly skittish in the Arctic, a quieter ship can help achieve closer sightings
Navigating the ice of the Northwest Passage
Zodiac cruising in icy Greenlandic waters
Imposing Arctic cliffs are observed from the ship
Passengers set off in zodiacs in Karrat Fjord
Loading zodiacs in the Northwest Passage
Observing the pack ice from the top deck
Comfort and adventure
Ocean Endeavour
- Capacity: 198 passengers
- Refurbished in 2016
- Fitness Centre, Spa, Sauna and Pool
- Can cruise at 15 knotts
- Large 34 person expedition team
- Mountain biking & kayaking offered on selected sailings
- Wide range of cabin categories (13)
- Ice class 1B
Ocean Adventurer
- Capacity: 132 passengers
- Built in 1975, refurbished in 2016
- 8 different cabin types, over 5 decks
- Polar Library, Bar/Lounge
- Ice-strengthened hull (Ice class 1A)
Your vessel
Expeditions on board the Ocean Adventurer & Ocean Endeavour
Traversing west to east this voyage takes you to iconic sites such as Cambridge Bay, Lancaster and Smith Sounds and Ellesmere Island, before exploring the fjords and towns of West Greenland. Bears, narwhal, musk ox, beluga and northern lights are…
- 17 Days
- $11,995
An all consuming introduction to the Arctic, with a strong focus on wildlife, this trip is hard to beat. Search for bears, narwhal, beluga, walrus and musk ox, marvel at Greenland's ‘big ice’ and learn about the early explorers as…
- 12 Days
- $7,595
The big ice and small towns of West Greenland provide a stunning start to this trip before you sail across the Davis Straight to Baffin Island and enter the Northwest Passage. Blend history, scenery and wildlife; pay your respects at…
- 17 Days
- $11,995
Spending time exploring Canada’s historic Northwest Passage and West Greenland, we like this voyage’s balance and variety as much as exploring little visited spots such as Thule, one of the northernmost towns in the world, and Smith Sound. Big ice,…
- 20 Days
- $14,845
Swoop says
Kayaking and mountain biking are popular optional add-ons only offered by certain ships. If adventure options are your priority, double check your preferred ship offers them.
Luxury and fine dining
Le Boreal, Le Lyrial, Le Soleal, L'Austral
- Capacity: 200 passengers
- Built in France in 2014
- Gastronomic restaurant
- Library, Internet Desk, Terrace and Lounge, with live music
- 9 different cabin types
- 1C ice class and advanced stabilizing system
Sailing through the Bellot Strait
Silver Cloud Expedition
- Capacity: 254 passengers
- Built in 1993 refurbished in 2017
- 4 restaurants including a Relais & Chateaux option 8 different cabin types, all with butler service
- Fully inclusive voyages (including drink and tips)
- Bar, Lounge, Library and Presentation Room
- Fitness Room, Wellness Spa and Pool
- Ice-strengthened hull (Lloyds Register 1C)
Alex says
Choosing a ship for the Northwest Passage is not a straightforward process, and the physical parts of the ship might not be the most important to you compared to the style of the team on board. We've sailed on as many ships as possible, so we can help with those crucial details.
Alex Mudd Head of Swoop Antarctica
Explore the Northwest Passage
Getting to The Northwest Passage
The Northwest Passage, a beautiful and sparsely populated labyrinth of islands stretching from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean. Vast distances and limited transport means joining…
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When to visit the Northwest Passage
There’s very good reason why the Northwest Passage is only open to visitors from July to September: it's the only time average temperatures are above freezing, and the ice has …
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The Northwest Passage
For the explorer, there are few places evocative as the Northwest Passage. For centuries men sought a way through the ice; even today passage is not guaranteed. This is a true …
Discover MoreReady to Book Your Arctic Adventure?
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Listen
We'll spend some time listening to your aspirations, then discuss the kind of experience that might suit you.
2
Match
Next we'll discuss the options, shortlist the best trips for you and present you our impartial recommendations.
3
Reserve
We'll place a 24 hour hold on your preferred option - without obligation - whilst we talk through the details.
Our team of experts are ready to help you with any questions about a trip to the Arctic.