13 DAY HEART OF THE ARCTIC
TRIP DESCRIPTION
Visit three distinct Arctic regions on this voyage aboard the Ocean Endeavour.
Meet the artists in South Baffin Island's Inuit famous art-making communities and explore Nunavik, the Arctic coast of Quebec. Cross the Davis Strait in the wake of the explorers. Explore the deep fjords and vibrant communities of Greenland.
Board a Zodiac to seek whales, birds, bears, and caribou. Journey with scientists, historians, Inuit artists, and culturalists to the heart of the Arctic!
Meet the artists in South Baffin Island's Inuit famous art-making communities and explore Nunavik, the Arctic coast of Quebec. Cross the Davis Strait in the wake of the explorers. Explore the deep fjords and vibrant communities of Greenland.
Board a Zodiac to seek whales, birds, bears, and caribou. Journey with scientists, historians, Inuit artists, and culturalists to the heart of the Arctic!
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Start Location: Ottawa
End Location: Vancouver
TOP HIGHLIGHTS
- Cross the Arctic Circle by ship while enjoying glorious Sondre Stromfjord
- Learn about Inuit art and culture from artists and experts
- Seek polar bears, marine mammals, and seabirds in the rich waters of Hudson Strait
- Appreciate Inuit life in Greenland, Nunavut, and Nunavik!
- Immerse yourself in the creative tradition, science, and culture of the Arctic
- View the spectacular Arctic coastal regions by Zodiac
ITINERARY
Day 1: Iqaluit
Iqaluit, at the head of Frobisher Bay, is Nunavut's bustling capital. A population of nearly 8,000 (and growing) call Iqaluit home. Local attractions include the territorial Legislature, igloo-inspired St. Jude's Cathedral, art shops, and more. We will transfer by Zodiac to the Ocean Endeavour through busy Iqaluit harbour. Take a moment to notice the amazing tide! Once all are aboard, we'll begin our journey down Frobisher Bay.
Overnight: Iqaluit
Day 2: Frobisher Bay
We'll be on the lookout for wildlife, of course. Our geologists will have you raving about rocks, and the tundra plants beneath your feet are worth a closer look. Expect compelling scenery, and soak up the Arctic splendour as we go!
Overnight: Frobisher Bay
Day 3: Kimmirut (Lake Harbour)
Kimmirut means "the heel" in Inuktitut, referring to an outcrop of marble across the bay from the community. Kimmirut is considered one of the most charming communities on the South Baffin coast. Art aficionados may know the hamlet as Lake Harbour, once the home of a Hudson Bay Company post. Art has played a major role in putting Kimmirut on the map. The Dewey Soper Building houses a gallery of outstanding works of art.
Overnight: Kimmirut
Day 4: Kinngait (Cape Dorset)
Kinngait was ground zero for the Inuit art market. In 1959, the West Baffin Eskimo Co-operative was established: it remains the oldest arts organization in the Canadian Arctic and the oldest professional Inuit printmaking studio in Canada. Old and new generations of outstanding artists, carvers, and printmakers continue to make Kinngait a proud centre for Inuit art. We'll visit studios and meet the artists here"”an opportunity to purchase outstanding works straight from the source.
Overnight: Kinngait
Day 5: Hudson Strait
On this exploration day, we'll be making the most of what the wind, weather and wildlife have to offer. We can expect to navigate the icy waters of Hudson Strait. Our expedition staff will scan for polar bears, walrus, whales, seals, and seabirds as we go.
Overnight: Hudson Strait
Day 6–7: Ungava Peninsula, QC
Along the Ungava Peninsula, we explore an area of treeless tundra rich in geology and
flora. We’ll enjoy hiking and a Zodiac cruise.
Overnight: Ivujivik
DAY 8–9: UNGAVA BAY
Large and shallow, Ungava Bay is a rich ecosystem and home to a variety of wildlife, including an endangered beluga population and Canada’s largest number of breeding thick-billed murres. Here we’ll use our Zodiacs to scout the shorelines and any outlying ice with hopes of seeing polar bears, walrus, and other marine life. We’ll pay a visit to uninhabited Akpatok Island, the biggest island in Ungava Bay, at over nine hundred square kilometres. It’s named for the akpait—the thick-billed murres—that nest on ledges of Akpatok’s lofty cliffs.
Overnight: Arctic Regions
Day 10: At Sea - Davis Strait
Our presentation series will continue as we steam across the Davis Strait towards Greenland. Our resource staff will deepen your understanding of the Arctic as we go. This is an excellent time to enjoy workshops and group learning, watch a documentary or dive into our library. While out on deck, keep your binoculars ready for minke and humpback whales amid pack ice, as well as the seabirds that are sure to mark our passage.
Overnight: Arctic Regions
Day 11: Nuuk
Nuuk, the capital of Greenland, bridges old and new. The old harbour includes many buildings dating from Danish colonial days, while contemporary Nuuk is known for art, shopping, pubs, and cafes.
The Greenland National Museum is one of Nuuk’s many outstanding features; the world-famous Qilakitsoq mummies rest here.
Day 12: Kangerlussuatsiaq FJORD
West Greenland’s complex coastal waterways include glaciers, islands, and fjords against a towering mountain backdrop. The waters are relatively warm here, due to the West Greenland Current and the subarctic location. We’ll explore this sublime landscape by ship and by Zodiac.
Day 13: Kangerlussuaq
In the early morning we’ll complete our overnight journey up Kangerlussuaq Fjord (Søndre Strømfjord)—a 190-kilometre-long fjord surrounded by mountains and glaciers, bisected by the Arctic Circle.
Kangerlussuaq, the settlement at its head, is a former U.S. Air Force base and Greenland’s primary flight hub. We’ll transfer to shore by Zodiac, then bus to the airport for our charter flight to Toronto, ON.
Overnight: Kangerlussuaq
DATES & PRICES
We accept 
Interested in this trip? Contact Us for 2025 dates and prices
Applicable taxes vary depending on travel destination and are not included. Please ask your sales agent what extra taxes will be payable for your tour.
WHY CHOOSE ANDERSON VACATIONS?
Anderson Vacations
Other Companies
Small Group Tours
Travel with a limited number of participants for a personalized journey with a tour leader.Experienced Tour Leaders
Who have gone through intensive vetting and training.(But most contract their tour leaders from Anderson Vacations.)
Canadian Travel Experts
With at least 30 years of experience.Min. 95% Satisfaction Rate
From past guests.Travel to unique places, visit more attractions each day.
Without the distractions of tipping.Activities and excursions included as part of the tour.
(Not as add-ons.)Sustainability
Planting one tree for every passenger that travels with us.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- Passage aboard the Ocean Endeavour
- Applicable taxes and credit card fees
- Complimentary expedition jacket
- Contribution to Adventure Canada’s Discovery Fund
- Special access permits, entry, and park fees
- Expert expedition team
- Guided activities
- Sightseeing and community visits
- All Zodiac excursions
- Port fees
- Pre-departure materials
- Educational program
- Photo Equipment Trial Program
- Interactive workshops
- Evening entertainment
- All shipboard meals
EXCLUSIONS
- Charter flights - Charter flights are available at additional cost
- Program enhancements/optional excursions
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
- Possible fuel surcharges
- Pre/post accommodation
- Mandatory medical evacuation insurance
- Additional expenses in the event of delays or itinerary changes
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Our specialists can take away the stress and create a custom trip tailored to your exact interests and budget.
Get A Custom Quote
OR CALL
1.866.814.7378
Custom Trip Plans
You can see what you want, when you want, how you want.
Unique Experiences
Experiences that help you take in the region in a different way.
Freedom To Explore
Time to take in each place with only the tours you want to do.
Tour Questions
What is the maximum number of travellers in a group?
Anderson Vacations specializes in Small Group Fully Escorted tours. If the tour is classified as a ‘Classic Tour’ up to 24 persons may join the tour although tours commonly travel with anywhere between 18 to 24 travellers. If the tour is classified as a 'Tour of Distinction’ only up to 18 persons may join the tour and many 'Tours of Distinction' travel with 12 to 18 travellers.
What are Guaranteed Departures?
After dreaming about travel to an exciting destination, arranging for time off work, booking your flights the last thing you need is for your trip to be cancelled. Anderson vacation's pre-Guaranteed tours take the uncertainty away from planning your travel and give you peace of mind to book our tours. Pre-Guaranteed Tours are group tours that we have already confirmed as certain to travel on the specified date. All 'Guaranteed Tours' will travel except in the event of a natural disaster or a catastrophic event that is beyond our control. They may already have the minimum number of people booked or else are tours that are known to be popular. Only select departures of tours are 'pre-Guaranteed'.
What happens if I book on a tour that is not Guaranteed?
We pride ourselves on providing “a small shared group experience.” In the event that we have fewer than ten participants on a tour we will offer a “small-group surcharge” to ensure that the tour runs as scheduled. This fee, which is up to 15% of the “land” portion of the tour, will be offered to you as an option to continue with the trip. This fee will cover the costs associated with handling a smaller group.
What is the average age of passengers for this tour?
Our tours are suitable for all age demographics. The average age of travelers is typically 45+.
How physically demanding is this tour? Are you able to accommodate people with mobility restrictions/limitations?
Some tours are mainly coach based and may not be physically demanding while others may require walking inclines or on rough surfaces to access interesting locations. Please check with us and your booking agent carefully and discuss your mobility restrictions before completing any tour booking to ensure this style of travel is right for you.
Can you accommodate passengers with dietary restrictions (food allergies, vegan, vegetarian etc.)?
Yes, we do accommodate dietary restrictions (within reason) such as, food allergies, vegan, vegetarian, etc. There are many meals included on our fully escorted tours. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking so we can ensure there are alternative meal choices.
Booking & Flight Questions
Do you arrange airport transfers?
Yes, we can assist you with airport transfers for you in most locations at a reasonable extra cost. Several tours have airport transfers already included. Please contact us for more details.
Can you assist with booking additional accommodation?
Yes, we can certainly assist with booking additional nights of hotel accommodation for you before and after your fully escorted tour. This is available upon request and subject to availability. Please inquire for further information and prices.
How much luggage should I bring?
Each passenger may bring one large suitcase and one carry-on bag. The weight limit for baggage is 20 kilograms or about 40 pounds. Baggage handling is provided at the hotels in our tour packages but there may be places where you will be required to wheel in your bags for quicker access. Be sure to advise our reservations staff if you will be bringing additional items such as a cane, walker, or wheelchair. You may also bring one small soft-sided carry-on bag, which should easily fit into the overhead shelf of a coach. Each person is responsible for his/her own carryon luggage. Remember to check your airline baggage restrictions if you are flying, as they may differ from Anderson Vacations guidelines.
I am a solo traveller. Is there a single surcharge?
There are options for single travelers to join most tours. Solo travellers can choose to pay a Single Supplement and have their own room throughout the tour. For those willing to share with a co-traveller of the same gender, we have a Twin Share option that is offered for most tours where you share a hotel room with another same gender traveller. In this case, you will not be charged for Single Supplement.
Is it possible to book a triple share accommodation?
Yes, it is possible to book triple share accommodations on select trips. Please inquire or contact us regarding this option, as prices and availability vary from tour to tour.
Can we book this tour with our exclusive group?
Yes, you can! Anderson Vacations works with many private groups and helps to customize a tour to traveller’s needs. Please contact us for more details.
Are gratuities included in the tour cost?
For convenience, gratuities for local guides and meals that are specified in the itinerary are included in the tour price. For meals not included in your tour package please remember that it is customary to tip your server 10-20% in North America. Gratuities for your Coach Driver (where appropriate) and Tour Director are entirely at your discretion. We recommend about CDN $5.00 per person, per day, for your Driver and CDN$7.00 per person, per day for your Tour Leader.
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Tour Code
ACHA
13 Day Heart of the Arctic
13 days
Created On: 21 Dec 2024
Highlights
- Cross the Arctic Circle by ship while enjoying glorious Sondre Stromfjord
- Learn about Inuit art and culture from artists and experts
- Seek polar bears, marine mammals, and seabirds in the rich waters of Hudson Strait
- Appreciate Inuit life in Greenland, Nunavut, and Nunavik!
- Immerse yourself in the creative tradition, science, and culture of the Arctic
- View the spectacular Arctic coastal regions by Zodiac
Inclusions
- Passage aboard the Ocean Endeavour
- Applicable taxes and credit card fees
- Complimentary expedition jacket
- Contribution to Adventure Canada’s Discovery Fund
- Special access permits, entry, and park fees
- Expert expedition team
- Guided activities
- Sightseeing and community visits
- All Zodiac excursions
- Port fees
- Pre-departure materials
- Educational program
- Photo Equipment Trial Program
- Interactive workshops
- Evening entertainment
- All shipboard meals
Exclusions
- Charter flights - Charter flights are available at additional cost
- Program enhancements/optional excursions
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
- Possible fuel surcharges
- Pre/post accommodation
- Mandatory medical evacuation insurance
- Additional expenses in the event of delays or itinerary changes
Itinerary
Day 1: Iqaluit
Iqaluit, at the head of Frobisher Bay, is Nunavut's bustling capital. A population of nearly 8,000 (and growing) call Iqaluit home. Local attractions include the territorial Legislature, igloo-inspired St. Jude's Cathedral, art shops, and more. We will transfer by Zodiac to the Ocean Endeavour through busy Iqaluit harbour. Take a moment to notice the amazing tide! Once all are aboard, we'll begin our journey down Frobisher Bay.
Overnight: Iqaluit
Day 2: Frobisher Bay
We'll be on the lookout for wildlife, of course. Our geologists will have you raving about rocks, and the tundra plants beneath your feet are worth a closer look. Expect compelling scenery, and soak up the Arctic splendour as we go!
Overnight: Frobisher Bay
Day 3: Kimmirut (Lake Harbour)
Kimmirut means "the heel" in Inuktitut, referring to an outcrop of marble across the bay from the community. Kimmirut is considered one of the most charming communities on the South Baffin coast. Art aficionados may know the hamlet as Lake Harbour, once the home of a Hudson Bay Company post. Art has played a major role in putting Kimmirut on the map. The Dewey Soper Building houses a gallery of outstanding works of art.
Overnight: Kimmirut
Day 4: Kinngait (Cape Dorset)
Kinngait was ground zero for the Inuit art market. In 1959, the West Baffin Eskimo Co-operative was established: it remains the oldest arts organization in the Canadian Arctic and the oldest professional Inuit printmaking studio in Canada. Old and new generations of outstanding artists, carvers, and printmakers continue to make Kinngait a proud centre for Inuit art. We'll visit studios and meet the artists here"”an opportunity to purchase outstanding works straight from the source.
Overnight: Kinngait
Day 5: Hudson Strait
On this exploration day, we'll be making the most of what the wind, weather and wildlife have to offer. We can expect to navigate the icy waters of Hudson Strait. Our expedition staff will scan for polar bears, walrus, whales, seals, and seabirds as we go.
Overnight: Hudson Strait
Day 6–7: Ungava Peninsula, QC
Along the Ungava Peninsula, we explore an area of treeless tundra rich in geology and
flora. We’ll enjoy hiking and a Zodiac cruise.
Overnight: Ivujivik
DAY 8–9: UNGAVA BAY
Large and shallow, Ungava Bay is a rich ecosystem and home to a variety of wildlife, including an endangered beluga population and Canada’s largest number of breeding thick-billed murres. Here we’ll use our Zodiacs to scout the shorelines and any outlying ice with hopes of seeing polar bears, walrus, and other marine life. We’ll pay a visit to uninhabited Akpatok Island, the biggest island in Ungava Bay, at over nine hundred square kilometres. It’s named for the akpait—the thick-billed murres—that nest on ledges of Akpatok’s lofty cliffs.
Overnight: Arctic Regions
Day 10: At Sea - Davis Strait
Our presentation series will continue as we steam across the Davis Strait towards Greenland. Our resource staff will deepen your understanding of the Arctic as we go. This is an excellent time to enjoy workshops and group learning, watch a documentary or dive into our library. While out on deck, keep your binoculars ready for minke and humpback whales amid pack ice, as well as the seabirds that are sure to mark our passage.
Overnight: Arctic Regions
Day 11: Nuuk
Nuuk, the capital of Greenland, bridges old and new. The old harbour includes many buildings dating from Danish colonial days, while contemporary Nuuk is known for art, shopping, pubs, and cafes.
The Greenland National Museum is one of Nuuk’s many outstanding features; the world-famous Qilakitsoq mummies rest here.
Day 12: Kangerlussuatsiaq FJORD
West Greenland’s complex coastal waterways include glaciers, islands, and fjords against a towering mountain backdrop. The waters are relatively warm here, due to the West Greenland Current and the subarctic location. We’ll explore this sublime landscape by ship and by Zodiac.
Day 13: Kangerlussuaq
In the early morning we’ll complete our overnight journey up Kangerlussuaq Fjord (Søndre Strømfjord)—a 190-kilometre-long fjord surrounded by mountains and glaciers, bisected by the Arctic Circle.
Kangerlussuaq, the settlement at its head, is a former U.S. Air Force base and Greenland’s primary flight hub. We’ll transfer to shore by Zodiac, then bus to the airport for our charter flight to Toronto, ON.
Overnight: Kangerlussuaq
