Heart of the Arctic | Ocean Nova

Begin your journey by sailing out of Kangerlussuaq Fjord (Søndre Strømfjord), a 190-kilometre-long fjord surrounded by mountains and glaciers. Cross the Arctic Circle on your way and spend time on deck watching for aurora borealis. Kangerlussuaq, the settlement at the head of the fjord, is a former US Air Force base. After your (optional) charter flight from Toronto, ON, you’ll transfer to the ship by Zodiac.

Kangerlussuatsiaq, meaning 'the rather big fjord' in Greenlandic, and its Danish name, Evighedsfjorden, or 'the fjord of eternity,' reflect its vast, seemingly endless expanse. Discover why this fjord lives up to its name, featuring calving glaciers, dramatic bird cliffs, and streams flowing down towering mountains. Explore the stunning glacial scenery by ship and Zodiac. The waters are relatively warm, influenced by the West Greenland Current and the subarctic climate.

Take the opportunity to visit Nuuk, Greenland’s capital and the world’s northernmost capital. Meaning 'the headland,' Nuuk is located at the mouth of a vast fjord system. Founded in 1728 as Greenland's first town, it remains the country’s vibrant hub. During your visit, you may spot humpback whales in the fjord, reindeer on the land, and birds in the sky. Nuuk is home to the University of Greenland, a historic cathedral from 1849, and the National Museum, where the famous Qilakitsoq mummies are displayed. Enjoy a guided tour of this lively city and explore its cultural landmarks at your own pace.

As we sail across the Davis Strait toward Canada, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the region's environment, culture, and history. This journey offers a unique chance to engage with Inuit communities in their homeland. Participate in workshops, watch a documentary, and get active with an interactive cultural performance featuring Inuit games. Through these experiences and interactions, you’ll develop a greater appreciation for the culture and the breathtaking landscapes we pass. Keep your binoculars handy to spot whales and seabirds following our ship.

Visit Akpatok Island, the largest island in Ungava Bay, covering over 900 square kilometers. Named after the akpait (thick-billed murres) that nest on its steep cliffs, it hosts Canada’s largest colony of these birds. Explore the island's shores and surrounding ice on a Zodiac cruise, watching for polar bears, walruses, and other marine life. Ungava Bay, large and shallow, is a vibrant ecosystem, home to diverse wildlife, including an endangered beluga population.

Discover the treeless tundra of the Ungava Peninsula in Nunavik, exploring its geological wonders, diverse flora and fauna, and rich Inuit culture. Local Inuit educators will guide you through their homeland, offering a meaningful experience. Enjoy hiking and a Zodiac cruise with the expedition team, who will provide expert insights throughout. As you explore this stunning landscape, watch for wildlife and listen to Inuit stories, enhancing your connection to the land and deepening your appreciation for the natural world.

Travel to Salluit, the second northernmost community in Nunavik, with a population of around 1,500. This vibrant settlement offers a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in Inuit culture in the heart of the Canadian Arctic. Explore local craftsmanship and purchase handmade items like carvings, jewellery, and mittens. Enjoy the warm hospitality of the community as we meet in the hall to learn about traditional and modern ways of life. Take a scenic hike through the rugged terrain, deepening your connection to the land and its people.

Visit Kinngait, where you can meet talented artists and tour their studios, with the chance to purchase unique art pieces. Engage with both established and emerging artists, carvers, and printmakers who continue to make Kinngait a prominent hub for fine art. Kinngait is historically significant, being the birthplace of the Inuit art market, with the 1959 founding of the West Baffin Eskimo Co-operative, Canada’s oldest professional Inuit printmaking studio.

Join the expedition team on deck as we navigate the icy, fast-moving waters of the Hudson Strait. Look out for incredible Arctic wildlife, including polar bears, walruses, whales, seals, and seabirds, while capturing perfect photos. Inuit guides will share insights about the region's wildlife and landscapes as we search for these creatures. We’ll seize every chance to explore, whether by foot or Zodiac, surrounded by stunning scenery.

Sail through the scenic Frobisher Bay, named after the explorer Martin Frobisher, while keeping an eye out for wildlife. Our geologists will share fascinating insights about the area's rocks, adding to the awe-inspiring scenery and Arctic beauty.

Transfer by Zodiac through Iqaluit harbour for your (optional) charter flight back home. Iqaluit, at the head of Frobisher Bay, is Nunavut’s capital. A population of nearly 8,000 calls the city home. Local attractions include the territorial Legislature, igloo-inspired St. Jude’s Cathedral, art shops, and more. As your journey comes to a close, carry with you the lasting impression of the Arctic’s beauty and the richness of its cultures, forever etched in your memories.