Greenland to Canada: Inuit, Icebergs, and Wildlife

Meaning “iceberg” in Greenlandic, Ilulissat is home to the fastest-moving glacier outside of Antarctica, Sermeq Kujalleq. This UNESCO World Heritage site is located north of the Arctic Circle, and moves at an average of 19 meters per day. Cruise at a safe distance by Zodiac, and if you’re lucky, witness the spectacle of calving ice.

Traverse the Davis Strait as you leave behind Greenlandic shores in pursuit of Canada.

Qikiqtarjuak is known as the iceberg capital of the world, naturally trapping many icebergs as they travel down the Davis Strait. An abundance of marine wildlife can be seen here as beluga and right whales, narwhals and ring and harp seals pass by. Trek up the many walking trails to join the inukshuk and share its view overlooking the island and the community.

We’ll let the weather be our guide as we explore the region’s most interesting scenery, landmarks and wildlife areas. Much of the coast of Baffin Island is relatively unexplored, so in true expedition form we will aim to go ashore and explore. We may not know what we’ll find, but at the very least we may step foot where no one has before.

Pangnirtung is located at the mouth of Pangnirtung Fjord, which merges with Cumberland Sound. It’s a stronghold of the Inuit community, and an ideal area to admire Inuit culture and their high-quality traditional art, especially textiles. While there, pick up a famous Pang touque, a must-have knit cap for anyone visiting the community.

You can expect more wildlife encounters over at Monumental Island, which is a well-known island for potential close sightings of some of the Arctic’s most iconic creatures – walrus and polar bears. You’ll enjoy a Zodiac ride along the shores in search of hauled-out walrus and prowling polar bears.

The largest island in Ungava Bay, Akpatok is the local name for thick-billed murres, which nest here. This is also a favourite spot to watch for polar bears.

Located at the southeastern end of Baffin Island, you’ll spend your last full day exploring the cliffs, narrow inlets and streams of Frobisher Bay. It’s a great place to explore by zodiac and take a refreshing hike ashore.

Your final Zodiac ride will take you from the ship to shore. Your time here will be brief, as your flight to Ottawa awaits, signaling an end to your time in the Arctic. Upon arrival in Ottawa, we will transfer you to your included hotel.

Today you can make your way home at your leisure or spend some more time in Ottawa. This fascinating capital city is home to the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.