Travel in the footsteps of daring explorers, get acquainted with the region’s wildlife and connect with the Indigenous locals whose ancestors have hunted and fished the region for thousands of years.
Our Northwest Passage cruises through the polar regions of the North Atlantic follow in the footsteps of the early explorers and aim to immerse you the fascinating history of the fabled route, Inuit culture and otherworldly Canadian High Arctic landscapes.
Each expedition is accompanied by an Expedition Team we believe is among the world’s best. Your expert team will help you get the most out of your time exploring the Canadian High Arctic. As you cruise the Canadian Artic’s wild coastline, you will will pass massive glaciers, ice-capped mountains, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, icy channels, remote communities and diverse wildlife if you’re lucky!
Northwest Passage Expeditions
Explore the Northwest Passage
Unforgettable Experiences
For those eager to explore the Northwest Passage, the adventures and memories will last a lifetime. On the expedition, you will learn about the history of the legendary route of the Northwest Passage, Inuit art, iconic wildlife and the changeable weather conditions in the Arctic Ocean.
Zodiac cruise trips ashore and walking tours are also led by your Expedition Leader and offer great photography opportunities. Visits to places like Baffin Island, Somerset Island, Beechey Island, Hudson Bay, Ellesmere Island and Cambridge Bay will give you a chance to stretch your legs, while others may choose to explore the area from water level in a sea kayak.
Wildlife
The Canadian Arctic region has unique wildlife scattered throughout its majestic landscapes. Being a place of extremes, the Northwest Passage is an environment that only few can survive in, which means the rare wildlife found here often is only seen in the High Arctic. Although wildlife can be hard to spot here, Bowhead whales, Beluga whales, Arctic fox and musk ox are some of the Arctic wildlife that call this part of the world home.
Our Canadian Arctic cruises include naturalists as part of the expedition team, who are there to answer your questions and educate you about Arctic wildlife. Whether you have a question about Beluga whales or want to maximise your chances of spotting Arctic fox, the Expedition Team is your first point of contact. The Northwest Passage is also a bird watchers’ paradise, with numerous Canadian Arctic species nesting there every summer.
History
The Northwest Passage represents centuries of effort to find a route from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean through the Canadian Arctic Archipelago, which lies to the north of the Canadian mainland. It wasn’t until the 15th century that Europeans began investigating the Northwest Passage for trade purposes; it was seen as important for sailors and merchants seeking a northern route to China and the rest of Asia.
Since this time, it’s been marked by exploration, hardships and the quest to discover a navigable Arctic route between the North Atlantic and Pacific Ocean. Today’s Northwest Passage offers breathtaking passage to scientists, wildlife experts, historians… and travellers just like you.
Culture
The Northwest Passage is one the least populated regions in the world, with 0.13 people per square kilometre (0.05 per square mile). This high Arctic tundra has been home to the Inuit people for thousands of years. Their settlements span Canada, Alaska, Greenland and Russia. As custodians of this vast and hostile land, the Inuit beat the odds, successfully inhabiting one of the harshest environments in the world.
With a deep connection to the land and ice, the Inuit people have passed their knowledge, resilience and cultural practices down for generations. We’re proud to partner with Oxen's Community Ambassador Program and look forward to welcoming ambassadors on board select expeditions
Northwest Passage Cruises FAQ's
The Northwest Passage is a sea route that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans through the Canadian Arctic Archipelago. It traverses through the northern coast of North America, comprising a series of deep channels through grand landscapes. Despite the harsh conditions, the Northwest Passage is home to thousands of Canadian Inuit across 53 communities along the Arctic Ocean’s shores. Additionally, the waters of the Northwest Passage reach depths of up to 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) and are home to a wide array of marine wildlife.
On a Northwest Passage Expedition, you can expect to encounter a variety of unique Arctic wildlife. Species such as Bowhead whales, Beluga whales, Arctic foxes, and musk oxen are commonly sighted. The region is also a bird watcher’s paradise, with numerous Canadian Arctic species nesting in the area during the summer. While wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed due to the vast and wild nature of the Arctic, the expert naturalists on your Expedition Team will help maximise your chances. They provide valuable insights into the habits and habitats of these animals, making each wildlife encounter on your Northwest Passage Expedition a memorable experience.
Packing for a Northwest Passage Cruise requires careful consideration of the Arctic environment. Essential items include warm, layered clothing made from moisture-wicking and insulating materials, a waterproof and windproof outer jacket, sturdy waterproof boots, and thermal gloves and hats. Personal medications and toiletries should be packed as well, as amenities may be limited.
The best time to book a Northwest Passage Cruise is during the summer months, from July to September. This period offers the most favourable weather conditions and the highest likelihood of clear passages through the Arctic waters. Booking early is recommended to secure a spot on these popular expeditions, as they often fill up quickly. Many travellers aim to witness the incredible Arctic wildlife and stunning landscapes that are most visible during these months. The longer daylight hours also provide more exploration and photography opportunities during your Northwest Passage Cruise.
Aurora Expeditions offers a variety of activities on their Northwest Passage Cruises. These include Zodiac cruises, guided walks, and trips ashore to explore the Arctic landscapes up close. Guests can also participate in bird watching, photography sessions, and whale and mammal spotting. For the adventurous, there’s also the exhilarating polar plunge. Additionally, the expedition features lectures on wildlife, environment, and the fascinating history of the Northwest Passage, providing a comprehensive educational experience. These activities ensure that your Northwest Passage Cruise is not only an adventure but also an opportunity to learn and engage deeply with the Arctic environment.
Northwest Passage Cruises differ from traditional cruises in several ways. These expeditions are more focused on exploration and adventure, taking you through the remote and rugged landscapes of the Canadian Arctic, where few other cruises venture. Unlike traditional cruises that may emphasise luxury and leisure, Northwest Passage Cruises prioritises immersive experiences, such as wildlife spotting, guided hikes, and cultural interactions with Indigenous communities. The routes taken are also more flexible, often dictated by weather and ice conditions, making each journey unique. Moreover, the smaller ship sizes used for these expeditions allow access to areas larger cruise ships cannot reach, providing a more intimate and personalised experience.
