Northwest Passage Cruise Guide

Key Takeaways

• You can enjoy Northwest Passage cruises during the summer season, running between 13-25 days. Your journey starts from key ports like Kangerlussuaq, Resolute, Nome or Anchorage.
• Small expedition ships give you closer wildlife encounters and access to hidden spots. If you prefer luxury, larger vessels offer extra comforts and better facilities.
• You’ll find the best wildlife viewing in July and August. Keep your camera ready for polar bears wandering the ice, belugas swimming nearby, and arctic foxes darting across the tundra.
• Your trip includes fascinating historical stops. Visit the Franklin expedition graves on Beechey Island, see HMS discovery sites, and explore Inuit heritage at Croker Bay.
• You can meet local communities in Pond Inlet and Cambridge Bay. These visits let you experience authentic Inuit culture, where traditional practices blend with modern life.
• Visit these locations during clear weather to make the most of your arctic adventure and wildlife photography opportunities.

Planning Your Arctic Journey

Getting ready for your Arctic cruise needs clear planning. The Northwest Passage offers trips lasting 13 to 25 days. You can start your journey from Kangerlussuaq, Resolute, Nome or Anchorage.

Summer brings the best sailing conditions when ice levels are lowest, so book your trip early.

You need good physical fitness for this adventure. The journey involves climbing in and out of zodiac boats and walking on varied terrain. Your packing list must include proper cold-weather clothing for wet landings and Arctic conditions.

Two main ship types serve these routes:

• Expedition vessels: Smaller ships that can reach narrow inlets
• Luxury ships: Larger vessels with more comforts but limited route options

You should choose your ship based on what matters most to you – exploring remote areas or enjoying extra amenities.

Essential Wildlife Viewing Tips

Wildlife Viewing Tips for Northwest Passage

You’ll discover abundant wildlife in the Northwest Passage from July to September. Follow these practical tips to make the most of your cruise:

Choose Expert Guidance:

• Your guides will help spot polar bears near Lancaster Sound and Somerset Island.
• Guides know the best locations for beluga watching at Cunningham Inlet.

Follow Viewing Practices:

• Keep quiet in zodiac boats to avoid startling wildlife.
• Stay watchful for arctic foxes and other predators.
• Be ready to adjust your schedule as animals move unpredictably.

Best Times to Visit:

• July offers peak viewing for all species.
• August brings better access as ice melts.
• September remains excellent for polar bears and belugas.

Your chances of successful wildlife spotting increase when you:

• Scan the horizon regularly.
• Listen to your guide’s instructions.
• Move slowly and quietly.
• Keep your camera ready but silent.

Choosing The Perfect Ship

Choosing Your Perfect Arctic Ship

Your Northwest Passage journey depends heavily on your ship choice. Let’s look at what matters most:

Ship Types:

• Large luxury ships give you comfort but can’t reach small inlets
• Small expedition ships (under 100 passengers) let you explore more places

Key Decisions:

1. Ship Size

You’ll get:

• Small ships: more landings, closer wildlife views
• Large ships: fewer stops, more onboard comfort

2. Journey Length

You’ll need to balance:

• Short trips: lower costs, fewer sightings
• Long trips: more wildlife, starting at £1,200 per week

3. Experience Style

You can choose between:

• Luxury vessels: comfy cabins, fancy meals
• Expedition ships: basic rooms, more adventures

Top Tip: Small expedition ships give you the most authentic Arctic experience. You’ll get closer to wildlife and visit more remote spots than on bigger vessels.

Remember: Your ship choice shapes your whole Arctic adventure, so pick based on what matters most to you – comfort or exploration.

Historical Sites Worth Exploring

The Northwest Passage holds fascinating historical sites from centuries of polar exploration. You can visit Beechey Island to see the graves of Franklin’s crew members, which mark a famous Arctic expedition.

The discoveries of HMS Erebus in Queen Maud Gulf and HMS Terror near King William Island help you understand this remarkable journey.

You’ll discover Inuit heritage at several locations. The sod houses at Crocker Bay and whale bone dwellings on Cornwallis Island show you how indigenous people adapted to Arctic life.

The trading post at Fort Ross and Parry’s sandstone monument stand as important landmarks, with the latter being Canada’s most northern historic site.

The communities of Gjoa Haven and Pond Inlet let you experience both historical sites and modern Inuit culture.

These locations connect you directly to the Arctic’s past while showcasing its living traditions.

Local Communities And Culture

The Northwest Passage reveals a diverse mix of cultures where Inuit, Gwich’in, Dene, Copper Inuit and Métis peoples live.

You can explore welcoming communities like Pond Inlet and Cambridge Bay, where traditional and modern ways of life come together.

Key communities you can visit:

1. Gjøa Haven offers summer wildflower displays and keeps ancient traditions alive.
2. Cambridge Bay welcomes you with its 1,477 locals and world-class char fishing spots.
3. Pond Inlet lets you watch narwhals and discover Norse heritage sites.

You can connect with local residents through the Oxen’s Community Ambassador Programme, which helps support these Arctic communities while protecting their way of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Types of Communication Services and Internet Connectivity Are Available Onboard?

Multiple communication options are available during your journey:

Your mobile phone works in coastal areas with intermittent coverage.

You can access the internet via Starlink WiFi throughout the vessel, though signal strength varies.

You have access to satellite phones for essential or emergency communications.

Ship-to-shore radio systems let you maintain contact with land-based stations.

These services help you stay in touch whilst at sea, though connection quality may vary based on weather and location.

Are Special Photography Permits Required for Wildlife and Community Photography?

Photography permits depend on your purpose and location:

Commercial photography:

• You need official permits to photograph wildlife or communities
• You must apply through your local council or wildlife authority

Personal photography:

• You can generally take photos without special permits
• You need to follow basic guidelines:
• Keep safe distances from wildlife
• Respect community boundaries
• Follow posted signage
• Ask permission when photographing people

Contact your local authority before any planned shoots, as rules vary by region. Wildlife sanctuaries and protected areas often have specific requirements you’ll need to check in advance.

How Physically Demanding Are the Shore Excursions and Zodiac Landings?

Shore excursions require a moderate level of fitness from you. You’ll step in and out of Zodiac boats, which needs good balance and flexibility. Your landings often involve stepping into shallow water. You can expect to walk or hike between 5-15 kilometres on varied terrain. If you choose kayaking activities, you’ll need upper body strength and stamina. Rest stops and easier route options are usually available to suit your comfort level.

What Medical Facilities and Emergency Evacuation Procedures Are in Place?

You’ll find essential medical services aboard the ship, staffed by a qualified doctor and nurse. If you need emergency care, the ship can arrange helicopter evacuation to mainland hospitals. Keep in mind that Arctic conditions can affect evacuation times, and medevac services carry additional costs. Your expedition leader will brief you on the specific medical and evacuation procedures for your voyage.

Can Dietary Restrictions and Food Allergies Be Accommodated During the Cruise?

The cruise line can handle most dietary needs when you tell them ahead of time. You’ll need to inform them of your requirements during booking or at least a few weeks before sailing. They routinely accommodate:

• Vegetarian and vegan diets
• Kosher meals
• Gluten-free options
• Dairy-free choices
• Low-sodium foods
• Diabetic-friendly meals

Your dining staff will work with you to meet your needs, but they cannot guarantee completely allergen-free spaces. You should always carry any necessary medication and discuss severe allergies with your cabin steward and wait staff.

For the best experience, you should:

• Document your dietary needs on your booking form
• Confirm your requirements with the maître d’ on your first day
• Speak directly with restaurant staff about your restrictions
• Pre-order your meals when possible