Canada
Cruise Canada’s remote coastlines on an adventurous expedition that takes you deep into nature in Canada’s High Arctic. Polar bears range across ancient landscapes, beluga whales calve in sheltered estuaries and First Nations people hunt, fish and travel as their ancestors did for thousands of years.
This is Canada, a remarkable continent of wild rivers, soaring mountains and untold beauty, where wildlife flourishes in a vast, untouched wilderness. Discover the icy and labyrinthine channels of Canada’s legendary Northwest Passage, a route that has enchanted explorers such as Franklin, Amundsen and Larsen for centuries. A voyage along the Northwest Passage offers the chance to experience the archipelago of islands and channels that form Canada’s High Arctic region. In Nunavut, discover Canada’s largest island, Baffin Island, and visit Beechey Island, the final resting place of some of the heroic explorers to have ventured here. Along the way, we hope to meet First Nations people who call this remote wilderness home, and encounter enigmatic arctic wildlife, including walrus, beluga whale, polar bear, musk ox and the elusive narwhal, not to mention the abundant number of nesting birds on Bylot Island, in Sermilik National Park.
Hike on Devon Island, a polar desert and the world’s largest uninhabited island. Zodiac cruise along spectacular fjords and remote coastlines looking for wildlife and beneath towering cliffs echoing with noisy nesting birds. Discover important historical sites including relics of a dilapidated Royal Canadian Mounted Police outpost, remnants of a former Hudson’s Bay Company trading post and ancient semi-subterranean Thule dwellings. In Autumn, when the night sky is cloaked in darkness, look up and you may catch a glimpse of nature’s most dazzling light show, Aurora Borealis – the Northern Lights.
Complete Northwest Passage
On this epic voyage inspired by Roald Amundsen’s historic expedition, we attempt to sail the full length of the Northwest …
30 Days
From USD $31,516.00/pp
Northwest Passage
The icy and labyrinthine channels of the legendary Northwest Passage have enchanted explorers and adventurers for centuries. Get a glimpse …
17 Days
From USD $17,005.50/pp
What is expedition cruising?
Embark on a sea-based adventure to the remote coastal regions of our globe, where unique encounters will allow you to experience nature at its most pristine.
This type of travel was born three decades ago, nurtured by rugged adventurers keen to share the magic of the wilderness with like-minded travellers. Expedition cruising brings together those with a curiosity about the world around them, a keen sense of adventure, and a desire to immerse themselves in the natural environment.
What will I do on an Aurora Expeditions cruise?
On our expedition cruises you will sail in a small, purpose-built ship with an expert, international expedition team, through some of the most amazing seascapes on earth. In small Zodiac boats, you will search for wildlife. We land on remote beaches, where you might visit a penguin colony, walk up a ridge for panoramic views or hike to see remnants of bygone eras. Our expedition team is by your side the whole time, enriching your experience with fascinating presentations and insights into remarkable places.
What do you mean by ‘expedition’?
An expedition cruise is never predictable. Every voyage is different, guided by the ever-changing weather, tides, ice conditions and our team’s deep local knowledge. We choose the best plan for each day, pushing for the ultimate experience for everyone on board. Being flexible yields incredible rewards. When we can share a spontaneous wildlife display, watch a breathtaking glacier calving or allow you a moment of true solitude, we know it’s worth it.
On an expedition cruise, we encourage you to make the most of every opportunity to nurture your inner adventurer. You can choose from a range of add-on activities to make the most of your time in these beautiful places. We have pioneered many adventure options to help you explore in your own way.
ASHORE
Included Activities
Zodiac cruises
Explore shallow coastlines, discover secluded bays and search for wildlife in hard to reach places in our Zodiacs; sturdy, inflatable rubber speed boats.
Find out more
Wildlife encounters
Join our onboard naturalists as we visit some of the most extraordinary biodiversity hotspots around the globe.
Guided hikes
Adventurous hikes for all abilities. Explore historic ruins, admire local flora and fauna and hike up remote ridges to spectacular viewpoints.
Photography
Whether you use a digital SLR or an iPhone, our photography guides are ready with handy hints to help you get the most out of your camera.
Historic sites
Join onboard historians and discover abandoned whaling villages, compelling archaeological sites and fascinating remnants of bygone eras.
Bird watching
Join your onboard naturalists and fellow birdwatching enthusiasts to watch for seabirds following the ship as they make their long journey across the ocean.
Included Activities (select itineraries)
Polar camping*
Roll out your sleeping bag and mat and fall asleep in the Antarctic twilight to the sound of water lapping on the shore and the distant rumble of glaciers.
Polar plunge*
A time worn tradition, the polar plunge is a rite of passage into an exclusive club. It’s no secret why: the ocean doesn’t freeze until -1.8° C (28.7° F) and sunshine is not guaranteed!
Onboard/At Sea
Our ships are designed to put people in connection with the environment. With expansive observation decks to bring you closer to the world outside, inviting communal areas, a comfortable lecture room and complimentary access to the gym, sauna and spa, the exploration and discovery continue whether you’re ashore or on board.
Ship cruising
Find a spot on deck or in the observation lounge as the captain skillfully navigates sea ice, sails the spectacular, narrow Lemaire Channel or crosses the engineering marvel that is the Panama Canal.
Enthralling, informative lectures
Join our expedition specialists and learn about the captivating wildlife and natural wonders as you see them. Be swept away in tales of terror and triumph as our historians share some of the fascinating stories of human endeavor in these remote corners of the world.
Wildlife watching
It’s not uncommon to spot dolphins frolicking off the bow, humpback or fin whales surfacing at sea, or majestic albatrosses and petrels soaring overhead. Get out where the action is and make sure you don’t miss a thing! Binoculars and wildlife guides are available for your use on board.
Gym, Spa & Sauna
In between landings you are welcome to visit the wellness centre, where you can use the gym, visit our sauna (which we highly recommend after the polar plunge!) or book a massage (additional cost applies). There are also 2 jacuzzis on the top outside deck with amazing views of the world outside.
Onboard Dining
You will be fuelled-up for your expedition with delicious morning and afternoon teas, and hearty meals cooked by our onboard chefs. Meal-times are a great opportunity to soak up the expedition camaraderie in our open-seating dining area. We also invite you to join your captain and expedition team for informal Captain’s Welcome and Farewell drinks, with complimentary beverages and cocktail appetisers, followed by a 3 course meal.
Optional (select itineraries)
Optional activities are popular and group sizes are limited, so if you’re interested, get in touch with our team as soon as possible. Additional fees apply. See your itinerary page of the website for details.
Whether it’s adventure at sea or on land that makes you tick, we have a huge range of optional activities to help you make the most of your time in some of the most beautiful places on earth.
We’ll get you out for your optional activities as often as possible, and this will be your main mode of exploration throughout your trip. Your guides will assess the conditions at each landing, and you’ll have the option to join whenever conditions allow.
Ocean
Sea kayaking
Silent and sleek, sea kayaks are perfect for exploring wild coastlines. Accompanied by your expert guides, you will have multiple sea kayak excursions throughout the voyage (weather permitting).
Scuba diving
Get under the skin of the sea and discover the hidden wonders beneath on a guided diving option. NB: Polar diving participants must have extensive experience diving in drysuits in cold environments.
Snorkelling
Relax and catch a glimpse of the captivating underwater world just below the surface as you drift along at a leisurely pace.
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP)
Put your balance to the test on the newest addition to our activity program. Paddleboard your way to a truly memorable adventure experience.
Alpine
Snowshoeing
Stretch your legs as you walk across the snow, hiking up slopes to viewpoints over some of the most remarkable, wild landscapes on earth.
Ski and snowboard touring
Experience the ultimate in ski and snowboard touring on the only truly white continent on earth.
Climbing and alpine trekking
A thrilling alpine experience in Antarctica. Climb seldom-visited peaks, trek over technical alpine passes and go ice climbing on the continent known for its icy splendour.
Shackleton’s Crossing, South Georgia
This seldom-repeated alpine crossing navigates intricate glaciers and high alpine passes in one of the most remote, uncharted regions on earth.
All Aurora Expeditions activity guides hold high level qualifications from national and internationally recognised organisations.
Our mountain and ski guides hold ski and climbing qualifications from member countries of the International Federation of Mountain Guides Association (IFMGA).
Our sea kayak guides are all certified sea kayak instructors and guides.
Will I see a polar bear?
As with all wild animals, we cannot guarantee you will see polar bears. However, the time of year we visit is when bear numbers are at their peak, and our experienced team and crew are aware of the bear’s habitats and are well trained to spot these marvellous creatures in the wild.
Do you provide polar expedition jackets?
Yes. Each passenger travelling on all our Arctic voyages will receive a complimentary polar expedition jacket to wear during your expedition and take home after your trip.
What clothes should I take to the Arctic?
Your expedition jacket is provided, however you’ll need to ensure you pack the correct wet weather gear for your landings.
Shipboard clothing is informal and casual; jeans, jumpers, long sleeve shirt and enclosed shoes are ideal in our polar regions. However, be sure to keep your jacket close for unexpected sightings!
Some people like to take a nice outfit or something a bit special for the Captain’s welcome and farewell drinks, but formal clothing is not necessary.
How many pairs of gloves do I need?
We recommend you take two pairs of gloves.
What kind of footwear do I need for our shore visits?
It is most important that you bring a comfortable pair of enclosed walking shoes to wear on board the ship. Muck boots are provided on board and are required to be worn on all landings. If you have concerns regarding extra small or large sizing, or hard-to-fit feet, we recommend you bring your own pair.
How do we dry wet clothing?
On board, you can store your wet weather gear and muck boots in your locker, found in the mudroom.
How often do we get off the ship?
We aim to get off the ship as much as possible to experience the destinations up close. Twice per day is common but more if weather, daylight hours and itinerary allow. Duration of the landings vary from site to site but at the height of the peak season, cruise operators must stick to timings allocated by authorities.
Should I bring along my own walking poles?
Yes, it’s a good idea, especially if you have trouble walking over uneven ground. Some of our landings can be on slippery rocks or deep snow, and we may go for extended walks to see different parts of our landing point. We recommend the telescopic poles, with the optional snow-basket tips. You can purchase these poles in most outdoor stores.
Can I swim or snorkel in the Arctic?
Although you cannot swim in Arctic, most of our voyages stop for a ‘Polar Plunge’, where all willing passengers can take the ultimate dip into the icy Arctic Ocean. You also have the option to take up our Polar Snorkeling activity, or experienced scuba divers have the option to dive, on selected voyages.
What if I need to go to the toilet when ashore?
Our expedition team will instruct you with these types of rules on board. Generally we ask you to relieve yourself on board before going on a landing and if the necessity arises ashore, you will be driven back to the ship.
Can I do more than one activity?
We strongly advise against selecting multiple activities as each is a dedicated activity for those with the relevant experience. To make the most of your time and money, we recommend selecting only one activity.
How fit do I need to be to travel on an Arctic expedition?
To make the most of our voyages, you should be in good general health and able to walk reasonable distances, sometimes over uneven terrain. However, if you have problems walking on rough ground, you can enjoy the scenery closer to shore. Should you have any physical limitations please notify us well in advance of your departure, but this should not discourage you participating.
How much time do we have in Longyearbyen?
The time available to you in Longyearbyen very much depends on your personal itinerary. Aurora Expeditions offers a pre- and post-package to connect with our voyage departure and arrival dates, which includes accommodation in Oslo and flights to Longyearbyen. Many people like to extend their stay in Europe and Aurora Expeditions can assist you with all your travel arrangements including flights, accommodation, travel insurance and transfers as well as a range of fascinating tours and activities.
How many people on the ship?
The Greg Mortimer carries a maximum of 132 passengers in the Arctic. We also have approx 15-18 expedition specialists onboard, and 47-56 crew members.
Where do passengers come from?
The majority of our clients come from Australia, the UK, Europe and the United States, however we do often have a mix of other nationalities on board, including our expedition team.
How much room is there for luggage?
There is ample storage space in your cabin on all our ships. Your empty baggage can be stored safely elsewhere on the ship if need be.
Do you have facilities on board to download digital images from my camera?
There will be computers in the library and media room for your use.
Is the ship air-conditioned?
All our ships are air-conditioned, with the on board temperature ranging from 15°C to 25°C. You can control the temperature of your cabin by adjusting the airflow through the roof vent and turning your heater on or off.
Does the crew speak English?
The crew aboard is international and all speak English.
What is the electrical supply on board?
The electrical supply on board is 220 volts, 50 hertz. Please bring a converter if your devices use 110 volts. International electrical sockets are available in your cabin and throughout the ship. If you have many devices, it is advised you bring a multi power board.
Is there Internet, email or telephone access on board?
Onboard WiFi internet packages are available for purchase during the voyage. Telephone access for personal use is not available on board. In case of an emergency, our expedition team can facilitate communication with your family members if necessary.
What is not included in the price of the voyage?
In general, items that are not included in the cost of your voyage are: flights to and from your voyage, pre and post accommodation, transfers, drinks from the bar (alcohol and soft drinks), gratuities, Ship Shop items, laundry costs and other items of a personal nature (unless stated in your voyage inclusions). Some voyages do include certain pre- and post-cruise travel arrangements, so please check your specific voyage inclusions on the website or contact us.
Do I need travel insurance?
Travel insurance, including medical evacuation cover, is mandatory for all Aurora Expeditions’ voyages. We advise you have insurance for voyage cancellation to ensure you will be covered financially if you are forced to cancel your voyage due to circumstances beyond your control. It is in your best interest to read carefully the General Terms & Conditions on your booking form.
How much should I tip? Are tips included, if not how much per person per day?
A $15 USD per person per day gratuity for the crew is automatically added to your onboard account. It is at your discretion if you would like to increase/decrease the amount or remove the tip when you settle your bill. It is not necessary to tip the expedition team members.
Do you cater for special meal requests?
Yes. Our talented chefs will take your requirements into their meal planning and ensure you receive tasty, healthy meals. Please ensure you list any dietary requirements on your personal details form.
What sort of money do I take and how much?
Australian dollars are difficult to exchange in Scandinavia. We recommend that you take US dollars for exchanging in Norway and Iceland. It is better to carry US dollars for tipping and payment of bar bills on board the ship. You can also pay with all major credit cards including Visa, Mastercard and American Express.
What currency do you accept on board?
The onboard currency is US dollars. All your onboard purchases including bar, laundry, ship shop, internet, and massages are charged to your shipboard account and settled by credit card or cash (US dollars only) at the end of the voyage.
Can I smoke on board?
There is a ‘No Smoking’ policy throughout the interior of our ships.
Are there hairdryers on board?
Hairdryers are provided in each cabin.
Will I get seasick?
Many people ask us if they will get seasick. It is a very difficult question to answer because it depends so much on the individual. Our experience is that a small percentage of people are seasick on any trip and most of these people are fine after a day or so at sea. If you feel that you are particularly susceptible to seasickness then it is a good idea to talk to your doctor. We advise you come armed with motion sickness tablets, and there will be a doctor on board to assist with any bouts of seasickness.
Your polar expedition jacket
Each passenger aboard our Arctic expeditions will receive an expedition jacket when you board the ship. Designed exclusively for Aurora Expeditions, the 3-in-1 jacket offers sophisticated expedition-styling and both the inner and outer jacket include all of the important features for travelling to the polar regions, complete with an included ‘drop seat’ allowing for additional comfort when sitting in Zodiacs.
Your jacket will be ready and waiting for you in your cabin when you board your expedition.
Jacket Features
Outer Shell
- Waterproof, breathable outer shell (600pu waterproofing, and breathability of 8,000grms)
- Waterproof front zipper with handy storm flap on the inside and an anti-chaffing zipper garage at chin
- Two zippered fleece-lined hand warmer pockets
- Drawcord-adjustable drop-tail hem seals in warmth and cuts out wind
- Articulated sleeves for easy movement, even with multi-layers
- Adjustable, fleece-lined hood with laminated visor for good visibility in poor conditions
- Microfleece-lined back of neck and wind flap for next-to-skin comfort
- Fleece-lined pockets with coated, watertight zippers reduce bulk and are easy to access even when wearing a lifejacket
- Full-reach gusset panels under the arms and articulated sleeve panels make layering easy and comfortable
- Easy-to-use velcro cuff tabs
Inner Liner
- Lightweight synthetic fill polyester shell inner jacket provides great warmth-to-weight ratio
- Two zippered hand warmer pockets have clean-finished zipper garages; zippered internal chest pocket
- Wind-resistant for comfortable wear without the companion waterproof shell
Polar Jacket FAQ
I already have a jacket, can I get a refund or order as a gift?
Our jackets are a complimentary gift and therefore you will not be entitled to any refund. If you do not wish to keep the jacket for yourself, you are welcome to order a different size (however please note sizes cannot be changed on board due to change of mind).
What if the jacket doesn’t fit – can I change it on board?
We will have a very limited range of extra sizes on board if your jacket is too small.
What colour are the jackets?
The outer jackets have a blue body and grey arms. The inner jacket is dark grey.
What size should I order?
We suggest ordering a size that you normally wear for jackets. If you are unsure, we suggest you order one size up. Our friendly reservations team are also available to help.
Can I try one on before I order?
We have samples of all sizes at our Sydney office. You are welcome to visit us to try it on for size.
For more information, please contact us.