Kangerlussuaq to Vancouver

Located in western Greenland, Kangerlussuaq is the country's main air transport hub. Thanks to an American military base turned international airport it has become a transit point for travellers seeking adventure in the Far North.

Just a few dozen kilometres from here it is possible to get close to the Greenland ice sheet, the largest body of ice in the Northern Hemisphere. From Kangerlussuaq, visitors can also admire the superb landscapes of tundra in autumnal colours, where Arctic hares, musk oxen, Arctic foxes, reindeer, falcons and eagles live.

Kangaamiut, a picturesque village in the Qeqqata municipality of Greenland, offers a serene escape with its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Nestled between towering mountains and the Davis Strait, Kangaamiut is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking trails provide breathtaking views of fjords, icebergs, and wildlife, including whales and seabirds.

The village's colorful houses reflect traditional Greenlandic architecture, and the local museum offers insights into Inuit culture and history. Visitors can experience the warmth of the community, often participating in local crafts and storytelling. The surrounding waters are ideal for fishing and kayaking, adding to the unique charm of Kangaamiut.

Evighedsfjorden means 'the fjord of eternity' and for good reason, just when you think you’ve reached the end of this stretch of sea measuring over 100 kilometres in length, it seems to go on forever, as though to bring even more pleasure to those sailing in it.

The spectacular scenery ranges from glaciers to tundra with an abundant flora, and jagged cliffs where numerous bird species have taken up residence. Take the time to observe the white-tailed eagles and the colonies of seagulls and black-legged kittiwakes flying overhead in the area.

Nuuk, the capital of Greenland, offers a unique blend of contemporary living and traditional Arctic culture. Situated at the mouth of one of the largest and most spectacular fjord systems in the world, the city is a gateway to vast icebergs and remote Inuit communities. Nuuk's cultural significance is highlighted at the Greenland National Museum, which showcases artefacts from the Saqqaq culture and well-preserved mummies from Qilakitsoq.

Urban life in Nuuk is vibrant yet intimate, with local cafes and shops offering a taste of modern Greenlandic life. The city's backdrop of sharp peaks and the nearby Sermitsiaq mountain provide a constant reminder of Greenland’s rugged natural beauty. Explore the fjord and gain a direct view of ice floes and marine wildlife, while discovering both culture and adventure in this remote city.

Maniitsoq, often referred to as the "Venice of Greenland," is a picturesque town located on the west coast of Greenland. Known for its stunning fjords and rugged mountainous terrain, it offers incredible opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Kayaking, fishing, and hiking are popular activities, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area.

Wildlife is abundant, with chances to see whales, seals, and various seabirds. The town itself is charming, with colourful houses and a rich cultural heritage. The Maniitsoq Museum provides insights into local history and Inuit culture. Maniitsoq is an ideal destination for those seeking adventure and a deep connection with Greenland's pristine environment.

The small town of Sisimiut is typical of Greenland, boasting bewitching panoramas with colourful stilt houses dotting the undulating landscape. The town centre is home to a number of historic buildings, a small church and a museum which retraces the history of the Inuit people, as well as many craft shops.

Sisimiut's vast back country offers excellent opportunities for hiking and fishing, and during the summer visitors can walk the trail used for the Polar Circle Marathon, one of the toughest endurance events in the world. Small ships will dock while large ships will anchor offshore.

Ilulissat, located on the west coast of Greenland, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and unique Arctic experiences. The town sits adjacent to the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site where colossal icebergs calve from the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier into the sea. This dramatic landscape offers stunning views and is a prime spot for witnessing the majesty of Greenland's ice formations.

Outdoor activities in Ilulissat include guided hikes along the icefjord, boat tours among the icebergs, and dog sledding adventures in the winter. The town also hosts the Ilulissat Museum, which provides insights into the local Inuit culture and the explorer Knud Rasmussen. With its extraordinary ice formations and rich cultural heritage, Ilulissat offers an unforgettable Arctic experience.

Uummannaq, located on a small island in northwestern Greenland, is renowned for its breathtaking Arctic landscapes and vibrant Inuit culture. The town is named after the heart-shaped mountain that dominates the skyline, offering a stunning backdrop to this picturesque settlement.

Visitors to Uummannaq can explore the surrounding fjords, glaciers, and icebergs, which are perfect for boat tours and kayaking. The area is also known for its rich wildlife, including seals, whales, and seabirds. The Uummannaq Museum provides insights into the local history and traditions, showcasing artefacts related to hunting, fishing, and Greenlandic culture.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Pond Inlet, located on Baffin Island in Nunavut, Canada, is a remote community known for its stunning Arctic landscapes and rich Inuit culture. The town, surrounded by majestic mountains, glaciers, and icebergs, offers breathtaking views of the natural beauty of the Arctic.

Visitors to Pond Inlet can explore the nearby Sirmilik National Park, which features dramatic fjords, ice fields, and abundant wildlife, including polar bears, narwhals, and seals. The community is also a cultural hub, where traditional Inuit practices such as throat singing, carving, and hunting are part of daily life. The Nattinnak Visitor Centre provides insights into local history and culture. With its combination of awe-inspiring scenery and vibrant cultural heritage, Pond Inlet is a unique destination in the Canadian Arctic.

Devon Island, located in Canada's High Arctic, is often noted as the largest uninhabited island on Earth, making it a unique destination for those interested in extreme, remote landscapes. Its terrain, predominantly ice-covered, is strikingly similar to Mars, which has made it a key site for space research and simulation missions.

Visitors to Devon Island can explore the Haughton impact crater, a scientifically significant site due to its lunar-like conditions. The surrounding area offers stark, breathtaking vistas ideal for photography and geological study.

Despite its harsh conditions, the island supports a variety of Arctic wildlife, including muskoxen and seabirds, adding a vital ecological interest to its otherworldly landscape.

Cruise ships typically anchor offshore, with passengers transferred to shore by tender. There are no nearby cities or large settlements; the nearest Inuit community, Grise Fiord, is approximately 400 km (248 miles) away. Dundas Harbour itself is known for its abandoned Royal Canadian Mounted Police post and stunning Arctic landscapes.

Devon Island, located in Canada's High Arctic, is often noted as the largest uninhabited island on Earth, making it a unique destination for those interested in extreme, remote landscapes. Its terrain, predominantly ice-covered, is strikingly similar to Mars, which has made it a key site for space research and simulation missions.

Visitors to Devon Island can explore the Haughton impact crater, a scientifically significant site due to its lunar-like conditions. The surrounding area offers stark, breathtaking vistas ideal for photography and geological study.

Despite its harsh conditions, the island supports a variety of Arctic wildlife, including muskoxen and seabirds, adding a vital ecological interest to its otherworldly landscape.

Beechey Island, located in the Canadian Arctic Archipelago, is steeped in the dramatic history of early Arctic exploration. This remote island served as a wintering site for Sir John Franklin’s ill-fated expedition in search of the Northwest Passage.

Visitors can explore the haunting remains of this historic camp, including preserved relics and the graves of three crew members, which provide a poignant window into the hardships faced by 19th-century explorers.

The island’s stark, frozen landscape also offers a unique experience of Arctic wilderness, with the opportunity to see rare wildlife such as various species of seabirds, seals, walruses, and occasionally, polar bears.

Carefully navigating the narrow and fabled Bellot Strait is an exhilarating experience, which encapsulates all of the thrills of Arctic exploration. The slender channel between Prince Regent Inlet and Peel Sound is approximately a mile wide and 16 miles long, and the deep, cold and arctic-blue waters are dotted with ice floes. The Bellot Strait separates Somerset Island to the north and the Boothia Peninsula to the south and is a true adventurer's bucket list item. Renowned for its challenging navigation, the swirling currents mean it is best negotiated at high tide.

As you sail, keep an eye out for the northerly landmark that emerges halfway along the passage - the Murchison Promontory is the northernmost point of mainland North America. Marine life also makes good use of this navigational cut-through, with beluga whales and long-tusked narwhals - the unicorns of the sea - transiting through the nutrient-rich waters. The team will also be close by with binoculars because it's frequently possible to spot polar bears traversing the untouched landscapes. The strait takes its name from Joseph René Bellot, the French navy officer who - along with William Kennedy - was the first European to encounter it in 1852. They arrived by dogsled and proved that Somerset Island was, in fact, separate from the mainland.

Edinburgh Island in Nunavut is a remote and scarcely visited location in the Arctic, offering a profound sense of isolation and pristine natural beauty. This small island in the Canadian Arctic Archipelago is a fantastic spot for those interested in Arctic wildlife and landscapes. Its environment is characterized by rugged terrain, icy waters, and a quiet, almost untouched wilderness.

The island's appeal lies in its simplicity and the unique opportunities it presents for wildlife observation, including sightings of seals and migratory birds that nest or pass through the area. Visitors can also explore the historical remnants of early Inuit settlements, providing a glimpse into the resilience of native cultures in such harsh climates.

Ulukhaktok (formerly known as Holman) is located in Canada's Northwest Territories and offers a unique glimpse into Inuit culture and Arctic landscapes. Known for its traditional printmaking and art, the community’s Ulukhaktok Arts Centre showcases beautiful local crafts. A visit to the centre provides insight into the rich cultural heritage and artistic talents of the Inuit people.

For those interested in outdoor activities, the area surrounding Ulukhaktok is perfect for hiking and wildlife viewing, with opportunities to see muskoxen and Arctic foxes. The Midnight Sun in summer and Northern Lights in winter add to the town's natural splendour. Ulukhaktok's remote charm and cultural depth make it a fascinating destination for travellers seeking a unique Arctic experience.

Three kilometers off Yukon’s north coast, only Workboat Passage separates Herschel Island-Qikiqtaruk from Ivvavik National Park. The low-lying treeless island of 116 square kilometers was Yukon’s first territorial park. Herschel Island-Qikiqtaruk has been declared a National Historic Site of Canada in 1972, classified as a Nature Preserve in 1987, designated a Natural Environment Park in 2002 and as an example of the technologies and techniques used for living and construction over the past several millennia it is now on the tentative UNESCO WHS list! The island is also an important area for Ice Age fossils. Normally snow-covered from September to June, the island shows abundant and diverse wildlife, with many migratory birds, including the largest colony of Black Guillemots in the Western Arctic, caribou, muskox, polar bear, and brown bear on land and bowhead and beluga whales, ringed and bearded seals, and occasionally walrus in its surrounding waters. Seasonal hunting possibilities from spring to fall have led the Inuvialuit using the area for hundreds of years. When Franklin arrived in 1826 he saw three of their camps. Remains of their old dwellings are still visible near Simpson Point. This is where in the late 1800s, American whalers established a now abandoned station. At the height of the Beaufort Sea whale hunting period there were 1,500 residents. Several of the historic buildings by whalers, and later missionaries, traders and the RCMP are still standing –although some had to be moved further inland to escape the rising sea level.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Discover the unique charm of Nome, where the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race ends. Stroll along Front Street to explore the town's gold rush history at the Carrie M. McLain Memorial Museum. Don't miss a visit to the strikingly rugged Bering Land Bridge National Preserve, perfect for spotting wildlife and ancient geological formations. For a touch of local flavor, try the reindeer sausage at one of the cozy eateries.

Remote St. Matthew Island is part of the Bering Sea Reservation (including Hall Island and several rocks around St. Matthew) since 1909 –it was one of America’s first wildlife refuges- and is now managed as part of the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge. From the Glory of Russia Cape in the north to Cape Upright in the southeast, the island has a length of 51 kilometers and an area of 35,700 hectares. Beaches with black sand and gravel lead to a somewhat depleted tundra as introduced and uncontrolled reindeer roamed the island for close to 40 years. After their disappearance some of the plants are again covering the island and Field Chickweed, Pacific Silverweed, Purple Saxifrage, Polar Willow, Arctic Wormwood, Langsdorf’s Lousewort, Chukhchi Primrose and Marsh Marigold can be found. The rye-grass areas along the coast are inhabited by the endemic St. Matthew vole –and care has to be taken to not trip because of their entrance holes or to destroy their tunnels. In some parts massive cliffs reach a height of over 300 meters. These are favored by Glaucous Gulls, Brünnich’s Guillemots, Parakeet Auklets, and Horned and Tufted Puffins; Gray-crowned Rosy-Finches and McKay’s Buntings are better seen in the tundra. Several lakes are found close to the coastline.

The city of Saint Paul is located on a narrow peninsula on the southern tip of St. Paul Island, the largest of five islands in the Pribilof Islands. These islands are located in the middle of the Bering Sea between the United States and Russia. St. Paul lies 240 miles north of the Aleutian Islands, 300 miles west of mainland Alaska, and 750 air miles west of Anchorage. The city of St. Paul is the only residential area on the island. The first non-natives to ‘discover’ St. Paul were Russian fur-traders in the late 1780s, led by the navigator, Gavriil Pribylov. Today, this small city has one school (K-12), one post office, one bar, one small general store, and one church, a Russian Orthodox Church that is registered as a National Historic building. In summer, this island is teeming with wildlife, including about 500,000 northern fur seals and millions of seabirds, including milloins of seabirds

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Russian traders following Vitus Bering in the mid-1700s would have been some of the first non-native explorers to visit Kiska Harbor on Kiska Island in the Aleutian chain. The Japanese occupied the island during WWII and relics of war have been left behind in the harbor including a Japanese two-man submarine. The occupying force of 6 000 soldiers also left a Shinto shrine behind whose remains can still be seen today. Ashore there are ptarmigans Lapland Longspurs and Bald Eagles. At a distance the cliffs of Sirius Point can only be described as “magical” and are home to Least and Crested Auklets Peregrine Falcons and Laysan and Black-footed Albatrosses.

Tanaga Island is situated in the southwest part of the Aleutian Islands off Alaska. With a size of 204 square miles, this is one of the largest oceanic islands in the US. From the Bering Sea, the view on the island is pretty impressive with Tanaga’s highest point, Mount Tanaga volcano. This 5,924-foot stratovolcano last erupted in 1914 and is the highlight of the island. Among the green and rocky scenery, many large waterfalls can be found. These bring the island’s beauty to another level. Other than its impressive landscapes, Tanaga has some history too. During WWII, a Navy emergency landing field was established in 1943, with office and storage buildings, a runway, small-craft pier, radio building, and mooring area among others. The site was abandoned at the end of the war in 1945.

Part of the Aleutian Islands, Atka Island is one of the largest, with a size of 404 square miles. Known to be one of the most remote spots in the US, Atka Island culminates at the point of Korovin volcano, which stands at more than 5,000 feet high. The island's population is composed of 87 Russian-Aleuts, and the village has no post office. The only available communication mode with the outside world is a 50-watt radio transmitter, and it can’t be used for personal calls! Most of the inhabitants have no electricity, so there is no refrigeration. That means that constant hunting is required to keep the village stocked with fresh meat. Despite these facts, Atka has some beautiful aspects. Hot springs, an impressive glacier, dozens of waterfalls and lakes where more than 4,000 reindeer live peacefully with blue foxes, eagles, sea lions and sea otters. The village is backed by dramatic mountains, the houses are made of weathered board and a beautiful Russian Orthodox Church with emerald onion domes can be found among them.

Located on Amaknak Island and linked via bridge to Unalaska Island, Dutch Harbor is a place of historical significance, stunning natural beauty and resilient people. While intriguing museums recall a turbulent past, today Dutch Harbor embraces the peaceful nature of its scenic surroundings and thrives as a fishing 'village' that brings in the largest catch in the country.

Dutch Harbor is the main delivery port for the crab fleet featured on the Discovery Channel's hit reality show, "The Deadliest Catch."

Unga Spit - pointing upwards to the Alaskan Peninsula from Unga Island’s northern tip - has a fascinating secret to reveal. There’s something slightly eerie about the incredible petrified forest that appears, frozen in time, as the waters recede at low tide. The ghostly-white fossilised trunks and scattered logs close to Unga Spit’s beaches contain millions of years of crystallised history - preserved in the elaborately ringed stumps and fallen logs of the ancient forest. Believed to be the remnants of either a sequoia or metasequoia forest, gigantic trees once towered on this island strung between continents. The forest eventually succumbed and was submerged and petrified by the thermal powers of volcanic activity from many millions of years ago, as the lands and seas churned and shifted during the Tertiary Period. The frozen remains of the fossilised forest attract researchers to this distant formation now, because they hold clues to ancient animal movements between the lands of Asia and America. You may be in a remote position, but you’re unlikely to feel alone as you explore Unga Spit. Bald eagles oversee this natural realm from above, while sea lions, orcas and gray whales patrol the frigid waters of the four-mile wide channel that separates you from the Alaskan Peninsula. Those lucky enough to step onto Unga Spit are immediately swallowed up by a world of astonishing scenery and off-the-beaten-path natural glory - admire moody sea views and humbling visions of monochrome mountain peaks.

Unga is a ghost town on the southern end of Unga Island in the Aleutian Islands. It was once a bustling town of over 100 people originally settled by Aleuts in 1833 and named Delarov, for Evstrat Delarov, the first Greek explorer and merchant to visit Alaska. In 1836 it had a name change to Ougnagok, and the post office was established in 1888. The name was changed again to Unga in 1894. Life was challenging in Unga, and the population declined gradually over time. The post office closed in 1958, and the last family left in 1969. Today, many ruins remain giving some idea of what life was like to live in such a remote, isolated place.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Off the coast of Yakutat - 200 miles North West of Juneau - Hubbard is certainly gigantic: it's more than 9km/6mi wide where it meets the ocean. The face is over 100m/350ft tall, and icebergs 3 to 4 stories in height aren’t uncommon.

Granted, most of that ice is below water, but the ice can be so thick that cruise ships can’t get too close. In the right conditions, however, your ship might be able to get within 1km/0.5mi of the face. The strong currents and riptides that flow between Gilbert Point and the face of the glacier cause calving to occur on a daily basis, sending massive chunks of ice crashing into Disenchantment Bay.

But don't be fooled, Hubbard Glacier stands strong and is advancing so fast its earned the title "The Galloping Glacier".

Elfin Cove, Alaska, is a secluded haven nestled on the remote shores of Chichagof Island, where small wooden boardwalks replace streets, and the tranquility of nature prevails. This tiny fishing village is surrounded by lush forest and pristine waters, making it a prime spot for sport fishing, kayaking, and wildlife watching. The absence of cars enhances its quiet charm, allowing visitors to truly disconnect and immerse in the natural beauty.

Ideal for a leisurely exploration, the area offers stunning views of the Fairweather Range. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy spotting humpback whales or the occasional orca. The nearby George Island provides historical insights with remnants of World War II defenses, accessible via a short boat ride.

Point Adolphus, located on the northern tip of Alaska's Chichagof Island, is renowned for its exceptional whale-watching opportunities. Humpback whales frequent these waters, providing a spectacular sight for visitors. The nutrient-rich waters also attract orcas, sea lions, and a variety of seabirds.

Guided boat tours offer an up-close experience with the marine life, while kayakers can enjoy a more intimate exploration of the coastline. The scenic beauty of the surrounding Tongass National Forest enhances the experience, making Point Adolphus a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Sitka is nestled on the west side of Baranof Island. As the east is covered with snowcapped mountains and the west is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, recreational fishing and hiking have become what Sitka is most famous for. As well as their historical landmarks, picturesque views and authentic dining experiences.

Top Things to Do in Sitka:

• visit Sitka Totem Park, home to authentic Tlingit and Haida totem poles nestled in a rainforest of giant Sitka spruce trees 
• hike through the Starrigavan with plenty of bird and wildlife viewing opportunities
• explore Sitka via kayak 

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Metlakatla, located on Annette Island in southeastern Alaska, is the only settlement of the Tsimshian people in the United States. Known for its rich indigenous culture and picturesque surroundings, Metlakatla offers a unique glimpse into the Tsimshian way of life. The town’s longhouse and cultural centre showcase traditional art, dance, and crafts, providing visitors with an immersive cultural experience.

The area around Metlakatla is renowned for its natural beauty, with lush forests, pristine waters, and abundant wildlife. Local fauna includes bald eagles, black bears, and various species of salmon, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Outdoor activities such as fishing, kayaking, and hiking are popular, offering opportunities to explore the stunning landscapes and observe these animals in their natural habitat.

Alaska's Inside Passage offers breathtaking views of glaciers, fjords, and abundant wildlife , making it one of the most scenic cruises in the world and one of the few locations where deep-draft ships can sail close to steep mountain walls. Stretching from Puget Sound in Washington to the Alaskan Panhandle, this coastal route provides stunning natural scenery. Expect to see orcas, humpback whales, and sea lions from the deck, while eagles soar overhead.

Massive tidewater glaciers, forest-clad islands, ice-carved fjords, and charming coastal towns such as Juneau, Ketchikan, Haines and Skagway await you here. On small ship cruises, you’ll visit even more intimate ports of call. Glacier Bay National Park and Hubbard Glacier are highlights.

Vancouver is the ideal home port to begin or end an Alaskan adventure. Blessed with stunning vistas and exciting activities, Vancouver offers the perfect blend of urban and natural experiences. Vancouver is a must for any cruise itinerary, and because it's a compact, walkable city right on the edge of nature, adding on just a couple of extra days to explore will give you an authentic taste of what makes this place so attractive to visitors.

Located in the heart of Vancouver’s waterfront, 'Canada Place' (cruise terminal) can service up to three luxury cruise ships at any given time.