We begin in Iqaluit, exploring the southeast coast of spectacular Baffin Island. As we turn and cross Baffin Bay towards Greenland, we'll be watching for whales, polar bears, seabirds and icebergs. The next days are spent exploring the spectacular coast of Greenland to Illulissat, to cruise among the gigantic icebergs along the ice front created by Jakobshavn Glacier, the fastest-moving glacier on earth - about 15 to 25 metres a day! We'll also stop on the Greenland coast at Uummannaq, a picturesque village set in the shadow of a red gneiss mountain, some of the oldest rock in the world.
Heading west, back to Canada we visit Milne Inlet, the breeding ground for the rare narwhal and we may have them surfacing around us as we cruise in the Zodiacs. Another stop is Pond Inlet, famous for its soapstone carvings. From here, we can hike to the ancient site at Salmon River to see the remains of Thule houses built in deep pits with rafters of whalebone. We cross Lancaster Sound - the 'wildlife highway' - and hike in the solitude of beautiful Navy Board Inlet on the north coast of Baffin Island.
We'll visit Beechey Island, which gives us an historical perspective on the centuries-long quest to find the Northwest Passage and a new trade route across the top of the world. We hike to the graves marking the winter camp of the ill-fated 1845 Franklin expedition. In search of the Northwest Passage, all 132 men died after their ships were crushed by the ice.
At Prince Leopold Island, we cruise in the Zodiacs beneath cliffs teeming with birdlife, including thick-billed murres, northern fulmars, black-legged kittiwakes, and black guillemots.
Note: Weather, ice, or other conditions may necessitate changes to our itinerary and alteration to certain shore excursions.
Itinerary
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Day 1 | Charter flight from Ottawa to Iqaluit, the capital of Canada's newest territory: Nunavut
| | Day 2 | Exploring the East Coast of Baffin Island
| | Days 3 - 4 | Crossing Davis Strait to Greenland
| | Day 5 | Sisimiut
| | Day 6 | Illullissat
| | Day 7 | Qeqertarsuaq / Uummannaq
| | Days 8 - 9 | At Sea. Baffin Bay
| | Day 10 | Visit Pond Inlet, Canada
| | Day 11 | Revel in the diversity of northern wildlife as we reach Prince Leopold Island
| | Day 12 | Beechey Island, Canada
| | Day 13 | Disembark at Resolute to meet return charter flight to Ottawa
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Day 1: Ottawa to Iqaluit
Our expedition begins at the Peregrine meeting point, the Hotel Crowne Plaza in Ottawa. We're transferred to the airport to board a charter flight bound for Iqaluit, the capital of Canada's newest territory, Nunavut.
On board, we'll be treated to magnificent aerial views of Baffin Island and Hudson Straight. Upon arrival, we'll be transported to the ship for embarkation on the Peregrine Mariner, our home for the next 12 nights. Setting sail in the evening, we pass by historic Frobisher Bay and head southeast through the narrows.
Later, you'll be introduced to our expedition crew and given an overview of the exciting adventures to come.
Day 2: East Coast of Baffin Island
Today we're on the lookout for polar bears and we'll want to spend as much time as we can on the bridge scanning the ice. We'll be travelling north along the East Coast of Baffin Island, where on previous expeditions, we've been most fortunate in our polar bear sightings. If the ice allows, we'll make a landing on this isolated coast. As always in expedition cruising, we'll endeavour to make the most of whatever adventures present themselves throughout this journey.
Days 3 - 4: Davis Strait
The ship will turn east today and head towards Greenland across Davis Straight. Eventually, we'll cross the Arctic Circle heading northeast. Our remote location may inspire you to join our shipboard educational program, which will focus on some of the fascinating history, geography and culture of the Arctic.
Day 5: Sisimiut
Our first stop today is the Greenland town of Sisimiut, known for its colourful harbour. We'll spend some time wandering through the town. Later in the day we'll hope to visit the tiny fishing community of Itlaveq, one of the most picturesque villages in Greenland.
We may also get a chance to visit Qeqertarsuaq (pronounced ke-ker-tar-su-ark), a village once known as Godhavn, notable because this name is much less of a linguistic challenge than the current one. The town itself has some points of interest including a small museum, while the surrounding area of Disko Island is simply breathtaking. Depending on the conditions, we'll hope to enjoy a zodiac cruise along the exquisite coastline. If we encounter some icebergs in the area, we'll make time to explore them.
Day 6: Ilulissat
Today, we arrive in Ilulissat or ''icebergs'' as it's known in the Greenlandic language. It's a name appropriately given since the town is nestled amongst the hills beside the Jakobshavn Glacier. This awe-inspiring ice field calves several icebergs the size of football stadiums every day. It's also known as the fastest moving glacier in the world, travelling some 20 metres daily.
We'll begin with a not-to-be-missed hike through the charming town, large by Greenland standards, with a population of about 6,000 people. Our hike will take us through the village, over the tundra to viewpoints that overlook the awesome Jakobshavn Ice Field.
Time in the town itself can be spent visiting the excellent museum dedicated to the great Greenlandic explorer and anthropologist Knud Rasmussen. You may also wish to wander through the well-stocked tourist shops, or simply observe the activity in the perpetually busy harbour.
Later in the day, we'll enjoy zodiac cruises amongst the icebergs, some of which have been known to travel as far south as New York. In the twilight, we set sail again, keeping an eye out for the many species of whales and seabirds that frequent these Arctic waters in summer.
Day 7: Uummannaq
Today we visit the small town of Uummannaq (pronounced oomannak), our last stop on the coast of Greenland. The town is back-dropped by spectacular Uummannaq Mountain, which rears up 1,175 metres. It's noted for its remarkable colouring that changes dramatically with the time of the day.
We'll spend some time ashore, exploring the town with its interesting rock church as well as venturing closer to the impressive mountain. Nearby we'll explore a tiny cove where the mummified bodies of Inuit women and children have been recovered. It's thought they were victims of drowning close to a thousand years ago. We'll see the rudimentary rock tombs under which some skeletal remains still exist. Late in the day, we return to the ship and set sail once more.
Days 8 - 9: Baffin Bay
We now begin a crossing of Baffin Bay, heading for the top of Baffin Island. The crossing will take almost two days and our time at sea will be well spent relaxing and absorbing the magnificent scenery from colossal icebergs to sea birds.
As well, our onboard education program will offer more in depth sessions. Our naturalists, historians and anthropologists relish this opportunity to discuss the flora and fauna, the incredible history as well as the modern social conditions of Greenland, Baffin Island and the Canadian North.
Day 10: Pond Inlet
Today we return to Canadian soil at Pond Inlet, a settlement famous for its soapstone carvings. The people of Pond Inlet are very hospitable and take great pride in their rich culture and traditions. We may expect to be warmly greeted at a cultural show that includes throat singing, fur fashions and a remarkable demonstration of Inuit Games.
Nearby at Salmon River, we'll find an ancient encampment of Thule people dating back hundreds of years. Later, back onboard we'll cross Lancaster Sound before passing Navy Board Inlet, a particularly beautiful area on the North Coast.
Day 11: Prince Leopold Island
Today, we'll revel in the diversity of northern wildlife as we reach Prince Leopold Island. With a little luck, we'll hope to see the extraordinary looking walrus, and perhaps even a polar bear.
We'll plan to do some zodiac cruising along the base of some of the island's great bird cliffs where large populations of murres, kittiwakes and gulls are in residence. We'll be literally surrounded by a profusion of black guillemots in a frenzy of activity. Amongst them are the fledglings attempting their first dramatic flights from their cliff-top homes.
Day 12: Beechey Island
We continue on to the bleak shores of Beechey Island. It's here that we'll come across one of the many failed attempts to find the Northwest Passage. In 1845, three members of Sir John Franklin's ill-fated expedition perished here.
Depending on ice conditions, we'll go ashore and see the graves that mark the site of the hapless winter camp. Within a few years, the remaining members of the expedition also died during their struggle to return to safety.
Day 13: Resolute
The ship sails towards Cornwallis Island and Resolute, the most western point of the voyage. Here we'll disembark and then be transferred to the airport for the charter flight to Ottawa. You'll head south flying over Baffin Island and Hudson Bay. Upon arrival in Ottawa in the late afternoon, you'll be transferred back to the Peregrine meeting point, the Hotel Crowne Plaza.
Note: Itinerary also operated in reverse Resolute to Iqaluit
Ship's Notes for the Peregrine Mariner (the 'AKADEMIK IOFFE')
These notes should be read in conjunction with Peregrine's Antarctic Trip Information Guide.
The Peregrine Mariner is a modern, ice strengthened vessel that is very comfortable and ideally suited for polar exploration. There is ample space for meetings of the full group as well as smaller rooms for more intimate meetings. Slide and video projection equipment are available, as well as overhead projection. There is a separate bar, lounge, library, video room, and dining space for the full passenger complement in one seating. There is also a gymnasium, sauna and swimming pool.
Comfort
As a relatively new Scandinavian-built exploration vessel, the Peregrine Mariner is very comfortable, especially following refitting and refurbishment over the last five years. All passenger areas are thoroughly heated and air-conditioned. Cabins are tastefully and pleasantly decorated. The vessel is maintained to the highest standards and is kept immaculately clean.
As the ship was built to perform delicate and sensitive hydroacoustic work, she is also designed to run very quietly. In cabins and public spaces there is very little if any ambient noise from engines or machinery. Further, most passenger cabins (except the Main Deck cabins) are on a separate deck from the well-used public spaces and lounge areas, so noise is seldom a bother.
Stability and Safety
This vessel has external stabilizers on her hull. She also has a built-in trimming system which is operated by the flow of water ballast from tanks in either side of the ship. A series of valves causes the water to flow to the side where its presence guarantees greatest stability. Added to her modern hull design, these systems make for a very stable ship.
The Peregrine Mariner carries all current certifications required by law for ensuring passenger safety and wellbeing. All equipment and systems are inspected and tested regularly. A lifeboat briefing and drill will be conducted early in each expedition to ensure that all passengers are familiar with the location of life jackets and lifeboats, and the procedures to be followed in the highly unlikely event of an emergency.
With her two powerful engines this ship rarely suffers significant delays due to inclement weather. She has a cruising speed of 14.5 knots in still-wind/sea conditions. The ship's speed capabilities allow us added flexibility in planning our itineraries.
Bar
On the main deck to the aft of the lobby there is a separate room which is operated as a bar, with an adjacent lounge area. It is a very comfortable room with outside views and an exit to the main outer deck and has seating for about 25 people in comfortable sofas, armchairs. There are also a number of traditional bar stools surrounding a large semi-circular bar. There is a stereo with CD player in the bar area. If you are interested in where we are going, there is also a television monitor showing video of the view from the bridge at all times as well as a modern chartplotter located in the corner.
Bridge
On Deck 6 the ship's bridge is open to passengers virtually 24 hours each day. With an officer and sailor (and often the captain) on watch, you are always able to learn something. The chart and navigation room is open to everyone, as are places to view the equipment and instruments. The bridge is a fascinating part of the ship and often a great place for sightseeing and bird watching - it provides a great view!
Communications
The ship carries all required communications and navigation facilities and equipment. She has Immarsat telephone and fax equipment as well as a variety of shortwave, SSB, and VHF radio systems. She also carries fully current GMDSS (Global Marine Distress and Safety System) equipment.
Dining Room
Located on the main deck our dining room seats all passengers comfortably in one sitting. It is attractively lit and comfortably furnished. There are outside windows and it is immaculately maintained. In one corner there is a bar which is used for meal times. There is also a comfortable lounge area in this corner. Lunches and dinners are served to the table by our ship's stewards, and breakfast is served here also but is buffet style. In the dining room there is also a television monitor relaying video images of the view from the bridge at all times.
Elevator
In addition to the stairs between decks, there is one lift/elevator on the ship operating between all passenger deck levels and to the bridge level. (Please note that this does not remove the need for passengers to have a reasonable level of mobility, as ship access to and from zodiacs is by way of a staired gangway (please see Trip Information Guide).
Gift Shop
On the Main Deck there is a small kiosk and gift shop. It carries a selection of souvenir items such as postcards, hats, t-shirts, and books to bring home from a voyage. It also has a basic supply of toiletries such as sunscreen, lip balm, usually some film and some camera batteries. It is open each day.
Gynasium
There is a small gymnasium on the ship with a set of free weights, exercise bike, rowing machine, and step trainer.
Infirmary
(Please refer also to Peregrine's Antarctic Trip Information Guide.)
On Deck 5 there is a basic infirmary and crew doctor available for passengers. As the ship was designed for extended projects, she carries an impressive list of equipment and supplies. However, passengers are reminded that this facility is intended as a basic or emergency service. While the inventory of medicines and equipment is extensive, passengers should bring their own basic firstaid kit as detailed in the Trip Information Guide for any minor problems, and if using specific medications should ensure they bring a supply adequate to last the entire journey. If there is a need to consult the ship's doctor and to receive medications, etc., from the infirmary passengers will be invoiced for the cost of any items supplied.
Library
On deck five and forward, situated in a quiet part of the ship, there is a library area. With a large conference table, comfortable chairs, and sophisticated decor this serves as a great, quiet space to read from our selection of expedition reference materials, atlases, magazines, novels and the like. There are attractive wooden bookcases and quality lighting. There are also windows which overlook the bow of the ship for good sightseeing from indoors.
Just outside the library itself there is another quiet area with good lighting and very comfortable armchairs which is usually also reserved as a reading room. The library also has a slide screen and whiteboard for smaller discussions and meetings. It seats about 20.
Lounge
In the aft part of the ship and reached through the bar is the television lounge. It seats about 25 and has an exit to the main outer deck space. It also has outside views. There is a television and VCR for educational and entertainment programming as well as watching the relayed video images of the view from the bridge. There is a collection of games and puzzles, maps, and a piano. This area, along with our bar, serves as the main social area of the vessel.
Mud Room
Towards the aft section of the main deck, and not far from where you will disembark from the zodiacs, there is a "mud room" where you can change out of your wet-weather gear on returning from shore excursions and leave your waterproof rubber boots.
Presentation Room
Our presentations take place in the dining room. All passengers can be seated there at the same time and it has a PA system to ensure everyone can hear talks and announcements. It has a TV and VCR to help in programming as well as modern projection facilities and screens.
Sauna and Swimming Pool
On Deck 5 there is a small swimming pool and a sauna. A plunge pool really, the former is filled on special occasions or on request and is on the outer deck just outside the sauna. It gets a certain level of use, even in the Antarctic waters! The sauna is open each afternoon and evening and seats about six people - it is a great place to relax after your shore excursions. It also has a change room and shower room.
Top Deck
There is also a spacious open top deck; from here you can enjoy spectacular views.
Prices per person:
| Main Deck Triple Cabin | £3,420 |
| Main Deck Double | £4,270 |
| Upper Deck | £4,485 |
| Superior | £4,730 |
| Superior Plus | £4,995 |
| Peregrine Suite | £5,215 |
| Cook Suite | £5,515 |
| Deposit | £10% of cost |
Kayaking option |
£240 |
Please note that the above prices may still be subject to change.
Accommodation: Cabins as described above subject to availability.
Travel: Flights from regional UK airports may also be available; please enquire for details.
Leaders: Guides from Peregrine Adventures
The prices are per person, and are fully inclusive of transfer from Peregrine meeting point in Ottawa to airport on day one & vice versa on last day of the voyage, charter flights to Iqaluit/Resolute from Ottawa airport and port transfers & vice versa in Resolute & Iqaluit, shipboard accommodation, all onboard meals, afternoon teas most days if not on shore, shore excursions by zodiac boat and onboard lectures, videos, slide and film shows, highly experienced expedition leader, crew and lecturers, access to public viewing areas, onboard medical officer, port taxes, and comprehensive pre-departure booklet and expedition manual
The prices exclude flights UK/Ottawa, Canada (allow around £800 pp for flights, accommodation and transfers), arrival and departures in Ottawa, travel insurance, meals ashore, optional tips to leaders and crew, drinks, and other personal expenses. passport and visa expenses (if applicable), government arrival and departure taxes, pre-cruise or post-cruise accommodation, meals ashore, supplement for single hotel accommodations, excess baggage charges and all items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar and beverage charges and telecommunication charges and optional tips to leaders and crew.
Other:
These notes should be read in conjunction with Peregrine's Arctic - Trip Information Guide booklet that is provided to you shortly after booking (or which can be requested prior to booking). A second manual dealing with Arctic history, geology, geography, marine and birdlife will also be provided prior to departure.
1. Itinerary. Please note that due to the exploratory nature of this expedition, weather, ice, wildlife or other conditions may require changes be made to the itinerary and/or cancellation of certain shore excursions. Every effort will be made to adhere to the itinerary, within the limits of safety and time constraints. We shall fit in as many stops as is practical along the way allowing you to experience as much as possible of this wonderful area. The locations mentioned in this itinerary are just some of the highlights of our fascinating expedition of discovery and exploration and we shall attempt further landings wherever and whenever time and local conditions permit.
2. Budgeting. In addition to funds for on-board expenses, it is possible to purchase souvenirs in some locations in the form of books, t-shirts, stamps, postcards, wind-cheaters, caps and especially really good knitwear on many of the shore excursions which include visits to towns or villages. In addition some museums and sites charge entry fees, and in some locations you may wish to buy some food and drink (although the meals on the ship are very good and plentiful!). Canadian communities will accept local currency, and sometimes $US. Credit cards are of limited use. Please note, however, that there is almost nowhere in Greenland that will take credit cards and very, very few places willing to accept foreign currency. Danish Kroner are a must for Greenland and they should be purchased before your trip starts.
3. Clothes. Please read our Arctic - Trip Information Guide booklet carefully. You do not need to make expensive, specialist clothing purchases, but you must have adequate protection against the cold, and against possible wet conditions.
(Sea spray is common onboard zodiacs). It's recommended that you have warm, waterproof clothing available for use upon arrival in Iqaluit to protect against inclement weather. A zodiac transfer from the pier to the ship will take place on Day 1 so please be prepared with appropriate clothing.
4. Onboard. Some of your sailing will be in the open sea. The Peregrine Mariner is one of the most stable ships in its class but it is impossible to remove all motion. Unless you are certain you are impervious to the problem, you should take precautions against seasickness. Your doctor can advise you as to the best methods for avoiding this uncomfortable condition.
5. Gratuities. We suggest you allow the equivalent of $US10 a day for gratuities for the crew and expedition staff. This is usually collected just prior to the end of the cruise. The amount can be paid by Visa or Mastercard.
6. Sea kayaking is offered on this trip. Please check the relevant sections of our web site, Trip Information Guide and the Kayaking Trip Notes for further information. Please note that this option must be booked prior to your departure from home: it cannot be booked on the ship. Some prior experience is required
7. Arrival/Departure. One night pre-voyage and one night post- voyage in Ottawa is mandatory due to the charter flight schedule. Please be aware that because of the remote airports in Iqaluit and Resolute, charter flights may be delayed or cancelled because of bad weather. Full details of the charter flights and boarding procedures will be supplied with your final expedition documentation.
8. Safety is paramount. Onboard you will be asked to participate in the obligatory lifeboat drill. We will also conduct important briefings on landing procedures and zodiac operations.
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Minke Whale surfacing
Peregrine Mariner/Peregrine Voyager