EXPEDITION CRUISE

Northwest Passage: The Northern Lights

CRUISE ID # AURORANWP010S

Calgary, Alberta TO Toronto, Ontario

Northwest Passage: The Northern Lights
Northwest Passage: The Northern Lights
Northwest Passage: The Northern Lights
Northwest Passage: The Northern Lights
Northwest Passage: The Northern Lights
Northwest Passage: The Northern Lights
No Single Supplement
Welcome to Aurora’s Northwest Passage expedition.   The labyrinthine channels of the legendary Northwest Passage have enchanted explorers and adventurers for centuries. Get a glimpse into the world that captivated early explorers such as Franklin, Amundsen, and Larsen, by exploring a portion of the fabled Northwest Passage.

Visit the final resting places of some of the legendary explorers who ventured here and experience the archipelago of islands and channels that make up Canada’s High Arctic region. Learn about the region’s ancient history and culture from the locals who, along with their ancestors, have thrived in this remote wilderness homeland for millennia. Watch for enigmatic Arctic wildlife as we navigate variable sea ice that once prevented ships from traversing the Northwest Passage, adding a compelling element of adventure, integral to any genuine expedition.

As the darker nights return, there is also the chance to witness the ethereal beauty of the northern lights dancing across the Arctic sky, a truly unforgettable highlight of this special voyage.  
TRIP STARTS ON
September 12, 2027
SHIP SAILS ON
September 12, 2027
HOTEL NIGHTS
Pre-Cruise: 0, Post-Cruise: 0
SHIP
Sylvia Earle
TRIP ENDS ON
September 27, 2027
STOPS
17 Stops, 2 Countries
CRUISE NIGHTS
15
OPERATOR
Aurora Expeditions
FROM: 

$22,156

WITH SPECIAL SAVINGS APPLIED

FARES SHOWN ARE PER GUEST

Suites & Fares

No Single Supplement

CHOOSE START DATE 

: September 12, 2027

 
STEP 1: CHOOSE YOUR PREFERRED DEAL
Cruise Fare
View Suites
20% Off
View Suites

Itinerary

17 Ports
2 Countries

Having made your way to Calgary, you will be met by a representative of Aurora Expeditions and transferred to our group hotel located in downtown Calgary. Upon arrival at your included hotel, please visit the Aurora Expeditions hospitality desk to collect your luggage cabin tags and to speak with our ground operations team, who may have information to share with you about pre-embarkation procedures and the charter flight to Resolute tomorrow. You will receive Aurora Expeditions cabin tags for your luggage. Please clearly label the tags with your name and ship cabin number. 

The remainder of your time is at leisure. All meals today are at your own expense. 

Accommodation: Residence Inn by Marriott Calgary Downtown/Beltline District 

Please ensure that your luggage is fitted with cabin tags clearly labelled with your name and cabin number. Any valuables or personal items should be kept on you throughout the day. Your luggage will be delivered to your cabin ahead of your arrival on board. 

After breakfast at the hotel, board our charter flight to Resolute, where the Sylvia Earle awaits. After boarding, there is time to settle into your cabin before our important safety briefings. This evening, meet your expedition team and crew. 

Day
Three
Arrival
September 14, 2027
Port
Day at Sea
Day
Four
Arrival
September 15, 2027
Port
Day at Sea
Day
Five
Arrival
September 16, 2027
Port
Day at Sea
Day
Six
Arrival
September 17, 2027
Port
Day at Sea
Day
Seven
Arrival
September 18, 2027
Port
Day at Sea

Located in northern Baffin Island, Pond Inlet is a small, predo¬minantly Inuit community, with a population of roughly 1,500 inhabitants. In 1818, the British explorer John Ross named a bay in the vicinity after the English astronomer John Pond. Today Pond Inlet is considered one of Canada's "jewels of the North" thanks to several picturesque glaciers and mountain ranges nearby. Many archaeological sites of ancient Dorset and Thule peoples can be found near Pond Inlet. The Inuit hunted caribou, ringed and harp seals, fish, polar bears, walrus, narwhals, geese, ptarmigans and Arctic hares, long before European and American whalers came here to harvest bowhead whales. Pond Inlet is also known as a major center of Inuit art, especially the printmaking and stone carving that are featured in the town’s art galleries.

Tucked away on the eastern shores of Baffin Island, Feacham Bay is a spectacular, pristine corner of the Canadian Arctic that offers incredible wildlife viewing and unforgettable scenic beauty. Surrounded by towering cliffs and deep fjords, this remote bay is often a haven for wildlife, where muskoxen and Arctic foxes roam the rocky shores, and seals haul out on the ice. The crystal-clear waters of the bay are ideal for Zodiac cruises, where you may spot elusive polar bears hunting along the coast or perhaps witness whales feeding in the nutrient-rich waters.  

Day
Ten
Arrival
September 21, 2027
Port
Day at Sea

Explore the remote northern reaches of West Greenland, where traditional Inuit settlements cling to the rugged coastline and towering icebergs drift through the deep, clear waters. Every day presents new possibilities, guided by your expedition team, who will hunt for the perfect location to explore the stunning fjord systems by Zodiac. Vast fjord systems such as Uummannaq Fjord, offers endless opportunities for adventure, every corner revealing jaw-dropping views, monumental icebergs, and vibrant rock formations that beg to be explored. Whether you’re cruising silently through the ice-choked waters, hiking across the colourful tundra, or visiting one of the remote communities that dot the coast, the options for discovery are limitless. Kayakers can paddle among the floating icebergs while keeping an eye out for humpback and minke whales. With the spirit of true expedition cruising, this region invites you to immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Greenland’s northern frontier. 

Day
Twelve
Arrival
September 23, 2027
Port
Northwest Greenland

Known as the birthplace of icebergs, the Ilulissat Icefjord produces nearly 20 million tons of ice each day. In fact, the word Ilulissat means “icebergs” in the Kalaallisut language. The town of Ilulissat is known for its long periods of calm and settled weather, but the climate tends to be cold due to its proximity to the fjord. Approximately 4,500 people live in Ilulissat, the third-largest town in Greenland after Nuuk and Sisimiut. Some people here estimate that there are nearly as many sled dogs as human beings living in the town that also boasts a local history museum located in the former home of Greenlandic folk hero and famed polar explorer Knud Rasmussen.

Located just north of the Arctic Circle, Sisimiut is the northernmost town in Greenland where the port remains free of ice in the winter. Yet it is also the southernmost town where there is enough snow and ice to drive a dogsled in winter and spring. In Sisimiut, travelling by sled has been the primary means of winter transportation for centuries. In fact, the area has been inhabited for approximately 4,500 years. Modern Sisimiut is the largest business center in the north of Greenland, and is one of the fastest growing Greenlandic cities. Commercial fishing is the lead economy in the town‘s thriving industrial base.

Nuuk, meaning “the cape”, was Greenland’s first town (1728). Started as a fort and later mission and trading post some 240 kilometers south of the Arctic Circle, it is the current capital. Almost 30% of Greenland’s population lives in the town. Not only does Nuuk have great natural beauty in its vicinity, but there are Inuit ruins, Hans Egede’s home, the parliament, and the Church of our Saviour as well. The Greenlandic National Museum has an outstanding collection of Greenlandic traditional dresses, as well as the famous Qilakitsoq mummies. The Katuaq Cultural Center’s building was inspired by the undulating Northern Lights and can house 10% of Nuuk’s inhabitants.

Day
Fifteen
Arrival
September 26, 2027
Port
Toronto, Ontario, Canada

After breakfast, check out of your room and continue your journey. Make your own way to Toronto Airport with the hotel complimentary shuttle. 

Show more

About the Ship

Name

Sylvia Earle

Operator

Aurora Expeditions

A floating ambassador for the planet.

On our small purpose-built ship, the Sylvia Earle, connect with like-minded travellers in a meaningful way on perspective-altering voyages to some of the most remote, unique and spectacular places on the planet. Featuring the Ulstein X-BOW® design, it cuts through the swell for a smoother transit through waves while minimising its environmental impact.

Ship Facts
cabin count
71
capacity
130
crew count
74
deck count
8
currency
USD onboard
gross tonnage
7400
language
en
launch year
2022
length
104.4m
speed
12kts
wheelchair count
2
width
18.2m

Loading...

DINING
From the moment you step onto the Sylvia Earle, we aim to give you the best hospitality service possible. Starting with the official Captain's Welcome, as our guests, you're welcome to 24 hours complimentary coffee, tea and snack facilities in addition to a range of different menu options and courses for each meal. 
Dining

Whatever adventures the day holds, you will be fuelled-up with hearty meals and delicious morning and afternoon teas cooked by our onboard chefs.

Meals are a great time to soak up the expedition camaraderie in our open seating dining area. Share stories with your fellow travellers and ask our expedition team questions that may have come up during the day.

Tea, coffee, and snacks are available 24 hours a day, and our chefs offer dif....

The Rockhopper Restaurant

More information coming soon.

Gentoo

More information coming soon.

Entertainment

When you’re relaxing during a sea day or you have a little downtime on the ship between excursions, what is there to do onboard the Sylvia Earle? Plenty!

The Sylvia Earle is also decked out with other facilities for your enjoyment. There is a library on Deck 5 with books and maps and a Wellness Centre complete with gym equipment, sauna and spa. Feeling a little sore after walking around all day? Treat yourself to a massage at the Wellness Centre and feels the aches disappear!

Observation Points

Let's face it – you don't want windowless rooms when travelling around some of the most beautiful locations around the world. This is why the Sylvia Earle is designed with plenty of dedicated observation spaces – ideal for keen bird spotters, wildlife watchers and those wanting to watch the scenery go past.

From the indoor 180-degree lounge and outdoor 360-degree open deck, both on deck 8, to the 270-degree open sundeck on level 7, there....

Bars & Lounges

Communal meeting areas have always played a major role in fostering the warm camaraderie on board our ships. They are the heart of the expedition, where people meet to share tales from the day, swap photos, keep an eye out for wildlife and watch the sun go down.

The bars and lounges on board are refined yet inviting places to gather, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views, and of course friendly bartenders to shoot the bre....

Library & Multimedia Centre

With floor-to-ceiling windows, the library is a peaceful sanctuary where you can find non-fiction books to read up on the day’s destinations, plug in and organise your photos or play board games with newfound friends.

Choose from our range of informative non-fiction titles, wildlife guidebooks, travel journals, novels and a selection of children’s books and board games.

Wildlife guides, books and binoculars can also be found on the....

Glass Atrium Lounge
Experience the Glass Atrium Lounge inside the bow, featuring huge windows and superb views to the front of the ship.
Observation Lounge

Wildlife guides, books and binoculars can also be found on the observation lounge on deck 8, the perfect place to relax and watch the incredible landscapes pass by, or spot unique polar wildlife. 

Health And Fitness

There is a Wellness Centre complete with gym equipment, sauna and spa. Feeling a little sore after walking around all day? Treat yourself to a massage∘ at the Wellness Centre and feels the aches disappear!

Sauna & Spa

You are welcome to visit the wellness centre during your voyage where you can use our sauna (which we highly recommend after the polar plunge!) or book a massage (additional cost applies).

Gym

In between landings, enjoy complimentary access to the onboard gym.

Swimming Pool & Sun Deck

There are also two jacuzzis on the top outside deck with amazing views of the world outside.

Enrichment

One of the great benefits of travelling with AE Expeditions is the number of optional activities that you can participate in. From kayaking and skiing to diving and climbing, these are one-in-a-lifetime opportunities that you need to take advantage of.

Aboard the Sylvia Earle there is a specially designed launching platform for all activities, a concept overseen by our activity experts. This area also includes individual lockers in the expansive mudroom and rapid drying areas for wetsuits so you can quickly get warm after exploring in the elements!  

Loading...

Citizen Science

Travel is always the best educator and we offer the chance to enrich your curiosity and expand your knowledge and understanding of the places we travel to. There is no better learning opportunity than being in the field with subject matter experts.

Our Citizen Science Program is designed to be an interactive forum of like-minded travellers to share new discoveries and deepen their connection to the natural world in a relaxed, informal an....

Excursions

Although the ship is fun, the real enjoyment comes from the many shore excursions that are available. Depending on weather conditions, it may be possible for multiple landings, taking a look at everything from rock formations and ancient ruins to cute groups of penguins. We know time is of the essence in these wild locations, so the Sylvia Earle has been designed to carry 15 Zodiacs, which means you can maximise your time on shore.

From ....

Science Centre & Lounge
Learn more about the world we explore with our onboard naturalist and expedition team in our science centre, or enjoy superb views to the front of the ship.
Lecture Theatre

On all expeditions you will meet naturalists and local specialists, who offer presentations on their area of expertise to deepen your understanding of the region you’re visiting.

Join the team in the lecture theatre for presentations covering topics as broad as history and culture, biology and climate change, but they have one thing in common: they all aim to engage, educate and entertain.

Mudroom

No need to take your wet expedition gear back to your cabin to dry. Keep your cabin warm and cosy by leaving your outer jackets and pants in the mudroom.

The mudroom is your launchpad for all shore excursions and activities. Here, you will have access to a locker when you can hang your gear up to dry, and store your boots between excursions.

Zodiac Launching Platform

Zodiacs are a vital part of getting up close and personal on your adventure – sneaking into areas that the Sylvia Earle can't reach. On this new ship, there are specially designed launching platforms that enables us to load Zodiacs easily and quickly, allowing you to spend more time exploring on the two to three daily landings.

There are 15 Zodiacs that are boarded from either side of Deck 3 (sea level), perfect for when there is a group....

Custom-Built Activity Platform
Regardless of your destination, we offer a number of additional activities to allow you to see more of the environment. From kayaking and diving to climbing and ski touring, it's these optional activities that often leave the biggest impression on your trip as a whole. On board the Sylvia Earle, there is a spacious prep and loading platform for these activities and more – designed in consultation with our expert activity guides. 
Kids And Teens

There are no dedicated children's facilities onboard the Sylvia Earle.

UNIQUE FEATURES

The streamlined Ulstein X-BOW® cuts through the swell for a smoother transit through waves. It also helps reduce fuel consumption. Experience the Glass Atrium Lounge inside the bow, featuring huge windows and superb views.

USEFUL TO KNOW
Medical Facilities
When travelling to extreme environments, ensuring our expeditioners are healthy and happy is our number one priority. That's why we have a doctor on board at all times, as well as a well-equipped clinic to provide basic medical care.
Dress Code

Shipboard clothing is informal and casual Jeans, jumpers and long-sleeved shirts are ideal for indoors in the polar regions; however be sure to keep your jacket close for unexpected wildlife sightings! Some people∘ like to take a nicer outfit for the captain's welcome and farewell drinks but formal clothing is not necessary. For health and safety reasons, we do request you wear enclosed shoes in public areas while on board the ship. AE Expedit....

Temperatures

Our expeditions to the polar regions operate during the summer months in the Antarctic and Arctic. During the summer months in Antarctica∘ the temperature can range from -2°C (28°F) to 8°C (46°F). Big storms are rare, but if one comes through the temperature could drop to -8°C (17°F).

In the Arctic the temperature can range from -3°C (26.6°F) to 7°C (44.6°F).

Special Dietary Requirements
We can accommodate most special meal requests if given advance notice. Our talented chefs will take your requirements into their meal planning and ensure you receive tasty, healthy meals. Ensure you list any dietary requirements on your personal details form. Although we aim to accommodate most dietary requirements, we are unable to cater to all requirements, nor can we guarantee that our onboard meals do not contain traces of peanuts or other nu....
Wi-Fi and Connectivity

Onboard wi-fi 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. 

Smoking Policy

There is a ‘No Smoking’ policy throughout the interior of our ships.

Age Restrictions

Our travellers have ranged from 8 to 92, so as long as you have a thirst for adventure, you’re welcome to join us in Antarctica. Any person under 18 years of age must travel with their legal guardian.

Health & Safety

Medical Form

It is compulsory for each passenger to return a signed medical from their general practitioner. Your Medical Form is required to be signed by your general practitioner and returned to AE Expeditions no later than three months and no earlier than six months before your voyage departure date.

If you become aware of any change in your health and fitness that may be likely to affect your participation on the trip (e....

What's included

Standard Inclusions

We offer a number of standard inclusions on our voyages. Please see full list below:

  • Fully-serviced accommodation in your chosen stateroom or suite
  • Daily shore excursions, guided walks, Zodiac cruises and some activities^
  • Entry fees to historic or tourist sites
  • An experienced team of destination specialists, activity leaders, and local guides*
  • An informative and entert....
What To Pack

When packing for your holiday, do you have trouble deciding between what to take versus leave at home? If so, you’re certainly not alone – it can be tricky deciding what makes the cut into your luggage.

Of course, what often helps is knowing the environment that you’re entering into. With Antarctica and the Arctic – known as the coldest, most isolated and remote landscapes in the world – there might be a tendency to pack your suitcase wi....