Northwest Passage: Alaska to Greenland Adventure
- Witness incredible beauty and experience the thrill of exploration as we sail through the fabled Northwest Passage from Nome in Alaska to Nuuk, Greenland.
- Your dedicated Expedition Team will bring you to discover UNESCO-listed sites, spectacular scenery, wildlife habitats, and Inuit settlements.
- Gain meaningful, personal insights into Inuit culture and heritage from our onboard Cultural Ambassadors.
- Sail down the west coast of Greenland with its stunning coastal panoramas and pretty settlements of coloured houses.
- This adventure ends in Copenhagen with a flight from Nuuk. This voyage is also available via Reykjavík and New York (planned airport).
Sail along the top of the world through the Northwest Passage
Sailing through the Northwest Passage on a state-of-the-art ice-class expedition ship is a captivating journey that blends natural wonders, culture, and history. The passage, once an elusive route for explorers, now offers intrepid travellers a chance to witness breathtaking Arctic landscapes and learn about indigenous communities through first-hand experiences and insights from Cultural Ambassadors on board. On this adventure, we’ll attempt to traverse the entire route and beyond, going from Nome in Alaska to Nuuk, Greenland.
Breathtaking beauty of the High Arctic and Greenland
Our 26-day voyage takes us ‘above’ the North American continent to the frozen far north. As we head up from Alaska through the famed Beaufort Sea and Bering Strait, we pass into the Western Arctic Canada where we’ll explore the western section of the Northwest Passage. From this point on, it’s pure expedition mode as we transit to Eastern Arctic Canada where you’ll experience a pristine and remote wilderness. We then emerge into Baffin Bay and sail to West Greenland, where you’ll encounter natural beauty like nowhere else.
Hotel
- Overnight in Seattle before the expedition cruise, including breakfast
- Overnight in Copenhagen after the expedition cruise, including breakfast
Flight
- Economy class flight from Seattle to Nome before the expedition cruise
- Economy class flight from Nuuk to Copenhagen after the expedition cruise*
- *This voyage is also available via Reykjavík and New York (planned airport). Please contact our Expedition Specialists to change gateways.
Transfers
- Transfer from the hotel to the airport in Seattle
- Transfer from the airport to the ship in Nome
- Transfer from the ship to the airport in Nuuk
- Depending on the hotel location, luggage only or bus transfer from the airport to the hotel in Copenhagen after the expedition cruise
Food & Beverages
- Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Coffee, tea, soft drinks, wine, beer, and spirits
- Fine dining in restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests
- Wine, beer and spirits available at meals and throughout the day and evening (subject to licensing laws, excludes premium drinks)
Your fare excludes:
- International flights
- Additional overnight(s) if required due to international flight timings
- Travel insurance
- Luggage handling
- Optional shore excursions with our local partners
- Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Team
- Optional treatments in the onboard wellness and spa area
Day 1 - Setting out from scenic Seattle
Enjoy the city before your expedition cruise begins
The adventure begins in the Emerald City of Seattle, on the Pacific coast of the United States.
If you can, why not arrive early and see what the Emerald City has to offer. Take a stroll through the nine-acre Olympic Sculpture Park for incredible views of Puget Sound and the surrounding mountains, admiring the work of renowned artists as you go.
For a feast of the senses, visit the famous Pike Place Market. Operating for over a century, this lively farmer's market boasts everything from buskers and bars to salmon-throwing fishmongers!
You'll spend the night here in Seattle before your connecting flight to Alaska tomorrow.
Day 2 - There's no place like Nome
Setting off on your adventure
Today you'll take an early flight from Seattle to Nome, Alaska, where your state-of-the-art expedition ship awaits to take you on a journey through the famed Northwest Passage and beyond.
Prospectors first came to Nome in 1898, and people still hunt for gold here today. You'll see evidence of the Gold Rush era all around, including abandoned dredges, turn-of-the-century steam engines and old railroad tracks, lending the town a unique and intriguing atmosphere.
You'll be in good company as you explore the town. Wyatt Earp, the famous sheriff, opened a saloon here. Nome was also the endpoint of three of Roald Amundsen's great polar expeditions.
Upon boarding the ship and after collecting your complimentary expedition jacket, it's time to check out your cabin, meet the Expedition Team and explore your new home-from-home. Your adventure has truly begun!
Day 3 - Bering Sea and Beaufort Sea
Science and wildlife watching at sea
As we navigate the Beaufort Sea towards Amundsen Gulf, which is the gateway to the Northwest Passage, these days at sea provide the perfect opportunity to prepare for the adventures ahead.
Immerse yourself in the onboard Science and Education programme and learn about topics such as wildlife, glaciology, and local history with your Expedition Team. You'll also gain authentic insight into Inuit culture and heritage with our onboard Cultural Ambassadors. Their stories reveal the Inuit people's profound connection to the land, shaped by generations of tradition and resilience.
Keep an eye out for bowhead and grey whales as we cross the Beaufort Sea to Point Barrow, the northernmost point of the United States. If sea ice is present, we may also see congregations of Pacific walrus on the ice floes.
The highlights of this transit include:
- The Bering Strait
- International Date Line
- Sailing Across the Beaufort Sea
- Wildlife Watching
Day 4 - Bering Sea and Beaufort Sea
Science and wildlife watching at sea
As we navigate the Beaufort Sea towards Amundsen Gulf, which is the gateway to the Northwest Passage, these days at sea provide the perfect opportunity to prepare for the adventures ahead.
Immerse yourself in the onboard Science and Education programme and learn about topics such as wildlife, glaciology, and local history with your Expedition Team. You'll also gain authentic insight into Inuit culture and heritage with our onboard Cultural Ambassadors. Their stories reveal the Inuit people's profound connection to the land, shaped by generations of tradition and resilience.
Keep an eye out for bowhead and grey whales as we cross the Beaufort Sea to Point Barrow, the northernmost point of the United States. If sea ice is present, we may also see congregations of Pacific walrus on the ice floes.
The highlights of this transit include:
- The Bering Strait
- International Date Line
- Sailing Across the Beaufort Sea
- Wildlife Watching
Day 5 - Bering Sea and Beaufort Sea
Science and wildlife watching at sea
As we navigate the Beaufort Sea towards Amundsen Gulf, which is the gateway to the Northwest Passage, these days at sea provide the perfect opportunity to prepare for the adventures ahead.
Immerse yourself in the onboard Science and Education programme and learn about topics such as wildlife, glaciology, and local history with your Expedition Team. You'll also gain authentic insight into Inuit culture and heritage with our onboard Cultural Ambassadors. Their stories reveal the Inuit people's profound connection to the land, shaped by generations of tradition and resilience.
Keep an eye out for bowhead and grey whales as we cross the Beaufort Sea to Point Barrow, the northernmost point of the United States. If sea ice is present, we may also see congregations of Pacific walrus on the ice floes.
The highlights of this transit include:
- The Bering Strait
- International Date Line
- Sailing Across the Beaufort Sea
- Wildlife Watching
Day 6 - Bering Sea and Beaufort Sea
Science and wildlife watching at sea
As we navigate the Beaufort Sea towards Amundsen Gulf, which is the gateway to the Northwest Passage, these days at sea provide the perfect opportunity to prepare for the adventures ahead.
Immerse yourself in the onboard Science and Education programme and learn about topics such as wildlife, glaciology, and local history with your Expedition Team. You'll also gain authentic insight into Inuit culture and heritage with our onboard Cultural Ambassadors. Their stories reveal the Inuit people's profound connection to the land, shaped by generations of tradition and resilience.
Keep an eye out for bowhead and grey whales as we cross the Beaufort Sea to Point Barrow, the northernmost point of the United States. If sea ice is present, we may also see congregations of Pacific walrus on the ice floes.
The highlights of this transit include:
- The Bering Strait
- International Date Line
- Sailing Across the Beaufort Sea
- Wildlife Watching
Day 7 - Exploration and adventure
Our excursions begin on day seven as we enter the Western Canadian Arctic. Over the next eight days in this section of our voyage, we'll transit through three distinct regions -Nunavut, Northwest Territories, and Yukon and two traditional Inuit territories, Inuvialuit and Nunavut.
During our time here, we anticipate up to five days of shore excursions and four transit days. Excursion stops and local highlights we hope to be able to visit include:
- Sachs Harbour
- Smoking Hills
- Ulukhaktok
- Coronation Gulf
- Cambridge Bay (Iqaluktuuttiaq)
- Gjoa Haven (Uqsuqtuuk)
Day 8 - Exploration and adventure
Our excursions begin on day seven as we enter the Western Canadian Arctic. Over the next eight days in this section of our voyage, we'll transit through three distinct regions -Nunavut, Northwest Territories, and Yukon and two traditional Inuit territories, Inuvialuit and Nunavut.
During our time here, we anticipate up to five days of shore excursions and four transit days. Excursion stops and local highlights we hope to be able to visit include:
- Sachs Harbour
- Smoking Hills
- Ulukhaktok
- Coronation Gulf
- Cambridge Bay (Iqaluktuuttiaq)
- Gjoa Haven (Uqsuqtuuk)
Day 9 - Exploration and adventure
Our excursions begin on day seven as we enter the Western Canadian Arctic. Over the next eight days in this section of our voyage, we'll transit through three distinct regions -Nunavut, Northwest Territories, and Yukon and two traditional Inuit territories, Inuvialuit and Nunavut.
During our time here, we anticipate up to five days of shore excursions and four transit days. Excursion stops and local highlights we hope to be able to visit include:
- Sachs Harbour
- Smoking Hills
- Ulukhaktok
- Coronation Gulf
- Cambridge Bay (Iqaluktuuttiaq)
- Gjoa Haven (Uqsuqtuuk)
Day 10 - Exploration and adventure
Our excursions begin on day seven as we enter the Western Canadian Arctic. Over the next eight days in this section of our voyage, we'll transit through three distinct regions -Nunavut, Northwest Territories, and Yukon and two traditional Inuit territories, Inuvialuit and Nunavut.
During our time here, we anticipate up to five days of shore excursions and four transit days. Excursion stops and local highlights we hope to be able to visit include:
- Sachs Harbour
- Smoking Hills
- Ulukhaktok
- Coronation Gulf
- Cambridge Bay (Iqaluktuuttiaq)
- Gjoa Haven (Uqsuqtuuk)
Day 11 - Exploration and adventure
Our excursions begin on day seven as we enter the Western Canadian Arctic. Over the next eight days in this section of our voyage, we'll transit through three distinct regions -Nunavut, Northwest Territories, and Yukon and two traditional Inuit territories, Inuvialuit and Nunavut.
During our time here, we anticipate up to five days of shore excursions and four transit days. Excursion stops and local highlights we hope to be able to visit include:
- Sachs Harbour
- Smoking Hills
- Ulukhaktok
- Coronation Gulf
- Cambridge Bay (Iqaluktuuttiaq)
- Gjoa Haven (Uqsuqtuuk)
Day 12 - Exploration and adventure
Our excursions begin on day seven as we enter the Western Canadian Arctic. Over the next eight days in this section of our voyage, we'll transit through three distinct regions -Nunavut, Northwest Territories, and Yukon and two traditional Inuit territories, Inuvialuit and Nunavut.
During our time here, we anticipate up to five days of shore excursions and four transit days. Excursion stops and local highlights we hope to be able to visit include:
- Sachs Harbour
- Smoking Hills
- Ulukhaktok
- Coronation Gulf
- Cambridge Bay (Iqaluktuuttiaq)
- Gjoa Haven (Uqsuqtuuk)
Day 13 - Exploration and adventure
Our excursions begin on day seven as we enter the Western Canadian Arctic. Over the next eight days in this section of our voyage, we'll transit through three distinct regions -Nunavut, Northwest Territories, and Yukon and two traditional Inuit territories, Inuvialuit and Nunavut.
During our time here, we anticipate up to five days of shore excursions and four transit days. Excursion stops and local highlights we hope to be able to visit include:
- Sachs Harbour
- Smoking Hills
- Ulukhaktok
- Coronation Gulf
- Cambridge Bay (Iqaluktuuttiaq)
- Gjoa Haven (Uqsuqtuuk)
Day 14 - Exploration and adventure
Our excursions begin on day seven as we enter the Western Canadian Arctic. Over the next eight days in this section of our voyage, we'll transit through three distinct regions -Nunavut, Northwest Territories, and Yukon and two traditional Inuit territories, Inuvialuit and Nunavut.
During our time here, we anticipate up to five days of shore excursions and four transit days. Excursion stops and local highlights we hope to be able to visit include:
- Sachs Harbour
- Smoking Hills
- Ulukhaktok
- Coronation Gulf
- Cambridge Bay (Iqaluktuuttiaq)
- Gjoa Haven (Uqsuqtuuk)
Day 15 - Into Bellot Strait
Navigate the dividing line between West and East
The 'Rubicon' of the Canadian Arctic that divides West from East is the infamous Bellot Strait. This narrow body of water separates the northernmost part of mainland North America from Somerset Island, one of the largest islands in the Canadian Arctic archipelago.
Bellot Strait is approximately 15 nautical miles long and just over half a mile wide at its narrowest point. Our ability to navigate this passage will be determined by ice and weather conditions.
Day 16 - The Eastern Canadian Arctic
Explore the Eastern stretch of the Passage
On the eastern shores of Somerset Island, we find ourselves in the Eastern Canadian Arctic. The main waterway of this area is Lancaster Sound (Tallurutiup Imanga), the eastern gates to the Northwest Passage.
This chapter of our exploration is likely to be action-packed, with excursions planned on each of the five days we hope to spend in and around this area. Remember, all our excursion plans are weather and ice dependent but conditions permitting, our days will be filled with excitement and discovery.
Excursion stops and local highlights we hope to share with you include:
- Fort Ross
- Prince Leopold Island (Appait)
- Beechey Island (lluvilik)
- Croker Bay
- Dundas Harbour
- Pond Inlet (Mittimatalik)
Day 17 - The Eastern Canadian Arctic
Explore the Eastern stretch of the Passage
On the eastern shores of Somerset Island, we find ourselves in the Eastern Canadian Arctic. The main waterway of this area is Lancaster Sound (Tallurutiup Imanga), the eastern gates to the Northwest Passage.
This chapter of our exploration is likely to be action-packed, with excursions planned on each of the five days we hope to spend in and around this area. Remember, all our excursion plans are weather and ice dependent but conditions permitting, our days will be filled with excitement and discovery.
Excursion stops and local highlights we hope to share with you include:
- Fort Ross
- Prince Leopold Island (Appait)
- Beechey Island (lluvilik)
- Croker Bay
- Dundas Harbour
- Pond Inlet (Mittimatalik)
Day 18 - The Eastern Canadian Arctic
Explore the Eastern stretch of the Passage
On the eastern shores of Somerset Island, we find ourselves in the Eastern Canadian Arctic. The main waterway of this area is Lancaster Sound (Tallurutiup Imanga), the eastern gates to the Northwest Passage.
This chapter of our exploration is likely to be action-packed, with excursions planned on each of the five days we hope to spend in and around this area. Remember, all our excursion plans are weather and ice dependent but conditions permitting, our days will be filled with excitement and discovery.
Excursion stops and local highlights we hope to share with you include:
- Fort Ross
- Prince Leopold Island (Appait)
- Beechey Island (lluvilik)
- Croker Bay
- Dundas Harbour
- Pond Inlet (Mittimatalik)
Day 19 - The Eastern Canadian Arctic
Explore the Eastern stretch of the Passage
On the eastern shores of Somerset Island, we find ourselves in the Eastern Canadian Arctic. The main waterway of this area is Lancaster Sound (Tallurutiup Imanga), the eastern gates to the Northwest Passage.
This chapter of our exploration is likely to be action-packed, with excursions planned on each of the five days we hope to spend in and around this area. Remember, all our excursion plans are weather and ice dependent but conditions permitting, our days will be filled with excitement and discovery.
Excursion stops and local highlights we hope to share with you include:
- Fort Ross
- Prince Leopold Island (Appait)
- Beechey Island (lluvilik)
- Croker Bay
- Dundas Harbour
- Pond Inlet (Mittimatalik)
Day 20 - The Eastern Canadian Arctic
Explore the Eastern stretch of the Passage
On the eastern shores of Somerset Island, we find ourselves in the Eastern Canadian Arctic. The main waterway of this area is Lancaster Sound (Tallurutiup Imanga), the eastern gates to the Northwest Passage.
This chapter of our exploration is likely to be action-packed, with excursions planned on each of the five days we hope to spend in and around this area. Remember, all our excursion plans are weather and ice dependent but conditions permitting, our days will be filled with excitement and discovery.
Excursion stops and local highlights we hope to share with you include:
- Fort Ross
- Prince Leopold Island (Appait)
- Beechey Island (lluvilik)
- Croker Bay
- Dundas Harbour
- Pond Inlet (Mittimatalik)
Day 21 - Crossing Baffin Bay
Watch for wildlife and get involved in Citizen Science
Leaving Nunavut behind, our expedition cruise continues to Greenland across Baffin Bay.
While at sea, your Expedition Team continues to lead lectures on topics such as Arctic wildlife and the history of exploration in the region, and you can still take part in Citizen Science, such as the GLOBE Program, observing clouds to help scientists study our climate. You'll also continue to learn about the cultures and traditions of the communities in Greenland with our onboard Cultural Ambassadors.
Or if you prefer, simply take time to relax, enjoy a drink with fellow explorers, watch the world drift by from the hot tub, or soothe your body and mind in the sauna.
Day 22 - The Wonders of West Greenland
Discover the magical beauty of Greenland
The final chapter of our journey encompasses the majestic coast of West Greenland.
We will begin by sailing into Disko Bay, a haven for whales and seals. Over the next three days, you'll experience some of the most iconic sites in all of Greenland. Our objectives include:
Ilulissat
Nestled at the edge of the magnificent Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is Ilulissat. Here you'll find an ever-changing gallery of passing icebergs set against a backdrop of colourful houses. In town you can visit a multitude of shops selling local crafts, and on the outskirts walking trails take you along the epic icefjord.
Sisimiut
Sisimiut is Greenland's second city, situated in a spectacular location just above the Arctic Circle. This area has history spanning more than 4,500 years, and old traditions are alive and well.
Learn more about ancient Saqqaq artifacts in the local museum or stretch your legs on a hike. If you're looking for a special souvenir, pick up a scarf, hat, or mittens made of qiviut, the inner wool of the musk ox that's said to be 10 times warmer than sheep's wool.
Evighedsfjord
As we head north, we plan to offer an exploration day in the magical and pristine Evighedsfjord near Maniitsoq. We'll determine on the day what adventures we can take part in.
The 'Fjord of Eternity' is fed by an ice cap that calves huge icebergs into its 2,300 ft deep waters. It's surrounded by mist-cloaked mountains with beautiful white ridges, punctuated by crystal blue ice caves.
Day 23 - The Wonders of West Greenland
Discover the magical beauty of Greenland
The final chapter of our journey encompasses the majestic coast of West Greenland.
We will begin by sailing into Disko Bay, a haven for whales and seals. Over the next three days, you'll experience some of the most iconic sites in all of Greenland. Our objectives include:
Ilulissat
Nestled at the edge of the magnificent Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is Ilulissat. Here you'll find an ever-changing gallery of passing icebergs set against a backdrop of colourful houses. In town you can visit a multitude of shops selling local crafts, and on the outskirts walking trails take you along the epic icefjord.
Sisimiut
Sisimiut is Greenland's second city, situated in a spectacular location just above the Arctic Circle. This area has history spanning more than 4,500 years, and old traditions are alive and well.
Learn more about ancient Saqqaq artifacts in the local museum or stretch your legs on a hike. If you're looking for a special souvenir, pick up a scarf, hat, or mittens made of qiviut, the inner wool of the musk ox that's said to be 10 times warmer than sheep's wool.
Evighedsfjord
As we head north, we plan to offer an exploration day in the magical and pristine Evighedsfjord near Maniitsoq. We'll determine on the day what adventures we can take part in.
The 'Fjord of Eternity' is fed by an ice cap that calves huge icebergs into its 2,300 ft deep waters. It's surrounded by mist-cloaked mountains with beautiful white ridges, punctuated by crystal blue ice caves.
Day 24 - The Wonders of West Greenland
Discover the magical beauty of Greenland
The final chapter of our journey encompasses the majestic coast of West Greenland.
We will begin by sailing into Disko Bay, a haven for whales and seals. Over the next three days, you'll experience some of the most iconic sites in all of Greenland. Our objectives include:
Ilulissat
Nestled at the edge of the magnificent Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is Ilulissat. Here you'll find an ever-changing gallery of passing icebergs set against a backdrop of colourful houses. In town you can visit a multitude of shops selling local crafts, and on the outskirts walking trails take you along the epic icefjord.
Sisimiut
Sisimiut is Greenland's second city, situated in a spectacular location just above the Arctic Circle. This area has history spanning more than 4,500 years, and old traditions are alive and well.
Learn more about ancient Saqqaq artifacts in the local museum or stretch your legs on a hike. If you're looking for a special souvenir, pick up a scarf, hat, or mittens made of qiviut, the inner wool of the musk ox that's said to be 10 times warmer than sheep's wool.
Evighedsfjord
As we head north, we plan to offer an exploration day in the magical and pristine Evighedsfjord near Maniitsoq. We'll determine on the day what adventures we can take part in.
The 'Fjord of Eternity' is fed by an ice cap that calves huge icebergs into its 2,300 ft deep waters. It's surrounded by mist-cloaked mountains with beautiful white ridges, punctuated by crystal blue ice caves.
Day 25 - End of expedition in Nuuk
End your voyage in colourful Nuuk
Today we arrive in Nuuk, Greenland's colourful capital. It has a population of 18,000, and boasts a striking mix of old and new buildings.
We'll explore this fascinating city, comparing the old buildings such as Hans Egede House and Nuuk Cathedral with the ultra-modern architecture of the Parliament of Greenland.
From here, you'll catch a flight back to Copenhagen and enjoy an overnight stay at a local hotel.
Day 26 - Back to Copenhagen
Take another look at Denmark's capital
Your adventure concludes in Copenhagen, giving you another chance to explore this city.
Perhaps you will have gained a new insight into how the histories of tiny Denmark and huge Greenland are intertwined. If you have time, perhaps you can explore the parts of the city you may have missed before your trip. Copenhagen has some fine beaches not too far from the international airport, if you fancy a dip before heading home.
* Please note that cruise itineraries are subject to change at any time and are not guaranteed
Departing 8 Aug 2027
- Polar Outside from
$41,251$35,945 pp twin share /$55,420$50,114 pp sole use* - Arctic Superior from $50,446 pp twin share / $71,140 pp sole use*
- Expedition Suite from
$57,873$50,443 pp twin share /$103,074$95,644 pp sole use*
* Please note: prices are subject to availability at the time of booking and may change or be withdrawn at any time without notice.
MS Roald Amundsen
Named after the first man to cross Antarctica and to reach the South Pole, MS Roald Amundsen leads the way towards an even more sustainable way of travelling. The ship is specially constructed for voyages in polar waters. It serves as a comfortable base camp at sea – bringing adventurers from all over the world to the most spectacular destinations in the most sustainable way.
Interior and Cabins
The stunning scenery will be reflected in a rich and comfortable interior design. Scandinavian materials from nature, such as granite, oak, birch and wool, will be used to create relaxed and stylish cabins and public areas. All cabins are outside; 50% will have private balconies, and aft suites will feature private outdoor hot tubs with spectacular views.
Expedition Suites
The best accommodation on our expedition ships. Spacious, private, and with wide windows to watch the world drift by, suites are comfortable and calm havens at sea. Selected suites also offer a private balcony which may have an outdoor hot tub for added luxury.
- Built: 2019
- Guest Capacity: 490 guests
- Science Centre: Interactive learning and discovery hub
- Free Wi-Fi: Stay connected throughout your voyage
- Green Hybrid Engine: Designed for more sustainable cruising
- Modern Stabilising Technology: Enhances comfort in varying sea conditions
- Dining: 3 restaurants serving a variety of cuisines
- Bars & Lounges: 2 bars plus a comfortable lounge and bar
- Infinity Pool & Hot Tubs: Relax with an infinity pool and two hot tubs
- Fitness Room: Fully equipped gym to keep active onboard
How long is the expedition?
26 days.
Where does the journey begin and end?
From Seattle to Copenhagen via the Northwest Passage.
Is this an all-inclusive expedition?
Yes, with accommodation, meals, and selected inclusions.
What makes this voyage unique?
It follows the legendary Northwest Passage through the Arctic.
Who is this expedition ideal for?
Perfect for adventurous travellers and polar enthusiasts.
Terms and conditions apply. Click here for more details.