YOUR ON BOARD EXPERIENCE

Our Commitment to Safety

There are no compromises here. Our expedition staff and ship’s crew have the deepest respect for Polar weather and the varying sea and ice conditions in these regions. We carry the most extensive inventory of safety equipment on all excursions. Our leaders and crew have been required to undergo some of the industry’s most aggressive safety training programs. We are prepared, so you can relax and enjoy your once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The Canadian University Experience

A full program of on board lectures and special community visits are integral parts of our expeditions. Resource educators will provide regular presentations in the areas of geography, history and contemporary affairs. Community leaders will meet us ashore for discussions and visits.

What happens on a typical day?

First of all, there is no typical day! Generally we’re up at 7.00, followed by breakfast and a daily briefing. There’s an activity in the morning, either a landing, a community visit, a Zodiac cruise or a presentation. We have lunch on board ship and then do it all again in the afternoon. Evenings include a congenial meal and after-dinner presentations and lounge conversation. The Bridge is always open to passengers (except during tricky navigations) and the Observation Decks offer endless opportunities for spotting wildlife and enjoying the sights.

Spot, Stop and Drop

Spot the wildlife, stop the ship, drop the Zodiacs. What better way to explore the Polar regions? We are oriented to wildlife and taking advantage of any and all opportunities to observe wildlife along our route. That means, we may re-arrange our day to include a serendipitous sighting or interrupt your meal with a call ‘Humpbacks at two o’clock, port side”. Flexibility is part of the fun of our polar explorations.

Adventure Concierges

Our Adventure Concierges will help you choose what suits you best from our range of activities. For most excursions, we can offer you the choice of joining a group of Contemplative Wanderers, a group of Intensive Chargers, a walk with one of our expert naturalists or photographer or a Zodiac cruise. Choose a different activity for every landing; our Concierges are there to make sure you onboard experience is absolutely right.

Climate and Clothing

As we head north into the High Arctic, the temperatures will begin to cool down. Most days will see temperatures around -5C to +5C, although when the sun is out and the winds are calm, we could experience 10C warmth. There is a good chance that we will have both rain and snow as we sail in this region. A well-known feature of Arctic travel is that the weather can change very quickly so you should come prepared for all weathers and bring lots of layers. A complete set of outdoor expedition gear including rubber boots is available for hire on board.

Expenses

All meals, shore excursions and presentations aboard the ship are included in the price of the expedition. However, each time you use the laundry, telephone or fax communication, medical or massage services, or purchase anything from the shop or bar, you will  sign a chit detailing the cost and the item you purchased. The currency on board the ship is US dollars. At the conclusion of the trip you will be presented with an account that includes all of the chits that you have signed during the voyage. You may pay for this in US$ cash or credit card.