Combined helicopter-submarine operations during Scenic Eclipse’s first Northwest Passage sailing

The 23-day Across the Northwest Passage itinerary involves: the Bering Strait, Herschel Island, Prince Leopold Island, Beechey Island, Devon Island, Pond Inlet, Disko Bay, Sisimiut, Kangerlussuaq, before concluding in Copenhagen. 

‘It is the ultimate journey, as we are sailing through three different oceans away from any close assistance,’ said the ship's captain, Erwan le Rouzic of the August 15 to September 7 sailing. ‘Scenic Eclipse’s state-of-the-art technology allowed for smooth navigation through these waters thanks to its Polar Class 6 rating, electronic Azipod propulsion system and oversized stabilisers.

‘Being able to discover such a remote, almost untouched wilderness, with the combination of so many experiences - from the sky by helicopter, underneath the surface by submarine, on the water by Zodiac or on land…. is truly remarkable.'

Highlights

Over 62 polar bears, as well as narwhals, belugas, northern right whales, sea lions and snowy owls were observed during the sailing. The group also spotted elusive Musk Ox and drank champagne on the Beaufort Sea.

In addition to viewing Inuit cultural performances during various community visits, performers from Scenic Eclipse provided a concert for the local residents. An impromptu throat singing concert was held within the ship's lounge while in Gjoa Haven, an Inuit hamlet in Nunavut, above the Arctic Circle.

Said Danny Johnston, Scenic Eclipse expedition leader, ‘Wrapped up in the layers of Inuit and pre-Inuit habitation, European exploration, ongoing geo-political implications and ever-changing ice, weather and wildlife conditions, a journey through the Northwest Passage is never the same twice, and mystery lies around every corner. Scenic Eclipse has provided the platform for Discovery experiences crucial to accessing these remote opportunities.’

Itinerary

Sailing from Nome to Kangerlussuaq, passengers can encounter remote fjords, glaciers, and uninhabited islands. They pass through the 82km-wide Bering Strait before arriving at Herschel Island which can be explored by Zodiac or kayak, as well as during onshore landings. Passengers can learn about Thule and Inuit cultures who inhabited the island, spot rare wildlife on the shores, take a ride in Scenic’s two helicopters or participate in a submarine dive. Alongside the ship’s expedition Discovery Team, the programme allows for exploration of Beechey Island, home to 400,000 nesting birds, and the graves of three members of the ill-fated 1845 Franklin Expedition. It also allows passengers to step foot on the largest uninhabited island on Earth, Devon Island, last inhabited by the Thule settlement in 1000 AD.

After visiting a small Inuit settlement on Baffin Island, passengers can hike to the Sisimiut viewpoint at Sisimiut.

Scenic’s 23-Day Across the Northwest Passage voyage departs July 29 with prices starting from £20,275 per person.