On August 1, Quark Expeditions' newest vessel embarked on its 17-day Northwest Passage: In the Footsteps of Franklin voyage, one of the operator's five expeditions exploring the Canadian High Arctic.
This adventure immerses guests in the Canadian Arctic, where they will experience rich Inuit culture, learn about polar history, witness abundant wildlife and flora, and take advantage of the widest portfolio of off-ship adventure options, including Zodiac cruises, kayaking, and hiking.
“We are thrilled to kick off our Canadian Arctic season with the 17-day Northwest Passage: In the Footsteps of Franklin itinerary,” said Thomas Lennartz, Vice President of Sales and Customer Service for Quark Expeditions. “Not only does this voyage herald our return to the much-loved Canadian Arctic, but it also marks Ultramarine’s inaugural voyage to the Canadian North, including the legendary Northwest Passage. Guests will enjoy the amenities of this technologically advanced ship while immersing themselves in polar history and nature.”.
The expedition is a journey retracing the steps of polar explorer Sir John Franklin as he charted the Northwest Passage. Franklin departed from the coast of England in May 1845 with a crew of 24 officers and 100 men and never returned. The ill-fated expedition remains one of the most enduring mysteries of Arctic exploration and is an integral part of this itinerary.
This unique journey also includes stops in Greenland before passing through the Davis Strait to the northern tip of Baffin Island, near the eastern entrance of the Northwest Passage, where guests can often spot humpback and bowhead whales and an abundance of seabirds, much to the delight of birdwatchers and photographers alike. Guests also have the opportunity to visit the picturesque Inuit village of Pond Inlet, where they can meet Inuit guides and community members to learn more about the traditional Inuit way of life and their rich culture.
