Compare Baffin Island Cruise by Adventure Unbound vs The Canadiana by Omega Tours

Day 1: Ottawa

Meals Included: Dinner

Accommodation: Akademik Sergey Vavilov or Akademik Ioffe

Your adventure begins with a scheduled flight from Ottawa to Iqaluit on Baffin Island where you’ll have time for a short walking tour before boarding your expedition ship, the Akademik Sergey Vavilov. Then make sure you’re out on deck to soak up the fresh air as we set sail to explore the remote landscapes and wildlife of Baffin Island.

Day 2: Monumental Island

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Akademik Sergey Vavilov or Akademik Ioffe

Today we’ll explore the shores of Monumental Island in the Davis Strait by zodiac, hoping to encounter walruses. Polar bears are also known to frequent these waters as they come to hunt these fascinating creatures. 

Day 3: Pangnirtung

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Akademik Sergey Vavilov or Akademik Ioffe

With a picturesque setting between the mountains and waters in Cumberland Sound, the small village of Pangnirtung serves as the western gateway to Auyuittuq National Park. Explore this remote community which has made a name for its traditional arts and crafts, then visit the Angmarlik Visitor Center to gain a better insight into the history and lifestyle of the Inuit people. 

Day 4: Sunshine Fjord

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Akademik Sergey Vavilov or Akademik Ioffe

This morning we will arrive in Sunshine Fjord which straddles the Arctic Circle at 66 degrees north. Depending on weather conditions, we will cross the Arctic Circle by ship, on zodiacs or by foot, soaking up the magnificent views. Paddlers may also take advantage of the sheltered waters of the fjord to go kayaking.

Day 5: Auyuittuq National Park

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Akademik Sergey Vavilov or Akademik Ioffe

Today we will venture into one of Canada’s most impressive national parks - Auyuittuq - which lies on the east coast of Baffin Island. Trek beneath its rugged mountains and glacial systems which feed gushing rivers while learning more about the flora, fauna and geology from local guides. We may also visit the small settlement of Qikiqtarjuaq which is home to several Inuit families before continuing north along the coast of Baffin Island and into the Arctic wilderness. 

Day 6: Niginganiq (Isabella Bay)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Akademik Sergey Vavilov or Akademik Ioffe

Cruise into beautiful Niginganiq (Isabella Bay) which provides an important summer habitat and feeding ground for the endangered bowhead whale which is able to break sea ice using the crown of its head. Also keep an eye out for hunting polar bears, ringed seals, narwhal and Canada geese as we navigate these waters.

Day 7: Gibbs Fjord

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

ACCOMMODATION : Akademik Sergey Vavilov or Akademik Ioffe

This morning we will cruise through beautiful Gibbs Fjord which is surrounding by towering cliffs. Soak up the views towards its snowy glaciers as we slowly navigate the dark waters, keeping an eye out for wildlife en route.

Day 8: Mittimatalik (Pond Inlet)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Akademik Sergey Vavilov or Akademik Ioffe

As we approach the far north of Baffin Island, we’ll enter a channel to visit the remote Inuit community of Mittimatalik to learn more about their culture and history. Visit the Natinnak Center to peruse its fascinating cultural exhibit, including beautiful Inuit carvings, jewelry and traditional crafts, before heading into the wilderness of Sirmilik National Park. Its spectacular landscapes include rugged mountains, glacial-carved valleys and coastal lowlands, together with a number of large seabird colonies.

Day 9: Devon Island

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Akademik Sergey Vavilov or Akademik Ioffe

This morning we will depart Baffin Island and cross the wildlife “super highway” of Lancaster Sound to Devon Island. Waters from the Atlantic and Arctic oceans meet here, creating an abundant source of nutrients for both marine life and bird species. We will visit the old Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) outpost at Dundas Harbour before heading to Crocker Bay to discover its large glacial system. 

Day 10: Prince Leopold Island

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Akademik Sergey Vavilov or Akademik Ioffe

Today we will visit Prince Leopold Island which serves as an important migratory bird sanctuary and one of the most significant in the entire Arctic ecosystem. Thick-billed murres, black guillemots, northern fulmars and black-legged kittiwakes can all be spotted here, together with beluga, narwhal and bowhead whales which come to feed in the nutrient-rich waters. 

Day 11:Beechey Island

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Akademik Sergey Vavilov or Akademik Ioffe

Our final shore landing for this expedition will be on Beechey Island where Sir John Franklin’s expedition spent its last winter in 1845 before disappearing into the icy wilderness. The HMS Erebus was found in Victoria Strait in September 2014, with One Ocean Expeditions contributing to the discovery by carrying scientists, historians, researchers and underwater search equipment. Step ashore to visit the grave markers which have been placed on a remote beach here, before returning to the ship for a special farewell dinner hosted by your Captain.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN TORONTO

Arrive at Pearson International Airport, Toronto. Individual transfer to your centrally-located hotel. After checking in with your tour director, the remainder of the day is free. Overnight in Toronto.

Accommodation at the Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto, or similar

DAY 2: TORONTO

We get better acquainted with our traveling companions at breakfast before exploring Toronto on a morning city tour. Experience the sights and sounds of this cosmopolitan city as you explore the downtown area and residential areas. Highlights include the Eaton Centre, old and new City Halls, Casa Loma, Yorkville, and the University of Toronto. You will pass by the Rogers Centre and the CN Tower and drive along the harbourfront for a complete impression of this city. The remainder of the day is free for independent exploration. Overnight in Toronto. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto, or similar

DAY 3: TORONTO TO MONTREAL

Departing early, we enjoy a pleasant drive east. Following the north shore of Lake Ontario, we pass endless miles of rolling farmland. Our first destination is the beautiful Thousand Islands resort region, where we embark upon a relaxing cruise. After taking in the sights and sounds of this river playground, we re-board our tour coach for the drive to Montreal. Overnight in Montreal. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Delta Hotel by Marriott, Montreal, or similar

DAY 4: MONTREAL

This morning, we will tour the second-largest French-speaking city in the world. The dynamic city of Montreal encapsulates the two founding cultures of Canada and boasts a curious blend of history and modernity. Touring the downtown area we view the Olympic Complex, charming Old Montreal, McGill University, the residential streets of Mount Royal, and the bustling shopping streets. The afternoon is for leisure. Overnight in Montreal. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Delta Hotel by Marriott, Montreal, or similar

DAY 5: MONTREAL TO QUEBEC CITY

This morning, we prepare to depart from Montreal’s cosmopolitan atmosphere and partially follow the route of Canada’s first carriageway, the Chemin du Roy deep into French Canada. Winding our way through typical French-Canadian villages and towns, we experience true immersion in French culture. Upon arrival in Quebec City, we tour within the walls of the old city and view Lower Town, the Citadel, Battlefields Park, and the ornate city gates. Overnight in Quebec City. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Hotel Le Concorde, Quebec City, or similar

DAY 6: QUEBEC CITY

The day is at your leisure to further explore the sights of this charming World Heritage Site. You can enjoy an optional full-day excursion to Tadoussac including a 3-hour whale-watching tour on the St. Lawrence River at the mouth of the Saguenay River. Step aboard a regular boat and go in search of the world’s largest mammals. You will also visit the spectacular Montmorency Falls which are 30 meters higher than the world-famous Niagara Falls. Overnight in Quebec City. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Hotel Le Concorde, Quebec City, or similar

DAY 7: QUEBEC CITY TO OTTAWA

Following the shore of St. Lawrence, this morning we travel west past Montreal, across the Ontario border, and on to Ottawa — the nation’s capital. We stop for lunch along the way at the Sucrerie de la Montagne — an authentic sugar shack and pioneer-style restaurant. Upon arrival in Ottawa, we take a quick tour of Ottawa. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Overnight in Ottawa. Meals: B, L

Accommodation at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Ottawa City Centre, Ottawa, or similar

DAY 8: OTTAWA

In the morning we explore Ottawa on a city tour. We view the Parliament Buildings, residences of the Prime Minister and the Governor General, the Rideau Canal (designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site), and much more. The afternoon is free for independent exploration of Ottawa’s many museums and fine galleries, shopping at the Sparks Street Mall, or perhaps a boat cruise on one of the city’s many waterways. Overnight in Ottawa. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Ottawa City Centre, Ottawa, or similar

DAY 9: OTTAWA TO MIDLAND

Our journey west from Ottawa features sparkling lakes, rushing streams, deep forests, and characteristic northern towns. The trip will be highlighted by a visit to Algonquin Provincial Park where we will take a walk along the scenic trails. This immense wildlife and forest preserve is a favorite destination for camping expeditions during the summer months, and your walk will give you the opportunity to experience a little of it for yourself. Soon, we enter the Muskoka resort region, our destination for the night. Overnight in Midland. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Super 8 by Wyndham, Midland, or similar

DAY 10: MIDLAND TO NIAGARA FALLS

This morning, upon arrival at Sainte-Marie Among The Hurons, we have breakfast. This fascinating three-acre historic site is a detailed reconstruction of the first inland European community in Canada. Next, we are driving south past Toronto and then through the orchards and vineyards of the Niagara Peninsula with a final destination of Niagara Falls.

A thrilling boat ride on the Hornblower Niagara Cruises - Voyage to the Falls brings us to the foot of the thundering waterfalls for an unforgettable experience. We will take a ride to the top of the Skylon Tower providing a spectacular view of the falls and the surrounding district of Niagara. Afterward, you can enjoy an optional Niagara Helicopter Tour or Niagara Skywheel that gives you a breathtaking view of the Niagara Falls region. The evening is free for exploring North America’s “honeymoon capital”. Overnight in Niagara Falls. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Hilton Hotel & Suites Fallsview, Niagara Falls, or similar

DAY 11: NIAGARA FALLS TO TORONTO

We leave Niagara Falls this morning. Our drive follows the scenic Niagara Parkway through the historic village of Niagara-on-the-Lake, home of the Shaw Festival. Here we see a small but thriving community, proud to display a carefully-preserved nineteenth-century atmosphere. This afternoon completes the tour with a short drive back to Toronto. The evening features our special “Farewell to Canada” dinner at the CN Tower. Overnight in Toronto. Meals: B, D

Accommodation at the Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto, or similar

DAY 12: TORONTO TO CALGARY (FLIGHT)

Today we transfer to Pearson International Airport in Toronto and check in for our flight to Calgary, Alberta. Having crossed two thousand kilometres of Canadian wilderness and western wheatland, we arrive at Calgary International Airport and transfer to our hotel. After check-in at the hotel, the remainder of the day is free. Explore the Old West at the Glenbow Museum or Fort Calgary on your own, browse through the Eau Claire Market, ride up the Calgary Tower for a great view and savour the great restaurants and dynamic nightlife. Overnight in Calgary. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Delta Hotels by Marriott, Calgary, or similar

DAY 13: CALGARY TO BANFF NATIONAL PARK

We begin the day with a city tour of Calgary. Leaving the city, we travel west on the Trans-Canada Highway into the rolling foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The majestic peaks of the Canadian Rockies soon fill the horizon as we approach Banff National Park, our first of several in the Canadian national parks system. We soon arrive in the charming resort town of Banff. Overnight in Banff. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Mount Royal Hotel, Banff, or similar

DAY 14: BANFF NATIONAL PARK

Today we will enjoy a tour of the region around Banff. The area became Canada’s first national park in 1885 to protect its natural hot springs. An optional Helicopter Sightseeing Tour will give you the chance to see the eastern ranges of the Rocky Mountains. Alternatively, you can take an optional gondola ride to spectacular Sulphur Mountain. Bring your camera! The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the surroundings of Banff, stroll along Banff Avenue, or relax and enjoy the scenery. Overnight in Banff. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Mount Royal Hotel, Banff, or similar

DAY 15: BANFF NATIONAL PARK TO JASPER NATIONAL PARK

Today’s journey through Banff and Jasper national parks promises to be a highlight of our Rockies Trail program. Shortly after leaving Banff, we visit the famous scenery of Lake Louise, one of the most photographed lakes in Canada. Afterward, we travel north on the famed Icefields Parkway through a rugged wilderness flanked by dramatic mountain ranges.

At the Columbia Icefield, we board a specially constructed Ice Explorer to ride on the surface of the ancient Athabasca Glacier. Close to Jasper, you have the chance to go on an optional raft trip on the Athabasca River. Your experienced guide will point out the natural and human history as you raft through short rapids and stretches of calm waters. Overnight in Jasper. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Lobstick Lodge, Jasper, or similar

DAY 16: JASPER NATIONAL PARK TO SUN PEAKS

Before leaving Jasper National Park this morning, you can take part in an optional Spirit Island Cruise on Maligne Lake, the most picturesque and largest glacier-fed lake in the park. You may alternately take an optional motorcycle tour of Jasper, riding in the comfortable sidecar with an unmatched view of the forests and mountains. Then, we travel west along the Yellowhead Highway and into the heartland of British Columbia. Breathtaking, unspoiled vistas await visitors in every season of the year. The route takes us along the Thompson River through the picturesque Shuswap Highlands. Overnight in Sun Peaks. Meals: B

Accommodation at Sun Peaks Grand, Sun Peaks, or similar

DAY 17: SUN PEAKS TO WHISTLER

We can expect a day of dramatic scenery changes when we drive through the ranch lands and head for the coastal mountains. A journey along the Duffey Lake Road exposes new vistas at every turn. An optional Floatplane Sightseeing Tour over Garibaldi Park gives you an inspiring view of a natural preserve of volcanic peaks, alpine lakes, and meadows. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight in Whistler. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Whistler Village Suites, Whistler, or similar

DAY 18: WHISTLER TO VICTORIA

The Sea-to-Sky Highway leads us south through spectacular coastal scenery today. You will visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge suspended high above a magnificent canyon. From Horseshoe Bay, we cruise by ferry across the Strait of Georgia to Vancouver Island and continue by coach to Victoria, British Columbia’s capital city. Arriving in Victoria, we embark on a city tour of this former British enclave. Overnight in Victoria. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Coast Victoria Hotel & Marina by APA, Victoria, or similar

DAY 19: VICTORIA

Proud of her maritime heritage, Victoria has retained a quaint, colonial demeanor evident in the many 19th-century landmarks throughout the city. Today we treat ourselves to a tour of the world-famous Butchart Gardens, one of the world’s great floral displays set in a reclaimed stone quarry. Time will be allocated here for browsing through the regal gardens. You can take part in an optional Floatplane Sightseeing Tour over downtown Victoria and the Strait of Juan de Fuca with the Olympic Mountains in the distance. You can also go on an optional Whalewatching Excursion aboard a Zodiac or a regular vessel. Watch for the magnificent orcas and the abundance of marine wildlife. The remainder of the day is at leisurely exploring the city’s delights. Overnight in Victoria. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Coast Victoria Hotel & Marina by APA, Victoria, or similar

DAY 20: VICTORIA TO VANCOUVER

We continue through the resort region of the Gulf Islands to the oceanside city of Vancouver. Upon arrival in Vancouver, we enjoy an interesting tour of the city, including Stanley Park, English Bay, Gastown, Chinatown, and much more. The remainder of the day is free for independent exploration or simple relaxation. This evening features our farewell dinner. Overnight in Vancouver. Meals: B, D

Accommodation at the Sutton Place Hotel, Vancouver, or similar

DAY 21: VANCOUVER DEPARTURE

A time for last-minute shopping and sad farewells. Individual transfer to Vancouver International Airport in time to check in for your return flight. Meals: B