AE Expeditions
Expertly designed to explore some of the planet’s most remote areas, every aspect of the Sylvia Earle has been carefully considered to ensure an exceptional expedition experience. High-tech touches include industry-leading safety equipment and robust eco-credentials, while activity preparation areas and Zodiac docks get you out in the action quickly. Deluxe accommodations and a range of wellness facilities keep life comfortable onboard and a library, science centre and lecture theatre create an educational hub for your journey.
Embark on an unforgettable Arctic adventure, following in the footsteps of intrepid explorers as you traverse icy waters in Greenland and Canada’s northern reaches. Navigate through awe-inspiring scenery, encountering diverse wildlife and fascinating indigenous communities as you travel. Two nights pre-cruise in Toronto promises a complete contrast to your time on the ship - a true once-in-a-lifetime experience in one of Earth’s last untouched wildernesses.
Day 1 - 2
Arrive in Toronto and transfer to 1 Hotel Toronto for a two-night stay. Incorporating eco-inspired design and a sustainable ethos into the city’s accommodation options, this urban escape in trendy King West Village is the perfect place to start your journey.
Day 3
Make your way to Toronto Airport where you’ll stay in a hotel nearby along with other AE Expeditions guests, ready for your departure to Greenland tomorrow.
Day 4
Following a charter flight to Kangerlussuaq, it’s time to board your expedition ship, the Sylvia Earle. Settle into your cabin before setting sail out of Søndre Strømfjord. The majestic mountains on both sides create a mesmerising backdrop to your first moments on the water. Meet your crew and fellow adventurers during a delicious welcome dinner tonight.
Day 5
Spend some time exploring everything your expedition ship has to offer before your first trip to shore, to Greenland’s second-largest town, Sisimiut. Located above the Arctic Circle, the town is bathed in 24-hour daylight in the summer and all-day darkness in the winter months. Take in the views of its colourful houses and famous church with whalebone gate and learn about the area’s rich cultural heritage.
Day 6
Known as the ‘birthplace of icebergs’, get ready to see some of the most breathtaking scenery found anywhere on Earth in Illulissat, as millions of tonnes of ice float into the ice fjord and Disko Bay every day. Hiking, kayaking and an optional helicopter flight promise remarkable views of the glacial landscape.
Day 7
A mountainous interior meets black sand beaches and dramatic lava formations on Disko Island. Natural hot springs offer a compelling vantage point from which to gaze at the views and a Zodiac cruise in Disko Bay allows you to explore and encounter some of the local marine wildlife.
Day 8
Your time at sea is easily filled with informative talks from the ship’s expert team, giving you the chance to learn about the region’s wildlife, geology and history as you travel. As you cross Baffin Bay, keep your eyes peeled for whales and icebergs – all part of the epic landscape in this part of the world.
Day 9 - 11
Sailing around the east coast of Baffin Island, you’ll be treated to staggering views of towering mountains and glaciers calving into the sea. Conditions permitting, you’ll explore onshore, where you can expect a warm welcome from the local community.
Day 12 - 13
Now solidly in the High Arctic, you’ll travel along Lancaster Sound between Devon and Baffin Island. Part of the newly formed Tallurutiup Imanga National Marine Conservation Area, its nutrient-rich waters support an abundance of wildlife. There’s a chance to explore Devon Island, the largest uninhabited island on Earth, with its uniquely beautiful geology and interesting history.
Day 14 -17
The itinerary for the next four days will depend on the sea ice conditions. Fantastic scenery and amazing Arctic wildlife are a given, whether visiting Prince Leopold Island with its hundreds of thousands of nesting birds or marvelling at the Polar Bear hotspot of Prince of Wales Island.
Day 18 - 19
It’s time to say a sad farewell to the ship’s team and your fellow travellers before travelling to the airport for a charter flight to Calgary, where you will stay overnight before your international flight home the next day.