Discovering the Northwest Passage

Nestled along the picturesque Cook Inlet, framed by the majestic Chugach, Kenai, and Talkeetna mountain ranges, Anchorage is a metropolis of wilderness and wonder. It's the beating heart of Alaska, where the legendary Iditarod kicks off, sending mushers over 1,049 miles of pristine wilderness to the remote city of Nome. In this vibrant nexus, Anchorage serves as both a gateway to the awe-inspiring Denali National Park—best traveled via elegant domed railcar—and a launch point for Seabourn’s thrilling expeditions to the wilds of Far East Russia.

Even if your stay is brief, perhaps for a night before embarking on further travels or catching a flight home, Anchorage beckons with a tapestry of experiences waiting to be woven into your journey. Its lively downtown pulses with life, boasting eclectic shops, captivating public art, and cozy restaurants where you can delight in local specialties like reindeer sausage paired with a brew crafted from the heart of Alaska.

Days 1-3: At Sea

Begin your voyage through the Arctic seas with days dedicated to relaxation and exploration onboard. Revel in the luxurious comforts of your Seabourn ship as you navigate northern waters, anticipating the adventures yet to unfold.

Day 4: Nome, Alaska

Welcome to Nome, where history echoes through every corner of this enchanting Arctic town. Once a bustling gold rush hub with over 20,000 hopeful prospectors, Nome now rests quaintly, preserving its captivating past. Wander through streets that whisper tales of gold miners and Inupiat Eskimo traditions. Visit the Carrie M. McLain Memorial Museum and stand by the “World’s Largest Gold Pan," immersing yourself in the legacy of an era gone by. Recall the heroics of the 1925 diphtheria serum race, forging a connection with the iconic Iditarod Trail Dog Sled Race, which traces the path laid by courageous mushers.

Days 5-7: At Sea

Continue your maritime journey, perhaps indulging in captivating lectures and savoring exquisite dining, as your ship sails forth into the Arctic's embrace.

Day 8: Herschel Island, Canada

Hidden within Canada's Yukon territory, Herschel Island beckons with its untamed beauty and storied past. Here, rugged cliffs meet the icy Beaufort Sea, creating a sanctuary for whaling relics and trading outposts of days past. Traverse this tundra haven under the guidance of experts, witnessing migratory birds and Arctic wildlife in their natural splendor. Dive into the rich tapestry of Inuvialuit culture, embracing the stories and traditions that have shaped this remarkable landscape.

Days 9-16: Northwest Passage Experience

Embark on an extraordinary journey through the Northwest Passage, retracing paths charted by explorers over centuries. This iconic sea route weaves through glacier-carved channels connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Walruses, Arctic ringed seals, and elusive polar bears find their place amidst the shifting sea ice, painting a vivid picture of life against the backdrop of monumental change. As you sail, contemplate the passage's historical significance, its magnificent yet vulnerable ecosystem, and its profound cultural heritage, echoing with stories of Pre-Dorset peoples.

Day 17: Croker Bay, Nunavut, Canada

Enter Croker Bay, where a majestic fjord shelters vibrant mountains bathed in Autumnal hues. Stand before the awe-inspiring tidewater glacier, as icy giants cascade into the bay. Spot polar bears, seals, and beluga whales navigating through the brash ice. Nearby, explore the poignant remains of Dundas Harbour, a silent testament to Inuit resilience, accented by the stark beauty of one of Earth’s most northerly cemeteries.

Day 18: Pond Inlet, Nunavut, Canada

Encounter Pond Inlet, a shining gem of Inuit culture and community. Here, life thrives in harmony with tradition and modernity. Discover homes adorned with caribou antlers and whale parts, partaking in local markets rich with heritage offerings. Experience the soulful art of throat-singing at cultural performances, where dancers, clad in sealskin garments, celebrate their enduring heritage.

Days 19-20: At Sea / Ilulissat, Greenland

Sail onward to Ilulissat, the iceberg capital of the world. Named after the vast glacial giants that frame its horizon, this Greenlandic town is steeped in over 4,000 years of history. Behold the colossal splendor of Jakobshavn Glacier, responsible for a spectacular icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Amidst colorful houses, witness Greenland’s vibrant life thriving beside nature’s frozen artistry.

Day 21: Sisimiut, Greenland

Arrive at Sisimiut, where adventure meets authenticity north of the Arctic Circle. Here, Inuit ancestry interweaves with modern culture amidst striking fjord landscapes. Explore Sisimiut’s rich past at the local museum or marvel at the scenic wonders that envelop this thriving township, where possibilities for discovery await at every turn.

Day 22: Nuuk, Greenland

Welcome to Nuuk, Greenland's bustling capital, an intersection of tradition and innovation. Delight in museums displaying rich tapestries of art and history, from Inuit artifacts to European masterpieces. Against this backdrop, discover a community vibrantly alive, echoing the footprints of ancient explorers and modern inhabitants alike.

Day 23: Kangerlussuaq, Greenland