The Canadian Maritimes and Newfoundland | National Geographic Explorer Expedition Ship

The Canadian Maritimes and Newfoundland

Set sail on a 10-day journey through Newfoundland and the Canadian Maritimes, uncovering Viking settlements, Acadian heritage, and breathtaking coastal scenery. Explore Gros Morne’s geological wonders, visit historic whaling stations, and cruise along rugged shores while spotting whales and seabirds. Conclude your adventure in the colorful city of St. John’s.

Day by day

Day 1: St. John's, Newfoundland | Embarkation

Arrive in St. John’s, the vibrant and historic capital of Newfoundland and Labrador. Take in the stunning harbor views before boarding your expedition vessel and setting sail on an unforgettable maritime journey.

Day 2: St-Pierre, France | A Taste of Europe in North America

Step ashore in St-Pierre, the last remaining French outpost in North America. Stroll through its picturesque streets, explore a nearby island to learn about the region’s deep-rooted cod fishing traditions, and visit the L’Arche Museum to uncover the area’s rich maritime history.

Day 3: Louisbourg & Baddeck, Cape Breton Island | Fortresses & Inventions

Day 4: Îles de la Madeleine, Québec | Red Cliffs and Acadian Culture

Day 5: Exploring the Gulf of St. Lawrence | Wildlife & Coastal Wonders

Day 6: Gros Morne National Park | Geological Marvels

Day 7: Red Bay | Basque Whaling History

Day 8: L’Anse aux Meadows | Viking Settlement in North America

Day 9: Eastern Newfoundland | Rugged Shores & Fishing Villages

Day 10: St. John's, Newfoundland | Disembarkation

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Highlights

Discover the Acadian culture and red sandstone cliffs of the Îles de la Madeleine.

Explore the last remaining French territory in North America, St-Pierre.

Experience the striking landscapes of Gros Morne National Park, shaped by glaciers and tectonic forces.

Visit the reconstructed Fortress of Louisbourg and learn about 18th-century colonial conflicts.

Walk among the Viking ruins at L’Anse aux Meadows, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Activities

Sea Kayaking

Under full instruction from your sea kayaking guide, experience true tranquillity as you paddle through clinking ice floes and realise the enormity of the surrounding scenery. Look out for breaching whales, lounging seals and penguins zipping alongside your kayak. Some experience is required.

Ice Camping

Camp out on the ice and experience the silence which blankets the continent by night. This is your chance to completely connect with this ethereal ice world – wrap up warm and embrace the Antarctic elements.

Snowshoeing

Get a spring in your step when you slip on a pair of snowshoes in Antarctica. Enabling you to easily scale gentle slopes, this unique activity allows you to access hard to reach places and seek out the most impressive views.

Photography

Learn to capture wildlife and landscape shots in a small group photography program, including critiquing sessions and editing classes. Plus, Explorer Boat excursions with a dedicated photography expert on landings.

Explorer Boats

Achieve the best views and photographs from a forward facing Explorer Boats. They allow you to sit comfortably and securely while crackling through the ice-strewn waters. Look out for wildlife such as penguins, seals and whales as you cruise.

Yoga

It doesn’t get more serene than complimentary yoga classes to the tune of glacial scenery. Join the most unique exercise setting in the world after a day of exploration. Classes are regular but are dependent on weather conditions and swell.