Complete Northwest Passage expedition cruise

Planet

On these departures we use both a modern X-bow expedition vessel carrying 130 passengers (which is smaller and less imposing on the polar landscape than the bigger cruise ships), as well as two larger state of the art hybrid vessels.

The hybrid vessels use specialised hybrid technology for advanced, efficient propulsion through traditional marine engines and large battery packs. Compared to conventional cruise ships, this helps reduce CO2 emissions and nitrogen oxides while simultaneously reducing fuel consumption. These operations also have the objective of reducing indirect impacts by mapping scope 3 emissions and closely auditing their suppliers.

Our company is built on our foundation as marine and environmental scientists, conservation experts, professional wilderness guides, diving instructors and yacht masters. We have been intrinsically funding and advising on global conservation projects since 1986, particularly reforestation programmes and supporting purchase of vulnerable tropical rainforests. Since our inception and in line with this aim, a portion of your investment with us helps fund global conservation via several partner organisations including Rainforest Concern and The Rainforest Trust.

All of our Arctic trips operate under the policies of the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO) and endeavour to deliver ‘respectable, environmentally-friendly and safe expeditions in the Arctic’. Working with AECO, ensures that our trips are carried out with the utmost consideration for the vulnerable natural environment, all local cultures and the valuable cultural sites.

We work hard to protect and conserve the destinations we visit around the World and the fragile Arctic ecosystem is no exception. These insightful and inspiring voyages instil a sense of environmental stewardship in our clients. The specific Environmental codes of conduct are fully explained to all when exploring the remote arctic wilderness and we ensure guests comply with these.

Your onboard natural history experts, through guided walks and evening talks, reveal the wonders of the Arctic scenery and wildlife. In this way you will be introduced to some of the local and global conservation issues which this fragile habitat faces. Evening talks on topics such as Climate change and conservation are usually part of the ships itinerary. Furthermore interested guests will be invited to join citizen science projects, escorting and assisting scientists in the field on a range of projects as well as engaging in hands on activities in the onboard Science center.

In practical terms the ships employ a range of initiatives such as advanced onboard wastewater treatment, reverse-osmosis water production, and strict recycling protocols. Water bottles are provided for use onboard and single use plastics are banned. Group landings by zodiac are more easily managed and a low ratio of leaders to passengers provides a personalised, added value experience.

Encounters with polar bears, walruses and whales are controlled by strict responsible codes of conduct.

People

Some voyages we offer are so remote that there is no indigenous village / community, such as Spitsbergen. However, in the remote north of the Arctic Northwest Passage we visit small communities; the Inuit culture here is strong and the local communities are very welcoming of visitors and eager to share their ancient crafts and traditions. The ships employ local sourcing, community-led itineraries and excursions, and targeted disbursements.

Our office based travel team have more than 70 years combined polar travel planning knowledge and experience. We work closely with our business and charity partners throughout the World.

Our overall commitment to the environment is also reflected within our office environment. We source office supplies from local retailers, use recycled/FSC stationary where possible and recycle office waste. We are also mindful of the amount of documents printed in the office and utilise digital documents and literature when possible. This also includes company filing.