Cruise the  Far North

The frozen North becomes less frozen every day. If, like us, you’re concerned about global warming and the Arctic’s rapidly disappearing polar bear and wildlife habitat, here’s a chance to discover this part of the world through the eyes of the Inuit, its native people. Inuit culture teaches that the earth and everything that lives or grows upon it contains an inherent, powerful spirit. Cruise North Expeditions, the only Inuit-owned and operated cruise line, offers cruises that afford guests an opportunity to learn firsthand about the environmental challenges facing the Arctic region, all from an Inuit perspective. One of Cruise North Expedition’s primary initiatives is to help preserve Inuit culture through tourism and education, and the company was recently awarded a spot on Conde Nast Traveler’s coveted Green List for its ongoing preservation and environmental efforts. Besides viewing the massive polar bears that live amidst the ice, visitors are likely to encounter walrus, white beluga whales, and colonies of seals. A number of cruises are offered throughout the summer months, with themes such as Arctic Explorer, Labrador North, Baffin Adventure, and Hudson’s Wake. In addition to wildlife viewing, onshore opportunities include treks along paths followed by original European explorers, visits to remote outposts, and calls at Inuit villages where centuries-old lifestyle and spiritual traditions are still actively honored and practiced. In addition, Cruise North Expeditions hosts an Annual Arctic Clean-Up cruise, during which land is reclaimed both for the native population and indigenous wildlife. To volunteer, or to learn more about specific destinations and learning opportunities, call (416) 789-3752 or visit www.cruisenorthexpeditions.com.

—Debra Bokur

September/October 2007