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Canada Small Cruise Ships

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One of the best ways to explore the northern regions of Canada is on a small ship cruise, and Adventure Life has compiled a list of some of the best expedition vessels that cruise these Arctic waters. If you are planning on a polar cruise, then you will likely be aboard one of the ice-strengthened expedition ships or research vessels. While you will find them quite comfortable, they are generally not luxurious. However, what these ice-breakers sacrifice in creature comforts is compensated for with a unique ambience and tour experience. Their durable hull allows them to crush through pack ice and reach otherwise inaccessible destinations like the Northwest Passage, the fjords of Alaska, and even the glaciated Noth Pole region. We do feature several luxury class cruising vessels, so if that's a priority just let us know.
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Sylvia Earle
from $25,495
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Sylvia Earle

Designed for low-impact voyages featuring a fuel-efficient Ulstein X-Bow®, reduced air emissions and light pollution, and virtual anchoring for protection of the sea floor. The ship honors the highly accomplished marine biologist, oceanographer and explorer, Sylvia Earle. This ship will channel her marine-conservation ethos into a fully immersive on-board guest experience, not only in the Polar regions but in other destinations as the ship sails between the Arctic and the Antarctic.
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Greg Mortimer
from $50,995
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Greg Mortimer

With only 132 passengers on board, Greg Mortimer reimagines Arctic expedition, tropical, and European cruises for the future. Modern, comfortable, and designed with guests in mind, this ship represents a significant increase in sailing capability.
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Ultramarine
from $13,595
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Ultramarine

The Ultramarine is designed with an ice rating of 1A+, PC6, making it one of the most capable polar exploring vessels on the planet. Equipped with two twin-engine helicopters, Ultramarine offers the most robust portfolio of adventure activities in the industry, the most spacious suites in its category, breathtaking public spaces, and more outdoor wildlife viewing spaces than other expedition ships its size.
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Ocean Albatros
from $4,195
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Ocean Albatros

Designed to deliver a safe, comfortable and deeply immersive experience, Ocean Albatros offers an array of attractive onboard features and cabin choices – most with balconies, and even a large suite that can accommodate a family of five!
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Ocean Explorer
from $13,595
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Ocean Explorer

Ocean Explorer, purpose-built for polar exploration, is a striking vessel accommodating 138 passengers. This modern and elegant ship boasts state-of-the-art technologies, including the innovative ULSTEIN X-BOW® for a smooth and stable ride in challenging seas. Enjoy panoramic ocean views in the two-story bow library, and experience modern Scandinavian-designed cabins with verandas for most. The ship offers a spacious gym, sauna, two outdoor Jacuzzis for relaxation, ample outdoor viewing areas, and multi-height outer decks. With 15 Zodiacs for off-ship adventures and sustainability features like fuel-efficient Rolls Royce engines, Ocean Explorer is an eco-friendly choice for polar exploration.
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Ship Exterior
from $13,410
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Le Commandant Charcot

The polar explorer ship Le Commandant Charcot travels to remote regions of the Arctic and Antarctic. This expedition ship is unique because of its revolutionary and environmentally friendly design.
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Ship Exterior
from $11,300
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Le Lyrial

The sleek, intimate Le Lyrial sails under the French flag and entrances her passengers with her contemporary decor, comfortable suites, and refined ambiance. Her elegant design allows her to be an ideal sailing vessel.
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Explore Chile, Tierra del Fuego, Beagle Channel, aboard National Geographic Resolution
from $16,990
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National Geographic Resolution

National Geographic Resolution is a polar expedition passenger ship (Polar Code PC5) designed for remote exploration. This 138-guest ship features a patented X-Bow® for a smoother ride, large viewing windows, and a modern Scandinavian interior ideal for polar adventures.
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Ocean Nova at the dock
from $6,995
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Ocean Nova

Ocean Nova is an eco-friendly expedition ship built for Arctic waters, offering stunning sea views and seamless exploration. With a panoramic lounge, open decks, and easy Zodiac access, it’s perfect for wildlife spotting and photography.
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Ocean Victory sailing on icy waters
from $8,995
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Ocean Victory

Ocean Victory is a modern expedition ship built for comfort, sustainability, and adventure, carrying just 186 guests with its innovative X-BOW design for smooth sailing in icy waters. All cabins feature ocean views—most with private balconies. With 18 Zodiacs for landings and wildlife encounters, plus amenities like two restaurants, a Nordic bar, a spa, fitness room, infinity pool, and jacuzzis, the ship blends exploration with luxury.
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L'Austral
from $6,590
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L'Austral

The L'Austral, sister ship to the Le Boreal, is the fruit of Italian expertise and French sophistication. A superb mega-yacht with 132 cabins, the L'Austral links tradition and innovation, cruising to worldwide destinations in luxury.
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National Geographic Explorer
from $11,419
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National Geographic Explorer

The National Geographic Explorer is a state-of-the-art luxury expedition ship accommodating 148 guests in 81 outside cabins. It is fully stabilized, for cruising polar passages while providing comfort.
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1-12 of 33 Results

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