Into the Northwest Passage

Arrival to Toronto airport, go through security and baggage claim and off to terminal 3 to the hotel. Adventure Canada had a welcome desk where we checked in, got our name tags and parka. They had refreshments and it was nice to just chit chat with some of the passengers with whom we were spending the next 2 weeks. Expedition leaders were present as well.  That night we had a welcome session where we covered logistics, safety, the itinerary, expectations. We had dinner at the hotel and went to bed. The next morning we had a leisurely continental breakfast provided by Adventure Canada and more mingling.  Our charter flight that day was set for a 1pm departure but it’s important to keep in mind we were a large group erring on the early side makes things smooth.  We headed to the flight desk around 10am to check in. It took about an hour to get through the check-in line, security, a stop in Duty Free to pick up a little alcohol for our cabin, and get to our gate.  We ate lunch in the airport but fair warning, options were limited and very expensive. After boarding our flight, we were served a hot lunch during our 3.5 hour flight to Kangerlussaaq. At check in in Toronto, be sure to request a window seat for the charter flight.  If the skies are clear, the views flying into Greenland are quite beautiful!  After landing in Kangerlussaq, we boarded buses to take us to the zodiacs (a 20 minute drive). The team loaded us up into zodiacs (about 12 guests per zodiac) and off to the ship we went!

Between being on the charter flight and getting to the ship was the time to shift around valuables and a few warm accessories (hat, gloves, buff) into a waterproof bag. We were also instructed to have our waterproof pants ready and had them on by the time we arrived to the zodiac. We had clear skies and calm waters so remained dry but if it were raining and/or windy we would have gotten wet. As soon as you get into the mindset of staying warm and dry the happier and more comfortable you will be!