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FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 1
2018
CANADA ∙ NORWAY ∙ EXPEDITION CRUISING ∙ NORTHERN LIGHTS ∙ ICELAND
THE ARCTIC
Journeys to savour
Earlybird Offers
Save up to USD1,000pp
See Page 7 for details
Nominated as
Australia’s Best Travel
Agency
2 1300 738 168
PHOTOS IN THIS BROCHURE
We like to keep it real, so we avoid using stock photos, and mainly use
photos taken by ourselves and our travellers. Rose took some great
photos on her trip to The Arctic in 2016 and you will see many of them
featured in this brochure, including our fabulous cover shot, and this
image of The Northern Lights in Yellowknife. We include photography
tips in your preparation to help you capture the magic. All Arctic
expedition cruises have a professional photographer too, to give you
tips along the way.
FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 3
Journey with us to an incredibly vast and breathtaking
place, where a giant sheet of ice links three continents
and wildlife freely roams, swims and flies across them.
Where for just three months each year the ice retreats,
the sun emerges, temperatures rise and this incredible
world comes alive, inviting us in.
This is the Arctic, poles apart from Antarctica, and
equally impressive. It is warmer; there is more wildlife,
human settlement dates back thousands of years, and
polar bears replace penguins. The soaring peaks of
the south are replaced by rolling hills, dramatic cliffs
and sprawling tundra. Polar bears are kings on land,
revered and feared by all, whilst the seas thrive with
fabled creatures. The narwhal, with its unicorn like tusk,
walruses, and the white beluga whales, ply the waters
year round. In summer, killer whales show their softer
side, coming to the shallows for a gentle tummy rub on
time rounded pebbles.
The wild, remote Canadian Arctic is filled with Inuit
settlements and tales of brave exploration by man and
mammals. Dazzling scenery stretches to the horizon
and the definition of ‘frontier’ needs no words.
Greenland’s ‘iceberg factory’ pushes out 20 million
tonnes of brilliant white skyscrapers, and soaring
cathedrals with crystal spires. The Norwegian Arctic is
the most northern, and more compact, luring headline
hunting explorers for centuries and seabirds by the
million. It is also the realm of the polar bear and takes
you to within 100km of the North Pole.
In Canada, the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights)
dances across the sky from August till April, giving you
the widest time frame to catch this amazing sight.
We really want to help you experience the magic of The
Arctic, to be immersed in the vastness, to be astounded
by the wildlife, and to be inspired by the human
determination to explore and succeed.
We hope our brochure will encourage you to start your
own Arctic journey and we look Forward to talking about
it with you soon.
WELCOME TO THE ARCTIC
...it’s a really cool place
4 1300 738 168
FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 5
WE CREATED FORWARD TRAVEL WITH A SIMPLE GOAL,
TO HELP TRAVELLERS TRAVEL BETTER.
If your hope is to truly experience a destination not just pass
through it, then you are a Forward Traveller. If your priority
is to have it planned well so you can focus on enjoying where
you are, then you are definitely one of us.
We have been travelling the globe for more than half our
lives and helping curious travellers for almost as long.
We’ve journeyed far and wide enjoying the road less
travelled in preference to the busy highway. We use our first
hand knowledge to create the perfect journey, tailor made
specifically and especially for you.
TRAVEL BETTER IS ABOUT GIVING YOU A FANTASTIC
EXPERIENCE. We’ll put the effort and energy into planning and
organising your trip so you can fully focus on enjoying where
you are, without having to take time out to plan the next step.
Proper planning gives you a BETTER Holiday.
TRAVEL FURTHER IS ABOUT GOING BEYOND THE TOURIST
TRAIL.
We’ll find places and activities to match your interests, taking
you FURTHER, giving you better ‘dinner party’ stories.
TRAVEL FORWARD IS OUR ULTIMATE GOAL. We’ve had so
many travellers praise us for informed, rewarding, and stress
free travel, that we hope they continue to travel FORWARD.
We do this by taking the time to get to know you, and by
focussing on destinations and travel styles we know well. We
work with you every step of the way to make your dream a
reality. We have travelled as excited passengers, tour leaders
and researchers, gaining great perspective to benefit our
travellers.
This means we can offer informed and independent advice
based upon your specific interests, time frame and budget.
We carefully choose everything - destinations, hotels, and
travel partners so you are sure you will be well looked after.
Your journey starts from the moment of your first phone call to
us or when you click the send button on an email.
YOU’LL START YOUR JOURNEY WITH US AS A TRAVELLER.
WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU HOME AS A FRIEND.
We’re looking FORWARD to helping you start your journey.
Rose and David,Founders, Forward Travel
WELCOME TO FORWARD TRAVEL
Travel Better - Travel Further - Travel Forward
6 1300 738 168
NORWEGIAN ARCTIC - SVALBARD
Svalbard is a more compact destination so you don’t need to
cruise far to see scenery, history and wildlife. Located less than
1,000km from the North Pole it is the best place for polar bears.
We focus on the
north and west, being
the most interesting,
diverse and wildlife
rich parts of the
archipelago.
CANADIAN ARCTIC
Wildlife, history, and all encompassing skies crown the never
ending landscapes. Reminders of exploration, trading outposts
and even Cold War era bases, lie throughout. The area has huge
amounts of wildlife which, due
to the vastness is spread over a
large area. Our Arctic partners
at One Ocean Expeditions have
several hot spots they have
found over the years for polar
bears, giving you a great
chance of seeing them.
WHAT THE KEY REGIONS ARE AND WHY WE THINK THEY’RE SPECIAL
Spanning three continents, The Arctic is diverse and divided. Wildlife spreads across the vastness, with a great
varierty found in most locations. Geographic and historic differences set some areas apart, so this is our guide to help
you figure out where you want to go, and what awaits you there.
GREENLAND
The largest, non-continental island in the world, and its least
populated. Greenland is a vast, remote land with a unique culture.
It brings ancient traditions to a modern world. Brilliantly colourful
villages dot the whiteness. The
massive icecap produces all of
the Arctic’s soaring icebergs.
ICELAND
A tiny country with a population of a mere 250,000. Iceland
offers incredible scenery and unparalleled geological
attractions. Iceland is where glaciers reach for the skies and
deep blue mountain lakes fill
steep valleys and are surrounded
by sharp green peaks on all
sides. Hidden hot springs in
secluded valleys far far away
from civilisation, will relax and
calm you as you take in the
spectacular views.
THE NORTHWEST PASSAGE
In the 15C explorers started searching for a much hoped for
passage through the Canadian Arctic linking the Atlantic and
Pacific Oceans, to open up trading routes. Many endeavours
met with disaster.
In 1850 a way was
finally discovered,
and in 1906,
Roald Amundsen
completed the
first passage from
Greenland to Alaska.
THE FORWARD ARCTIC GUIDE
Anyone fortunate enough the see the lights will be beaming
with the memories for a long time. They’re like a huge theatre
curtain flowing across the sky with colours ranging from
yellow to green to
pink, to blue, with a
million stars providing
a spectacular
background. Luckily
Yellowknife in Canada
has some of the best in
mid Aug-Sep. Perfect
to add to an Arctic trip.
NORTHERN LIGHTS - AURORA BOREALIS
POLAR BEARS, THE KINGS OF THE ARCTIC
The hope of seeing these majestic animals lures most people north. Being predominantly
predatory hunters they are usually spread far and wide, making finding them equivalent
to an African game safari. Svalbard is great due to its remoteness and limited human
population, and Canda has some great hotspots too, as Rose discovered recently.
Churchill on the shore of Canada's Hudson Bay is the best land vantage point, although
only for 6 weeks a year. We think the best way to see polar bears is by ship where you can
go to them rather than hope that they will come to you.
FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 7
WE THINK PLANNING TRAVEL IS JUST LIKE COOKING
We choose the best ingredients and creatively find ways to showcase their highlights and cook it fresh for each diner.
(The Arctic may be frozen, our journeys are not). We’ll talk to you, find out how hungry you are and what flavours you like, so we
can cook the perfect recipe tailored to your ‘travel buds’. We have included some great Canada, Norway and Iceland ‘recipes’
Wwhich would be perfect entrees or desserts to an Arctic cruise main course. In keeping with our cooking theme here is our
menu, and the symbols below to add some Forward Flavour to each itinerary. We hope you like our way of thinking.
THE FORWARD ARCTIC MENU
ONE FREE NIGHT ACCOMMODATION
AND USD100 BAR CREDIT
*PRE CRUISE ACCOMMODATION
COOKING TIME/
DURATION
KEY INGREDIENTS SEASON RECIPE / ITINERARY
IN/OUT AIRPORTS FROM PRICE CHEF’S NOTES ICING ON THE CAKE
SPECIAL OFFERS
SAVE USD1,000 ON CHARTER FLIGHTS
SAVE USD1,000
KEY ARCTIC REGIONS AND SPECIAL OFFERS 6-7
ONE OCEAN THE SHIPS AND EXPEDITION OVERVIEW 8-9
18 DAY CANARCTIC ADVENTURE - ESCORTED JOURNEY 10-11
11 DAY FINDING FRANKLIN AND WILDLIFE FEAST 12-13
14 DAY NORTHWEST PASSAGE & GREENLAND 14-15
13 DAY BAFFIN ISLAND JEWEL OF THE HIGH ARCTIC 16
11 DAY HIGH ARCTIC EXPLORER 17
12 DAY LABRADOR AND TORNGAT MOUNTAINS EXPLORER 18-19
11 DAY NORWEGIAN ARCTIC - SPITSBERGEN ENCOUNTER 20-21
ONE OCEAN SHIP DECK PLANS AND CABIN DESCRIPTIONS 22-23
CANADA LOCATIONS GUIDE 24
4 DAY VANCOUVER, VICTORIA - GATEWAYS TO CANADA 25
8 DAY WESTERN CANADA ROCKY MOUNTAINS - SELF DRIVE 26
7 DAY ROCKY MOUNTAINS - RAIL & COACH TOUR 27
5 DAY GRIZZLY BEARS AT GREAT BEAR LODGE 28
5/6 DAY TUNDRA BUGGY POLAR BEAR EXPERIENCE 29
NORTHERN LIGHTS/AURORA BOREALIS IN YELLOWKNIFE 30
4 DAY AURORA AWAKENING 31
12 DAY EASTERN CANADA EXPEDITION CRUISE 32-33
5 DAY ICELAND - FIRE, ICE AND THE BLUE LAGOON 34
8 DAY ICELAND EXPLORER - SELF DRIVE FARMSTAY 35
14 DAY ULTIMATE ICELAND ADVENTURE - SELF DRIVE 36-37
12 DAY BEST OF ICELAND - BOUTIQUE SELF DRIVE 38
FORWARD TRAVEL TERMS AND CONDITIONS 39
*BOOK BY 31 DECEMBER 2017
THE ‘ONE’ CLUB
HUGE PAST PASSENGER REWARDS
Returning One Ocean Expeditioners get 10% OFF
PLUS - a free pre or post cruise hotel night
PLUS - your choice of free Cabin Upgrade OR 50%
off single supplement OR half price charter flights
PLUS - USD100 shipboard credit OR a limited
edition ‘One Ocean Club’ polar fleece
EASTERN CANADA TRIPS
NORWEGIAN ARCTIC TRIPS
CANADIAN ARCTIC AND GREENLAND
8 1300 738 168
YOUR EXPEDITION TEAM
One Ocean Expedition founder, Andrew Prossin outlines the
company’s philosophy:
“People really matter on our expeditions and we
show this at every opportunity, particularly by
allowing our guests to have a say in how their
experiences unfold. We create small special interest
groups, so each individual can choose the activity
best suited to them. Options and choices are provided
throughout the voyage and we strive to take care
of every detail. The One Ocean Expeditions team
have many years of expedition cruising expertise
coupled with specialty knowledge in their chosen
field. In addition to our expedition and hospitality
professionals, One Ocean Expeditions carries
specialty staff on every voyage. This includes an
English speaking emergency physician, resident
professional photographer, registered massage
therapist, fitness trainer and our unique multi-skilled
adventure concierges.”
LIFE ON BOARD A ONE OCEAN EXPEDITION
Once you board the ship you leave the every day world behind
and merge into the extraordinary. You feel right at home for the
duration of your voyage during which comfort and safety are
top priorities. Adventure Concierges lead the way, connecting
individually with guests, to understand their expectations and so
enable you to enjoy a very personal and special experience.
Our expedition team will deliver presentations to educate and
inform you about all things Arctic, including the history and the
wildlife you will likely meet. Days on deck are spent eagerly
scanning the ocean for whales, and the sky for seabirds.
Announcements are made over the PA system when sightings
are made. The captain usually slows down the ship so we can
enjoy the spectacle.
We aim to have at least two ‘Zodiac’ excursions each day. Some
may be cruising around enjoying the playful wildlife or exploring
glaciers and icebergs up close. Some will be shore landings
where you can go on short or long walks with your expert
leaders. We will have visits to Inuit settlements and historic sites
to fully appreciate the diversity of the region.
ARCTIC CRUISING WITH ONE OCEAN EXPEDITIONS
This is the only activity which needs to be
pre-booked. The cost is USD695 per
person for the cruise duration. You can
expect 4-7 paddles weather permitting.
There are just 16 places so
book early if you
are really keen.
SEA KAYAKING
We have been working with One Ocean Expeditions since they started. We truly believe they provide the best expedition
cruising in the polar regions. This is done by using the best expedition ships and assembling the best expedition team, On
all One Ocean expeditions you can be expect to be amazed, to be overwhelmed and to be even more impressed than you had
imagined. You’ll receive personal, professional attention from the team, whose sole focus is to give you the best possible
journey. You will congratulate yourself on your choice of a One Ocean Expedition journey.
Our preferred Polar Expedition partner
PRICES:
Prices shown are per person sharing the cabin or suite.
Sole use cabin surcharge 50%; Suite surcharge 100%.
Sole use of triple cabin is not permitted.
INCLUSIONS:
• Expedition on either Akademik Sergey Vavilov or
Akademik Ioffe
• Accommodation in chosen cabin/suite category
• 1 night accommodation pre cruise per couple,
(50% off for single travellers)
• Transfers from the meeting point to the ship and return.
• All meals and 24hr tea/coffee station
• Twice daily excursions either on land or Zodiac cruising
• Wet weather gear for use during the cruise
• Comprehensive pre-departure information
ONE OCEAN: INCLUSIONS AND DETAILS
DAVID KAYAKING OFF GREENLAND
NOTE
All itineraries are guides only. Activities and sites visited are dependent
on ice and weather conditions. The itinerary will be adjusted
throughout the voyage to take advantage of conditions. The Arctic is
not a zoo so wildlife sightings mentioned are expectations based on
many years documenting animal behaviour but cannot be guaranteed.
FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 9
DESIGNED FOR POLAR RESEARCH, SISTER SHIPS AKADEMIK IOFFE AND AKADEMIK
SERGEY VAVILOV ARE MODERN, COMFORTABLE, SAFE, ICE-STRENGTHENED SHIPS WHICH
ARE ALMOST IDENTICAL. BUILT IN RAUMA, FINLAND IN 1988/89 THEY ARE WIDELY
REGARDED AS THE TWO BEST POLAR EXPEDITION SHIPS IN THE WORLD.
EACH SHIP HAS AN EXPERIENCED RUSSIAN CREW.
BOTH SHIPS ARE OPERATED EXCLUSIVELY BY ONE OCEAN EXPEDITIONS.
WHY THESE ARE THE BEST EXPEDITION SHIPS
READY TO START YOUR JOURNEY? CALL US NOW ON 1300 738 168
• ICE-STRENGTHENED HULL (LLOYDS REGISTER 1A, CANADIAN TYPE B)
• THE MOST STABLE SHIPS DUE TO INTERNAL STABILISERS AND UNIQUE WATER BALLAST SYSTEM
• THEY WERE BUILT FOR HYDRO-ACOUSTIC RESEARCH AND SO ARE EXCEPTIONALLY QUIET
• EXTREMELY MANOEUVRABLE, ABLE TO GET INTO TIGHT PLACES AND NARROW CHANNELS	
• THEY’RE FAST (UP TO 14.5 KNOTS) GIVING YOU MORE TIME WHERE YOU WANT, NOT REACHING IT
• TRUE SMALL-SHIP EXPERIENCE, WITH A MAXIMUM OF 96 GUESTS	
• OPEN BRIDGE SO YOU CAN WATCH THE CREW NAVIGATING AND KEEP AND EYE ON THE RADAR
• REFITTED AND REFURBISHED RECENTLY PROVIDING IMPROVED COMFORT ON-BOARD	
• USE OF MULTIMEDIA ROOM WITH COMPUTERS WITH IMAGING SOFTWARE
• COZY (IOFFE) OR SPACIOUS (VAVILOV) BAR AND LOUNGES WITH 24-HOUR COFFEE AND TEA	
• COMFORTABLE CABINS WITH OPENING WINDOWS AND GENEROUS STORAGE
• 4 CHEFS PREPARING SUMPTUOUS MEALS FOR THE SPACIOUS DINING ROOM
• FULLY EQUIPPED PRESENTATION ROOM FOR INTERACTIVE LECTURES AND DISCUSSIONS
• LIBRARY WITH WIDE RANGE OF REFERENCE BOOKS AND LARGE FORWARD VIEWING WINDOWS
• EXTENSIVE DECK SPACE WITH 360 DEGREE VIEWS ON THE TOP DECK
• OUTDOOR PLUNGE POOL, SAUNA, FITNESS ROOM - AND AN OUTDOOR HOT TUB! (PIC ON PAGE 30)
• HIGHEST STAFF-TO-GUEST RATIO IN THE POLAR INDUSTRY
• MUDROOM SO YOU CAN LEAVE YOUR OUTER GEAR THERE INSTEAD OF IN THE CABIN	
• EXTREMELY EXPERIENCED, LOYAL AND PROUD CREW
10 1300 738 168
17 AUG. SYDNEY TO TELEGRAPH COVE
Fly from Australia to Vancouver and connect
to a scenic flight to Port Hardy, on the northern
part of Vancouver Island. We will be met and
driven to Telegraph Cove, an hour south, and
our home for 3 nights.
18 AUG. ORCA WATCHING (B)
From July to October, the waters between
Vancouver Island and mainland British
Columbia are home to the magnificent Orca
(Killer Whales). The protected waters provide
an ideal location to view and listen to orcas and
other marine mammals as they feed, socialise
and raise their young.
19 AUG. GRIZZLY BEARS OF KNIGHT INLET (B)
Enjoy the majesty of the coastal mountains
as we explore spectacular Knight Inlet to find
grizzly bears. As the snows melt, both black
and grizzly bears emerge from their hibernation
dens on the mountain slopes. Hungry bears
make their way down to feed on the grasses in
the river lowlands. The shallow draught of our
flat bottom boats gets us close to the action.
20 AUG. DRIVE TO VICTORIA (B)
Travel 6hrs south to Victoria. Stop along the way
to visit some of the villages and try the local
seafood for lunch.
19 DAYS
21 AUG. VICTORIA AND BUTCHART GARDENS (B)
Morning visit to Butchart Gardens. Enjoy the
breathtaking oasis of this 22 ha garden. Return
to Victoria and the rest of the day is yours.
22 AUG. FLY TO EDMONTON (B)
Transfer to the airport and fly to Edmonton and
be taken to the beautiful Fairmont hotel.
23 AUG. ARCTIC - RESOLUTE (BLD)
Our charter flight takes us to Resolute, a
remote outpost above the Arctic Circle, where
our fantastic ship will be waiting. Meet our
expedition team and start with a zodiac ride to
the ship. After a welcome cocktail, we weigh
anchor and depart in the early evening.
24 AUG. BEECHEY ISLAND (BLD)

Beechey Island holds great historic importance
in the story of the Northwest Passage. It is
here that Sir John Franklin’s ill-fated expedition
spent winter in 1845 before disappearing into
the icy vastness, sparking an incredible series
of search expeditions. The mystery of what
happened to Franklin was partially solved
in September 2014, when a joint expedition
found the lead ship, HMS Erebus, with One
Ocean Expeditions playing a vital role in the
discovery. A visit the grave markers on a remote
windswept beach is a perfect and chilling start
to our own expedition. We visit the towering bird
Nature thrives in Canada and I’ve planned this trip to capture some of its best, from
the sea to the land to the soaring sky. Whales of all sizes, loom in the waters, while bears of
all colours roam the shore. Birds in their thousands fill the sky, and hopefully we’ll see the
Aurora dance above it. From West to North to high Above, I have personally chosen the best
places, best companies and best guides to give us the best opportunity to capture all we hope
to see, with some surprises along the way. This is a shared journey more than a tour. Think of
it as a group of ‘like-minded’ people travelling together. There’s plenty of leisure time to tailor
as you wish, and all the leg work and planning has been done. I’ll be there too, to ensure this
trip is a spectacular journey like no other.
YELLOWKNIFE
CANADIAN ARCTIC, WILDLIFE, AND AURORA
TELEGRAPH COVE
GRIZZLY BEARS IN KNIGHT INLET
MEET ROSE
I first discovered the magic of Canada
and the High Arctic in 2016. I was blown
away with the scenery, history, wildlife
and wilderness. Seeing polar bears and
belugas, and the beauty of the Arctic was
amazing, and I still can’t quite believe the
amazing experience of seeing the Aurora
Borealis dancing in the sky above me.
I’d love to share it with you in 2018.
...with an entree of gardens, grizzly bears and killer whales
EXCLUSIVE
Escorted journey.
just 12 places available
FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 11
cliffs of Prince Leopold Island, an important
migratory bird sanctuary, home to several
hundred thousand birds. It is one of the most
significant bird sanctuaries in the whole of the
Canadian Arctic and makes for fantastic zodiac
cruising. The sea ice around Prince Leopold
Island is a great place for spotting seals, which
usually means we could find polar bears.
25 AUG. SOMERSET ISLAND (BLD)

Named for the British naval vessel abandoned
in 1825. Her crew unloaded provisions to the
beach. Four years later this cache saved the
starving Ross expedition on its return from the
North Pole in 1829. This is an exciting location
for history buffs and for many it will be the
defining moment of our expedition.
26 AUG. FORT ROSS – BELLOT STRAIT (BLD)

The historic site of Fort Ross is a former
Hudson’s Bay Company fur trading outpost,
and fascinating archaeological sites tell a story
of more than a thousand years of habitation by
the Inuit and their predecessors. A transit of the
narrow Bellot Strait is a thrilling experience as
the currents roar through channel. We are now
in the heart of the Northwest Passage, and the
stirring waters provide abundant food for many
marine mammals, including harp and bearded
seals, narwhals ad whales. The Captain and
Officers skills are on full display during this
exciting day of Arctic navigation.
27 AUG. CONNINGHAM BAY (BLD)

We cross the Franklin Strait and arrive at
Conningham Bay on the shore of Prince of
Wales Island. This is a known hotspot for polar
bears, that come to feast on beluga whales,
often caught in the rocky shallows. It’ common
to find the shoreline littered with whale skeletons
– and very healthy looking polar bears!
28 AUG. SIR JOHN FRANKLIN (BLD)

Enter Franklin territory in Victoria Strait where
history surrounds us. On Victory Point a lifeboat
left abandoned, pieces of copper and scattered
iron tell a story of a desperate race in a search
for a rescue that never came. We pass very near
the location of the wreck of HMS Erebus.
29 AUG. PASELY BAY (BLD)
This bay, on the Boothia Peninsula is where the
St. Roch spent a winter in 1942 frozen into the
sea ice. The ship was the first Canadian vessel
to ever transit the Northwest Passage.
30 AUG. FRANKLIN STRAIT, PEEL SOUND (BLD)

We’ll track north through the Franklin Strait and
into Peel Sound, known for its heavy sea ice so
all eyes will be looking for bears.
31 AUG. ASTON BAY (BLD)

We explore in the zodiacs and hope to go
ashore searching for wildlife. This evening, the
Captain joins us for dinner and the chance to
reflect on what has been a superb 10 days of
exploration in this pristine Arctic wilderness.
01 SEP. DISEMBARK - EDMONTON
(B)
We make our way ashore by zodiac for the
charter flight to return us to Edmonton where we
will be transferred to the hotel.
02 SEP. YELLOWKNIFE - AURORA
(BD)
Morning flight to Yellowknife where we will be
met upon arrival and taken to the hotel. Dreams
of gold began in Yellowknife in 1934 when a
couple of prospectors discovered the precious
metal. Have a walk around town this afternoon
and we’ll have dinner at the famous Bullocks
restaurant. After dinner we’ll depart on our first
Aurora evening.
03 SEP. CAMERON FALLS – AURORA (B)

After a sleep in, we’ll take a trip to Cameron
Falls, where short walk through the forest takes
us to the falls. We’ll stop along the way at
Giant Mine to hear about the Yellowknife River
Legend. Return to town for a rest before another
night of Aurora viewing.
04 SEP. YELLOWKNIFE - AURORA (B)
Optional activities. Meet local artists, go
traditional fishing with locals, cruise the harbour,
or just relax and enjoy the town. This evening
we’ll take our final Aurora viewing trip.
05 SEP. YELLOWKNIFE – FAREWELL (B)
Transfer to the airport for onward flights, or stay
another night.
CONNIGHAM BAY
He was so cute I wanted to reach out and pat him...
∙	10 DAY ONE OCEAN ARCTIC EXPEDITION
∙	3 NIGHTS AURORA VIEWING
∙	5 INTERNAL FLIGHTS WITHIN CANADA
∙	FULL DAY GRIZZLY BEAR VIEWING IN KNIGHT INLET
∙	STUBBS ISLAND WHALE WATCHING CRUISE
∙	3 NIGHTS IN TELEGRAPH COVE, ONE OF CANADA’S
MOST PICTURESQUE VILLAGES
∙	VISIT TO BUTCHART GARDENS
∙	SERVICES OF TOUR ESCORT, ROSE TOOHEY.
∙	GUIDED SIGHTSEEING IN VICTORIA
∙	GUIDED SIGHTSEEING IN YELLOWKNIFE
∙	35 MEALS, BREAKFAST DAILY, 8 LUNCH, 9 DINNERS
∙	QUALITY ACCOMMODATION
∙	TRANSFERS FROM AIRPORT - HOTEL VV  
∙	EXCELLENTLY LOCATED, GOOD QUALITY HOTELS
∙	LIMITED TO JUST 18 TRAVELLERS
	 DATES:
		 17 AUGUST - 05 SEPTEMBER 2018
	 ARRIVAL DEPARTURE CITIES:
	 IN - VANCOUVER	 OUT - YELLOWKNIFE
	
	 AKADEMIK IOFFE
CABIN/SUITE TWIN SHARE SIN-SHARE*
EARLYBIRD AUD PRICES - BOOK BY 31 DEC
Triple $15,650 $16,880
Semi Private $16,980 $18,280
Twin Private $19,250 $20,480
Superior $20,240 $21,480
Shackleton $21,980 NA
One Ocean $24,270 NA
INCLUDES Arctic charter flights to/from Resolute
IF BOOKED BY 31 DEC 2017.
ADD $1,350 FOR BOOKINGS AFTER 31 DEC
Price is based on USD so may change due to exchange rate
Kayaking $950
*SIN-SHARE SOLE USE IN HOTELS AND TWIN /TRIPLE
SHARE WITH OTHER TRAVELLER/S ON THE CRUISE
12 1300 738 168
22 AUG. EDMONTON
Arrive in Edmonton and make your way to
the Fairmont Macdonald for you pre night
accommodation and expedition briefing.
23 AUG. ARCTIC - RESOLUTE (BLD)
Our charter flight takes us to Resolute, a remote
outpost above the Arctic Circle, and a strategic
post during the Cold War. Meet our expedition
team and start with a zodiac ride to the ship.
After a welcome cocktail, we weigh anchor and
depart in the early evening.
24 AUG. BEECHEY ISLAND (BLD)

Beechey Island holds great historic importance
in the story of the Northwest Passage. It is
here that Sir John Franklin’s ill-fated expedition
spent winter in 1845 before disappearing into
the icy vastness, sparking an incredible series
of search expeditions. The mystery of what
happened to Franklin was partially solved in
September 2014, when a joint expedition found
the lead ship, HMS Erebus, with One Ocean
Expeditions playing a vital role in the discovery.
A visit to the grave markers on a remote
windswept beach is a perfect and chilling start
to our own expedition. We visit the towering bird
cliffs of Prince Leopold Island, an important
migratory bird sanctuary, home to several
hundred thousand birds. It is one of the most
11 DAYS
significant bird sanctuaries in the whole of the
Canadian Arctic and makes for fantastic zodiac
cruising. The sea ice around Prince Leopold
Island is a great place for spotting seals, which
usually means we could find polar bears.
25 AUG. SOMERSET ISLAND (BLD)

Named for the British naval vessel abandoned
in 1825. Her crew unloaded provisions to the
beach. Four years later this cache saved the
starving Ross expedition on its return from the
North Pole in 1829. This is an exciting location
for history buffs and for many it will be the
defining moment of our expedition.
26 AUG. FORT ROSS – BELLOT STRAIT (BLD)

The historic site of Fort Ross is a former
Hudson’s Bay Company fur trading outpost.
Fascinating archaeological sites tell a story of
more than a thousand years of habitation by
the Inuit and their predecessors. A transit of
the narrow Bellot Strait is a thrilling experience
as the currents roar through the channel. We
are now in the heart of the Northwest Passage,
and the stirring waters provide abundant food
for many marine mammals, including harp
and bearded seals, narwhals and whales. The
Captain and Officers skills are on full display
during this exciting day of Arctic navigation.
FINDING FRANKLIN AND WILDLIFE FEAST
Follow the footsteps of explorers on our own quest for wildlife
∙	 CONNINGHAM BAY POLAR BEARS
∙	 HISTORIC FORT ROSS & BEECHEY ISLAND
∙	 LANCASTER SOUND WILDLIFE SUPER HIGHWAY
∙	 THE NORTHWEST PASSAGE
∙	 FOLLOW THE PATHS OF THE FAMOUS
EXPLORERS
22 AUG 2018 - 01 SEP 2018
AKADEMIK IOFFE
EDMONTON
CHARTER FLIGHTS (RESOLUTE/RESOLUTE)
CABIN TYPE PER PERSON
Triple USD 6,795
Twin Semi Private USD 7,795
Twin Private USD 9,395
Superior USD 10,095
Shackleton USD 11,395
One Ocean USD 12,995
Charter Flight USD 1,995
PRICES ARE PER PERSON SHARING THE
CABIN OR SUITE. SEE PAGE 39 FOR TERMS
AND CONDITIONS. Sea kayaking is USD695.
This voyage will appeal to both lovers of wildlife and the dramatic history of early polar exploration. We will trace the routes
of the early explorers who sailed – and perished – in these waters as they sought a way through the fabled Northwest Passage. Our
itinerary includes a visit to one of the largest migratory bird sanctuaries in the world, and we enjoy frequent sightings of seals as well
as beluga whales. The mythical narwhal inhabits these waters, and we also hope to encounter polar bears at special locations that we
have discovered over the years.
FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 13
27 AUG. PRINCE OF WALES ISLAND (BLD)

We cross the Franklin Strait and arrive at
Conningham Bay on the shore of Prince of
Wales Island. This is a known hotspot for polar
bears, that come to feast on beluga whales,
often caught in the rocky shallows. It is common
to find the shoreline littered with whale skeletons
– and very healthy looking polar bears!
28AUG. SIR JOHN FRANKLIN (BLD)

Enter Franklin territory in Victoria Strait where
history surrounds us. On Victory Point a lifeboat
left abandoned, pieces of copper and scattered
iron tell a story of a desperate race in a search
for a rescue that never came. We pass very near
the location of the wreck of HMS Erebus.
29 AUG. PASELY BAY (BLD)
This bay, on the Boothia Peninsula is where the
St. Roch spent a winter in 1942 frozen into the
sea ice. The ship was the first Canadian vessel
to ever transit the Northwest Passage.
30 AUG. FRANKLIN STRAIT, PEEL SOUND (BLD)

We’ll track north through the Franklin Strait
and into Peel Sound, known for its heavy sea
ice concentrations. We now know that Franklin
sailed his two expedition ships through Peel
Sound in the summer of 1846.
31 AUG. ASTON BAY (BLD)
We explore in the zodiacs and aim to make
a shore landing searching for wildlife. This
evening, the Captain joins us for dinner and the
chance to reflect on what has been a superb
10 days of exploration in this pristine Arctic
wilderness.
01 SEP. DISEMBARK - EDMONTON
(B)
By morning we are at anchor in Resolute and
make our way ashore by zodiac for the charter
flight to return us to Edmonton where our
journey comes to an end.
ADD THE NORTHERN LIGHTS!
Yellowknife in August has fantastic Aurora
viewing and we have the perfect 4 day
package to capture it. It’s just a 2hr flight
north of Edmonton, making it a perfect ‘icing
on the cake’’ to add to this Arctic trip. Priced
from $1,170pp. See page 30-31 for details.
THE FRANKLIN EXPEDITION
Sir John Franklin and his crew of 129 sailors disappeared wilst
trying to navigate the Northwest Passage in 1845. and were never
sighted again. We know they had ‘wintered’ on Beechey Island
before being trapped in ice, and many searches were sent to
‘rescue’ them. More ships and men were lost looking for Franklin
than the number lost in his expedition. In 2014 a combined search
involving One Ocean Expeditions, found Franklin’s lead ship, the
“HMS Erebus”, and now our trips will take you very close to the site.
A HUDSON BAY OUTPOST, CANADA’S FIRST DEPARTMENT STORE
CONNINGHAM BAY
14 1300 738 168
NORTHWEST PASSAGE & GREENLAND
WWW
∙	 CONNINGHAM BAY POLAR BEARS
∙	 HISTORIC FORT ROSS & BEECHEY ISLAND
∙	 SIRMILIK NATIONAL PARK
∙	 NORTHWEST PASSAGE
∙	 BAFFIN ISLAND
∙	 LANCASTER SOUND WILDLIFE SUPER HIGHWAY
1. 11 - 24 AUG 2018
2. 23 AUG - 05 SEP 2018
AKADEMIK SERGEY VAVILOV
1. KANGERLUSSUAQ/ CAMBRIDGE BAY
2. CAMBRIDGE BAY / KANGERLUSSUAQ
DAY 1. EDMONTON
Arrive in Edmonton for transfer to your hotel.
DAY 2. CAMBRIDGE BAY
We depart Edmonton on a charter flight to
Cambridge Bay, a remote outpost above the
Arctic Circle. Located on the southern shores
of Victoria Island. Enjoy a walking tour of the
town and then board our expedition ship, the
Akademik Ioffe. Excitement is in the air as we
enjoy a welcome cocktail and cast off, bound for
the fabled Northwest Passage.
DAY 3. NORTHWEST PASSAGE
As we chart a course into the Northwest
Passage, our onboard presentation series
begins and we delve into the tale of the Franklin
expedition and the mystery of what happened.
We aim to visit Victory Point, travelling very near
the actual location of the wreck of HMS Erebus,
while learning about the quest for exploration that
eventually opened up the Arctic. Experts agree
that the second of Franklin’s lost ships, HMS
Terror, is likely to be in this vicinity.
DAY 4. CONNINGHAM BAY
Arriving at Conningham Bay we find one of the
most remarkable wildlife sites in the Arctic. A
hotspot for polar bears who come here to feast
on Beluga whales.
DAY 5. BELLOT STRAIT
Today we transit the narrow passage of Bellot
Strait. The mixing of waters in this strait provides
an abundant food source for marine mammals,
and we will keep our eyes peeled for harp seals,
bearded seals and even polar bears.
DAY 6. BEECHEY ISLAND
Beechey Island is of great historic importance. It
is here that Sir John Franklin’s ill-fated expedition
spent its last ‘comfortable’ winter in 1845 before
disappearing into the icy vastness. A trip ashore
at Beechey Island to visit the grave markers on
a remote windswept beach gives one pause
to wonder on the bravery (or foolhardiness) of
these pioneering explorers, as they sought a way
through the barren, frozen landscape.
DAY 7. LANCASTER SOUND
Cruising the coastline of Devon Island, we are
now in the waters of Lancaster Sound – a rich,
bio-diverse region often referred to as the wildlife
‘super highway’ of the Arctic. Massive volumes
of water from Baffin Bay to the east, Beaufort Sea
to the west, and the archipelago of islands to the
north combine to make a rich cocktail of nutrients
supporting an abundance of Arctic wildlife.
DAY 8. SIRMILIK NATIONAL PARK
We sight the wild north coast of Baffin Island
and navigate through Navy Board Inlet. The vast
landscapes of Sirmilik National Park surround us
as we approach the remote Inuit community of
Mittimatalik (Pond Inlet). A highlight will be a visit
to the Natinnak Centre. We also enjoy meeting
the local children of Mittimatalik and marveling
14 DAYS
CABIN TYPE PER PERSON
Triple USD 9,595
Twin Semi Private USD 11,395
Twin Private USD 13,695
Superior USD 14,695
Shackleton USD 16,095
One Ocean USD 17,095
Charter Flight USD 1,995
This iconic voyage explores the remote Northwest Passage
and
stunning fjords of the Baffin Island coastline before crossing
Baffin
Bay to Greenland where we will marvel at the beauty of
the icebergs
calving off of the Greenland icecap. We follow in the
footsteps of the
early Arctic explorers. Wildlife is a major draw
card of our expedition, but there is
plenty of historical interest too.
The hope for a passage through
the American land barrier lured
explorers since the 1400s. All met
with failure, and many with disaster.
In 1906, after a journey of 3 years
Roald Amundsen, found it.
HOPES AND DREAMS
Named for its shape, not thepopular Greenlandic music, there
is something magical about theisland with its beauty and the rocky
figures in all sorts of shapes. Disko
Bay is perhaps the best place inGreenland for whale watching.
DISKO BAY
PRICES ARE PER PERSON SHARING THE
CABIN OR SUITE. SEE PAGE 39
FOR TERMS AND CONDITIONS.
Sea kayaking is USD695.
Explore the remote Northwest Passage and stunning fjords of Baffin Island
FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 15
at their athletic abilities as they demonstrate
traditional Inuit games.
DAY 9. GIBBS FJORD
This morning we enter the spectacular Gibbs
Fjord. Our expedition ship will be dwarfed by the
giant peaks and snowy glaciers as we cruise
along the dark waters.
DAY 10. BAFFIN ISLAND
Leaving the rugged coastline of Baffin Island,
our crossing of Baffin Bay allows us time to slow
down and reflect on the beauty and experiences
we have shared.
DAY 11. JACOBSHAVN ICEFJORD
If one word could sum up today’s experience it
would be ‘ice’. Truly one of the wonders of the
world, the Jacobshavn Icefjord – a UNESCO
World Heritage site - spews giant tabular
icebergs out into Disko Bay. Our Captain and
officers are skilled ice navigators and our ship
has one of the highest ice ratings of any vessel
exploring Arctic waters.
DAY 12. SISIMIUT
We will explore the fjord behind the town of
Sisimiut before going ashore to explore this
beautiful location. Characterized by colourful
local houses, the town features a towering
granite peak as a backdrop. We hope to meet a
few of the traditional Greenlandic kayakers and
to see a demonstration of ‘Eskimo rolling’ by one
of the former Greenland kayak champions.
DAY 13. SONDRE STROMFJORD
One of the world’s longest fjords, Sondre
Stromfjord towers above the ship as we sail up
it. We plan to venture into some of the small side
fjords that we can zodiac into and explore on foot
or by kayak. Major geologic and geomorphologic
features will surround us and we hope to find
muskox along the shores of the fjord as well.
Soaring high above us will be the white-tailed sea
eagle, riding the thermals off the ridges. There
are fantastic opportunities for hiking.
DAY 14. DISEMBARK. KANGERLUSSUAQ
Our journey through the Arctic is all but complete
as we disembark the ship in Kangerlussuaq and
make our way to the airport and a charter flight
returns us to Ottawa.
“The sense of history and exploration was all around us. There was a real frontier
feel and the whole experience was amazing.”
R & J WATSON,
Melbourne, Australia
ARCTIC TRAVELLERS, 2015
BONUS OFFER! SAVE USD1000 ON CHARTER FLIGHTS*
ADD THE NORTHERN LIGHTS!
Yellowknife in August has fantastic Aurora
viewing and we have the perfect 4 day
package to capture it. It’s just a 2hr flight north
of Edmonton, making it a perfect ‘icing on the
cake’’ to add to this Arctic trip. Priced from
$1,170pp. See page 30-31 for details.
READY TO START YOUR JOURNEY?
CALL US NOW ON 1300 738 168
NORTHWEST PASSAGE
16 1300 738 168
BAFFIN ISLAND - JEWEL OF HIGH ARCTIC
∙	WILD LANDSCAPES OF BAFFIN ISLAND
∙	CUMBERLAND SOUND
∙	ABOVE THE ARCTIC CIRCLE
∙	AUYUITTUQ NATIONAL PARK
03 -14 AUGUST 2018
AKADEMIK IOFFE
IQALUIT / RESOLUTE
Baffin Island is one of the last great wilderness regions on the planet and is the focus of this outstanding expedition. From
Iqaluit, on Frobisher Bay, we explore the wild east coast of Baffin Island discovering the deep fjords, soaring mountains and
immense glacial systems. We are constantly on the lookout for a variety of birdlife and marine wildlife including polar bear, the
king of the north. Daily hikes, zodiac cruising and endless photographic opportunities are just a few of the highlights.
DAY 1. ARRIVE OTTAWA
Arrive in Ottawa and transfer to your hotel.
DAY 2. OTTAWA, ONTARIO TO IQALUIT, NUNAVUT
Fly to Iqaluit, Baffin Island. Enjoy a walking tour
of the town and board our expedition ship, the
Akademik Sergey Vavilov in the afternoon.
DAY 3. MONUMENTAL ISLAND
Situated in the Davis Strait, Monumental Island
is a well-known location for walrus.
DAY 4. PANGNIQTUUQ, PANGNIRTUNG
Nestled in the heart of Cumberland Sound and
the western gateway to Auyuittuq National Park,
the village of Pangniqtuuq is beautifully situated
between the mountains and the sea.
DAY 5. SUNSHINE FJORD
Sunshine Fjord straddles the Arctic Circle at
660 degrees, 33 minutes north of latitude.
Depending on the weather, we might cruise
across the Circle on the ship, cross it in the
zodiac boats or cross the circle on foot.
DAY 6. AUYUITTUQ NP AND QIKIQTARJUAQ
Auyuittuq NP’s landscape is dominated by
steep rugged mountain scenery, extensive
glacial systems and powerful rivers.
DAY 7. ISABELLA BAY – NIGINGANIQ NATIONAL
WILDLIFE AREA
Isabella Bay is an important summer habitat and
feeding area for endangered bowhead whales.
Polar bears, ringed seals, Canada geese, snow
geese and narwhal are also commonly sighted.
DAY 8. GIBB FJORD
Entering spectacular Gibb Fjord with towering
cliffs all around us, our expedition ship will seem
dwarfed by the giant peaks and snowy glaciers.
13 DAYS
One of the last great wilderness regions on the planet.
DAY 9. MITTIMATALIK AND SIRMILIK NP
The jewel in the crown of Canada’s Arctic
Park system, featuring spectacular scenery
consisting of rugged mountains, ice fields and
glaciers, coastal lowlands and seabird colonies.
DAY 10. DUNDAS HARBOUR AND CROKER BAY
We cross Lancaster Sound to Devon Island.
This broad channel of water has been likened to
the wildlife ‘super highway’ of the Arctic.
DAY 11. PRINCE LEOPOLD ISLAND
A population of several hundred thousand birds,
makes this one of the most significant bird
sanctuaries in the entire Arctic ecosystem.
DAY 12. BEECHEY ISLAND
A place of great historic significance and
suitable finale to our expedition.
DAY 13. RESOLUTE TO EDMONTON, ALBERTA
Our expedition comes to an end as we arrive
into Resolute, disembark the ship and bid
farewell to our crew and fellow passengers.
CABIN TYPE PER PERSON
Triple USD 7,295
Twin Semi Private USD8,295
Twin Private USD 9,895
Superior USD 10,395
Shackleton USD 11,895
One Ocean USD 13,495
Charter Flight USD 1,995
PRICES ARE PER PERSON SHARING THE CABIN
OR SUITE. SEE PAGE 39 FOR TERMS AND
CONDITIONS. Sea kayaking is USD695.
BONUS OFFER! SAVE USD1000 ON CHARTER FLIGHTS*
A trip ashore at Beechey Island
takes you to the grave markers of
some of Franklin’s ill-fated crew on
a remote windswept beach. It’s a
sombre and thrilling experience
for history buffs, and for many a
defining moment of our expedition.
BEECHEY ISLAND
FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 17
HIGH ARCTIC EXPLORER
∙	LANCASTER SOUND
∙	ISOLATED GRISE FIORD
∙	RINGED SEALS, PRINCE LEOPOLD ISLAND
∙ HISTORIC BEECHEY ISLAND
14 - 23 AUG 2018
RESOLUTE / RESOLUTE
AKADEMIK IOFFE
DAY 1. ARRIVAL EDMONTON
Arrive in Edmonton and transfer to your hotel.
DAY 2. EDMONTON TO RESOLUTE, NUNAVUT
Charter flight to Resolute, a remote outpost
above the Arctic Circle. On arrival, we meet our
expedition team and take a zodiac ride to our
ship before departing Resolute in the evening.
DAY 3. MAXWELL BAY, DEVON ISLAND
A large bay on the south coast of Devon Island,
Maxwell Bay offers some wonderful hiking
opportunities and great wildlife watching.
DAY 4. CROKER BAY AND DUNDAS HARBOUR
Lancaster Sound is the wildlife ‘super highway’
of the Arctic where massive volumes of water all
mix to make a rich source of nutrients and food
for an abundance of Arctic wildlife.
DAY 5. COBURG ISLAND WILDLIFE AREA
Nirjutiqavvik National Wildlife Area is home to
almost 400,000 seabirds.
DAY 6. GRISE FIORD AND CRAIG HARBOUR
Grise Fiord is the northernmost community
in Canada and one of the most isolated
communities in the world. The scenery is
stunning, the wildlife is abundant and we are
warmly welcomed by the community.
DAY 7. CAPE HAY, BYLOT ISLAND MIGRATROY
BIRD SANCTUARY
The bird cliffs of Cape Hay are a prime nesting
spot for several hundred thousand birds.
DAY 8. ELWIN INLET AND CAPE CHARLES YORKE
11 DAYS
Combining a quest for wildlife with historic Canadian exploration
A breathtaking fjord which is well protected and
great for a zodiac cruise or hike onshore.
DAY 9. PORT LEOPOLD, PRINCE LEOPOLD ISLAND
The sea ice around Prince Leopold Island is
a great place for spotting ringed seals and
wherever we find ringed seals - we usually find
polar bears.
DAY 10. BEECHEY ISLAND
Beechey Island holds great historic importance
in the story of the Northwest Passage. It is
here that Sir John Franklin’s ill-fated expedition
spent its last ‘comfortable’ winter in 1845 before
disappearing into the icy vastness. This evening
enjoy a special dinner attended by the Captain.
DAY 11. RESOLUTE TO EDMONTON, ALBERTA
By morning, we are anchored in Resolute where
we make our way ashore by zodiac. A charter
flight returns us to Edmonton.
PRICES ARE PER PERSON SHARING THE CABIN
OR SUITE. SEE PAGE 39 FOR TERMS AND
CONDITIONS. Sea kayaking is USD695.
CABIN TYPE PER PERSON
Triple USD 6,795
Twin Semi Private USD 7,795
Twin Private USD 9,395
Superior USD 10,095
Shackleton USD 11,395
One Ocean USD 12,995
Charter Flight USD 1,995
Frequent shore landings in the
company of expert guides allow us to explore
on foot,
observing wildlife, Arctic flora, and points of historical
interest including
a number of former Hudson’s Bay Company outposts. All of this is set against
a backdrop of epic mountain scenery, sweeping glaciers and skies that go on
forever. This is an ideal introduction to small ship expedition cruising in the remote
Canadian Arctic.
BONUS OFFER! SAVE USD1000 ON CHARTER FLIGHTS*
ADD THE NORTHERN LIGHTS!
Yellowknife in August has fantastic Aurora
viewing and we have the perfect 4 day
package to capture it. It’s just a 2hr flight
north of Edmonton, making it a perfect ‘icing
on the cake’’ to add to this Arctic trip. Priced
from $1,170pp. See page 30-31 for details.
18 1300 738 168
LABRADOR AND TORNGAT MOUNTAINS
∙	 VIKING SETTLEMENT
∙	 HIGHER ARCTIC LATITUDES
∙	 REMOTE MISSION LOCATIONS
∙	 ANCIENT CANADIAN SHIELD
∙	 BREATHTAKING TORNGAT NP
∙	 EXCEPTIONAL NACHVAK FJORD
23 JUL - 03 AUG 2018
LOUISBOURG / OTTAWA
CHARTER FLIGHT: IQALUIT- OTTAWA
AKADEMIK IOFFE
DAY 1. LOUISBOURG, NOVA SCOTIA
Welcome to Nova Scotia, transfer to your hotel.
DAY 2. LOUISBOURG, NOVA SCOTIA
Our adventure begins in the historic port town of
Louisbourg, Nova Scotia. First visited in 1597 by
the English, it was fortified in 1713 by the French
due to its strategic maritime location. We board
the ship in the late afternoon.
DAY 3. GROS MORNE NP, NEWFOUNDLAND
We are anchored off the tiny fishing community
of Trout River, the access point into Gros Morne
National Park. Our zodiacs take us ashore and
we are transferred by bus for our visit to the
World Heritage-listed Tablelands. This incredible
location is noted for its exceptional scenery,
where the Earth’s mantle is exposed – pushed
up over millions of years by the movement of
tectonic plates.
DAY 4. L’ANSE AUX MEADOWS, NEWFOUNDLAND
Today tells a story a thousand years in the
making. We board the zodiacs for a short cruise
to the rocky shoreline. A millennium ago, Viking
long-ships would have been found along this
same beach. L’Anse aux Meadows is one of
Canada’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Fascinating historic locations and remote wilderness accessible only by ship
12 DAYS
DAY 5. BATTLE HARBOUR, NEWFOUNDLAND
Battle Harbour marks our arrival into the province
of Labrador. We venture ashore to explore the
restored fishing, whaling, commercial buildings
found in this remote community. The colourful
buildings make for fantastic photographic
subjects amid the backdrop of breathtaking
coastal views.
DAY 6. HOPEDALE, NEWFOUNDLAND
The ancient rocks of the Canadian Shield (the
exposed portion of the Earth’s crust) cradle
the small coastal hamlet of Hopedale. This
remarkable geological feature, estimated to be
up to 4-billion-years-old greets us as we sail
through narrow channels and weigh anchor off
Hopedale.
DAY 7. HEBRON, NEWFOUNDLAND
Today we enjoy a visit to the historic town
of Hebron and the Moravian missionaries,
considered one of the most historically significant
mission-built structures in the entire province. We
will hope to meet Buddy and Jenny, Nunatsiavut
Government ambassadors, who have been
looking after the historic site for years. They have
a fascinating story to tell.
This voyage links several fascinating historic
locations on Canada’s east coast, including a Viking
settlement, a French-built fortress, several remote mission
locations and isolated fishing ports. We journey northwards
from the more temperate climate found in the Maritimes and
into the higher Arctic latitudes.
ROOM / CABIN TYPE PER PERSON
Twin / Triple Share USD 3,695
Twin / Twin Semi USD 4,695
Twin / Twin Private USD 6,295
Twin / Superior USD 6,795
Twin / Shackleton USD 8,295
One Ocean Suite USD 9,895
Charter Flight USD 995
Carved by colliding continents
and grinding glaciers Gros
Morne NP is a UNESCO
World Heritage Site. Here you
will find unique geology and
exceptional scenery.
GROS MORNE NP
The Fortress of Louisbourg is a
National Historic Site of Canada.
The original settlement was made
in 1713 and became one of North
America’s busiest 18th century
seaports, the largest of it’s kind.
LOUISBOURG
PRICES ARE PER PERSON SHARING
THE CABIN OR SUITE. SEE PAGE 39 FOR
TERMS AND CONDITIONS. Sea kayaking
is USD695.
FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 19
“The Arctic is the best thing I have ever done.
Nothing comes close to it in terms of spectacular.”
G LAMBERT
Victoria, Australia
ARCTIC TRAVELLER 2015
DAY 8. TORNGAT MOUNTAINS NP, LABRADOR
We will visit Torngat Mountains National Park
Reserve., featuring breathtaking fjords, remnant
glacial systems and stunning landscapes. The
Inuktitut word Torngat, means “place of spirits”
and it represents a spiritual connection to the
Inuit spirit world. Polar bears hunt seals as they
migrate to and from their calving grounds. There
are some terrific hiking opportunities here to
explore the area on foot and along the shoreline
in the zodiacs. Wildflowers are spectacular when
in bloom and bears feast on local berries.
DAY 9. NACHVAK FJORD, LABRADOR
Nachvak Fjord is exceptionally beautiful. The
fjord is deep and narrow and stretches more
than 20 kilometres. The rocky walls of the fjord
soar almost 900 meters above us at several
points. Many species migrate through the area
during the short boreal summer. Numerous seal
species may be encountered including ring,
hooded, harp and harbour seals. Minke whales
have been known to linger in the fjords, while
larger species, including fin and humpback,
tend to stay offshore. An outstanding location for
landscape photography with endless subjects.
DAY 10. BUTTON ISLANDS, NUNAVUT
We visit the northern Button Islands before
sailing into southern Davis Strait. Named after
Thomas Button who explored the area in 1612,
the islands are in the middle of the upwelling of
nutrients on the edge of the continental shelf.
This action makes it a magnet for thousands of
seabirds and other marine mammals.
DAY 11. MONUMENTAL ISLAND, NUNAVUT
Today we will sail across the mouth of Frobisher
Bay and make landfall on Monumental Island.
Here we are on the lookout for both polar bears
and walrus that live around the island in an
uneasy truce. We enjoy our final zodiac cruise
here and tonight we reflect on the last 10-days
of exploration while enjoying a sumptuous
farewell dinner, attended by the Captain of the
ship. During the night the ship will negotiate the
narrow channels of Frobisher Bay on the way to
our disembarkation point, Iqaluit, the capital city
of Nunavut.
DAY 12. IQALUIT, NUNAVUT
We bid farewell to our crew and disembark the
ship by zodiac and transfer to the airport for our
flight back to Ottawa.
BONUS OFFER! SAVE USD1000 ON CHARTER FLIGHTS*
20 1300 738 168
NORWAY - SPITSBERGEN ENCOUNTER
• GO DEEPER IN THE PACK ICE TO SEE
WILDLIFE ON THE EDGE
• MORE TIME ABOVE THE ARCTIC CIRCLE
• EXTRA DAYLIGHT EXTRA EXPLORING
• THE VERY BEST PARTS OF SPITSBERGEN
19 JUN - 28 JUN 2018*
29 JUN - 07 JUL 2018
LONGYEARBYEN, NORWAY
(FROM OSLO OR TROMSO)
AKADEMIK SERGEY VAVILOV
The Svalbard archipelago is a remote island chain situated between Norway and the North Pole. Spitsbergen is the largest
and only permanently populated island of the Svalbard archipelago. These wild and remote islands offer a tremendous wildlife
and birdlife experience, as well as a fascinating lesson in glaciology. Our itinerary allows for a thorough exploration of the
western and northern coastline of the island of Spitsbergen. As we voyage up the coastline we make frequent stops at well known
wildlife sites and places of historic interest.
Cruise into the heart of the Norwegian Arctic
11 DAYS
CABIN TYPE PER PERSON
Triple USD 5,695
Twin Semi Private USD 7,195
Twin Private USD 8,195
Superior USD 9,395
Shackleton USD 10,295
One Ocean USD 11,395
DAY 1. LONGYEARBYEN
Arrive in Longyearbyen and transfer to the hotel
for your included pre-cruise accomodation.
DAY 2. ISFJORDEN
Today we embark Longyearbyen and sail out
into Isfjorden during the early evening. With
almost 24 hours of daylight at this time of the
year, we enjoy the views from the outer decks
of the ship as we depart. We meet our fellow
passengers and the expedition team during
an introductory briefing and enjoy a welcome
dinner as we set sail.
DAY 3. BOURBONHAMNA
Beluga whales are frequently seen as they
transit the narrow sound near Bourbonhamna. It
is estimated there are approximately five to ten
thousand belugas in the Svalbard population.
On our shore excursion, an old hunting cabin
and other artifacts are points of interest. We
will also hope to catch a glimpse of dozens of
reindeer that inhabit the area.
DAY 4. LILLIEHOOK GLACIER
The Lilliehook Glacier is an incredible sight.
The face stretches almost seven kilometers
across and has a height of around 80-meters.
Viewed from the ship or on a zodiac cruise you
come to appreciate the enormous scale of our
surroundings. The area is home to numerous
bird colonies and a variety of different species.
As we cruise the dark waters, we are always on
the lookout for bearded and ringed seals, both
species known to frequent this fjord.
DAY 5. MONACO GLACIER
No trip along the north coast of Spitsbergen
would be complete without a visit to Monaco
Glacier. A wide glacier face at the head of
the fjord makes for spectacular kayaking and
zodiac cruising. The coastal plain near the
mouth of Liefdefjorden offers superb hiking and
is often a great place to spot polar bears that
come here to hunt for ringed seals or feed on
birds’ eggs.
DAY 6. PHIPPSOYA
At 81° north latitude, Phippsoya is just 540
nautical miles from the North Pole. The high ice
classification of our ship allows us to approach
the edge of the pack ice in safety and comfort.
Because of its proximity to the permanent Arctic
ice pack, Phippsoya offers the potential for
great polar bear viewing. In recent seasons we
have enjoyed excellent encounters with polar
bears in this vicinity.
DAYS 7 – 8. HINLOPEN STRAIT
We enter the main channel separating
Svalbard’s two main islands. In Hinlopen
Strait, the bird cliffs at Alkefjellet are nearby
PRICES ARE PER PERSON SHARING THE CABIN
OR SUITE. SEE PAGE 39 FOR TERMS AND
CONDITIONS. Sea kayaking is USD695.
BONUS OFFER! FREE RETURN FLIGHTS FROM OSLO OR TROMSO. SAVE $1000
FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 21
Murchison Fjord is a wonderful place to kayak
or zodiac cruise between the islands. There are
some excellent hiking routes here, affording us
breathtaking views.
DAY 9. FUGLESANGENOYA
Fuglesangenoya is home to a large dovekie
colony. Nearby is the old whaling station of
Smeerenburg, literally translated as ‘Blubber
Town’. As we hike the shoreline of the old
station, we learn about the importance of
whaling in the discovery and exploration of
the Svalbard archipelago. The blubber ovens
stand as a reminder to this harsh industry in an
equally harsh environment.
DAY 10. PRINCE CHARLES ISLAND
We visit the walrus colony on Prince Charles
Island and hope to see these odd looking
animals ashore. It is an incredible sight.
Approaching from downwind can often confirm
that walrus are ashore - the smell of a walrus
haul out is quite ‘unique’! Tonight we celebrate
our journey with a special dinner attended by
the ship’s Captain.
DAY 11. RETURN TO LONGYEARBYEN
Arriving back into Longyearbyen this morning,
our journey comes to an end. A transfer into
town is provided for those choosing to stay a
few days, or to the airport for those departing.
READY TO START YOUR JOURNEY?
CALL US NOW ON 1300 738 168
“I lost count of the glaciers. There seemed to be one every half hour.”
J. THURECHT
Sydney, Australia
ARCTIC TRAVELLER, 2012 AND 2014
This special departure visits all the key
sites in west and north Svalbard. An extra
highlight will be the special photography
symposium open to all guests, no matter
what your experience or skill level. This runs in
addition to the regular series of presentations
on history, ornithology, geology, wildlife,
exploration and the natural world.
The members of our expert photographic
team each have a specialist area including
wildlife photography, landscape and
composition, macro and so on. We make
regular use of our ship-board multi-media
studio for breakout sessions and to review
and critique our images throughout the
voyage. Our photographic goals on this
departure will be formed and led by the light
available both onshore and on the water. This
voyage has wide appeal no matter what your
interests. For the photography buffs, this trip
is not to be missed!
Prices are the same for this trip.
PHOTOGRAPHY SYMPOSIUM
19 JUNE - 28 JUNE 2018
A prolonged sunset and sunrise all
at once, the midnight sun colours
the sky and earth in a reddish
yellow light. The sun shines in
Svalbard April-August providing
amazing light and a 24/7 never
ending scenic feast.
MIDNIGHT SUN
Phippsoya is the most northerly
island of the Svalbard archipelago,
It is a wildlife hub, being a favoure
hunting ground for polar bears,
and a great place for seeing
walrus.
PHIPPSOYA
22 1300 738 168
CABIN DESCRIPTIONS
TRIPLE SHARE. Opening portholes, bunk beds and a sofa bed, washbasin with cold/hot water, writing desk/chair, clock radio with IPod
connection, ample storage space. Bathrobes, toilet/shower down the hall.
TWIN SEMI-PRIVATE. Opening window, two single beds, writing desk/chair, clock radio with IPod connection, ample storage, bathroom
shared with cabin next door, toiletry kit, hairdryer, coffee/tea maker and bathrobes.
TWIN PRIVATE. Opening window, two single beds, private bathroom, writing desk/chair, clock radio with IPod connection, ample storage,
private toilet and shower, toiletry kit, hairdryer, coffee/tea maker and bathrobes.
SUPERIOR. Opening window, two single beds,
sofa, writing desk/chair, clock radio with IPod
connection, ample storage, private toilet &
shower, toiletry kit, hairdryer, coffee/tea maker
and bathrobes, upgraded bedding.
SHACKLETON SUITE. Opening windows,one
double bed in a separate sleeping room, sofa
bed, writing desk/chair, IPad loaded with polar
literature and various media, IPod Dock Alarm
Clock, upgraded bed linen/duvets, private
bathroom with bath and shower over bath,
stereo system with connection for Ipod, mini
bar/ice bucket, hairdryer, coffee/tea maker,
toiletry kit, vanity kit, organic cotton luxury
bathrobes, arrival gift basket, binoculars and
wildlife reference book for use during cruise.
ONE OCEAN SUITE. Opening windows
overlooking the bow, one double bed in a
separate sleeping room, sofa bed, writing
desk/chair, IPad loaded with polar literature
and access to various media, IPod Dock Alarm
Clock, IPod Speaker System, private bathroom
with bath and shower over bath upgraded bed
linen/duvets, stereo system with connection
for Ipod, mini bar/ice bucket, hairdryer, coffee/
tea maker, toiletry kit, vanity kit, organic cotton
luxury bathrobes, arrival gift basket, binoculars
and wildlife reference book for use during the
expedition cruise.
DECK PLANS AND CABIN DESCRIPTIONS
AKADEMIK SERGEY VAVILOV
FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 23
1300 738
SHACKLETON SUITE (LOUNGE) TWIN PRIVATE CABIN SEMI PRIVATE CABIN
AKADEMIK IOFFE
24 1300 738 168
A vast and varied country, Canada is a feast for all travellers, and given its history of exploration, it really is no surprise.
You can discover hidden corners even amongst the postcard favourites. Travel a bit futher and seek out more remote
and rewarding experiences with a heavy focus on nature. This is our preference, and the substantial focus of our
Canada menu.
We have sought out adventures by destination, not actitvity, so all our travellers can be immersed in awe-inspiring
natural wonders in the country’s boundless wilderness. Be mesmerised as the aurora borealis (Northern Lights)
dances across the sky. Watch in awe as polar bears prowl the ice flows in The High Arctic or along the shores near
Churchill. And seek out Grizzly, black and Spirit bears in the forests of Western Canada.
Canada is authentic and natural. Where first time visitors will vow to return and seasoned travellers will never run out of
new experiences. Exciting, unique and amazing memories are waiting to be made, you just need to go and find them.
EASTERN CANADA
Ontario and Quebec, the largest provinces, offer visitors impressive wilderness, history and culture. Ontario
is bursting with museums and galleries, and plenty of places to escape the crowds in the towering forests
and sparkling lakes. Quebec is a unique destination with a culture and heritage all its own, the province
offers many special destinations to explore including Quebec City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
ATLANTIC CANADA
Atlantic Canada, made up of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and
Labrador; is a melting pot of cultures, heritage and history. The region is home to the world’s largest tides in
the Bay of Fundy, the World Heritage Lunenburg, and the Cabot Trail. Fresh and plentiful seafood, stunning
beaches and coastal drives will bring you here, but the friendly people and ambience will bring you back.
And who doesn’t want to see where Anne of Green Gables grew up?
NORTHERN CANADA
Untamed, unspoiled and undiscovered. Canada’s North, is our favourite. The Northwest Territories and
Nunavut offer unique experiences in magnificent wilderness surroundings. Renowned for the spectacular
Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights), and the wild, remote, and somehow romantic vastness of the High Arctic.
Time your visit in August and you can combine both.
WESTERN CANADA
Comprising of British Columbia and Alberta, Western Canada features the most dramatic landscape changes
in the country. Its well-known jewels, from Victoria and Vancouver, to the majestic Rocky Mountains and plains
of Alberta, delight visitors every year, but make sure you seek out some of the lesser-known gems: including
the natural paradise of the forests and waters. Western Canada is a year round destination with the green
mountains so perfect for exploring in Spring/Summer turning into some of the best powder in the world in
winter.
CENTRAL CANADA
Explore the Prairie provinces of Saskatchewan and Manitoba, with over 100,000 lakes and rivers,
boreal forests and arctic tundra. The ‘Bread Basket of Canada’ is home to one of North America’s
largest dark sky preserves for stargazing, and Churchill – the polar bear capital of the world. Enjoy
the abundant outdoor adventure opportunities including hiking, fishing, canoeing, kayaking and
exceptional wildlife viewing.
THE FORWARD CANADA GUIDE
FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 25
GATEWAYS TO CANADA
VICTORIA 			 VANCOUVER&WHISTLER
∙	 3 NIGHTS WATERFRONT HOTEL.
∙	 RETURN TRANSFERS AND ENTRY TO
THE ICONIC BUTCHART GARDENS
∙	 WHALE WATCHING CRUISE
4 DAYS
Vancouver is the gateway for most Australians to Canada. Ranked one of the most liveable cities in the world,
it offers you an endless array of activities and attractions. Victoria, located on Vancouver Island mixes heritage
architecture and colourful gardens with the wild beauty of the Pacific. The charming alpine resort of Whistler, beautifully
nestled between Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains offers fantastic dining and a huge range of outdoor activities.
DAY 1 ARRIVE VANCOUVER
Check in to the Fairmont Vancouver. The rest
of the day is at leisure.
DAY 2 VANCOUVER CITY TOUR
This morning, see the sights of Vancouver
on your guided tour, including Stanley Park,
Totem Poles, historic Gastown, and admission
to The Lookout Tower. The afternoon is at
leisure.
DAY 3 VANCOUVER TO WHISTLER
Morning coach tour is along the scenic Sea
to Sky Highway to Whistler. Enjoy panoramic
vistas along the way with a stop at Shannon
Falls. Enjoy a village tour in Whistler before
arriving at the Fairmont Whistler.
DAY 4 WHISTLER TO VANCOUVER
Explore Whistler and return to Vancouver at
your convenience on the open coach ticket.
Or be extravagant and take the float plane
over the mounatins to Vancouver!
∙ 2 NIGHTS FAIRMONT VANCOUVER
∙ 1 NIGHT FAIRMONT WHISTLER
∙ 2 GUIDED SIGHTSEEING TOURS
∙ COACH TOUR TO WHISTLER
2018 SEASON
FROM TWIN
VICTORIA MAY - SEP $950
VANCOUVER MAY - SEP $1,280
[PER PERSON, TWIN SHARE]
Two tasty entrees to your Canadian adventure
DO AS THE LOCALS DO AND TAKE A
FLOAT PLANE FROM VICTORIA OR
WHISTLER TO VANCOUVER FROM
JUST $180 PER PERSON EXTRA.
DAY 1 ARRIVE VICTORIA.
Check in to the waterfront Inn at Laurel Point.
This afternoon explore the incredibly pretty and
easy city on foot.
DAY 2. BUTCHART GARDENS.
This morning visit the renown Butchart Gardens
with plenty of time to enjoy these famous
gardens. The afternoon and evening is yours to
spend at your leisure.
DAY 3. WHALE WATCHING CRUISE
Take the morning to explore the superb
museum or feast along the foodie mecca of
Fort Street. In the afternoon take to the rich
waters of Victoria in search of killer whales.
DAY 4 VICTORIA TO VANCOUVER
Leave Victoria this morning to continue your
travels. Ample flights to destinations all over
Canada, including from the airport in Victoria
Harbour. You could even take a sea-plane to
Whistler to start a Rockies Adventure.
26 1300 738 168
THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS
8 DAYS
Where nature has the freedom and space to soar and shine
• 7 NTS TWIN SHARE ACCOMMODATION
• 8 DAYS FULL SIZE CAR HIRE
• SEA TO SKY, WHISTLER AND BANFF
GONDOLAS
• HAT CREEK, BANFF HOT SPRINGS
• ICE EXPLORER, ATHABASCA GLACIER
2018 SEASON
FROM SUPERIOR FAIRMONT
MAY / OCT $1,995 $2,598
JUN - SEP $2,125 $6,282
[PER PERSON, TWIN SHARE]
DAY 1 VANCOUVER TO WHISTLER
Pick up your car and drive along the Sea-to-Sky
Highway stopping at beautiful Shannon Falls
and ‘Sea to Sky’ cable car, before arriving in
Whistler this afternoon. The charming alpine
resort, nestled in the mountains offers a huge
range of outdoor activities.
DAY 2 WHISTLER AND PEAK TO PEAK GONDOLA
Ride the gondola, taking in the unbelievable
views of glaciers, extinct volcanoes and snow-
capped peaks. Enjoy the village or go exploring.
DAY 3 WHISTLER TO SUN PEAKS
Take the spectacular drive is along the gold rush
trail to historic Hat Creek Ranch, and then a
short drive to the stunning resort of Sun Peaks.
DAY 4 SUN PEAKS TO JASPER
Drive through rolling plateaus to see snowy
peaks and expansive glaciers, stopping along
the way at secnis places for photo stops. Late
afternoon arrive in Jasper.
Experience the best of western Canada on this popular journey through the alpine resorts of Whistler & Sun Peaks
to the spectacular Canadian Rockies and alpine villages of Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper. This one way itinerary is
ideal for those who want to experience western Canada at a leisurely pace.
DAY 5. JASPER EXPLORING
Explore the beautiful village and sights. Visit
Maligne Lake, one of the most photographed
lakes in the world; take your own version of the
world famous photograph of the lake.
DAY 6. JASPER TO BANFF
Drive the Icefields Parkway, one of the world’s
most scenic drives, with a never-ending
procession of mountains, glaciers and lakes.
Take a walk on the glacier before stopping at
Lake Louise to rest and admire the views. Walk
to the falls at Johnston Canyon and continue
onto Banff.
DAY 7 EXPLORE BANFF. UPPER HOT SPRINGS
Be inspired by the panoramic view from the
gondola. Set out to explore, saving time to soak
in the pools at the Upper Hot Springs, as well
as wander the vibrant village centre.
DAY 8 BANFF TO CALGARY.
It is an easy drive to Calgary to return your car.
THE BEST OF WESTERN CANADA - SELF DRIVE
THE FAMOUS FAIRMONTS - A CANADIAN ICON
Synonymous in Canada with luxury, these
extraordinary hotels offer unique architecture
and magnificent features in the most pristine
and breathtaking areas. You can stay in
them all over the country or we can help you
choose one or two to add the ‘icing on the
cake’.
FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 27
COACH TOURING - LET SOMEONE ELSE DRIVE
Just sit back, relax and immerse yourself in the
history and culture of Canada while someone
else leads the way. Flexible, tailored coach
touring itineraries let you travel at your own pace
and see precisely what you want to experience.
Excellent and enthusiastic driver guides make
sure you don’t miss a thing. Ask us for options
CANADIAN ROCKIES COACH & RAIL TOUR
∙	ROCKY MOUNTAINEER TRAIN JOURNEY
∙	ICEFIELD PARKWAY
∙	EVENING WILDLIFE TOUR IN JASPER
∙	BANFF GONDOLA RIDE
∙	ICE EXPLORER RIDE ON THE ATHABASCA
GLACIER
∙	GLACIER SKYWALK
APRIL TO OCTOBER 2018
25 APR - 21
OCT 2018
SUPERIOR FAIRMONT
TWIN $2,625 $3,224
SINGLE $3,435 $4,588
FROM PRICE PER PERSON, PRICES SHOWN ARE
FOR MAY, ASK US FOR OTHER DATES
THIS TRIP OPERATES APRIL – OCTOBER. ASK US
FOR PRICING ON DATES OUTSIDE OF THE ABOVE.
NOTE: THIS ONE WAY TOUR CAN BEGIN IN EITHER
CALGARY OR VANCOUVER.
VANCOUVER DEPARTURES: SUN, TUES, FRI
CALGARY DEPARTURES: SUN, TUES, THUR
*BONUS VALUE CAN BE USED FOR ADDITIONAL
HOTEL NIGHTS, CITY SIGHTSEEING TOURS,
WILDLIFE DISCOVERY TOURS OR PRIVATE
TRANSFERS.
See the best of the Canadian Rockies on this 7 day independent coach & rail tour. Stay in Rocky Mountain resorts of
Banff, Lake Louise & Jasper and travel by train in a sleeper berth on-board VIA Rail train between Vancouver & Jasper.
DAY 1 VANCOUVER TO JASPER (RAIL) (D)
This evening, board VIA Rail’s ‘Canadian’ for the
famous train journey to the majestic Canadian
Rockies. Enjoy complimentary beverages and
canapes in the Dome where you will experience
the true essence of travelling by train as a
panoramic scene sweeps by.
DAY 2 RAIL THROUGH ROCKIES TO JASPER (BL)
By lunch you begin your passage into the
Canadian Rockies with views of snow-capped
peaks, waterfalls and the expansive glaciers of
the Albreda Icefields. Late afternoon arrival in to
Jasper and transfer to your hotel.
DAY 3 JASPER - EVENING WILDLIFE TOUR
Today is free to explore Jasper before departing
this evening for some amazing close-up photo
opportunities of wildlife.
DAY 4 JASPER TO LAKE LOUISE
Travel by coach along the incredibly scenic
Icefields Parkway. Ride the Ice Explorer on
the Athabasca glacier, part of the Columbia
Icefield covering nearly 325 sq km, then stop
at the Glacier Skywalk to walk across the glass
floor 280m over valleys and waterfalls. Many
scenic and hopefully wildlife stops will be made,
including for a picnic lunch. Afterwards you will
arrive at your hotel in stunning Lake Louise.
7 DAYS
Canadian Rockies - 7 day independent coach and rail tour
DAY 5 LAKE LOUISE TO BANFF
Depart Lake Louise mid-morning for a short
drive via the scenic Bow Valley to Banff, arriving
midday. Afternoon at leisure.
DAY 6 BANFF TOURING WITH GONDOLA
Tour the town and its picturesque surroundings.
End the tour with a breathtaking ascent to
the pinnacle of Sulphur Mountain for an awe
inspiring 360-degree panorama of sheer
mountain majesty.
DAY 7 BANFF TO CALGARY
Morning to explore then take the coach to
Calgary, leaving the Rockies and entering the
Great Central Plains that roll to the east for
2000km and extend as far south as Mexico.
Afternoon drop-off at Calgary airport or
downtown hotels.
BOOK BY 30 SEP 2017, RECEIVE UP TO $350 PER COUPLE BONUS VALUE*
28 1300 738 168
GRIZZLY BEARS IN CANADA 5 DAYS
∙	 FLOATING RAINFOREST LODGE
∙	 TWICE DAILY BEAR VIEWING TRIPS
∙	 BREATHTAKING SCENERY
∙	 GOURMET MEALS
2018 SEASON
PRICES FROM TWIN SINGLE
07 MAY - 30 JUN $3,443 $4,328
03 JUL - 19 AUG $3,025 $3,778
20 AUG - 16 OCT $4,867 $7,638
PRICES PER PERSON TWIN SHARE
Enjoy spectacular Grizzly Bear viewing while staying in a remote floating
lodge in the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest. This small ecotourism lodge, nestled
at the mouth of a pristine salmon river has exclusive access to the surrounding forest,
guaranteeing a personalised wilderness adventure.
DAY 1 VANCOUVER TO PORT HARDY / GREAT
BEAR NATURE LODGE
Late this morning depart from Vancouver
International Airport (South Terminal) for 70
minute flight to Port Hardy. Upon arrival transfer
(included) to the town Port Hardy for lunch
(own cost) and to explore the town, Mid-
afternoon your will be transferred to the float
plane base for your scenic flight over the Queen
Charlotte Strait to the floating lodge. After a brief
introduction to the lodge you will go out on your
first Grizzly Bear excursion.
DAY 2 GREAT BEAR NATURE LODGE
In the morning, you will be on the trail of the
grizzly bear again after some good coffee and
breakfast. A typical viewing session lasts three
hours. After a morning of adventure, you will
return to the lodge for lunch and a chance to
relax. Spend the early afternoon exploring the
surrounding area with a guide. A popular activity
is the interpretive rainforest walk, examining
bear sign and the general ecology of the area.
In mid-afternoon you will venture out to see the
bears before returning to the lodge for dinner.
On clear nights, the stars are amazing.
DAY 3 GREAT BEAR NATURE LODGE
As your stay at the lodge continues, you begin
to settle into the natural rhythm of the valley.
The bears are generally most active in the early
morning and late afternoon hours, which is why
the lodge focuses their viewing sessions on
these times. Over the course of your stay you
will be taken to a variety of sites, depending on
the bear activity. For the afternoon recreation
today you may take a guided sea-kayaking
tour of the estuary, or a boat cruise to explore
the glacier-carved inlet. Or you may prefer to
relax and enjoy the view from the lodge. The
Great Bear Rainforest is home to many animals,
including grey wolves, otters, black bears, mink
and bald eagles.
DAY 4 GREAT BEAR NATURE LODGE TO PORT
HARDY After your parting session with the
bears you will enjoy lunch at the Great Bear
Lodge. You will be returned to Port Hardy in
the afternoon between 4PM and 6PM. Due to
unpredictable weather conditions for flights
around the lodge and Port Hardy you have a
nights accommodation included in Port Hardy.
DAY 5 PORT HARDY TO VANCOUVER TRANSFER
(not included) Mid-morning to Port Hardy airport
for your return flight to Vancouver International
Airport (South Terminal).
SEP-OCT BEAR WATCHING
The salmon arrive in significant numbers
sometime in late Aug, with their run peaking in
Sep and Oct. During the salmon run we see
the largest number of bears for the year. The
salmon run also attracts a great number of
bald eagles, gulls, ravens, and other fish eating
birds. This is the best season for seeing cubs.
The salmon run continues into Dec, however
many bears begin to move towards hibernation
by the end of Oct.
MAY-JUN BEAR WATCHING
Spring on the estuary is a beautiful time of the
year. The mountaintops are still snow covered
and the valley bottoms are cloaked in the fresh
green of spring. The valley bustles with animal
activity as they all take advantage of the season
of growth and renewal. The bears are feeding
on the sedges and other plants of the estuarine
grasslands. It is also the mating season for the
bears, which often occurs near the estuary.
JUL-AUG BEAR WATCHING
During summer some bears are still feeding in
the estuary as well as the vegetation along the
lower river. They are also feeding heavily on
berries and skunk cabbage at this time. These
plants are common and widely distributed so
we tend to have to look farther afield to find
bears, which are no longer concentrated near
the rich estuary. Additionally, the total numbers
of individual bears seen is lower. During
summer we continue to use mostly boats for
our bear watching excursions.
SEAPLANE FLIGHT TO THE LODGE
Flying to the lodge is a spectacular journey. The
area is one of the few complete ecosystems
remaining on the planet. Stretching over 8
million acres, it’s twice the size of Africa’s
Serengeti. It is an unforgettable way to start
your bear watching tour in Canada.
Number 3 on International Traveller’s Top 100 things to do in Canada.
National Geographic said, “theGreat Bear Lodge is a remarkableplace, Not only do you get to seereal life grizzlies, you get to see aside of nature that you’ve neverexperienced before.”
LOCATION
FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 29
POLAR BEARS IN CHURCHILL CANADA
Churchill is the Polar Bear Capital of the World. Every October-November hundreds of polars bears wait on the nearby
coast for the sea ice to form and their winter hunting grounds to open. We have chosen two options for you to be part of this
unique experience. Stay in town OR stay on the tundra for round the clock wildlife viewing & possibly the magical northern lights.
Don’t just dream of sleeping under a dancing sky and waking up with a polar bear at your window - Do it!
DAY 1. WINNIPEG
Arrive in Winnipeg. Check in to your hotel.
The rest of the day is at your leisure to explore
Winnipeg and its surrounding areas.
DAY 2. CHURCHILL - POLAR BEAR VIEWING
This morning, take an early morning flight
from Winnipeg to Churchill. Spend the day in
a Tundra Buggy® with knowledgeable guide
viewing polar bears and other Arctic wildlife.
After the tour you will be transferred to the town
of Churchill. Overnight in a Churchill hotel.
5/6 DAYS
See the majestic polar bears up close in their natural habitat
DAY 3. POLAR BEAR VIEWING - WINNIPEG
Spend another day in a Tundra Buggy® with
knowledgeable guide viewing polar bears
and other Arctic wildlife. This evening fly back
to Winnipeg. Overnight in a Winnipeg airport
hotel..
DAY 4. DEPART WINNIPEG
Your journey ends after breakfast
More time bear watching - enjoy the
unique lodge with evening presentations from
polar bear researchers and scientists. On clear
nights, the magical dance of the Northern Lights
may be seen from the Lodge’s outdoor decks.
DAY 1. WINNIPEG
Arrive in Winnipeg. Check in to your hotel.
DAY 2. CHURCHILL - POLAR BEARS (B,D)
Take a morning flight to Churchill with time to
explore town before transferring to the Tundra
Buggy to begin your polar bear adventure.
Meander slowly along the tundra to view,
photograph, and learn about polar bears from
your expert guide. Arrive at the lodge in time
for dinner and socialising and northern lights
viewing. Go to sleep eager to wake up to see
the view from your bedside window.
DAY 3. POLAR BEARS (B,L,D)
Spend the day on the tundra in search of
wildlife. Return to the Tundra Buggy Lodge for a
delicious home cooked meal this evening.
DAY 4. CHURCHILL - WINNIPEG (B)
Depart the lodge on a final Tundra Buggy
expedition, taking your time on the open
landscape for wildlife viewing. Transfer to the
airport for an evening flight back to Winnipeg for
a final night.
DAY 5. WINNIPEG DEPART (B)
Your journey ends after breakfast.
∙	 FULL DAY POLAR BEAR VIEWING
∙	 EXPLORE THE CULTURE OF CHURCHILL
∙	 CHARACTER OF LOCAL HOTELS
∙   RETURN FLIGHTS FROM WINNIPEG
OCTOBER 14 - 30, 2018
FROM TWIN SINGLE
4 DAYS $3,396 $3,832
∙  MORE TIME POLAR BEAR VIEWING
∙  NORTHERN LIGHTS FROM THE TUNDRA
∙  2 NIGHT TUNDRA  LODGE STAY
∙  RETURN FLIGHTS FROM WINNIPEG
OCTOBER 14-28, 2018
FROM TWIN SINGLE
5 DAYS $4,889 $5,159
PER PERSON, TWIN SHARE
TOWNANDTUNDRA-STAY INCHURCHILL 5/6 DAYS
TUNDRABUGGYLODGE - STAY ONTHE TUNDRA 5 DAYS
PER PERSON, TWIN SHARE
30 1300 738 168
THE AURORA BOREALIS IN YELLOWKNIFE
Gaze in wonder as the sky comes alive. A phenomenal experience.
This is my guide to Aurora viewing in
Yellowknife, with help of locals who will be
doing their best to ensure you see them too.
WHEN IS THE THE AURORA SEASON?
It runs from August-April, when there is
darkness. During May-July it is just too bright to
see them. In keeping with the Arctic season, we
are foucussing on August-September.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO SEE THEM?
Mid-August to the end of September and from
mid-November to mid-April are the best aurora
viewing seasons in Yellowknife.
WHAT TIME DO THEY APPEAR?
Whenever the skies are dark. The peak hours
are between 11pm and 2am. In Aug-Sep you
can expect vewing to start from 9:30pm to catch
sunset and last till 3:30am.
WHAT IF IT’S CLOUDY?
Clouds literally bring the curtain down on the
show, but quick cloud movement means you
still have a good chance of some clear skies
during the evenings. Having at least the three
nights gives you a good chance for clear skies.
WHAT DO I NEED TO PHOTOGRAPH THE AURORA?
A good SLR with a wide aperture is best, and a
tripod for stability as you will need a 2-5 second
exposure to capture the colours.
WILL I SEE STARS AS WELL?
Oh Yes! you will see millions of stars, satellites,
and the whole Milky Way. It’s quite mind blowing
(if the skies are clear). The aurora shines
beneath the stars, and the viewing areas are
away from town, so you will have a wonderful
star show as well as aurora viewing.
WHAT’S THE WEATHER LIKE?
AUGUST. Late evening sunsets will lead right into
aurora chasing hours which can present you
with spectacular photography opportunities.
The daytime temperatures reach low 20°C, and
the nights are beginning to dip below 0°C (that’s
still considered warm in Yellowknife). More
importantly, the skies are often clear.
SEPTEMBER. It’s the autumn equinox month,
and common to see heightened aurora activity
from September into October. The good
conditions from August carry on, although
there will be nights where chasing clear skies is
required. Temperatures begin cooling off in the
evening, but are still not extreme.
WHAT WILL I ACTUALLY SEE?
As humans we are so eager to process informa-
tion that our eyes and brain don’t allow time
to let the colours develop, so we see greens,
yellows, and maybe a tinge of pink. Cameras
take it slower to let the depth develop. All these
photos were taken with 2-5 second exposures.
HOW DO WE SEE THE AURORA?
The key thing is to get away from any light
pollution. Some companies have viewing
areas in remote locations, and others will
drive around the area chasing clear skies.
These are some samples of the aurora
viewing tours available. We will discuss
them with you to make sure you choose
the one most suitable for your needs.
AURORA VILLAGE:
Relax and take in nature’s most spectacular
show in comfort at aurora village. You can
stay warm in your teepee with a wood fire
stove and hot beverages while you wait for the
aurora to arrive.
INGRAHAM TRAIL CABIN:
A clear dark sky and high solar activity can
provide an evening light show that is worth
staying up into the wee hours for. Enjoy
the warmth of a crackling wood stove, hot
beverages and snacks at a remote cabin on
the Ingraham Trail.
AURORA CHASING:
Take to the open road and litrerally chase the
sky looking for the aurora. This option gives
you the maximum chance to see the lights as
you are not restricted to one location.
Watching the Aurora dance above me in Yellowknife was a phenomenal, almost fairytale like, experience that I will
never forget. It was so much more intense and dramatic than I expected, that I simply didn’t want to leave.
Four of our Arctic expeditions coincide with excellent Aurora viewing in Yellowknife and I encourage everyone booking on
those trips to add an Aurora package to your holiday, as it is only a 2hr flight from Edmonton, where several Arctic trips start
and end. As with all nature experiences, nothing is nothing guaranteed so our packages are 3 nights, giving you a great chance
to see the Aurora, but if you have extra time, you should add another night or 2, as it’s a long way to go back too.
FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 31
∙ 	3 NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION
∙ 	3 NIGHTS AURORA VIEWING TOURS
∙ 	TOUR TO FALLS WITH PICNIC LUNCH
∙ 	PHOTOS OF YOUR AURORA VIEWING
MID AUGUST - APRIL 2018
YELLOWKNIFE
PRICE PERSON FROM $1,270 TWIN
$1,670 SINGLE. TRAVELLER
AURORAAWAKENING 4 DAYS
DAY 1. ARRIVE IN YELLOWKNIFE - AURORA
Upon arrival in Yellowknife, grab a taxi to
your chosen accommodation. This afternoon
set out to explore the town. Definitely call into
the visitor centre, and adjacent museum to get
a great overview of the town (pop’n 20,000),
officially settled 82 years ago, but inhabited
by Dene for thousands of years. Depart this
evening for your first Aurora viewing.
DAY 2. CAMERON FALLS - AURORA (B)
After a well-deserved sleep in, take a scenic
tour out to Cameron Falls. Heading out of town
you’ll visit the Giant Mine and the Yellowknife
River to hear the River Legend, a Dene story
dating to a time when it's said giants roamed
the landscape. Travel along the picturesque
Igraham trail to the trailhead and hike just over
1km to see Cameron Falls, followed by a picnic
lunch. Those feeling energetic could extend the
tour with an excursion to the ramparts, another
8 km past the falls. In August and September as
Fall arrives the changing colours of the foilage
are a fantastic sight. This evening depart again
for more Aurora viewing.
DAY 3. YOUR CHOICE TODAY AND AURORA. (B)
There’s plenty to do in town, from meeting local
artisans, walking trails and excellent cafes.
Make sure you take a walk around the historic
Old Town with its great shopping and food. This
evening embark on your final Aurora viewing.
DAY 4. DEPART YELLOWKNIFE. (B)
Transfer to the airport for onward travel, or
maybe add another day.
DO YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS? Call Rose now on 1300 738 168 or email rose@forwardtravel.com.au
32 1300 738 168
EASTERN CANADA EXPEDITION CRUISING
∙	 REMOTE SABLE ISLAND
∙	 ABUNDANCE OF WILDLIFE
∙	 GROS MORNE WORLD HERITAGE AREA
∙	 FORTRESS OF LOUISBOURG
27 JUN - 04 JUL 2018* GOLFING EXPEDITION
04 - 14 JUL 2018
14 - 23 JUL 2018
LOUISBOURG / LOUISBOURG
AKADEMIK IOFFE
This expedition cruise takes travellers to islands and remote parts of Canada’s Atlantic coast. Eastern Canada is famous for
a rich and diverse culture, found in small fishing communities and remote ports. The region also offers a staggering abundance
of wildlife, including prolific birdlife, numerous seal and whale species and we even encounter the fabled wild horses of Sable
Island. Beaches and lagoons provide viewing opportunities for numerous shorebirds. On the cruise we hope to see the great
baleen whales such as the humpback, minke and blue whale, as well as grey and harp seals.
DAY 01. LOUISBOURG, CAPE BRETON ISLAND, NS
Our adventure begins in the historic port town of
Louisbourg, Nova Scotia, where we board our
expedition vessel. We enjoy a dinner of fresh,
local lobster and sail into the North Atlantic.
DAY 03. SABLE ISLAND NATIONAL PARK RESERVE
On the edge of the Grand Banks, hundreds of
kms from the coast, Sable Island is a graveyard
of ships, with more than 350 ships falling victim
to the treacherous currents and sandbars.
DAY 04. BIRD ISLAND AND ENGLISHTOWN
Return to Cape Breton to encounter Atlantic
puffins and razorbills on Bird Island where we
explore by zodiac. The seaside community of
Englishtown is also a fascinating location.
DAY 05. CHARLOTTETOWN, PRINCE EDWARD IS
Today, we anchor off historic Prince Edward
Island near the town of North Rustico. From here
we can split off in several directions. There is the
chance to visit to Green Gables,and see where
Anne, Gilbert, Marilla and Matthew lived. or
maybe spend a few hours at the island’s famous
Cavendish beach with a mandatory sampling of
Cows Ice Cream.
DAY 06. LES ILES-DE-LA-MADELEINE
Sculpted out of sandstone, these islands in
the Gulf of St. Lawrence are home to unique
fishing communities with beautiful waterfront
houses and boats, flowing grassy meadows and
sandstone shorelines sculpted by the elements
.
DAY 07. ISLE BONAVENTURE (BONAVENTURE
ISLAND) AND THE GASPÉ PENINSULA
At Bonaventure Island we drop the anchor near
the town of Percé and explore the island by
zodiac. This location has a rich. Sculpted over
time by the sea, the island is situated at the tip of
the Gaspé Peninsula. The outstanding flora and
fauna, including its famous colony of Northern
Gannets, make this location a highlight.
DAY 08. ANTICOSTI ISLAND
At the mouth of the St. Lawrence River where the
river water mixes with Arctic waters from the Strait
of Belle Isle and the more temperate Atlantic
waters, Anticosti Island is rich in marine wildlife.
We plan to hike along the beaches near the
eastern end of the island followed by a zodiac
cruise along the cliffs at East Point.
12 DAYS
CABIN TYPE PER PERSON
Triple USD 3,395
Twin Semi Private USD 4,395
Twin Private USD 5,695
Superior USD 6,395
Shackleton USD 7,795
One Ocean USD 9,395
Experience Canada’s East coast on this superb voyage
PRICES ARE PER PERSON SHARING THE CABIN
OR SUITE. SEE PAGE 39 FOR TERMS AND
CONDITIONS.
FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 33
DAY 09. GROS MORNE NATIONAL PARK AND
WOODY POINT, NEWFOUNDLAND
Sailing into majestic Bonne Bay, in the heart
of Gros Morne National Park, the cliffs soar up
out of the water and are covered in a green
blanket of tuckamore forest – windswept spruce
sculpted by the ocean breeze. At Woody Point
we are welcomed ashore by a delegation from
the community before hiking up to the excellent
interpretation centre. From there, various guided
walks take us into the World Heritage-listed
Tablelands and to the lookout for a view over
much of the park – a spectacular experience!
DAY 10. FRANCOIS
The community of Francois on the south coast
of Newfoundland - was settled in the late 1700s.
Small boat fishers harvested a variety of species
during the summer fishing season. Francois’s
rich fishing heritage also included operation of
a whale factory in the late 19th and early 20th
centuries. This is a spectacular location and for
many, a highlight of the trip.
DAY 11. SAINT-PIERRE ET MIQUELON, FRANCE
Saint-Pierre et Miquelon are a small group
of islands situated off the south coast of
Newfoundland. They were first settled by the
French in the early 17th century and today, the
islands represent the sole remaining vestige
of France’s once vast North American empire.
Walking down the streets feels like taking a stroll
through a provincial French town. As a part of
France, the area has much in common with
Europe, but also with its Canadian and American
neighbors. There’s an excellent puffin colony
here. Tonight we enjoy a special dinner attended
by the Captain to mark the end of our voyage
through Canada’s spectacular Atlantic provinces
.
DAY 12. LOUISBOURG
We sail back to Cape Breton across the mouth
of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, heading again for the
historic port of Louisbourg. We will disembark
in the morning and, while some of us will head
to the airport, many will add a few extra days
in Cape Breton to enjoy one of the gems of
Canada’s East Coast.
Canada’s east coast Maritime provinces
are home to some of the finest golf courses
in North America. Golfers from around the
world are drawn by the superb challenges
offered and the magnificent coastal settings.
Add the rich culture and history found in
Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and you
have all the hallmarks of a great vacation.
On this new voyage – a world first in
expedition cruising – we skilfully blend a
unique cruise experience, full of wildlife
encounters, visits to colourful fishing
villages plus exciting off-ship excursions,
while providing easy access to several
of Canada’s most spectacular golfing
locations. While our golfers are off to the first
tee, all non-golfers will be enjoying a terrific
range of activities, such as cruising in the
zodiacs, hikes on shore, wildlife observation,
cycle touring and even stand up paddle
boarding – all in the company of our expert
team of guides.
ASK US FOR THE COMPLETE ITINERARY
This journey has been recognised as a
once in a liftetime travel experience only
found in Canada
READY TO START YOUR JOURNEY?
CALL US NOW ON 1300 738 168
SPECIAL GOLFING DEPARTURE
EAST COAST GOLFING:
FINS, FIDDLES AND STICKS
7 DAYS
27 JUN -04 JULY
LOUISBOURG - LOUISBOURG
PRICES ON PAGE 32
34 1300 738 168
ICELAND - LAND OF FIRE AND ICE
One of the 25 Wonders of the
World, the Blue Lagoon is a manmade spa located in a lava field insouthwestern Iceland. The warm
waters are rich in minerals and arereputed to bring health benefits tothose who bathe in it.
BLUE LAGOON
EAST. Home to the country’s largest
forest, lush farmlands and a range of
small fjords and islands. Fishing villages,
and small seaside communities border
the coast.
HIGHLANDS. For centuries, it
was virtually inaccessible. Now the
untamed mix of rocky deserts, jagged
peaks, volcanoes, ice caps, valleys,
and hot springs is open for ‘cautious’
exploration.
SOUTH.The coastline is renowned for its beauty, fresh seafood, and the popular 300 km Golden Circle
route which loops from Reykjavík into central Iceland and back, through the Geysir geothermal area,
Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall.
WEST. Culture, nature and
history come together in ths vast
area of fjords, valleys, craters,
glaciers and volcanoes. Great
hikes are found around Akranes
and Hvalfjörður and the highest
waterfall in Iceland Glymur.
WESTFJORDS. One of the
best kept secrets. Isolation has
preserved the relatively unspoiled
wilderness. Largely uninhabited,
it is praised as a destination of
excellence, and a must-see for any
serious explorer.
Iceland is where glaciers reach for the skies, deep blue mountain lakes fill steep valleys, sharp green peaks rise on all sides. Hidden
hot springs in secluded valleys far from civilisation will relax and calm you as you take in the spectacular views. You can tour the island
in comfort or go trekking, ice climbing, jeep riding, or jump on an Icelandic horse. With no boundaries on skill levels or experience, our
Iceland journeys let you really experience the island’s beauty nd landscapes.
UNESCO. Þingvellir (Thingvellir) NP
is where the Althing, an open-air
assembly representing the whole
of Iceland, was established in 930.
An ancient viking parliament, it
holds deep historic and symbolic
meaning for the people of Iceland.
PINGVELLIR NP
FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 35
FIRE, ICE & THE BLUE LAGOON
• 3 NIGHTS IN REYKJAVIK 3.5*
• 1 NIGHT IN A LOCAL INN
• GOLDEN TRIANGLE TOUR & DINNER
• HOT SPRINGS, VOLCANO, LAVA CAVES
• ENTRANCE TO BLUE LAGOON
• RETURN AIRPORT TRANSFERS
MAY - SEPTEMBER 2018
FROM TWIN
TWIN $2,889
PER PERSON, SUBJECT TO CHANGE
5 DAYS
DAY 1. ARRIVE REYKJAVIK
Arrive in Reykjavik and take the airport Flybus to
your hotel in the town centre. The rest of the day
is yours to explore this compact city.
DAY 2. EXCURSION TO GULFOSS (B)
Visit the World heritage Þingvellir NP, home of
Iceland’s ancient Viking parliament, then walk
to marvel at the geological phenomenon that
is the Mid-Atlantic ridge. Cross Lyngdalsheiði
along a mountain road to the Great Geysir
at Haukadalur. This was the first geyser ever
described in print and is where the word geyser
comes from. Cascading Gullfoss awaits you
before heading up to Langjökull glacier. From
here the tour heads back to Reykjavik; in
summer you can take the adventurous route
back through the lava fields.
DAY 3. HOT SPRINGS AND GLACIER WALK (B)
Start the day in Hengill geothermal area at the
foot of an old volcano. An easy hike takes us to
the Reykjadalur valley, to bathe in the beautiful
warm stream. Call in at the Seljalandsfoss and
Skógafoss waterfalls. Pass the Eyjafjallajökull
volcano enroute to the wonders of the
Sólheimajökull glacier for an easy walk on the
ice. Stroll by ice sculptures, ridges and deep
crevasses to complete your magnificent day.
DAY 4. RELAXING AT BLUE LAGOON (B)
Use this morning to explore the designer shops
in the Icelandic capital, then transfer to the Blue
Lagoon for a therapeutic afternoon/evening in
the healing waters.
DAY 5. DEPART REYKJAVIK (B)
Transfer to the airport.
This short trip will show you the most
famous sights on the Golden Circle Route.
Explore underground lava caves, ancient
volcanoes and hike on a glacier. As a finale,
you will have a day and night at the Blue
Lagoon to soak in the warm healing waters.
- Summer tour
ICELAND EXPLORER - SELF DRIVE
∙	INDEPENDENT SELF DRIVE HOLIDAY
∙	SPECTACULAR GULFOSS WATERFALLS
∙	ÞINGVELLIR NATIONAL PARK
∙	VATNAJÖKULL GLACIER
∙	GOÐAFOSS - WATERFALL OF THE GODS
∙	BORGARFJÖRÐUR DISTRICT
MAY - SEPTEMBER 2018
PRICES (FROM) TWIN SHARE
1-14 JUN $2,864
15 JUN - 19 AUG $3,245
20 AUG - 30 SEP $2,881
[PER PERSON, TWIN SHARE, SUBJECT TO CHANGE
AND AVAILABILITY]
Experience the “Saga-Island” in the North Atlantic on a circle trip drive around Iceland. You are your own master and
decide stops and highlights. You self-drive with unlimited mileage following the detailed itinerary with all accommodation pre-
arranged in local guesthouses, farm stays and small hotels. Highlights include the Golden Circle region, National parks, dramatic
East Coast scenery and unique local accommodation.
DAY 1. ARRIVAL INTO REYKJAVIK
Transfer from the airport by bus to your hotel
in Reykjavik. A detailed road itinerary with
directions and accomodation will be provided at
check-in for your adventure tomorrow.
DAY 2. THE GOLDEN CIRCLE ROUTE
Pick-up your rental car in the morning and
‘drive’ the Golden Circle Route: erupting
hot springs at Geysir, Gullfoss Waterfall and
Þingvellir National Park. The spectacular
two-tiered Gulfoss Waterfall is Iceland’s most
popular spot. You can join guided tours of the
site and also find short hiking trails to help you
explore Þingvellir National Park.
DAY 3. DRIVE THE SOUTHEAST COAST
After breakfast in the guesthouse, continue
driving along the south coast, noting black lava
fields, waterfalls and glaciers. The southern
coast of Iceland is regularly mentioned as one
of the most beautiful coasts in the world, so be
sure to take your time to enjoy the journey.
Places of interest today include the Skaftafell
National Park, the glacial lagoon Jökulsárlón
and the Vatnajökull glacier.
DAY 4. EAST COAST AND THE FJORDS
A dramatic driving day in a remote and isolated
area. Stop along the way to enjoy views of tall
and often uniquely formed mountains, enroute
8 DAYS
to the East fjords. Quaint fishing villages and
small farms are ideal places to stop for breaks.
DAY 5. LAKE MÝVATN
After breakfast at the guesthouse, head off
to explore the beautiful Lake Mývatn area.
Enjoy plentiful photo opportunities such as the
lava formations at Dimmuborgir, Mt. Hverfjall,
Krafla volcano and the geothermal area east
of Námaskarður. Visit Goðafoss/Godafoss -
Waterfall of the Gods, a great Icelandic waterfall.
DAY 6. AKUREYRI AND THE NORTH OF ICELAND
Places of interest today are varied - you can opt
for Akureyri town, or the farmhouse museum in
Glaumbær, and the old turf church at Víðimýri.
Alternatively, you can visit Vatnsdalshólar,
Kolugljúfur canyon and the Skagafjörður district.
Akureyri is a small town with a vibrant main
street - relax for coffee, enjoy the wonderful art
gallery down by the wharf and be sure to visit
the Botanical gardens.
DAY 7. EXPLORE THE NORTH AND SOUTHWEST
Visit the lovely Borgarfjörður district, climb the
old crater Grábrók or explore Borgarnes, the
site of one of the most popular Icelandic sagas,
Egla. Return your rental car in Reykjavik.
DAY 8. TOUR ENDS
Our tour ends after breakfast in Reykjavik.
- Summer tour
Experience the thrill with Arctic Expeditions
Experience the thrill with Arctic Expeditions
Experience the thrill with Arctic Expeditions
Experience the thrill with Arctic Expeditions
Experience the thrill with Arctic Expeditions

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Experience the thrill with Arctic Expeditions

  • 1. FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 1 2018 CANADA ∙ NORWAY ∙ EXPEDITION CRUISING ∙ NORTHERN LIGHTS ∙ ICELAND THE ARCTIC Journeys to savour Earlybird Offers Save up to USD1,000pp See Page 7 for details Nominated as Australia’s Best Travel Agency
  • 2. 2 1300 738 168 PHOTOS IN THIS BROCHURE We like to keep it real, so we avoid using stock photos, and mainly use photos taken by ourselves and our travellers. Rose took some great photos on her trip to The Arctic in 2016 and you will see many of them featured in this brochure, including our fabulous cover shot, and this image of The Northern Lights in Yellowknife. We include photography tips in your preparation to help you capture the magic. All Arctic expedition cruises have a professional photographer too, to give you tips along the way.
  • 3. FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 3 Journey with us to an incredibly vast and breathtaking place, where a giant sheet of ice links three continents and wildlife freely roams, swims and flies across them. Where for just three months each year the ice retreats, the sun emerges, temperatures rise and this incredible world comes alive, inviting us in. This is the Arctic, poles apart from Antarctica, and equally impressive. It is warmer; there is more wildlife, human settlement dates back thousands of years, and polar bears replace penguins. The soaring peaks of the south are replaced by rolling hills, dramatic cliffs and sprawling tundra. Polar bears are kings on land, revered and feared by all, whilst the seas thrive with fabled creatures. The narwhal, with its unicorn like tusk, walruses, and the white beluga whales, ply the waters year round. In summer, killer whales show their softer side, coming to the shallows for a gentle tummy rub on time rounded pebbles. The wild, remote Canadian Arctic is filled with Inuit settlements and tales of brave exploration by man and mammals. Dazzling scenery stretches to the horizon and the definition of ‘frontier’ needs no words. Greenland’s ‘iceberg factory’ pushes out 20 million tonnes of brilliant white skyscrapers, and soaring cathedrals with crystal spires. The Norwegian Arctic is the most northern, and more compact, luring headline hunting explorers for centuries and seabirds by the million. It is also the realm of the polar bear and takes you to within 100km of the North Pole. In Canada, the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) dances across the sky from August till April, giving you the widest time frame to catch this amazing sight. We really want to help you experience the magic of The Arctic, to be immersed in the vastness, to be astounded by the wildlife, and to be inspired by the human determination to explore and succeed. We hope our brochure will encourage you to start your own Arctic journey and we look Forward to talking about it with you soon. WELCOME TO THE ARCTIC ...it’s a really cool place
  • 5. FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 5 WE CREATED FORWARD TRAVEL WITH A SIMPLE GOAL, TO HELP TRAVELLERS TRAVEL BETTER. If your hope is to truly experience a destination not just pass through it, then you are a Forward Traveller. If your priority is to have it planned well so you can focus on enjoying where you are, then you are definitely one of us. We have been travelling the globe for more than half our lives and helping curious travellers for almost as long. We’ve journeyed far and wide enjoying the road less travelled in preference to the busy highway. We use our first hand knowledge to create the perfect journey, tailor made specifically and especially for you. TRAVEL BETTER IS ABOUT GIVING YOU A FANTASTIC EXPERIENCE. We’ll put the effort and energy into planning and organising your trip so you can fully focus on enjoying where you are, without having to take time out to plan the next step. Proper planning gives you a BETTER Holiday. TRAVEL FURTHER IS ABOUT GOING BEYOND THE TOURIST TRAIL. We’ll find places and activities to match your interests, taking you FURTHER, giving you better ‘dinner party’ stories. TRAVEL FORWARD IS OUR ULTIMATE GOAL. We’ve had so many travellers praise us for informed, rewarding, and stress free travel, that we hope they continue to travel FORWARD. We do this by taking the time to get to know you, and by focussing on destinations and travel styles we know well. We work with you every step of the way to make your dream a reality. We have travelled as excited passengers, tour leaders and researchers, gaining great perspective to benefit our travellers. This means we can offer informed and independent advice based upon your specific interests, time frame and budget. We carefully choose everything - destinations, hotels, and travel partners so you are sure you will be well looked after. Your journey starts from the moment of your first phone call to us or when you click the send button on an email. YOU’LL START YOUR JOURNEY WITH US AS A TRAVELLER. WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU HOME AS A FRIEND. We’re looking FORWARD to helping you start your journey. Rose and David,Founders, Forward Travel WELCOME TO FORWARD TRAVEL Travel Better - Travel Further - Travel Forward
  • 6. 6 1300 738 168 NORWEGIAN ARCTIC - SVALBARD Svalbard is a more compact destination so you don’t need to cruise far to see scenery, history and wildlife. Located less than 1,000km from the North Pole it is the best place for polar bears. We focus on the north and west, being the most interesting, diverse and wildlife rich parts of the archipelago. CANADIAN ARCTIC Wildlife, history, and all encompassing skies crown the never ending landscapes. Reminders of exploration, trading outposts and even Cold War era bases, lie throughout. The area has huge amounts of wildlife which, due to the vastness is spread over a large area. Our Arctic partners at One Ocean Expeditions have several hot spots they have found over the years for polar bears, giving you a great chance of seeing them. WHAT THE KEY REGIONS ARE AND WHY WE THINK THEY’RE SPECIAL Spanning three continents, The Arctic is diverse and divided. Wildlife spreads across the vastness, with a great varierty found in most locations. Geographic and historic differences set some areas apart, so this is our guide to help you figure out where you want to go, and what awaits you there. GREENLAND The largest, non-continental island in the world, and its least populated. Greenland is a vast, remote land with a unique culture. It brings ancient traditions to a modern world. Brilliantly colourful villages dot the whiteness. The massive icecap produces all of the Arctic’s soaring icebergs. ICELAND A tiny country with a population of a mere 250,000. Iceland offers incredible scenery and unparalleled geological attractions. Iceland is where glaciers reach for the skies and deep blue mountain lakes fill steep valleys and are surrounded by sharp green peaks on all sides. Hidden hot springs in secluded valleys far far away from civilisation, will relax and calm you as you take in the spectacular views. THE NORTHWEST PASSAGE In the 15C explorers started searching for a much hoped for passage through the Canadian Arctic linking the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, to open up trading routes. Many endeavours met with disaster. In 1850 a way was finally discovered, and in 1906, Roald Amundsen completed the first passage from Greenland to Alaska. THE FORWARD ARCTIC GUIDE Anyone fortunate enough the see the lights will be beaming with the memories for a long time. They’re like a huge theatre curtain flowing across the sky with colours ranging from yellow to green to pink, to blue, with a million stars providing a spectacular background. Luckily Yellowknife in Canada has some of the best in mid Aug-Sep. Perfect to add to an Arctic trip. NORTHERN LIGHTS - AURORA BOREALIS POLAR BEARS, THE KINGS OF THE ARCTIC The hope of seeing these majestic animals lures most people north. Being predominantly predatory hunters they are usually spread far and wide, making finding them equivalent to an African game safari. Svalbard is great due to its remoteness and limited human population, and Canda has some great hotspots too, as Rose discovered recently. Churchill on the shore of Canada's Hudson Bay is the best land vantage point, although only for 6 weeks a year. We think the best way to see polar bears is by ship where you can go to them rather than hope that they will come to you.
  • 7. FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 7 WE THINK PLANNING TRAVEL IS JUST LIKE COOKING We choose the best ingredients and creatively find ways to showcase their highlights and cook it fresh for each diner. (The Arctic may be frozen, our journeys are not). We’ll talk to you, find out how hungry you are and what flavours you like, so we can cook the perfect recipe tailored to your ‘travel buds’. We have included some great Canada, Norway and Iceland ‘recipes’ Wwhich would be perfect entrees or desserts to an Arctic cruise main course. In keeping with our cooking theme here is our menu, and the symbols below to add some Forward Flavour to each itinerary. We hope you like our way of thinking. THE FORWARD ARCTIC MENU ONE FREE NIGHT ACCOMMODATION AND USD100 BAR CREDIT *PRE CRUISE ACCOMMODATION COOKING TIME/ DURATION KEY INGREDIENTS SEASON RECIPE / ITINERARY IN/OUT AIRPORTS FROM PRICE CHEF’S NOTES ICING ON THE CAKE SPECIAL OFFERS SAVE USD1,000 ON CHARTER FLIGHTS SAVE USD1,000 KEY ARCTIC REGIONS AND SPECIAL OFFERS 6-7 ONE OCEAN THE SHIPS AND EXPEDITION OVERVIEW 8-9 18 DAY CANARCTIC ADVENTURE - ESCORTED JOURNEY 10-11 11 DAY FINDING FRANKLIN AND WILDLIFE FEAST 12-13 14 DAY NORTHWEST PASSAGE & GREENLAND 14-15 13 DAY BAFFIN ISLAND JEWEL OF THE HIGH ARCTIC 16 11 DAY HIGH ARCTIC EXPLORER 17 12 DAY LABRADOR AND TORNGAT MOUNTAINS EXPLORER 18-19 11 DAY NORWEGIAN ARCTIC - SPITSBERGEN ENCOUNTER 20-21 ONE OCEAN SHIP DECK PLANS AND CABIN DESCRIPTIONS 22-23 CANADA LOCATIONS GUIDE 24 4 DAY VANCOUVER, VICTORIA - GATEWAYS TO CANADA 25 8 DAY WESTERN CANADA ROCKY MOUNTAINS - SELF DRIVE 26 7 DAY ROCKY MOUNTAINS - RAIL & COACH TOUR 27 5 DAY GRIZZLY BEARS AT GREAT BEAR LODGE 28 5/6 DAY TUNDRA BUGGY POLAR BEAR EXPERIENCE 29 NORTHERN LIGHTS/AURORA BOREALIS IN YELLOWKNIFE 30 4 DAY AURORA AWAKENING 31 12 DAY EASTERN CANADA EXPEDITION CRUISE 32-33 5 DAY ICELAND - FIRE, ICE AND THE BLUE LAGOON 34 8 DAY ICELAND EXPLORER - SELF DRIVE FARMSTAY 35 14 DAY ULTIMATE ICELAND ADVENTURE - SELF DRIVE 36-37 12 DAY BEST OF ICELAND - BOUTIQUE SELF DRIVE 38 FORWARD TRAVEL TERMS AND CONDITIONS 39 *BOOK BY 31 DECEMBER 2017 THE ‘ONE’ CLUB HUGE PAST PASSENGER REWARDS Returning One Ocean Expeditioners get 10% OFF PLUS - a free pre or post cruise hotel night PLUS - your choice of free Cabin Upgrade OR 50% off single supplement OR half price charter flights PLUS - USD100 shipboard credit OR a limited edition ‘One Ocean Club’ polar fleece EASTERN CANADA TRIPS NORWEGIAN ARCTIC TRIPS CANADIAN ARCTIC AND GREENLAND
  • 8. 8 1300 738 168 YOUR EXPEDITION TEAM One Ocean Expedition founder, Andrew Prossin outlines the company’s philosophy: “People really matter on our expeditions and we show this at every opportunity, particularly by allowing our guests to have a say in how their experiences unfold. We create small special interest groups, so each individual can choose the activity best suited to them. Options and choices are provided throughout the voyage and we strive to take care of every detail. The One Ocean Expeditions team have many years of expedition cruising expertise coupled with specialty knowledge in their chosen field. In addition to our expedition and hospitality professionals, One Ocean Expeditions carries specialty staff on every voyage. This includes an English speaking emergency physician, resident professional photographer, registered massage therapist, fitness trainer and our unique multi-skilled adventure concierges.” LIFE ON BOARD A ONE OCEAN EXPEDITION Once you board the ship you leave the every day world behind and merge into the extraordinary. You feel right at home for the duration of your voyage during which comfort and safety are top priorities. Adventure Concierges lead the way, connecting individually with guests, to understand their expectations and so enable you to enjoy a very personal and special experience. Our expedition team will deliver presentations to educate and inform you about all things Arctic, including the history and the wildlife you will likely meet. Days on deck are spent eagerly scanning the ocean for whales, and the sky for seabirds. Announcements are made over the PA system when sightings are made. The captain usually slows down the ship so we can enjoy the spectacle. We aim to have at least two ‘Zodiac’ excursions each day. Some may be cruising around enjoying the playful wildlife or exploring glaciers and icebergs up close. Some will be shore landings where you can go on short or long walks with your expert leaders. We will have visits to Inuit settlements and historic sites to fully appreciate the diversity of the region. ARCTIC CRUISING WITH ONE OCEAN EXPEDITIONS This is the only activity which needs to be pre-booked. The cost is USD695 per person for the cruise duration. You can expect 4-7 paddles weather permitting. There are just 16 places so book early if you are really keen. SEA KAYAKING We have been working with One Ocean Expeditions since they started. We truly believe they provide the best expedition cruising in the polar regions. This is done by using the best expedition ships and assembling the best expedition team, On all One Ocean expeditions you can be expect to be amazed, to be overwhelmed and to be even more impressed than you had imagined. You’ll receive personal, professional attention from the team, whose sole focus is to give you the best possible journey. You will congratulate yourself on your choice of a One Ocean Expedition journey. Our preferred Polar Expedition partner PRICES: Prices shown are per person sharing the cabin or suite. Sole use cabin surcharge 50%; Suite surcharge 100%. Sole use of triple cabin is not permitted. INCLUSIONS: • Expedition on either Akademik Sergey Vavilov or Akademik Ioffe • Accommodation in chosen cabin/suite category • 1 night accommodation pre cruise per couple, (50% off for single travellers) • Transfers from the meeting point to the ship and return. • All meals and 24hr tea/coffee station • Twice daily excursions either on land or Zodiac cruising • Wet weather gear for use during the cruise • Comprehensive pre-departure information ONE OCEAN: INCLUSIONS AND DETAILS DAVID KAYAKING OFF GREENLAND NOTE All itineraries are guides only. Activities and sites visited are dependent on ice and weather conditions. The itinerary will be adjusted throughout the voyage to take advantage of conditions. The Arctic is not a zoo so wildlife sightings mentioned are expectations based on many years documenting animal behaviour but cannot be guaranteed.
  • 9. FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 9 DESIGNED FOR POLAR RESEARCH, SISTER SHIPS AKADEMIK IOFFE AND AKADEMIK SERGEY VAVILOV ARE MODERN, COMFORTABLE, SAFE, ICE-STRENGTHENED SHIPS WHICH ARE ALMOST IDENTICAL. BUILT IN RAUMA, FINLAND IN 1988/89 THEY ARE WIDELY REGARDED AS THE TWO BEST POLAR EXPEDITION SHIPS IN THE WORLD. EACH SHIP HAS AN EXPERIENCED RUSSIAN CREW. BOTH SHIPS ARE OPERATED EXCLUSIVELY BY ONE OCEAN EXPEDITIONS. WHY THESE ARE THE BEST EXPEDITION SHIPS READY TO START YOUR JOURNEY? CALL US NOW ON 1300 738 168 • ICE-STRENGTHENED HULL (LLOYDS REGISTER 1A, CANADIAN TYPE B) • THE MOST STABLE SHIPS DUE TO INTERNAL STABILISERS AND UNIQUE WATER BALLAST SYSTEM • THEY WERE BUILT FOR HYDRO-ACOUSTIC RESEARCH AND SO ARE EXCEPTIONALLY QUIET • EXTREMELY MANOEUVRABLE, ABLE TO GET INTO TIGHT PLACES AND NARROW CHANNELS • THEY’RE FAST (UP TO 14.5 KNOTS) GIVING YOU MORE TIME WHERE YOU WANT, NOT REACHING IT • TRUE SMALL-SHIP EXPERIENCE, WITH A MAXIMUM OF 96 GUESTS • OPEN BRIDGE SO YOU CAN WATCH THE CREW NAVIGATING AND KEEP AND EYE ON THE RADAR • REFITTED AND REFURBISHED RECENTLY PROVIDING IMPROVED COMFORT ON-BOARD • USE OF MULTIMEDIA ROOM WITH COMPUTERS WITH IMAGING SOFTWARE • COZY (IOFFE) OR SPACIOUS (VAVILOV) BAR AND LOUNGES WITH 24-HOUR COFFEE AND TEA • COMFORTABLE CABINS WITH OPENING WINDOWS AND GENEROUS STORAGE • 4 CHEFS PREPARING SUMPTUOUS MEALS FOR THE SPACIOUS DINING ROOM • FULLY EQUIPPED PRESENTATION ROOM FOR INTERACTIVE LECTURES AND DISCUSSIONS • LIBRARY WITH WIDE RANGE OF REFERENCE BOOKS AND LARGE FORWARD VIEWING WINDOWS • EXTENSIVE DECK SPACE WITH 360 DEGREE VIEWS ON THE TOP DECK • OUTDOOR PLUNGE POOL, SAUNA, FITNESS ROOM - AND AN OUTDOOR HOT TUB! (PIC ON PAGE 30) • HIGHEST STAFF-TO-GUEST RATIO IN THE POLAR INDUSTRY • MUDROOM SO YOU CAN LEAVE YOUR OUTER GEAR THERE INSTEAD OF IN THE CABIN • EXTREMELY EXPERIENCED, LOYAL AND PROUD CREW
  • 10. 10 1300 738 168 17 AUG. SYDNEY TO TELEGRAPH COVE Fly from Australia to Vancouver and connect to a scenic flight to Port Hardy, on the northern part of Vancouver Island. We will be met and driven to Telegraph Cove, an hour south, and our home for 3 nights. 18 AUG. ORCA WATCHING (B) From July to October, the waters between Vancouver Island and mainland British Columbia are home to the magnificent Orca (Killer Whales). The protected waters provide an ideal location to view and listen to orcas and other marine mammals as they feed, socialise and raise their young. 19 AUG. GRIZZLY BEARS OF KNIGHT INLET (B) Enjoy the majesty of the coastal mountains as we explore spectacular Knight Inlet to find grizzly bears. As the snows melt, both black and grizzly bears emerge from their hibernation dens on the mountain slopes. Hungry bears make their way down to feed on the grasses in the river lowlands. The shallow draught of our flat bottom boats gets us close to the action. 20 AUG. DRIVE TO VICTORIA (B) Travel 6hrs south to Victoria. Stop along the way to visit some of the villages and try the local seafood for lunch. 19 DAYS 21 AUG. VICTORIA AND BUTCHART GARDENS (B) Morning visit to Butchart Gardens. Enjoy the breathtaking oasis of this 22 ha garden. Return to Victoria and the rest of the day is yours. 22 AUG. FLY TO EDMONTON (B) Transfer to the airport and fly to Edmonton and be taken to the beautiful Fairmont hotel. 23 AUG. ARCTIC - RESOLUTE (BLD) Our charter flight takes us to Resolute, a remote outpost above the Arctic Circle, where our fantastic ship will be waiting. Meet our expedition team and start with a zodiac ride to the ship. After a welcome cocktail, we weigh anchor and depart in the early evening. 24 AUG. BEECHEY ISLAND (BLD)
 Beechey Island holds great historic importance in the story of the Northwest Passage. It is here that Sir John Franklin’s ill-fated expedition spent winter in 1845 before disappearing into the icy vastness, sparking an incredible series of search expeditions. The mystery of what happened to Franklin was partially solved in September 2014, when a joint expedition found the lead ship, HMS Erebus, with One Ocean Expeditions playing a vital role in the discovery. A visit the grave markers on a remote windswept beach is a perfect and chilling start to our own expedition. We visit the towering bird Nature thrives in Canada and I’ve planned this trip to capture some of its best, from the sea to the land to the soaring sky. Whales of all sizes, loom in the waters, while bears of all colours roam the shore. Birds in their thousands fill the sky, and hopefully we’ll see the Aurora dance above it. From West to North to high Above, I have personally chosen the best places, best companies and best guides to give us the best opportunity to capture all we hope to see, with some surprises along the way. This is a shared journey more than a tour. Think of it as a group of ‘like-minded’ people travelling together. There’s plenty of leisure time to tailor as you wish, and all the leg work and planning has been done. I’ll be there too, to ensure this trip is a spectacular journey like no other. YELLOWKNIFE CANADIAN ARCTIC, WILDLIFE, AND AURORA TELEGRAPH COVE GRIZZLY BEARS IN KNIGHT INLET MEET ROSE I first discovered the magic of Canada and the High Arctic in 2016. I was blown away with the scenery, history, wildlife and wilderness. Seeing polar bears and belugas, and the beauty of the Arctic was amazing, and I still can’t quite believe the amazing experience of seeing the Aurora Borealis dancing in the sky above me. I’d love to share it with you in 2018. ...with an entree of gardens, grizzly bears and killer whales EXCLUSIVE Escorted journey. just 12 places available
  • 11. FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 11 cliffs of Prince Leopold Island, an important migratory bird sanctuary, home to several hundred thousand birds. It is one of the most significant bird sanctuaries in the whole of the Canadian Arctic and makes for fantastic zodiac cruising. The sea ice around Prince Leopold Island is a great place for spotting seals, which usually means we could find polar bears. 25 AUG. SOMERSET ISLAND (BLD)
 Named for the British naval vessel abandoned in 1825. Her crew unloaded provisions to the beach. Four years later this cache saved the starving Ross expedition on its return from the North Pole in 1829. This is an exciting location for history buffs and for many it will be the defining moment of our expedition. 26 AUG. FORT ROSS – BELLOT STRAIT (BLD)
 The historic site of Fort Ross is a former Hudson’s Bay Company fur trading outpost, and fascinating archaeological sites tell a story of more than a thousand years of habitation by the Inuit and their predecessors. A transit of the narrow Bellot Strait is a thrilling experience as the currents roar through channel. We are now in the heart of the Northwest Passage, and the stirring waters provide abundant food for many marine mammals, including harp and bearded seals, narwhals ad whales. The Captain and Officers skills are on full display during this exciting day of Arctic navigation. 27 AUG. CONNINGHAM BAY (BLD)
 We cross the Franklin Strait and arrive at Conningham Bay on the shore of Prince of Wales Island. This is a known hotspot for polar bears, that come to feast on beluga whales, often caught in the rocky shallows. It’ common to find the shoreline littered with whale skeletons – and very healthy looking polar bears! 28 AUG. SIR JOHN FRANKLIN (BLD)
 Enter Franklin territory in Victoria Strait where history surrounds us. On Victory Point a lifeboat left abandoned, pieces of copper and scattered iron tell a story of a desperate race in a search for a rescue that never came. We pass very near the location of the wreck of HMS Erebus. 29 AUG. PASELY BAY (BLD) This bay, on the Boothia Peninsula is where the St. Roch spent a winter in 1942 frozen into the sea ice. The ship was the first Canadian vessel to ever transit the Northwest Passage. 30 AUG. FRANKLIN STRAIT, PEEL SOUND (BLD)
 We’ll track north through the Franklin Strait and into Peel Sound, known for its heavy sea ice so all eyes will be looking for bears. 31 AUG. ASTON BAY (BLD)
 We explore in the zodiacs and hope to go ashore searching for wildlife. This evening, the Captain joins us for dinner and the chance to reflect on what has been a superb 10 days of exploration in this pristine Arctic wilderness. 01 SEP. DISEMBARK - EDMONTON
(B) We make our way ashore by zodiac for the charter flight to return us to Edmonton where we will be transferred to the hotel. 02 SEP. YELLOWKNIFE - AURORA
(BD) Morning flight to Yellowknife where we will be met upon arrival and taken to the hotel. Dreams of gold began in Yellowknife in 1934 when a couple of prospectors discovered the precious metal. Have a walk around town this afternoon and we’ll have dinner at the famous Bullocks restaurant. After dinner we’ll depart on our first Aurora evening. 03 SEP. CAMERON FALLS – AURORA (B)
 After a sleep in, we’ll take a trip to Cameron Falls, where short walk through the forest takes us to the falls. We’ll stop along the way at Giant Mine to hear about the Yellowknife River Legend. Return to town for a rest before another night of Aurora viewing. 04 SEP. YELLOWKNIFE - AURORA (B) Optional activities. Meet local artists, go traditional fishing with locals, cruise the harbour, or just relax and enjoy the town. This evening we’ll take our final Aurora viewing trip. 05 SEP. YELLOWKNIFE – FAREWELL (B) Transfer to the airport for onward flights, or stay another night. CONNIGHAM BAY He was so cute I wanted to reach out and pat him... ∙ 10 DAY ONE OCEAN ARCTIC EXPEDITION ∙ 3 NIGHTS AURORA VIEWING ∙ 5 INTERNAL FLIGHTS WITHIN CANADA ∙ FULL DAY GRIZZLY BEAR VIEWING IN KNIGHT INLET ∙ STUBBS ISLAND WHALE WATCHING CRUISE ∙ 3 NIGHTS IN TELEGRAPH COVE, ONE OF CANADA’S MOST PICTURESQUE VILLAGES ∙ VISIT TO BUTCHART GARDENS ∙ SERVICES OF TOUR ESCORT, ROSE TOOHEY. ∙ GUIDED SIGHTSEEING IN VICTORIA ∙ GUIDED SIGHTSEEING IN YELLOWKNIFE ∙ 35 MEALS, BREAKFAST DAILY, 8 LUNCH, 9 DINNERS ∙ QUALITY ACCOMMODATION ∙ TRANSFERS FROM AIRPORT - HOTEL VV ∙ EXCELLENTLY LOCATED, GOOD QUALITY HOTELS ∙ LIMITED TO JUST 18 TRAVELLERS DATES: 17 AUGUST - 05 SEPTEMBER 2018 ARRIVAL DEPARTURE CITIES: IN - VANCOUVER OUT - YELLOWKNIFE AKADEMIK IOFFE CABIN/SUITE TWIN SHARE SIN-SHARE* EARLYBIRD AUD PRICES - BOOK BY 31 DEC Triple $15,650 $16,880 Semi Private $16,980 $18,280 Twin Private $19,250 $20,480 Superior $20,240 $21,480 Shackleton $21,980 NA One Ocean $24,270 NA INCLUDES Arctic charter flights to/from Resolute IF BOOKED BY 31 DEC 2017. ADD $1,350 FOR BOOKINGS AFTER 31 DEC Price is based on USD so may change due to exchange rate Kayaking $950 *SIN-SHARE SOLE USE IN HOTELS AND TWIN /TRIPLE SHARE WITH OTHER TRAVELLER/S ON THE CRUISE
  • 12. 12 1300 738 168 22 AUG. EDMONTON Arrive in Edmonton and make your way to the Fairmont Macdonald for you pre night accommodation and expedition briefing. 23 AUG. ARCTIC - RESOLUTE (BLD) Our charter flight takes us to Resolute, a remote outpost above the Arctic Circle, and a strategic post during the Cold War. Meet our expedition team and start with a zodiac ride to the ship. After a welcome cocktail, we weigh anchor and depart in the early evening. 24 AUG. BEECHEY ISLAND (BLD)
 Beechey Island holds great historic importance in the story of the Northwest Passage. It is here that Sir John Franklin’s ill-fated expedition spent winter in 1845 before disappearing into the icy vastness, sparking an incredible series of search expeditions. The mystery of what happened to Franklin was partially solved in September 2014, when a joint expedition found the lead ship, HMS Erebus, with One Ocean Expeditions playing a vital role in the discovery. A visit to the grave markers on a remote windswept beach is a perfect and chilling start to our own expedition. We visit the towering bird cliffs of Prince Leopold Island, an important migratory bird sanctuary, home to several hundred thousand birds. It is one of the most 11 DAYS significant bird sanctuaries in the whole of the Canadian Arctic and makes for fantastic zodiac cruising. The sea ice around Prince Leopold Island is a great place for spotting seals, which usually means we could find polar bears. 25 AUG. SOMERSET ISLAND (BLD)
 Named for the British naval vessel abandoned in 1825. Her crew unloaded provisions to the beach. Four years later this cache saved the starving Ross expedition on its return from the North Pole in 1829. This is an exciting location for history buffs and for many it will be the defining moment of our expedition. 26 AUG. FORT ROSS – BELLOT STRAIT (BLD)
 The historic site of Fort Ross is a former Hudson’s Bay Company fur trading outpost. Fascinating archaeological sites tell a story of more than a thousand years of habitation by the Inuit and their predecessors. A transit of the narrow Bellot Strait is a thrilling experience as the currents roar through the channel. We are now in the heart of the Northwest Passage, and the stirring waters provide abundant food for many marine mammals, including harp and bearded seals, narwhals and whales. The Captain and Officers skills are on full display during this exciting day of Arctic navigation. FINDING FRANKLIN AND WILDLIFE FEAST Follow the footsteps of explorers on our own quest for wildlife ∙ CONNINGHAM BAY POLAR BEARS ∙ HISTORIC FORT ROSS & BEECHEY ISLAND ∙ LANCASTER SOUND WILDLIFE SUPER HIGHWAY ∙ THE NORTHWEST PASSAGE ∙ FOLLOW THE PATHS OF THE FAMOUS EXPLORERS 22 AUG 2018 - 01 SEP 2018 AKADEMIK IOFFE EDMONTON CHARTER FLIGHTS (RESOLUTE/RESOLUTE) CABIN TYPE PER PERSON Triple USD 6,795 Twin Semi Private USD 7,795 Twin Private USD 9,395 Superior USD 10,095 Shackleton USD 11,395 One Ocean USD 12,995 Charter Flight USD 1,995 PRICES ARE PER PERSON SHARING THE CABIN OR SUITE. SEE PAGE 39 FOR TERMS AND CONDITIONS. Sea kayaking is USD695. This voyage will appeal to both lovers of wildlife and the dramatic history of early polar exploration. We will trace the routes of the early explorers who sailed – and perished – in these waters as they sought a way through the fabled Northwest Passage. Our itinerary includes a visit to one of the largest migratory bird sanctuaries in the world, and we enjoy frequent sightings of seals as well as beluga whales. The mythical narwhal inhabits these waters, and we also hope to encounter polar bears at special locations that we have discovered over the years.
  • 13. FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 13 27 AUG. PRINCE OF WALES ISLAND (BLD)
 We cross the Franklin Strait and arrive at Conningham Bay on the shore of Prince of Wales Island. This is a known hotspot for polar bears, that come to feast on beluga whales, often caught in the rocky shallows. It is common to find the shoreline littered with whale skeletons – and very healthy looking polar bears! 28AUG. SIR JOHN FRANKLIN (BLD)
 Enter Franklin territory in Victoria Strait where history surrounds us. On Victory Point a lifeboat left abandoned, pieces of copper and scattered iron tell a story of a desperate race in a search for a rescue that never came. We pass very near the location of the wreck of HMS Erebus. 29 AUG. PASELY BAY (BLD) This bay, on the Boothia Peninsula is where the St. Roch spent a winter in 1942 frozen into the sea ice. The ship was the first Canadian vessel to ever transit the Northwest Passage. 30 AUG. FRANKLIN STRAIT, PEEL SOUND (BLD)
 We’ll track north through the Franklin Strait and into Peel Sound, known for its heavy sea ice concentrations. We now know that Franklin sailed his two expedition ships through Peel Sound in the summer of 1846. 31 AUG. ASTON BAY (BLD) We explore in the zodiacs and aim to make a shore landing searching for wildlife. This evening, the Captain joins us for dinner and the chance to reflect on what has been a superb 10 days of exploration in this pristine Arctic wilderness. 01 SEP. DISEMBARK - EDMONTON
(B) By morning we are at anchor in Resolute and make our way ashore by zodiac for the charter flight to return us to Edmonton where our journey comes to an end. ADD THE NORTHERN LIGHTS! Yellowknife in August has fantastic Aurora viewing and we have the perfect 4 day package to capture it. It’s just a 2hr flight north of Edmonton, making it a perfect ‘icing on the cake’’ to add to this Arctic trip. Priced from $1,170pp. See page 30-31 for details. THE FRANKLIN EXPEDITION Sir John Franklin and his crew of 129 sailors disappeared wilst trying to navigate the Northwest Passage in 1845. and were never sighted again. We know they had ‘wintered’ on Beechey Island before being trapped in ice, and many searches were sent to ‘rescue’ them. More ships and men were lost looking for Franklin than the number lost in his expedition. In 2014 a combined search involving One Ocean Expeditions, found Franklin’s lead ship, the “HMS Erebus”, and now our trips will take you very close to the site. A HUDSON BAY OUTPOST, CANADA’S FIRST DEPARTMENT STORE CONNINGHAM BAY
  • 14. 14 1300 738 168 NORTHWEST PASSAGE & GREENLAND WWW ∙ CONNINGHAM BAY POLAR BEARS ∙ HISTORIC FORT ROSS & BEECHEY ISLAND ∙ SIRMILIK NATIONAL PARK ∙ NORTHWEST PASSAGE ∙ BAFFIN ISLAND ∙ LANCASTER SOUND WILDLIFE SUPER HIGHWAY 1. 11 - 24 AUG 2018 2. 23 AUG - 05 SEP 2018 AKADEMIK SERGEY VAVILOV 1. KANGERLUSSUAQ/ CAMBRIDGE BAY 2. CAMBRIDGE BAY / KANGERLUSSUAQ DAY 1. EDMONTON Arrive in Edmonton for transfer to your hotel. DAY 2. CAMBRIDGE BAY We depart Edmonton on a charter flight to Cambridge Bay, a remote outpost above the Arctic Circle. Located on the southern shores of Victoria Island. Enjoy a walking tour of the town and then board our expedition ship, the Akademik Ioffe. Excitement is in the air as we enjoy a welcome cocktail and cast off, bound for the fabled Northwest Passage. DAY 3. NORTHWEST PASSAGE As we chart a course into the Northwest Passage, our onboard presentation series begins and we delve into the tale of the Franklin expedition and the mystery of what happened. We aim to visit Victory Point, travelling very near the actual location of the wreck of HMS Erebus, while learning about the quest for exploration that eventually opened up the Arctic. Experts agree that the second of Franklin’s lost ships, HMS Terror, is likely to be in this vicinity. DAY 4. CONNINGHAM BAY Arriving at Conningham Bay we find one of the most remarkable wildlife sites in the Arctic. A hotspot for polar bears who come here to feast on Beluga whales. DAY 5. BELLOT STRAIT Today we transit the narrow passage of Bellot Strait. The mixing of waters in this strait provides an abundant food source for marine mammals, and we will keep our eyes peeled for harp seals, bearded seals and even polar bears. DAY 6. BEECHEY ISLAND Beechey Island is of great historic importance. It is here that Sir John Franklin’s ill-fated expedition spent its last ‘comfortable’ winter in 1845 before disappearing into the icy vastness. A trip ashore at Beechey Island to visit the grave markers on a remote windswept beach gives one pause to wonder on the bravery (or foolhardiness) of these pioneering explorers, as they sought a way through the barren, frozen landscape. DAY 7. LANCASTER SOUND Cruising the coastline of Devon Island, we are now in the waters of Lancaster Sound – a rich, bio-diverse region often referred to as the wildlife ‘super highway’ of the Arctic. Massive volumes of water from Baffin Bay to the east, Beaufort Sea to the west, and the archipelago of islands to the north combine to make a rich cocktail of nutrients supporting an abundance of Arctic wildlife. DAY 8. SIRMILIK NATIONAL PARK We sight the wild north coast of Baffin Island and navigate through Navy Board Inlet. The vast landscapes of Sirmilik National Park surround us as we approach the remote Inuit community of Mittimatalik (Pond Inlet). A highlight will be a visit to the Natinnak Centre. We also enjoy meeting the local children of Mittimatalik and marveling 14 DAYS CABIN TYPE PER PERSON Triple USD 9,595 Twin Semi Private USD 11,395 Twin Private USD 13,695 Superior USD 14,695 Shackleton USD 16,095 One Ocean USD 17,095 Charter Flight USD 1,995 This iconic voyage explores the remote Northwest Passage and
stunning fjords of the Baffin Island coastline before crossing Baffin
Bay to Greenland where we will marvel at the beauty of the icebergs
calving off of the Greenland icecap. We follow in the footsteps of the
early Arctic explorers. Wildlife is a major draw card of our expedition, but there is
plenty of historical interest too. The hope for a passage through the American land barrier lured explorers since the 1400s. All met with failure, and many with disaster. In 1906, after a journey of 3 years Roald Amundsen, found it. HOPES AND DREAMS Named for its shape, not thepopular Greenlandic music, there is something magical about theisland with its beauty and the rocky figures in all sorts of shapes. Disko Bay is perhaps the best place inGreenland for whale watching. DISKO BAY PRICES ARE PER PERSON SHARING THE CABIN OR SUITE. SEE PAGE 39 FOR TERMS AND CONDITIONS. Sea kayaking is USD695. Explore the remote Northwest Passage and stunning fjords of Baffin Island
  • 15. FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 15 at their athletic abilities as they demonstrate traditional Inuit games. DAY 9. GIBBS FJORD This morning we enter the spectacular Gibbs Fjord. Our expedition ship will be dwarfed by the giant peaks and snowy glaciers as we cruise along the dark waters. DAY 10. BAFFIN ISLAND Leaving the rugged coastline of Baffin Island, our crossing of Baffin Bay allows us time to slow down and reflect on the beauty and experiences we have shared. DAY 11. JACOBSHAVN ICEFJORD If one word could sum up today’s experience it would be ‘ice’. Truly one of the wonders of the world, the Jacobshavn Icefjord – a UNESCO World Heritage site - spews giant tabular icebergs out into Disko Bay. Our Captain and officers are skilled ice navigators and our ship has one of the highest ice ratings of any vessel exploring Arctic waters. DAY 12. SISIMIUT We will explore the fjord behind the town of Sisimiut before going ashore to explore this beautiful location. Characterized by colourful local houses, the town features a towering granite peak as a backdrop. We hope to meet a few of the traditional Greenlandic kayakers and to see a demonstration of ‘Eskimo rolling’ by one of the former Greenland kayak champions. DAY 13. SONDRE STROMFJORD One of the world’s longest fjords, Sondre Stromfjord towers above the ship as we sail up it. We plan to venture into some of the small side fjords that we can zodiac into and explore on foot or by kayak. Major geologic and geomorphologic features will surround us and we hope to find muskox along the shores of the fjord as well. Soaring high above us will be the white-tailed sea eagle, riding the thermals off the ridges. There are fantastic opportunities for hiking. DAY 14. DISEMBARK. KANGERLUSSUAQ Our journey through the Arctic is all but complete as we disembark the ship in Kangerlussuaq and make our way to the airport and a charter flight returns us to Ottawa. “The sense of history and exploration was all around us. There was a real frontier feel and the whole experience was amazing.” R & J WATSON, Melbourne, Australia ARCTIC TRAVELLERS, 2015 BONUS OFFER! SAVE USD1000 ON CHARTER FLIGHTS* ADD THE NORTHERN LIGHTS! Yellowknife in August has fantastic Aurora viewing and we have the perfect 4 day package to capture it. It’s just a 2hr flight north of Edmonton, making it a perfect ‘icing on the cake’’ to add to this Arctic trip. Priced from $1,170pp. See page 30-31 for details. READY TO START YOUR JOURNEY? CALL US NOW ON 1300 738 168 NORTHWEST PASSAGE
  • 16. 16 1300 738 168 BAFFIN ISLAND - JEWEL OF HIGH ARCTIC ∙ WILD LANDSCAPES OF BAFFIN ISLAND ∙ CUMBERLAND SOUND ∙ ABOVE THE ARCTIC CIRCLE ∙ AUYUITTUQ NATIONAL PARK 03 -14 AUGUST 2018 AKADEMIK IOFFE IQALUIT / RESOLUTE Baffin Island is one of the last great wilderness regions on the planet and is the focus of this outstanding expedition. From Iqaluit, on Frobisher Bay, we explore the wild east coast of Baffin Island discovering the deep fjords, soaring mountains and immense glacial systems. We are constantly on the lookout for a variety of birdlife and marine wildlife including polar bear, the king of the north. Daily hikes, zodiac cruising and endless photographic opportunities are just a few of the highlights. DAY 1. ARRIVE OTTAWA Arrive in Ottawa and transfer to your hotel. DAY 2. OTTAWA, ONTARIO TO IQALUIT, NUNAVUT Fly to Iqaluit, Baffin Island. Enjoy a walking tour of the town and board our expedition ship, the Akademik Sergey Vavilov in the afternoon. DAY 3. MONUMENTAL ISLAND Situated in the Davis Strait, Monumental Island is a well-known location for walrus. DAY 4. PANGNIQTUUQ, PANGNIRTUNG Nestled in the heart of Cumberland Sound and the western gateway to Auyuittuq National Park, the village of Pangniqtuuq is beautifully situated between the mountains and the sea. DAY 5. SUNSHINE FJORD Sunshine Fjord straddles the Arctic Circle at 660 degrees, 33 minutes north of latitude. Depending on the weather, we might cruise across the Circle on the ship, cross it in the zodiac boats or cross the circle on foot. DAY 6. AUYUITTUQ NP AND QIKIQTARJUAQ Auyuittuq NP’s landscape is dominated by steep rugged mountain scenery, extensive glacial systems and powerful rivers. DAY 7. ISABELLA BAY – NIGINGANIQ NATIONAL WILDLIFE AREA Isabella Bay is an important summer habitat and feeding area for endangered bowhead whales. Polar bears, ringed seals, Canada geese, snow geese and narwhal are also commonly sighted. DAY 8. GIBB FJORD Entering spectacular Gibb Fjord with towering cliffs all around us, our expedition ship will seem dwarfed by the giant peaks and snowy glaciers. 13 DAYS One of the last great wilderness regions on the planet. DAY 9. MITTIMATALIK AND SIRMILIK NP The jewel in the crown of Canada’s Arctic Park system, featuring spectacular scenery consisting of rugged mountains, ice fields and glaciers, coastal lowlands and seabird colonies. DAY 10. DUNDAS HARBOUR AND CROKER BAY We cross Lancaster Sound to Devon Island. This broad channel of water has been likened to the wildlife ‘super highway’ of the Arctic. DAY 11. PRINCE LEOPOLD ISLAND A population of several hundred thousand birds, makes this one of the most significant bird sanctuaries in the entire Arctic ecosystem. DAY 12. BEECHEY ISLAND A place of great historic significance and suitable finale to our expedition. DAY 13. RESOLUTE TO EDMONTON, ALBERTA Our expedition comes to an end as we arrive into Resolute, disembark the ship and bid farewell to our crew and fellow passengers. CABIN TYPE PER PERSON Triple USD 7,295 Twin Semi Private USD8,295 Twin Private USD 9,895 Superior USD 10,395 Shackleton USD 11,895 One Ocean USD 13,495 Charter Flight USD 1,995 PRICES ARE PER PERSON SHARING THE CABIN OR SUITE. SEE PAGE 39 FOR TERMS AND CONDITIONS. Sea kayaking is USD695. BONUS OFFER! SAVE USD1000 ON CHARTER FLIGHTS* A trip ashore at Beechey Island takes you to the grave markers of some of Franklin’s ill-fated crew on a remote windswept beach. It’s a sombre and thrilling experience for history buffs, and for many a defining moment of our expedition. BEECHEY ISLAND
  • 17. FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 17 HIGH ARCTIC EXPLORER ∙ LANCASTER SOUND ∙ ISOLATED GRISE FIORD ∙ RINGED SEALS, PRINCE LEOPOLD ISLAND ∙ HISTORIC BEECHEY ISLAND 14 - 23 AUG 2018 RESOLUTE / RESOLUTE AKADEMIK IOFFE DAY 1. ARRIVAL EDMONTON Arrive in Edmonton and transfer to your hotel. DAY 2. EDMONTON TO RESOLUTE, NUNAVUT Charter flight to Resolute, a remote outpost above the Arctic Circle. On arrival, we meet our expedition team and take a zodiac ride to our ship before departing Resolute in the evening. DAY 3. MAXWELL BAY, DEVON ISLAND A large bay on the south coast of Devon Island, Maxwell Bay offers some wonderful hiking opportunities and great wildlife watching. DAY 4. CROKER BAY AND DUNDAS HARBOUR Lancaster Sound is the wildlife ‘super highway’ of the Arctic where massive volumes of water all mix to make a rich source of nutrients and food for an abundance of Arctic wildlife. DAY 5. COBURG ISLAND WILDLIFE AREA Nirjutiqavvik National Wildlife Area is home to almost 400,000 seabirds. DAY 6. GRISE FIORD AND CRAIG HARBOUR Grise Fiord is the northernmost community in Canada and one of the most isolated communities in the world. The scenery is stunning, the wildlife is abundant and we are warmly welcomed by the community. DAY 7. CAPE HAY, BYLOT ISLAND MIGRATROY BIRD SANCTUARY The bird cliffs of Cape Hay are a prime nesting spot for several hundred thousand birds. DAY 8. ELWIN INLET AND CAPE CHARLES YORKE 11 DAYS Combining a quest for wildlife with historic Canadian exploration A breathtaking fjord which is well protected and great for a zodiac cruise or hike onshore. DAY 9. PORT LEOPOLD, PRINCE LEOPOLD ISLAND The sea ice around Prince Leopold Island is a great place for spotting ringed seals and wherever we find ringed seals - we usually find polar bears. DAY 10. BEECHEY ISLAND Beechey Island holds great historic importance in the story of the Northwest Passage. It is here that Sir John Franklin’s ill-fated expedition spent its last ‘comfortable’ winter in 1845 before disappearing into the icy vastness. This evening enjoy a special dinner attended by the Captain. DAY 11. RESOLUTE TO EDMONTON, ALBERTA By morning, we are anchored in Resolute where we make our way ashore by zodiac. A charter flight returns us to Edmonton. PRICES ARE PER PERSON SHARING THE CABIN OR SUITE. SEE PAGE 39 FOR TERMS AND CONDITIONS. Sea kayaking is USD695. CABIN TYPE PER PERSON Triple USD 6,795 Twin Semi Private USD 7,795 Twin Private USD 9,395 Superior USD 10,095 Shackleton USD 11,395 One Ocean USD 12,995 Charter Flight USD 1,995 Frequent shore landings in the
company of expert guides allow us to explore on foot,
observing wildlife, Arctic flora, and points of historical
interest including a number of former Hudson’s Bay Company outposts. All of this is set against a backdrop of epic mountain scenery, sweeping glaciers and skies that go on forever. This is an ideal introduction to small ship expedition cruising in the remote Canadian Arctic. BONUS OFFER! SAVE USD1000 ON CHARTER FLIGHTS* ADD THE NORTHERN LIGHTS! Yellowknife in August has fantastic Aurora viewing and we have the perfect 4 day package to capture it. It’s just a 2hr flight north of Edmonton, making it a perfect ‘icing on the cake’’ to add to this Arctic trip. Priced from $1,170pp. See page 30-31 for details.
  • 18. 18 1300 738 168 LABRADOR AND TORNGAT MOUNTAINS ∙ VIKING SETTLEMENT ∙ HIGHER ARCTIC LATITUDES ∙ REMOTE MISSION LOCATIONS ∙ ANCIENT CANADIAN SHIELD ∙ BREATHTAKING TORNGAT NP ∙ EXCEPTIONAL NACHVAK FJORD 23 JUL - 03 AUG 2018 LOUISBOURG / OTTAWA CHARTER FLIGHT: IQALUIT- OTTAWA AKADEMIK IOFFE DAY 1. LOUISBOURG, NOVA SCOTIA Welcome to Nova Scotia, transfer to your hotel. DAY 2. LOUISBOURG, NOVA SCOTIA Our adventure begins in the historic port town of Louisbourg, Nova Scotia. First visited in 1597 by the English, it was fortified in 1713 by the French due to its strategic maritime location. We board the ship in the late afternoon. DAY 3. GROS MORNE NP, NEWFOUNDLAND We are anchored off the tiny fishing community of Trout River, the access point into Gros Morne National Park. Our zodiacs take us ashore and we are transferred by bus for our visit to the World Heritage-listed Tablelands. This incredible location is noted for its exceptional scenery, where the Earth’s mantle is exposed – pushed up over millions of years by the movement of tectonic plates. DAY 4. L’ANSE AUX MEADOWS, NEWFOUNDLAND Today tells a story a thousand years in the making. We board the zodiacs for a short cruise to the rocky shoreline. A millennium ago, Viking long-ships would have been found along this same beach. L’Anse aux Meadows is one of Canada’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Fascinating historic locations and remote wilderness accessible only by ship 12 DAYS DAY 5. BATTLE HARBOUR, NEWFOUNDLAND Battle Harbour marks our arrival into the province of Labrador. We venture ashore to explore the restored fishing, whaling, commercial buildings found in this remote community. The colourful buildings make for fantastic photographic subjects amid the backdrop of breathtaking coastal views. DAY 6. HOPEDALE, NEWFOUNDLAND The ancient rocks of the Canadian Shield (the exposed portion of the Earth’s crust) cradle the small coastal hamlet of Hopedale. This remarkable geological feature, estimated to be up to 4-billion-years-old greets us as we sail through narrow channels and weigh anchor off Hopedale. DAY 7. HEBRON, NEWFOUNDLAND Today we enjoy a visit to the historic town of Hebron and the Moravian missionaries, considered one of the most historically significant mission-built structures in the entire province. We will hope to meet Buddy and Jenny, Nunatsiavut Government ambassadors, who have been looking after the historic site for years. They have a fascinating story to tell. This voyage links several fascinating historic locations on Canada’s east coast, including a Viking settlement, a French-built fortress, several remote mission locations and isolated fishing ports. We journey northwards from the more temperate climate found in the Maritimes and into the higher Arctic latitudes. ROOM / CABIN TYPE PER PERSON Twin / Triple Share USD 3,695 Twin / Twin Semi USD 4,695 Twin / Twin Private USD 6,295 Twin / Superior USD 6,795 Twin / Shackleton USD 8,295 One Ocean Suite USD 9,895 Charter Flight USD 995 Carved by colliding continents and grinding glaciers Gros Morne NP is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you will find unique geology and exceptional scenery. GROS MORNE NP The Fortress of Louisbourg is a National Historic Site of Canada. The original settlement was made in 1713 and became one of North America’s busiest 18th century seaports, the largest of it’s kind. LOUISBOURG PRICES ARE PER PERSON SHARING THE CABIN OR SUITE. SEE PAGE 39 FOR TERMS AND CONDITIONS. Sea kayaking is USD695.
  • 19. FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 19 “The Arctic is the best thing I have ever done. Nothing comes close to it in terms of spectacular.” G LAMBERT Victoria, Australia ARCTIC TRAVELLER 2015 DAY 8. TORNGAT MOUNTAINS NP, LABRADOR We will visit Torngat Mountains National Park Reserve., featuring breathtaking fjords, remnant glacial systems and stunning landscapes. The Inuktitut word Torngat, means “place of spirits” and it represents a spiritual connection to the Inuit spirit world. Polar bears hunt seals as they migrate to and from their calving grounds. There are some terrific hiking opportunities here to explore the area on foot and along the shoreline in the zodiacs. Wildflowers are spectacular when in bloom and bears feast on local berries. DAY 9. NACHVAK FJORD, LABRADOR Nachvak Fjord is exceptionally beautiful. The fjord is deep and narrow and stretches more than 20 kilometres. The rocky walls of the fjord soar almost 900 meters above us at several points. Many species migrate through the area during the short boreal summer. Numerous seal species may be encountered including ring, hooded, harp and harbour seals. Minke whales have been known to linger in the fjords, while larger species, including fin and humpback, tend to stay offshore. An outstanding location for landscape photography with endless subjects. DAY 10. BUTTON ISLANDS, NUNAVUT We visit the northern Button Islands before sailing into southern Davis Strait. Named after Thomas Button who explored the area in 1612, the islands are in the middle of the upwelling of nutrients on the edge of the continental shelf. This action makes it a magnet for thousands of seabirds and other marine mammals. DAY 11. MONUMENTAL ISLAND, NUNAVUT Today we will sail across the mouth of Frobisher Bay and make landfall on Monumental Island. Here we are on the lookout for both polar bears and walrus that live around the island in an uneasy truce. We enjoy our final zodiac cruise here and tonight we reflect on the last 10-days of exploration while enjoying a sumptuous farewell dinner, attended by the Captain of the ship. During the night the ship will negotiate the narrow channels of Frobisher Bay on the way to our disembarkation point, Iqaluit, the capital city of Nunavut. DAY 12. IQALUIT, NUNAVUT We bid farewell to our crew and disembark the ship by zodiac and transfer to the airport for our flight back to Ottawa. BONUS OFFER! SAVE USD1000 ON CHARTER FLIGHTS*
  • 20. 20 1300 738 168 NORWAY - SPITSBERGEN ENCOUNTER • GO DEEPER IN THE PACK ICE TO SEE WILDLIFE ON THE EDGE • MORE TIME ABOVE THE ARCTIC CIRCLE • EXTRA DAYLIGHT EXTRA EXPLORING • THE VERY BEST PARTS OF SPITSBERGEN 19 JUN - 28 JUN 2018* 29 JUN - 07 JUL 2018 LONGYEARBYEN, NORWAY (FROM OSLO OR TROMSO) AKADEMIK SERGEY VAVILOV The Svalbard archipelago is a remote island chain situated between Norway and the North Pole. Spitsbergen is the largest and only permanently populated island of the Svalbard archipelago. These wild and remote islands offer a tremendous wildlife and birdlife experience, as well as a fascinating lesson in glaciology. Our itinerary allows for a thorough exploration of the western and northern coastline of the island of Spitsbergen. As we voyage up the coastline we make frequent stops at well known wildlife sites and places of historic interest. Cruise into the heart of the Norwegian Arctic 11 DAYS CABIN TYPE PER PERSON Triple USD 5,695 Twin Semi Private USD 7,195 Twin Private USD 8,195 Superior USD 9,395 Shackleton USD 10,295 One Ocean USD 11,395 DAY 1. LONGYEARBYEN Arrive in Longyearbyen and transfer to the hotel for your included pre-cruise accomodation. DAY 2. ISFJORDEN Today we embark Longyearbyen and sail out into Isfjorden during the early evening. With almost 24 hours of daylight at this time of the year, we enjoy the views from the outer decks of the ship as we depart. We meet our fellow passengers and the expedition team during an introductory briefing and enjoy a welcome dinner as we set sail. DAY 3. BOURBONHAMNA Beluga whales are frequently seen as they transit the narrow sound near Bourbonhamna. It is estimated there are approximately five to ten thousand belugas in the Svalbard population. On our shore excursion, an old hunting cabin and other artifacts are points of interest. We will also hope to catch a glimpse of dozens of reindeer that inhabit the area. DAY 4. LILLIEHOOK GLACIER The Lilliehook Glacier is an incredible sight. The face stretches almost seven kilometers across and has a height of around 80-meters. Viewed from the ship or on a zodiac cruise you come to appreciate the enormous scale of our surroundings. The area is home to numerous bird colonies and a variety of different species. As we cruise the dark waters, we are always on the lookout for bearded and ringed seals, both species known to frequent this fjord. DAY 5. MONACO GLACIER No trip along the north coast of Spitsbergen would be complete without a visit to Monaco Glacier. A wide glacier face at the head of the fjord makes for spectacular kayaking and zodiac cruising. The coastal plain near the mouth of Liefdefjorden offers superb hiking and is often a great place to spot polar bears that come here to hunt for ringed seals or feed on birds’ eggs. DAY 6. PHIPPSOYA At 81° north latitude, Phippsoya is just 540 nautical miles from the North Pole. The high ice classification of our ship allows us to approach the edge of the pack ice in safety and comfort. Because of its proximity to the permanent Arctic ice pack, Phippsoya offers the potential for great polar bear viewing. In recent seasons we have enjoyed excellent encounters with polar bears in this vicinity. DAYS 7 – 8. HINLOPEN STRAIT We enter the main channel separating Svalbard’s two main islands. In Hinlopen Strait, the bird cliffs at Alkefjellet are nearby PRICES ARE PER PERSON SHARING THE CABIN OR SUITE. SEE PAGE 39 FOR TERMS AND CONDITIONS. Sea kayaking is USD695. BONUS OFFER! FREE RETURN FLIGHTS FROM OSLO OR TROMSO. SAVE $1000
  • 21. FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 21 Murchison Fjord is a wonderful place to kayak or zodiac cruise between the islands. There are some excellent hiking routes here, affording us breathtaking views. DAY 9. FUGLESANGENOYA Fuglesangenoya is home to a large dovekie colony. Nearby is the old whaling station of Smeerenburg, literally translated as ‘Blubber Town’. As we hike the shoreline of the old station, we learn about the importance of whaling in the discovery and exploration of the Svalbard archipelago. The blubber ovens stand as a reminder to this harsh industry in an equally harsh environment. DAY 10. PRINCE CHARLES ISLAND We visit the walrus colony on Prince Charles Island and hope to see these odd looking animals ashore. It is an incredible sight. Approaching from downwind can often confirm that walrus are ashore - the smell of a walrus haul out is quite ‘unique’! Tonight we celebrate our journey with a special dinner attended by the ship’s Captain. DAY 11. RETURN TO LONGYEARBYEN Arriving back into Longyearbyen this morning, our journey comes to an end. A transfer into town is provided for those choosing to stay a few days, or to the airport for those departing. READY TO START YOUR JOURNEY? CALL US NOW ON 1300 738 168 “I lost count of the glaciers. There seemed to be one every half hour.” J. THURECHT Sydney, Australia ARCTIC TRAVELLER, 2012 AND 2014 This special departure visits all the key sites in west and north Svalbard. An extra highlight will be the special photography symposium open to all guests, no matter what your experience or skill level. This runs in addition to the regular series of presentations on history, ornithology, geology, wildlife, exploration and the natural world. The members of our expert photographic team each have a specialist area including wildlife photography, landscape and composition, macro and so on. We make regular use of our ship-board multi-media studio for breakout sessions and to review and critique our images throughout the voyage. Our photographic goals on this departure will be formed and led by the light available both onshore and on the water. This voyage has wide appeal no matter what your interests. For the photography buffs, this trip is not to be missed! Prices are the same for this trip. PHOTOGRAPHY SYMPOSIUM 19 JUNE - 28 JUNE 2018 A prolonged sunset and sunrise all at once, the midnight sun colours the sky and earth in a reddish yellow light. The sun shines in Svalbard April-August providing amazing light and a 24/7 never ending scenic feast. MIDNIGHT SUN Phippsoya is the most northerly island of the Svalbard archipelago, It is a wildlife hub, being a favoure hunting ground for polar bears, and a great place for seeing walrus. PHIPPSOYA
  • 22. 22 1300 738 168 CABIN DESCRIPTIONS TRIPLE SHARE. Opening portholes, bunk beds and a sofa bed, washbasin with cold/hot water, writing desk/chair, clock radio with IPod connection, ample storage space. Bathrobes, toilet/shower down the hall. TWIN SEMI-PRIVATE. Opening window, two single beds, writing desk/chair, clock radio with IPod connection, ample storage, bathroom shared with cabin next door, toiletry kit, hairdryer, coffee/tea maker and bathrobes. TWIN PRIVATE. Opening window, two single beds, private bathroom, writing desk/chair, clock radio with IPod connection, ample storage, private toilet and shower, toiletry kit, hairdryer, coffee/tea maker and bathrobes. SUPERIOR. Opening window, two single beds, sofa, writing desk/chair, clock radio with IPod connection, ample storage, private toilet & shower, toiletry kit, hairdryer, coffee/tea maker and bathrobes, upgraded bedding. SHACKLETON SUITE. Opening windows,one double bed in a separate sleeping room, sofa bed, writing desk/chair, IPad loaded with polar literature and various media, IPod Dock Alarm Clock, upgraded bed linen/duvets, private bathroom with bath and shower over bath, stereo system with connection for Ipod, mini bar/ice bucket, hairdryer, coffee/tea maker, toiletry kit, vanity kit, organic cotton luxury bathrobes, arrival gift basket, binoculars and wildlife reference book for use during cruise. ONE OCEAN SUITE. Opening windows overlooking the bow, one double bed in a separate sleeping room, sofa bed, writing desk/chair, IPad loaded with polar literature and access to various media, IPod Dock Alarm Clock, IPod Speaker System, private bathroom with bath and shower over bath upgraded bed linen/duvets, stereo system with connection for Ipod, mini bar/ice bucket, hairdryer, coffee/ tea maker, toiletry kit, vanity kit, organic cotton luxury bathrobes, arrival gift basket, binoculars and wildlife reference book for use during the expedition cruise. DECK PLANS AND CABIN DESCRIPTIONS AKADEMIK SERGEY VAVILOV
  • 23. FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 23 1300 738 SHACKLETON SUITE (LOUNGE) TWIN PRIVATE CABIN SEMI PRIVATE CABIN AKADEMIK IOFFE
  • 24. 24 1300 738 168 A vast and varied country, Canada is a feast for all travellers, and given its history of exploration, it really is no surprise. You can discover hidden corners even amongst the postcard favourites. Travel a bit futher and seek out more remote and rewarding experiences with a heavy focus on nature. This is our preference, and the substantial focus of our Canada menu. We have sought out adventures by destination, not actitvity, so all our travellers can be immersed in awe-inspiring natural wonders in the country’s boundless wilderness. Be mesmerised as the aurora borealis (Northern Lights) dances across the sky. Watch in awe as polar bears prowl the ice flows in The High Arctic or along the shores near Churchill. And seek out Grizzly, black and Spirit bears in the forests of Western Canada. Canada is authentic and natural. Where first time visitors will vow to return and seasoned travellers will never run out of new experiences. Exciting, unique and amazing memories are waiting to be made, you just need to go and find them. EASTERN CANADA Ontario and Quebec, the largest provinces, offer visitors impressive wilderness, history and culture. Ontario is bursting with museums and galleries, and plenty of places to escape the crowds in the towering forests and sparkling lakes. Quebec is a unique destination with a culture and heritage all its own, the province offers many special destinations to explore including Quebec City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. ATLANTIC CANADA Atlantic Canada, made up of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador; is a melting pot of cultures, heritage and history. The region is home to the world’s largest tides in the Bay of Fundy, the World Heritage Lunenburg, and the Cabot Trail. Fresh and plentiful seafood, stunning beaches and coastal drives will bring you here, but the friendly people and ambience will bring you back. And who doesn’t want to see where Anne of Green Gables grew up? NORTHERN CANADA Untamed, unspoiled and undiscovered. Canada’s North, is our favourite. The Northwest Territories and Nunavut offer unique experiences in magnificent wilderness surroundings. Renowned for the spectacular Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights), and the wild, remote, and somehow romantic vastness of the High Arctic. Time your visit in August and you can combine both. WESTERN CANADA Comprising of British Columbia and Alberta, Western Canada features the most dramatic landscape changes in the country. Its well-known jewels, from Victoria and Vancouver, to the majestic Rocky Mountains and plains of Alberta, delight visitors every year, but make sure you seek out some of the lesser-known gems: including the natural paradise of the forests and waters. Western Canada is a year round destination with the green mountains so perfect for exploring in Spring/Summer turning into some of the best powder in the world in winter. CENTRAL CANADA Explore the Prairie provinces of Saskatchewan and Manitoba, with over 100,000 lakes and rivers, boreal forests and arctic tundra. The ‘Bread Basket of Canada’ is home to one of North America’s largest dark sky preserves for stargazing, and Churchill – the polar bear capital of the world. Enjoy the abundant outdoor adventure opportunities including hiking, fishing, canoeing, kayaking and exceptional wildlife viewing. THE FORWARD CANADA GUIDE
  • 25. FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 25 GATEWAYS TO CANADA VICTORIA VANCOUVER&WHISTLER ∙ 3 NIGHTS WATERFRONT HOTEL. ∙ RETURN TRANSFERS AND ENTRY TO THE ICONIC BUTCHART GARDENS ∙ WHALE WATCHING CRUISE 4 DAYS Vancouver is the gateway for most Australians to Canada. Ranked one of the most liveable cities in the world, it offers you an endless array of activities and attractions. Victoria, located on Vancouver Island mixes heritage architecture and colourful gardens with the wild beauty of the Pacific. The charming alpine resort of Whistler, beautifully nestled between Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains offers fantastic dining and a huge range of outdoor activities. DAY 1 ARRIVE VANCOUVER Check in to the Fairmont Vancouver. The rest of the day is at leisure. DAY 2 VANCOUVER CITY TOUR This morning, see the sights of Vancouver on your guided tour, including Stanley Park, Totem Poles, historic Gastown, and admission to The Lookout Tower. The afternoon is at leisure. DAY 3 VANCOUVER TO WHISTLER Morning coach tour is along the scenic Sea to Sky Highway to Whistler. Enjoy panoramic vistas along the way with a stop at Shannon Falls. Enjoy a village tour in Whistler before arriving at the Fairmont Whistler. DAY 4 WHISTLER TO VANCOUVER Explore Whistler and return to Vancouver at your convenience on the open coach ticket. Or be extravagant and take the float plane over the mounatins to Vancouver! ∙ 2 NIGHTS FAIRMONT VANCOUVER ∙ 1 NIGHT FAIRMONT WHISTLER ∙ 2 GUIDED SIGHTSEEING TOURS ∙ COACH TOUR TO WHISTLER 2018 SEASON FROM TWIN VICTORIA MAY - SEP $950 VANCOUVER MAY - SEP $1,280 [PER PERSON, TWIN SHARE] Two tasty entrees to your Canadian adventure DO AS THE LOCALS DO AND TAKE A FLOAT PLANE FROM VICTORIA OR WHISTLER TO VANCOUVER FROM JUST $180 PER PERSON EXTRA. DAY 1 ARRIVE VICTORIA. Check in to the waterfront Inn at Laurel Point. This afternoon explore the incredibly pretty and easy city on foot. DAY 2. BUTCHART GARDENS. This morning visit the renown Butchart Gardens with plenty of time to enjoy these famous gardens. The afternoon and evening is yours to spend at your leisure. DAY 3. WHALE WATCHING CRUISE Take the morning to explore the superb museum or feast along the foodie mecca of Fort Street. In the afternoon take to the rich waters of Victoria in search of killer whales. DAY 4 VICTORIA TO VANCOUVER Leave Victoria this morning to continue your travels. Ample flights to destinations all over Canada, including from the airport in Victoria Harbour. You could even take a sea-plane to Whistler to start a Rockies Adventure.
  • 26. 26 1300 738 168 THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS 8 DAYS Where nature has the freedom and space to soar and shine • 7 NTS TWIN SHARE ACCOMMODATION • 8 DAYS FULL SIZE CAR HIRE • SEA TO SKY, WHISTLER AND BANFF GONDOLAS • HAT CREEK, BANFF HOT SPRINGS • ICE EXPLORER, ATHABASCA GLACIER 2018 SEASON FROM SUPERIOR FAIRMONT MAY / OCT $1,995 $2,598 JUN - SEP $2,125 $6,282 [PER PERSON, TWIN SHARE] DAY 1 VANCOUVER TO WHISTLER Pick up your car and drive along the Sea-to-Sky Highway stopping at beautiful Shannon Falls and ‘Sea to Sky’ cable car, before arriving in Whistler this afternoon. The charming alpine resort, nestled in the mountains offers a huge range of outdoor activities. DAY 2 WHISTLER AND PEAK TO PEAK GONDOLA Ride the gondola, taking in the unbelievable views of glaciers, extinct volcanoes and snow- capped peaks. Enjoy the village or go exploring. DAY 3 WHISTLER TO SUN PEAKS Take the spectacular drive is along the gold rush trail to historic Hat Creek Ranch, and then a short drive to the stunning resort of Sun Peaks. DAY 4 SUN PEAKS TO JASPER Drive through rolling plateaus to see snowy peaks and expansive glaciers, stopping along the way at secnis places for photo stops. Late afternoon arrive in Jasper. Experience the best of western Canada on this popular journey through the alpine resorts of Whistler & Sun Peaks to the spectacular Canadian Rockies and alpine villages of Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper. This one way itinerary is ideal for those who want to experience western Canada at a leisurely pace. DAY 5. JASPER EXPLORING Explore the beautiful village and sights. Visit Maligne Lake, one of the most photographed lakes in the world; take your own version of the world famous photograph of the lake. DAY 6. JASPER TO BANFF Drive the Icefields Parkway, one of the world’s most scenic drives, with a never-ending procession of mountains, glaciers and lakes. Take a walk on the glacier before stopping at Lake Louise to rest and admire the views. Walk to the falls at Johnston Canyon and continue onto Banff. DAY 7 EXPLORE BANFF. UPPER HOT SPRINGS Be inspired by the panoramic view from the gondola. Set out to explore, saving time to soak in the pools at the Upper Hot Springs, as well as wander the vibrant village centre. DAY 8 BANFF TO CALGARY. It is an easy drive to Calgary to return your car. THE BEST OF WESTERN CANADA - SELF DRIVE THE FAMOUS FAIRMONTS - A CANADIAN ICON Synonymous in Canada with luxury, these extraordinary hotels offer unique architecture and magnificent features in the most pristine and breathtaking areas. You can stay in them all over the country or we can help you choose one or two to add the ‘icing on the cake’.
  • 27. FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 27 COACH TOURING - LET SOMEONE ELSE DRIVE Just sit back, relax and immerse yourself in the history and culture of Canada while someone else leads the way. Flexible, tailored coach touring itineraries let you travel at your own pace and see precisely what you want to experience. Excellent and enthusiastic driver guides make sure you don’t miss a thing. Ask us for options CANADIAN ROCKIES COACH & RAIL TOUR ∙ ROCKY MOUNTAINEER TRAIN JOURNEY ∙ ICEFIELD PARKWAY ∙ EVENING WILDLIFE TOUR IN JASPER ∙ BANFF GONDOLA RIDE ∙ ICE EXPLORER RIDE ON THE ATHABASCA GLACIER ∙ GLACIER SKYWALK APRIL TO OCTOBER 2018 25 APR - 21 OCT 2018 SUPERIOR FAIRMONT TWIN $2,625 $3,224 SINGLE $3,435 $4,588 FROM PRICE PER PERSON, PRICES SHOWN ARE FOR MAY, ASK US FOR OTHER DATES THIS TRIP OPERATES APRIL – OCTOBER. ASK US FOR PRICING ON DATES OUTSIDE OF THE ABOVE. NOTE: THIS ONE WAY TOUR CAN BEGIN IN EITHER CALGARY OR VANCOUVER. VANCOUVER DEPARTURES: SUN, TUES, FRI CALGARY DEPARTURES: SUN, TUES, THUR *BONUS VALUE CAN BE USED FOR ADDITIONAL HOTEL NIGHTS, CITY SIGHTSEEING TOURS, WILDLIFE DISCOVERY TOURS OR PRIVATE TRANSFERS. See the best of the Canadian Rockies on this 7 day independent coach & rail tour. Stay in Rocky Mountain resorts of Banff, Lake Louise & Jasper and travel by train in a sleeper berth on-board VIA Rail train between Vancouver & Jasper. DAY 1 VANCOUVER TO JASPER (RAIL) (D) This evening, board VIA Rail’s ‘Canadian’ for the famous train journey to the majestic Canadian Rockies. Enjoy complimentary beverages and canapes in the Dome where you will experience the true essence of travelling by train as a panoramic scene sweeps by. DAY 2 RAIL THROUGH ROCKIES TO JASPER (BL) By lunch you begin your passage into the Canadian Rockies with views of snow-capped peaks, waterfalls and the expansive glaciers of the Albreda Icefields. Late afternoon arrival in to Jasper and transfer to your hotel. DAY 3 JASPER - EVENING WILDLIFE TOUR Today is free to explore Jasper before departing this evening for some amazing close-up photo opportunities of wildlife. DAY 4 JASPER TO LAKE LOUISE Travel by coach along the incredibly scenic Icefields Parkway. Ride the Ice Explorer on the Athabasca glacier, part of the Columbia Icefield covering nearly 325 sq km, then stop at the Glacier Skywalk to walk across the glass floor 280m over valleys and waterfalls. Many scenic and hopefully wildlife stops will be made, including for a picnic lunch. Afterwards you will arrive at your hotel in stunning Lake Louise. 7 DAYS Canadian Rockies - 7 day independent coach and rail tour DAY 5 LAKE LOUISE TO BANFF Depart Lake Louise mid-morning for a short drive via the scenic Bow Valley to Banff, arriving midday. Afternoon at leisure. DAY 6 BANFF TOURING WITH GONDOLA Tour the town and its picturesque surroundings. End the tour with a breathtaking ascent to the pinnacle of Sulphur Mountain for an awe inspiring 360-degree panorama of sheer mountain majesty. DAY 7 BANFF TO CALGARY Morning to explore then take the coach to Calgary, leaving the Rockies and entering the Great Central Plains that roll to the east for 2000km and extend as far south as Mexico. Afternoon drop-off at Calgary airport or downtown hotels. BOOK BY 30 SEP 2017, RECEIVE UP TO $350 PER COUPLE BONUS VALUE*
  • 28. 28 1300 738 168 GRIZZLY BEARS IN CANADA 5 DAYS ∙ FLOATING RAINFOREST LODGE ∙ TWICE DAILY BEAR VIEWING TRIPS ∙ BREATHTAKING SCENERY ∙ GOURMET MEALS 2018 SEASON PRICES FROM TWIN SINGLE 07 MAY - 30 JUN $3,443 $4,328 03 JUL - 19 AUG $3,025 $3,778 20 AUG - 16 OCT $4,867 $7,638 PRICES PER PERSON TWIN SHARE Enjoy spectacular Grizzly Bear viewing while staying in a remote floating lodge in the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest. This small ecotourism lodge, nestled at the mouth of a pristine salmon river has exclusive access to the surrounding forest, guaranteeing a personalised wilderness adventure. DAY 1 VANCOUVER TO PORT HARDY / GREAT BEAR NATURE LODGE Late this morning depart from Vancouver International Airport (South Terminal) for 70 minute flight to Port Hardy. Upon arrival transfer (included) to the town Port Hardy for lunch (own cost) and to explore the town, Mid- afternoon your will be transferred to the float plane base for your scenic flight over the Queen Charlotte Strait to the floating lodge. After a brief introduction to the lodge you will go out on your first Grizzly Bear excursion. DAY 2 GREAT BEAR NATURE LODGE In the morning, you will be on the trail of the grizzly bear again after some good coffee and breakfast. A typical viewing session lasts three hours. After a morning of adventure, you will return to the lodge for lunch and a chance to relax. Spend the early afternoon exploring the surrounding area with a guide. A popular activity is the interpretive rainforest walk, examining bear sign and the general ecology of the area. In mid-afternoon you will venture out to see the bears before returning to the lodge for dinner. On clear nights, the stars are amazing. DAY 3 GREAT BEAR NATURE LODGE As your stay at the lodge continues, you begin to settle into the natural rhythm of the valley. The bears are generally most active in the early morning and late afternoon hours, which is why the lodge focuses their viewing sessions on these times. Over the course of your stay you will be taken to a variety of sites, depending on the bear activity. For the afternoon recreation today you may take a guided sea-kayaking tour of the estuary, or a boat cruise to explore the glacier-carved inlet. Or you may prefer to relax and enjoy the view from the lodge. The Great Bear Rainforest is home to many animals, including grey wolves, otters, black bears, mink and bald eagles. DAY 4 GREAT BEAR NATURE LODGE TO PORT HARDY After your parting session with the bears you will enjoy lunch at the Great Bear Lodge. You will be returned to Port Hardy in the afternoon between 4PM and 6PM. Due to unpredictable weather conditions for flights around the lodge and Port Hardy you have a nights accommodation included in Port Hardy. DAY 5 PORT HARDY TO VANCOUVER TRANSFER (not included) Mid-morning to Port Hardy airport for your return flight to Vancouver International Airport (South Terminal). SEP-OCT BEAR WATCHING The salmon arrive in significant numbers sometime in late Aug, with their run peaking in Sep and Oct. During the salmon run we see the largest number of bears for the year. The salmon run also attracts a great number of bald eagles, gulls, ravens, and other fish eating birds. This is the best season for seeing cubs. The salmon run continues into Dec, however many bears begin to move towards hibernation by the end of Oct. MAY-JUN BEAR WATCHING Spring on the estuary is a beautiful time of the year. The mountaintops are still snow covered and the valley bottoms are cloaked in the fresh green of spring. The valley bustles with animal activity as they all take advantage of the season of growth and renewal. The bears are feeding on the sedges and other plants of the estuarine grasslands. It is also the mating season for the bears, which often occurs near the estuary. JUL-AUG BEAR WATCHING During summer some bears are still feeding in the estuary as well as the vegetation along the lower river. They are also feeding heavily on berries and skunk cabbage at this time. These plants are common and widely distributed so we tend to have to look farther afield to find bears, which are no longer concentrated near the rich estuary. Additionally, the total numbers of individual bears seen is lower. During summer we continue to use mostly boats for our bear watching excursions. SEAPLANE FLIGHT TO THE LODGE Flying to the lodge is a spectacular journey. The area is one of the few complete ecosystems remaining on the planet. Stretching over 8 million acres, it’s twice the size of Africa’s Serengeti. It is an unforgettable way to start your bear watching tour in Canada. Number 3 on International Traveller’s Top 100 things to do in Canada. National Geographic said, “theGreat Bear Lodge is a remarkableplace, Not only do you get to seereal life grizzlies, you get to see aside of nature that you’ve neverexperienced before.” LOCATION
  • 29. FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 29 POLAR BEARS IN CHURCHILL CANADA Churchill is the Polar Bear Capital of the World. Every October-November hundreds of polars bears wait on the nearby coast for the sea ice to form and their winter hunting grounds to open. We have chosen two options for you to be part of this unique experience. Stay in town OR stay on the tundra for round the clock wildlife viewing & possibly the magical northern lights. Don’t just dream of sleeping under a dancing sky and waking up with a polar bear at your window - Do it! DAY 1. WINNIPEG Arrive in Winnipeg. Check in to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure to explore Winnipeg and its surrounding areas. DAY 2. CHURCHILL - POLAR BEAR VIEWING This morning, take an early morning flight from Winnipeg to Churchill. Spend the day in a Tundra Buggy® with knowledgeable guide viewing polar bears and other Arctic wildlife. After the tour you will be transferred to the town of Churchill. Overnight in a Churchill hotel. 5/6 DAYS See the majestic polar bears up close in their natural habitat DAY 3. POLAR BEAR VIEWING - WINNIPEG Spend another day in a Tundra Buggy® with knowledgeable guide viewing polar bears and other Arctic wildlife. This evening fly back to Winnipeg. Overnight in a Winnipeg airport hotel.. DAY 4. DEPART WINNIPEG Your journey ends after breakfast More time bear watching - enjoy the unique lodge with evening presentations from polar bear researchers and scientists. On clear nights, the magical dance of the Northern Lights may be seen from the Lodge’s outdoor decks. DAY 1. WINNIPEG Arrive in Winnipeg. Check in to your hotel. DAY 2. CHURCHILL - POLAR BEARS (B,D) Take a morning flight to Churchill with time to explore town before transferring to the Tundra Buggy to begin your polar bear adventure. Meander slowly along the tundra to view, photograph, and learn about polar bears from your expert guide. Arrive at the lodge in time for dinner and socialising and northern lights viewing. Go to sleep eager to wake up to see the view from your bedside window. DAY 3. POLAR BEARS (B,L,D) Spend the day on the tundra in search of wildlife. Return to the Tundra Buggy Lodge for a delicious home cooked meal this evening. DAY 4. CHURCHILL - WINNIPEG (B) Depart the lodge on a final Tundra Buggy expedition, taking your time on the open landscape for wildlife viewing. Transfer to the airport for an evening flight back to Winnipeg for a final night. DAY 5. WINNIPEG DEPART (B) Your journey ends after breakfast. ∙ FULL DAY POLAR BEAR VIEWING ∙ EXPLORE THE CULTURE OF CHURCHILL ∙ CHARACTER OF LOCAL HOTELS ∙ RETURN FLIGHTS FROM WINNIPEG OCTOBER 14 - 30, 2018 FROM TWIN SINGLE 4 DAYS $3,396 $3,832 ∙ MORE TIME POLAR BEAR VIEWING ∙ NORTHERN LIGHTS FROM THE TUNDRA ∙ 2 NIGHT TUNDRA LODGE STAY ∙ RETURN FLIGHTS FROM WINNIPEG OCTOBER 14-28, 2018 FROM TWIN SINGLE 5 DAYS $4,889 $5,159 PER PERSON, TWIN SHARE TOWNANDTUNDRA-STAY INCHURCHILL 5/6 DAYS TUNDRABUGGYLODGE - STAY ONTHE TUNDRA 5 DAYS PER PERSON, TWIN SHARE
  • 30. 30 1300 738 168 THE AURORA BOREALIS IN YELLOWKNIFE Gaze in wonder as the sky comes alive. A phenomenal experience. This is my guide to Aurora viewing in Yellowknife, with help of locals who will be doing their best to ensure you see them too. WHEN IS THE THE AURORA SEASON? It runs from August-April, when there is darkness. During May-July it is just too bright to see them. In keeping with the Arctic season, we are foucussing on August-September. WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO SEE THEM? Mid-August to the end of September and from mid-November to mid-April are the best aurora viewing seasons in Yellowknife. WHAT TIME DO THEY APPEAR? Whenever the skies are dark. The peak hours are between 11pm and 2am. In Aug-Sep you can expect vewing to start from 9:30pm to catch sunset and last till 3:30am. WHAT IF IT’S CLOUDY? Clouds literally bring the curtain down on the show, but quick cloud movement means you still have a good chance of some clear skies during the evenings. Having at least the three nights gives you a good chance for clear skies. WHAT DO I NEED TO PHOTOGRAPH THE AURORA? A good SLR with a wide aperture is best, and a tripod for stability as you will need a 2-5 second exposure to capture the colours. WILL I SEE STARS AS WELL? Oh Yes! you will see millions of stars, satellites, and the whole Milky Way. It’s quite mind blowing (if the skies are clear). The aurora shines beneath the stars, and the viewing areas are away from town, so you will have a wonderful star show as well as aurora viewing. WHAT’S THE WEATHER LIKE? AUGUST. Late evening sunsets will lead right into aurora chasing hours which can present you with spectacular photography opportunities. The daytime temperatures reach low 20°C, and the nights are beginning to dip below 0°C (that’s still considered warm in Yellowknife). More importantly, the skies are often clear. SEPTEMBER. It’s the autumn equinox month, and common to see heightened aurora activity from September into October. The good conditions from August carry on, although there will be nights where chasing clear skies is required. Temperatures begin cooling off in the evening, but are still not extreme. WHAT WILL I ACTUALLY SEE? As humans we are so eager to process informa- tion that our eyes and brain don’t allow time to let the colours develop, so we see greens, yellows, and maybe a tinge of pink. Cameras take it slower to let the depth develop. All these photos were taken with 2-5 second exposures. HOW DO WE SEE THE AURORA? The key thing is to get away from any light pollution. Some companies have viewing areas in remote locations, and others will drive around the area chasing clear skies. These are some samples of the aurora viewing tours available. We will discuss them with you to make sure you choose the one most suitable for your needs. AURORA VILLAGE: Relax and take in nature’s most spectacular show in comfort at aurora village. You can stay warm in your teepee with a wood fire stove and hot beverages while you wait for the aurora to arrive. INGRAHAM TRAIL CABIN: A clear dark sky and high solar activity can provide an evening light show that is worth staying up into the wee hours for. Enjoy the warmth of a crackling wood stove, hot beverages and snacks at a remote cabin on the Ingraham Trail. AURORA CHASING: Take to the open road and litrerally chase the sky looking for the aurora. This option gives you the maximum chance to see the lights as you are not restricted to one location. Watching the Aurora dance above me in Yellowknife was a phenomenal, almost fairytale like, experience that I will never forget. It was so much more intense and dramatic than I expected, that I simply didn’t want to leave. Four of our Arctic expeditions coincide with excellent Aurora viewing in Yellowknife and I encourage everyone booking on those trips to add an Aurora package to your holiday, as it is only a 2hr flight from Edmonton, where several Arctic trips start and end. As with all nature experiences, nothing is nothing guaranteed so our packages are 3 nights, giving you a great chance to see the Aurora, but if you have extra time, you should add another night or 2, as it’s a long way to go back too.
  • 31. FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 31 ∙ 3 NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION ∙ 3 NIGHTS AURORA VIEWING TOURS ∙ TOUR TO FALLS WITH PICNIC LUNCH ∙ PHOTOS OF YOUR AURORA VIEWING MID AUGUST - APRIL 2018 YELLOWKNIFE PRICE PERSON FROM $1,270 TWIN $1,670 SINGLE. TRAVELLER AURORAAWAKENING 4 DAYS DAY 1. ARRIVE IN YELLOWKNIFE - AURORA Upon arrival in Yellowknife, grab a taxi to your chosen accommodation. This afternoon set out to explore the town. Definitely call into the visitor centre, and adjacent museum to get a great overview of the town (pop’n 20,000), officially settled 82 years ago, but inhabited by Dene for thousands of years. Depart this evening for your first Aurora viewing. DAY 2. CAMERON FALLS - AURORA (B) After a well-deserved sleep in, take a scenic tour out to Cameron Falls. Heading out of town you’ll visit the Giant Mine and the Yellowknife River to hear the River Legend, a Dene story dating to a time when it's said giants roamed the landscape. Travel along the picturesque Igraham trail to the trailhead and hike just over 1km to see Cameron Falls, followed by a picnic lunch. Those feeling energetic could extend the tour with an excursion to the ramparts, another 8 km past the falls. In August and September as Fall arrives the changing colours of the foilage are a fantastic sight. This evening depart again for more Aurora viewing. DAY 3. YOUR CHOICE TODAY AND AURORA. (B) There’s plenty to do in town, from meeting local artisans, walking trails and excellent cafes. Make sure you take a walk around the historic Old Town with its great shopping and food. This evening embark on your final Aurora viewing. DAY 4. DEPART YELLOWKNIFE. (B) Transfer to the airport for onward travel, or maybe add another day. DO YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS? Call Rose now on 1300 738 168 or email rose@forwardtravel.com.au
  • 32. 32 1300 738 168 EASTERN CANADA EXPEDITION CRUISING ∙ REMOTE SABLE ISLAND ∙ ABUNDANCE OF WILDLIFE ∙ GROS MORNE WORLD HERITAGE AREA ∙ FORTRESS OF LOUISBOURG 27 JUN - 04 JUL 2018* GOLFING EXPEDITION 04 - 14 JUL 2018 14 - 23 JUL 2018 LOUISBOURG / LOUISBOURG AKADEMIK IOFFE This expedition cruise takes travellers to islands and remote parts of Canada’s Atlantic coast. Eastern Canada is famous for a rich and diverse culture, found in small fishing communities and remote ports. The region also offers a staggering abundance of wildlife, including prolific birdlife, numerous seal and whale species and we even encounter the fabled wild horses of Sable Island. Beaches and lagoons provide viewing opportunities for numerous shorebirds. On the cruise we hope to see the great baleen whales such as the humpback, minke and blue whale, as well as grey and harp seals. DAY 01. LOUISBOURG, CAPE BRETON ISLAND, NS Our adventure begins in the historic port town of Louisbourg, Nova Scotia, where we board our expedition vessel. We enjoy a dinner of fresh, local lobster and sail into the North Atlantic. DAY 03. SABLE ISLAND NATIONAL PARK RESERVE On the edge of the Grand Banks, hundreds of kms from the coast, Sable Island is a graveyard of ships, with more than 350 ships falling victim to the treacherous currents and sandbars. DAY 04. BIRD ISLAND AND ENGLISHTOWN Return to Cape Breton to encounter Atlantic puffins and razorbills on Bird Island where we explore by zodiac. The seaside community of Englishtown is also a fascinating location. DAY 05. CHARLOTTETOWN, PRINCE EDWARD IS Today, we anchor off historic Prince Edward Island near the town of North Rustico. From here we can split off in several directions. There is the chance to visit to Green Gables,and see where Anne, Gilbert, Marilla and Matthew lived. or maybe spend a few hours at the island’s famous Cavendish beach with a mandatory sampling of Cows Ice Cream. DAY 06. LES ILES-DE-LA-MADELEINE Sculpted out of sandstone, these islands in the Gulf of St. Lawrence are home to unique fishing communities with beautiful waterfront houses and boats, flowing grassy meadows and sandstone shorelines sculpted by the elements . DAY 07. ISLE BONAVENTURE (BONAVENTURE ISLAND) AND THE GASPÉ PENINSULA At Bonaventure Island we drop the anchor near the town of Percé and explore the island by zodiac. This location has a rich. Sculpted over time by the sea, the island is situated at the tip of the Gaspé Peninsula. The outstanding flora and fauna, including its famous colony of Northern Gannets, make this location a highlight. DAY 08. ANTICOSTI ISLAND At the mouth of the St. Lawrence River where the river water mixes with Arctic waters from the Strait of Belle Isle and the more temperate Atlantic waters, Anticosti Island is rich in marine wildlife. We plan to hike along the beaches near the eastern end of the island followed by a zodiac cruise along the cliffs at East Point. 12 DAYS CABIN TYPE PER PERSON Triple USD 3,395 Twin Semi Private USD 4,395 Twin Private USD 5,695 Superior USD 6,395 Shackleton USD 7,795 One Ocean USD 9,395 Experience Canada’s East coast on this superb voyage PRICES ARE PER PERSON SHARING THE CABIN OR SUITE. SEE PAGE 39 FOR TERMS AND CONDITIONS.
  • 33. FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 33 DAY 09. GROS MORNE NATIONAL PARK AND WOODY POINT, NEWFOUNDLAND Sailing into majestic Bonne Bay, in the heart of Gros Morne National Park, the cliffs soar up out of the water and are covered in a green blanket of tuckamore forest – windswept spruce sculpted by the ocean breeze. At Woody Point we are welcomed ashore by a delegation from the community before hiking up to the excellent interpretation centre. From there, various guided walks take us into the World Heritage-listed Tablelands and to the lookout for a view over much of the park – a spectacular experience! DAY 10. FRANCOIS The community of Francois on the south coast of Newfoundland - was settled in the late 1700s. Small boat fishers harvested a variety of species during the summer fishing season. Francois’s rich fishing heritage also included operation of a whale factory in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This is a spectacular location and for many, a highlight of the trip. DAY 11. SAINT-PIERRE ET MIQUELON, FRANCE Saint-Pierre et Miquelon are a small group of islands situated off the south coast of Newfoundland. They were first settled by the French in the early 17th century and today, the islands represent the sole remaining vestige of France’s once vast North American empire. Walking down the streets feels like taking a stroll through a provincial French town. As a part of France, the area has much in common with Europe, but also with its Canadian and American neighbors. There’s an excellent puffin colony here. Tonight we enjoy a special dinner attended by the Captain to mark the end of our voyage through Canada’s spectacular Atlantic provinces . DAY 12. LOUISBOURG We sail back to Cape Breton across the mouth of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, heading again for the historic port of Louisbourg. We will disembark in the morning and, while some of us will head to the airport, many will add a few extra days in Cape Breton to enjoy one of the gems of Canada’s East Coast. Canada’s east coast Maritime provinces are home to some of the finest golf courses in North America. Golfers from around the world are drawn by the superb challenges offered and the magnificent coastal settings. Add the rich culture and history found in Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and you have all the hallmarks of a great vacation. On this new voyage – a world first in expedition cruising – we skilfully blend a unique cruise experience, full of wildlife encounters, visits to colourful fishing villages plus exciting off-ship excursions, while providing easy access to several of Canada’s most spectacular golfing locations. While our golfers are off to the first tee, all non-golfers will be enjoying a terrific range of activities, such as cruising in the zodiacs, hikes on shore, wildlife observation, cycle touring and even stand up paddle boarding – all in the company of our expert team of guides. ASK US FOR THE COMPLETE ITINERARY This journey has been recognised as a once in a liftetime travel experience only found in Canada READY TO START YOUR JOURNEY? CALL US NOW ON 1300 738 168 SPECIAL GOLFING DEPARTURE EAST COAST GOLFING: FINS, FIDDLES AND STICKS 7 DAYS 27 JUN -04 JULY LOUISBOURG - LOUISBOURG PRICES ON PAGE 32
  • 34. 34 1300 738 168 ICELAND - LAND OF FIRE AND ICE One of the 25 Wonders of the World, the Blue Lagoon is a manmade spa located in a lava field insouthwestern Iceland. The warm waters are rich in minerals and arereputed to bring health benefits tothose who bathe in it. BLUE LAGOON EAST. Home to the country’s largest forest, lush farmlands and a range of small fjords and islands. Fishing villages, and small seaside communities border the coast. HIGHLANDS. For centuries, it was virtually inaccessible. Now the untamed mix of rocky deserts, jagged peaks, volcanoes, ice caps, valleys, and hot springs is open for ‘cautious’ exploration. SOUTH.The coastline is renowned for its beauty, fresh seafood, and the popular 300 km Golden Circle route which loops from Reykjavík into central Iceland and back, through the Geysir geothermal area, Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall. WEST. Culture, nature and history come together in ths vast area of fjords, valleys, craters, glaciers and volcanoes. Great hikes are found around Akranes and Hvalfjörður and the highest waterfall in Iceland Glymur. WESTFJORDS. One of the best kept secrets. Isolation has preserved the relatively unspoiled wilderness. Largely uninhabited, it is praised as a destination of excellence, and a must-see for any serious explorer. Iceland is where glaciers reach for the skies, deep blue mountain lakes fill steep valleys, sharp green peaks rise on all sides. Hidden hot springs in secluded valleys far from civilisation will relax and calm you as you take in the spectacular views. You can tour the island in comfort or go trekking, ice climbing, jeep riding, or jump on an Icelandic horse. With no boundaries on skill levels or experience, our Iceland journeys let you really experience the island’s beauty nd landscapes. UNESCO. Þingvellir (Thingvellir) NP is where the Althing, an open-air assembly representing the whole of Iceland, was established in 930. An ancient viking parliament, it holds deep historic and symbolic meaning for the people of Iceland. PINGVELLIR NP
  • 35. FORWARDTRAVEL.COM.AU 35 FIRE, ICE & THE BLUE LAGOON • 3 NIGHTS IN REYKJAVIK 3.5* • 1 NIGHT IN A LOCAL INN • GOLDEN TRIANGLE TOUR & DINNER • HOT SPRINGS, VOLCANO, LAVA CAVES • ENTRANCE TO BLUE LAGOON • RETURN AIRPORT TRANSFERS MAY - SEPTEMBER 2018 FROM TWIN TWIN $2,889 PER PERSON, SUBJECT TO CHANGE 5 DAYS DAY 1. ARRIVE REYKJAVIK Arrive in Reykjavik and take the airport Flybus to your hotel in the town centre. The rest of the day is yours to explore this compact city. DAY 2. EXCURSION TO GULFOSS (B) Visit the World heritage Þingvellir NP, home of Iceland’s ancient Viking parliament, then walk to marvel at the geological phenomenon that is the Mid-Atlantic ridge. Cross Lyngdalsheiði along a mountain road to the Great Geysir at Haukadalur. This was the first geyser ever described in print and is where the word geyser comes from. Cascading Gullfoss awaits you before heading up to Langjökull glacier. From here the tour heads back to Reykjavik; in summer you can take the adventurous route back through the lava fields. DAY 3. HOT SPRINGS AND GLACIER WALK (B) Start the day in Hengill geothermal area at the foot of an old volcano. An easy hike takes us to the Reykjadalur valley, to bathe in the beautiful warm stream. Call in at the Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls. Pass the Eyjafjallajökull volcano enroute to the wonders of the Sólheimajökull glacier for an easy walk on the ice. Stroll by ice sculptures, ridges and deep crevasses to complete your magnificent day. DAY 4. RELAXING AT BLUE LAGOON (B) Use this morning to explore the designer shops in the Icelandic capital, then transfer to the Blue Lagoon for a therapeutic afternoon/evening in the healing waters. DAY 5. DEPART REYKJAVIK (B) Transfer to the airport. This short trip will show you the most famous sights on the Golden Circle Route. Explore underground lava caves, ancient volcanoes and hike on a glacier. As a finale, you will have a day and night at the Blue Lagoon to soak in the warm healing waters. - Summer tour ICELAND EXPLORER - SELF DRIVE ∙ INDEPENDENT SELF DRIVE HOLIDAY ∙ SPECTACULAR GULFOSS WATERFALLS ∙ ÞINGVELLIR NATIONAL PARK ∙ VATNAJÖKULL GLACIER ∙ GOÐAFOSS - WATERFALL OF THE GODS ∙ BORGARFJÖRÐUR DISTRICT MAY - SEPTEMBER 2018 PRICES (FROM) TWIN SHARE 1-14 JUN $2,864 15 JUN - 19 AUG $3,245 20 AUG - 30 SEP $2,881 [PER PERSON, TWIN SHARE, SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND AVAILABILITY] Experience the “Saga-Island” in the North Atlantic on a circle trip drive around Iceland. You are your own master and decide stops and highlights. You self-drive with unlimited mileage following the detailed itinerary with all accommodation pre- arranged in local guesthouses, farm stays and small hotels. Highlights include the Golden Circle region, National parks, dramatic East Coast scenery and unique local accommodation. DAY 1. ARRIVAL INTO REYKJAVIK Transfer from the airport by bus to your hotel in Reykjavik. A detailed road itinerary with directions and accomodation will be provided at check-in for your adventure tomorrow. DAY 2. THE GOLDEN CIRCLE ROUTE Pick-up your rental car in the morning and ‘drive’ the Golden Circle Route: erupting hot springs at Geysir, Gullfoss Waterfall and Þingvellir National Park. The spectacular two-tiered Gulfoss Waterfall is Iceland’s most popular spot. You can join guided tours of the site and also find short hiking trails to help you explore Þingvellir National Park. DAY 3. DRIVE THE SOUTHEAST COAST After breakfast in the guesthouse, continue driving along the south coast, noting black lava fields, waterfalls and glaciers. The southern coast of Iceland is regularly mentioned as one of the most beautiful coasts in the world, so be sure to take your time to enjoy the journey. Places of interest today include the Skaftafell National Park, the glacial lagoon Jökulsárlón and the Vatnajökull glacier. DAY 4. EAST COAST AND THE FJORDS A dramatic driving day in a remote and isolated area. Stop along the way to enjoy views of tall and often uniquely formed mountains, enroute 8 DAYS to the East fjords. Quaint fishing villages and small farms are ideal places to stop for breaks. DAY 5. LAKE MÝVATN After breakfast at the guesthouse, head off to explore the beautiful Lake Mývatn area. Enjoy plentiful photo opportunities such as the lava formations at Dimmuborgir, Mt. Hverfjall, Krafla volcano and the geothermal area east of Námaskarður. Visit Goðafoss/Godafoss - Waterfall of the Gods, a great Icelandic waterfall. DAY 6. AKUREYRI AND THE NORTH OF ICELAND Places of interest today are varied - you can opt for Akureyri town, or the farmhouse museum in Glaumbær, and the old turf church at Víðimýri. Alternatively, you can visit Vatnsdalshólar, Kolugljúfur canyon and the Skagafjörður district. Akureyri is a small town with a vibrant main street - relax for coffee, enjoy the wonderful art gallery down by the wharf and be sure to visit the Botanical gardens. DAY 7. EXPLORE THE NORTH AND SOUTHWEST Visit the lovely Borgarfjörður district, climb the old crater Grábrók or explore Borgarnes, the site of one of the most popular Icelandic sagas, Egla. Return your rental car in Reykjavik. DAY 8. TOUR ENDS Our tour ends after breakfast in Reykjavik. - Summer tour