Authentic sailing experience
Feel the power of wind in the sails and take part in a real sea adventure – without commercial gimmicks and crowds of tourists.
Arctic Bay – Ilulissat · 12 August – 2 September 2027
A Unique Arctic Voyage: From Arctic Bay to IlulissatOur journey begins in Arctic Bay, a remote hamlet on the northern coast of Baffin Island in Canada. This traditional Inuit community, rooted in a hunting culture, has adapted to modern life while maintaining a strong connection to the land and sea. Guests are responsible for arranging their own flights to Arctic Bay, where we embark on a three-week expedition into the ice.This voyage takes you deep into the High Arctic, navigating a landscape of glaciers, drifting sea ice, and towering icebergs. We explore part of the legendary Northwest Passage—a route the Tecla has successfully sailed several times, most recently again in 2025. Compared to a full Northwest Passage transit, this journey is shorter and carries less risk of becoming icebound, while still offering the same sense of remoteness and adventure.Into the Northwest PassageSailing through Lancaster Sound and beyond, we retrace routes once taken by early Arctic explorers. One of the most significant highlights is Beechey Island, closely tied to the ill-fated Franklin Expedition. Here, you can walk through a stark and powerful landscape, visit the graves of Franklin’s crew members, and see the remains of Northumberland House. Standing here offers a humbling glimpse into the challenges and determination of those who ventured into the Arctic before us.Depending on ice and weather conditions, we may also aim to visit other iconic locations such as Bellot Strait. Flexibility is essential—this is true expedition sailing, where the route is shaped by wind, ice, and opportunity.Wildlife and WildernessThe Arctic is a place of raw beauty and constant change. Keep watch for polar bears roaming the ice, musk oxen grazing ashore, seals resting on floes, and the elusive narwhal surfacing in icy waters. Glaciers and icebergs dominate the scenery, constantly shifting and reshaping the landscape.Life on Board TeclaYour home during this voyage is the Tecla, a strong and experienced expedition vessel. Life on board is comfortable and informal, centred around the shared experience of being in a remote and ever-changing environment. The crew brings extensive Arctic experience and will guide you safely through these waters, making shore landings whenever conditions allow.Crossing to GreenlandAfter exploring Arctic Canada, we cross Baffin Bay towards Greenland. This stretch often offers wide views of open water scattered with drifting ice—a true transition between continents.Before reaching our final destination, we sail along the dramatic coastline of Disko Island and enter the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ilulissat Icefjord (Ilulissat Kangerlua). This immense glacier flows over 40 kilometres from the Greenland Ice Sheet and produces a constant stream of icebergs—an unforgettable natural spectacle.Journey’s End in IlulissatOur voyage ends in Ilulissat, Greenland. After weeks surrounded by ice and wilderness, this colourful town offers a striking contrast. It is a place to take a breath, look back, and let the scale of the journey sink in.A three-week expedition into the Arctic ice—remote, unpredictable, and unforgettable.
12 August 2027 – 2 September 2027
21 nights
Arctic Bay, Canada – Ilulissat, Greenland
Tecla
from€9,900/ person
A Unique Arctic Voyage: From Arctic Bay to IlulissatOur journey begins in Arctic Bay, a remote hamlet on the northern coast of Baffin Island in Canada. This traditional Inuit community, rooted in a hunting culture, has adapted to modern life while maintaining a strong connection to the land and sea. Guests are responsible for arranging their own flights to Arctic Bay, where we embark on a three-week expedition into the ice.This voyage takes you deep into the High Arctic, navigating a landscape of glaciers, drifting sea ice, and towering icebergs. We explore part of the legendary Northwest Passage—a route the Tecla has successfully sailed several times, most recently again in 2025. Compared to a full Northwest Passage transit, this journey is shorter and carries less risk of becoming icebound, while still offering the same sense of remoteness and adventure.Into the Northwest PassageSailing through Lancaster Sound and beyond, we retrace routes once taken by early Arctic explorers. One of the most significant highlights is Beechey Island, closely tied to the ill-fated Franklin Expedition. Here, you can walk through a stark and powerful landscape, visit the graves of Franklin’s crew members, and see the remains of Northumberland House. Standing here offers a humbling glimpse into the challenges and determination of those who ventured into the Arctic before us.Depending on ice and weather conditions, we may also aim to visit other iconic locations such as Bellot Strait. Flexibility is essential—this is true expedition sailing, where the route is shaped by wind, ice, and opportunity.Wildlife and WildernessThe Arctic is a place of raw beauty and constant change. Keep watch for polar bears roaming the ice, musk oxen grazing ashore, seals resting on floes, and the elusive narwhal surfacing in icy waters. Glaciers and icebergs dominate the scenery, constantly shifting and reshaping the landscape.Life on Board TeclaYour home during this voyage is the Tecla, a strong and experienced expedition vessel. Life on board is comfortable and informal, centred around the shared experience of being in a remote and ever-changing environment. The crew brings extensive Arctic experience and will guide you safely through these waters, making shore landings whenever conditions allow.Crossing to GreenlandAfter exploring Arctic Canada, we cross Baffin Bay towards Greenland. This stretch often offers wide views of open water scattered with drifting ice—a true transition between continents.Before reaching our final destination, we sail along the dramatic coastline of Disko Island and enter the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ilulissat Icefjord (Ilulissat Kangerlua). This immense glacier flows over 40 kilometres from the Greenland Ice Sheet and produces a constant stream of icebergs—an unforgettable natural spectacle.Journey’s End in IlulissatOur voyage ends in Ilulissat, Greenland. After weeks surrounded by ice and wilderness, this colourful town offers a striking contrast. It is a place to take a breath, look back, and let the scale of the journey sink in.A three-week expedition into the Arctic ice—remote, unpredictable, and unforgettable.
Route
Arctic Bay - Ilulissat
Port
Arctic Bay, CanadaIlulissat, Greenland
A tall ship cruise is more than a journey - it's an experience that stays with you for a long time
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I want to set sail →Closeness to nature and peace
Immerse yourself in a world where time flows slower, and the only sound is the rush of waves and the crack of lines.
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Check the voyage itinerary
12 August
After making your own way here, you will board the Tecla in the afternoon. Once on board, you’ll meet the crew and fellow expedition members, followed by a safety briefing and your first evening in this remarkable setting.
Arriving by ship, you are welcomed by a broad Atlantic bay framed by green headlands, beaches and the busy maritime atmosphere of the A Coruña coast. From the port, the city and its waterfront are sights to explore nearby, while the surrounding shoreline offers wide sea views and a fresh, open-ocean feel.
13 August
The landscape quickly becomes more remote and dramatic, with sea ice, glaciers, and vast open spaces. Wildlife sightings are likely—polar bears, seals, and seabirds are all part of this environment. We may make our first landings, depending on conditions.
17 August
These are true expedition days: the route is flexible, shaped by ice and weather. We follow in the wake of early explorers, navigating a maze of islands, channels, and ice.
28 August
This open-water passage is often filled with large drifting icebergs. Life on board settles into a rhythm of watches, shared meals, and time on deck watching the ice and sea. Day 19/20: Disko Island & Ilulissat IcefjordApproaching Greenland, we sail along the coastline near Disko Island and enter the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ilulissat Icefjord (Ilulissat Kangerlua). Here, enormous icebergs calve from one of the most active glaciers in the world—a spectacular and unforgettable sight. Day 21/22: Arrival in Ilulissat (Greenland)We arrive in Ilulissat, where the voyage comes to an end. After breakfast on day 22, it is time to disembark. From here, you can continue your travels or begin your journey home.
Arriving by ship, Ilulissat feels remote and elemental, with a working harbour set against stark Arctic light and a coastline of rock, sea and ice. Nearby, visitors can take in views toward the famous ice-filled waters and the dramatic Greenlandic landscape that gives the town its unforgettable atmosphere.
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Places you'll visit
Arctic Bay
Arriving by ship, you are welcomed by a broad Atlantic bay framed by green headlands, beaches and the busy maritime atmosphere of the A Coruña coast. From the port, the city and its waterfront are sights to explore nearby, while the surrounding shoreline offers wide sea views and a fresh, open-ocean feel.
Ilulissat
Arriving by ship, Ilulissat feels remote and elemental, with a working harbour set against stark Arctic light and a coastline of rock, sea and ice. Nearby, visitors can take in views toward the famous ice-filled waters and the dramatic Greenlandic landscape that gives the town its unforgettable atmosphere.
Frequently asked questions about tall ship cruises and sailing ships
Many leisure and introductory voyages accept guests without sailing experience. Training and expedition voyages may require active participation, minimum ages or a particular level of mobility. Check the operator's conditions for the exact voyage before booking.
Start with the operator's joining instructions because space, dress rules and required equipment vary by ship. Soft luggage, layered clothing, a waterproof outer layer, sun protection and operator-approved non-slip footwear are common recommendations. Ask a medical professional about suitable seasickness precautions if needed.
Choose a cruise on the Cruise Tall Ships site, click the offer and go to the operator's booking page. We do not charge fees – we connect you directly with the cruise organizer.
Choosing a tall ship cruise is more than just booking a vacation; it is an invitation to experience the timeless romance of the sea. Unlike modern, crowded cruise liners, a traditional sailing vessel offers an intimate atmosphere where the sound of the wind in the canvas replaces the hum of engines. Taking part in such a unique voyage allows you to connect with maritime heritage while enjoying the comforts of a modern leisure cruise. Whether it’s the thrill of seeing the horizon from a wooden deck, the spectacular sight of a full press of sail, or the chance to visit hidden coastal gems inaccessible to larger ships, a tall ship voyage offers a sense of freedom that is simply unmatched. It is the perfect choice for travelers seeking authenticity, tranquility, and a truly luxury sailing experience that stays with them long after they return to shore.
Tall ships cruises take place on many waters: Baltic, North Sea, Atlantic, Caribbean, Mediterranean and others. Each offer indicates the region and route.
Safety rules, vessel certification, briefings and required equipment depend on the ship, flag state, route and operator. Review the operator's current safety information and ask them directly about certification or accessibility before booking.
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Swimming requirements vary by operator and voyage. Do not assume that a life jacket removes an operator's swimming or mobility requirement; confirm the conditions for the specific departure.
