Canada’s maritime province of Newfoundland is a region rich in stunning land and seascapes, marine wildlife, ancient history and more latterly European colonisation. Our summer expedition aboard the 84-passenger Ocean Nova traces these rugged shores and is full of unique experiences from opportunities for whale watching to learning of the fascinating colonial and maritime history of the region, whilst for some the sheer majesty of the scenery will be reason enough to join our voyage.
Throughout our expedition we will be welcomed into communities where tradition is lived as daily reality. In Miawpukek, members of the Mi’kmaw First Nation will share insights into a culture rooted in respect for land and sea. In isolated outports such as Francois, accessible only by water, we will experience the music and storytelling traditions which remain as vital as they have for generations. Nature, too, plays a commanding role during our voyage. Cruising the island’s southern coast, we will encounter ancient cliffs carved by glacial ice, sea caves and hidden coves where seabirds wheel overhead, whilst the extraordinary geology of Gros Morne National Park will reveal chapters of the Earth’s formation rarely visible elsewhere.
At Red Bay, once a major 16th-century Basque whaling station and now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and at L’Anse aux Meadows, the only authenticated Norse site in North America, archaeological finds will reveal early transatlantic enterprise and exploration, from the Basque whalers of the 16th century to Norse voyagers who reached these shores a millennium ago. Then, sailing along the northeast coast, we will encounter a succession of small fishing communities before our circumnavigation of Newfoundland concludes as we retrace our route to St John’s through The Narrows.
Our experience will be enhanced by the comfort of our small expedition vessel, the Ocean Nova which allows us to navigate narrow inlets, land by Zodiac and approach remote shores and harbours which are inaccessible to larger ships. We will explore in the company of a small group of like-minded travellers along with the onboard team of naturalists and local hosts.
- Explore Newfoundland’s rugged coast by small ship – Discover dramatic cliffs, hidden coves and remote fishing communities, with Zodiac excursions, nature walks and opportunities to look for whales, seabirds, moose and caribou.
- Experience Newfoundland’s living cultures and heritage – Meet the Mi’kmaw community of Miawpukek, experience a traditional kitchen party in remote Francois, and discover the region’s maritime and fishing traditions.
- Step into Newfoundland’s ancient history and geology – Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites at Gros Morne National Park and Red Bay, and explore L’Anse aux Meadows, the only authenticated Norse site in North America.
Availability is always subject to confirmation. Please check with us before booking flights
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Ocean Nova
| Ice Class: | Ice 1B, E0 (Hull Ice 1A) |
|---|---|
| Cabins | 37 |
The ice-strengthened 73 metre long expedition ship Ocean Nova was built in Denmark in 1992 with high ice class to serve Greenland’s west coast. In 2004 to 2005 she was completely refurbished and has now a career as a small and comfortable expedition ship. The Ocean Nova can accommodate 86 passengers (but is often limited to 65 - 80 for some cruises) in single, double and triple cabins, all with sea-view and private facilities. The double cabins have either twin beds. The triple cabins have upper and lower beds. In your cabin you will also find a desk with chair and ample storage space for clothes and equipment.
In the dining room you are treated to delicious meals in between landings and in the panorama lounge you can enjoy a drink with a breathtaking view of the surrounding polar landscape. This is where on board specialists entertain and educate you with lectures on polar biology, history, geology and conservation. There is also a library with panoramic views and a good selection of polar books. On board there is a satellite phone, gym and medical doctor. Passengers are welcome on the bridge around the clock and there is always something to see or search for from the spacious observation decks. The ship has North European officers and there is a friendly and informal atmosphere on board. Travelling with this small expedition ship offers an entirely different experience and perspective than you can get on a larger and more conventional cruise ship.
Cabins are spread over two decks and include cabins for the single traveller, double and triple cabins, all with sea-view and private facilities. The comfortable dining room located on the Upper deck seats all passengers in a single sitting and offers delicious meals with a mixture of table service and buffet. The informal dining arrangement adds to the friendly atmosphere onboard and meals are a great chance to discuss all you have seen with your fellow travellers, and for the expedition team to share their knowledge.
With one of the highest ice classes (1B) and a 2000 hp diesel engine, Ocean Nova is a small but sturdy expedition vessel just as at home in the icy waters of Svalbard as she is in a tranquil Scottish loch. The ship has a crew of 34, including North European officers, whose prime concern is your safety as well as ensuring wildlife sightings and weather conditions are maximised. For your safety there are two fully enclosed lifeboats and a medical clinic onboard.
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Deck plans are for illustrative purposes only – The actual ship and cabin layout may differ.
Includes
• Voyage on board in selected cabin category
• House wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board
• Expedition team
• Shore excursions as per the itinerary (Note: Some itineraries have optional excursions as per the specific exclusions)
• Gratuities
• Port Charges/ Taxes
• Transfers as per the itinerary (Note: Transfers are offered in conjunction with group flights only when booked together, both can be taken off if included in the itinerary and credited - if the trip shows no flights then none are included)
Excludes
• Passport and Visa costs where applicable
• Travel insurance
• Beverages other than those listed in inclusions
• Meals when not on board the ship unless otherwise stated
• Pre and post voyage accommodation unless otherwise stated
• Optional excursions as per specific itinerary
• Any items of a personal nature