Canada & Greenland Explorer | 15 Days | Viking Polaris Cruise

Board your ship and settle into your accommodations. Toronto, one of Canada’s most dynamic and innovative cities, sits on the shores of Lake Ontario, facing the charming Toronto Islands. Founded in 1793 by British Loyalists, it has since evolved into a vibrant metropolis best explored on foot. Wander past the Victorian bay-and-gable homes in Rosedale, or explore Wychwood Park, a historic Ontario Heritage Conservation district. The city’s Distillery District is home to North America’s largest collection of preserved Victorian industrial architecture.

Toronto’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths, with communities representing cultures from around the globe. More than half of its residents were born outside of Canada, contributing to the city's rich culinary and cultural landscape. Explore Greektown, Little Italy, Koreatown, and Chinatown for a true taste of its vibrant heritage. St. Lawrence Market, a historical landmark since 1803, offers an array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and antiques, making it a must-visit destination.

Sail through one of the most impressive feats of engineering—the St. Lawrence Seaway. This intricate system of locks, canals, and channels connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Great Lakes, allowing vessels to bypass rapids and dams. Notably, the 27-mile Welland Canal lifts ships over the Niagara Escarpment, providing safe passage between Lake Ontario and Lake Erie. Known as "Highway H2O," this waterway is a critical route for trade and transport between Canada and the United States.

Founded in 1634, Trois-Rivières is Quebec’s second-oldest permanent settlement. Strategically located at the confluence of three channels of the Saint-Maurice River, it played a key role in the fur trade with First Nations peoples. Today, its Old Town features elegant, century-old architecture, blending history with picturesque charm.

Often referred to as the most French city in North America, Quebec City captivates visitors with its old-world charm. The iconic Château Frontenac dominates the skyline, resembling the palatial châteaux of France’s Loire Valley. The only walled city in North America outside of Mexico, its fortifications date back to the 17th century. Perched atop Cape Diamond, the city offers breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River.

At the meeting point of the St. Lawrence River and the Saguenay Fjord, Tadoussac is a charming village rich in history and natural beauty. Established in 1599 as a French trading post, it remains a serene retreat surrounded by stunning landscapes. It is also one of Canada’s premier whale-watching destinations, where beluga, minke, and humpback whales can often be seen gliding through the waters.

Nestled on the northern shore of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, Havre-Saint-Pierre was founded by Acadian fishermen in 1857. Today, its residents, known as Cayens, celebrate their Acadian heritage with pride. The area is renowned for its striking geological formations, including the towering weather-sculpted monoliths of the Mingan Archipelago.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Red Bay was a major Basque whaling station during the 16th and 17th centuries. Set against the backdrop of red granite cliffs, the village preserves artifacts from its past, including a 16th-century whaling complex and remnants of a historic shipwreck.

Once a thriving center for the cod fishing industry, Battle Harbour is now a beautifully restored historic site on a remote island. Its rugged terrain and preserved saltbox houses transport visitors back to the 19th century, offering a glimpse into the region’s maritime past.

Trace the legendary path of Viking explorer Leif Eriksson, the first European to set foot in North America. As you sail, take advantage of The Aula, a state-of-the-art venue for lectures and immersive educational experiences, featuring panoramic 270° retractable windows for stunning Arctic views.

Once a thriving mining town due to its rich cryolite deposits, Ivittuut played a crucial role in aluminum production during World War II. Now abandoned, it serves as a historical site with preserved buildings and remnants of its past.

A quaint coastal town, Paamiut is known for its wooden stave church, built in 1909, and traditional Inuit peat houses. It also boasts the largest population of white-tailed eagles in Greenland, with the majestic birds soaring high above the fjords.

Located at the far end of Nuuk Fjord, Kapisillit is the only place in Greenland where salmon naturally spawn. Surrounded by icebergs and breathtaking mountain landscapes, the village offers excellent hiking trails and a glimpse into traditional Arctic life.

Bid farewell to your journey through the Arctic as you disembark in Greenland’s capital. Whether heading home or extending your adventure, Nuuk invites you to explore its colorful buildings, thriving Inuit culture, and stunning natural surroundings.