Polar Bears & Beluga WhalesItinerary

You are embarking on an adventure where daily activities will be determined by weather, opportunities to view wildlife, and other various elements that make up the diverse landscape. This itinerary is a general listing of activities and excursions that may happen during any part of the program.

Day 1: Arrive in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada | Assiniboine Park Zoo
Upon arrival to Winnipeg Richardson International Airport an Orbridge representative will assist with your transfer to the hotel.

This evening meet with fellow travel companions for a special reception in Assiniboine Park Zoo's underwater viewing tunnels where polar bears and seals swim in crystal clear waters above the tunnel walkways. Adjourn to the Aurora Borealis Theatre for a three-course dinner with wine served during a Northern Lights display. After dinner enjoy a presentation on the magnificent polar bears.
Overnight: Fort Garry Hotel & Spa (R,D)

Day 2: Winnipeg | Flight to Churchill | Cultural and Heritage Tour
Check out of the hotel this morning followed by the group flight to Churchill. Transfer to Lazy Bear Lodge in time for lunch at the café.

Afterward set off on a guided Cultural and Heritage Tour to visit the town's waterfront, Miss Piggy Plane Crash, Polar Bear "Jail" and Cape Merry.

Return to the lodge to check in, unpack and familiarize yourself with the property.
Overnight: Lazy Bear Lodge (B,L,D)

Day 3: Churchill | Boat Tour | Prince of Wales Fort | Dog Mushing 
Board Zodiac boats with your Orbridge Expedition Leader for a three-hour tour of the Churchill River/Hudson Bay area to learn more about the 60,000 beluga whales living here. Visit the Prince of Wales Fort, built to protect the business interests of the Hudson's Bay Company.

After lunch at the lodge, enjoy time at leisure or choose to join one of two optional excursions (additional fees apply):

3-Hour Kayaking Tour ($175 per person): An intermediate-level kayaking excursion (providing limited instruction) with an experienced guide. Not recommended for beginners. Includes a single or double kayak, paddles, wetsuit, life jacket, and transfers.

3-Hour Beluga AquaGliding™ ($215 per person): Climb atop an AquaGlider™ (a floating mat secured to a watercraft) for an exciting and unique tour around the bay to observe beluga whales—get up close and personal without being submerged underwater. Includes a dry suit and all necessary equipment.

Optional excursions must be booked in advance through our Guest Services team. Availability is limited. Excursion options and pricing are subject to change are and non-refundable within 90 days of departure.

This evening meet an energetic team of sled dogs and their experienced handler. Learn about these industrious canines and the important role they play in the heritage of this remote region. Then get ready for your own exciting dog mushing adventure.
Overnight: Lazy Bear Lodge (B,L,D)

Day 4: Churchill | Hudson Bay Coastal Tour
Today explore the Hudson Bay area during a full-day guided water excursion aboard a touring vessel custom designed for wildlife viewing. The Matonabee—a 60-foot-long catamaran—is celebrated as the first ship to take guests up the western coast of Hudson Bay. 

The Matonabee features large, comfortable seats, oversized windows, spacious viewing decks, a fully serviced galley complete with espresso machine, and its abilities to provide "under-the-sea" observation and deploy inflatable boats for expeditions. 

This shoreline of the Hudson Bay is a rich ecosystem of life, home to a diverse group of animals. Polar bears, belugas, caribou and more than 270 species of birds have been recorded. Harbor, bearded and ringed seals also thrive here and are the polar bears' primary food source when the bay is frozen. Stop at Seal River, a favorite polar bear gathering spot.
Overnight: Lazy Bear Lodge (B,L,D)

Day 5: Churchill | Arctic Crawler™ Experience | Itsanitaq Museum
Head out into the stark and beautiful landscape aboard Lazy Bear's Arctic Crawler™ for a guided wildlife excursion. Your expert naturalist will provide insight on the Arctic tundra's wildlife, vegetation and ecosystem. Have your camera ready as photography opportunities are plentiful.

After lunch visit the well-known local Itsanitaq Museum to learn more about the indigenous population and its rich history and culture.

While downtown, enjoy additional leisure time to explore on your own. 
Overnight: Lazy Bear Lodge (B,L,D)

Day 6: Churchill | Flight to Winnipeg
Following breakfast visit the Churchill Northern Studies Centre for a tour and presentation led by a resident scientist who will explain current research.

Have lunch, then transfer to the airport for the charter flight to Winnipeg.

Gather with fellow travel companions one final time for a farewell reception to celebrate the exciting week exploring Churchill.
Overnight: The Grand Winnipeg Airport Hotel (B,L,R)

Day 7: Winnipeg | Depart for U.S.
After breakfast make the short walk from the hotel to the airport for flights home. (B)

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, R = Reception

Guests should be sure-footed on stairs, ramps, and small vessels, and able to walk on uneven ground without assistance. Skiffs provide the mode for much of the exploration on this program, and guests should be sure-footed to enter/exit the vessel.