From the Arctic to Antarctica

Take to the water and explore the natural harbor of Red Bay with a member of your Viking Expedition Team. After a thorough introduction and safety briefing, transfer from your ship to the kayak staging area, where you will receive your paddle and join a fellow traveler in a two-person kayak. Your kayak has been designed to provide a combination of stability and comfort as you paddle your way through the waters of Red Bay, a former Basque whaling port. Dressed in a kayak suit and bespoke life jacket for maximum maneuverability, you will be geared up to remain warm and dry during your expedition experience. Immerse yourself in your surroundings, marveling at any nearby fauna; an array of seal species frequent the waters of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the region is a known migratory route for humpback whales.

Set off from your ship in a Special Operations Boat to enjoy the magnificent scenery of Red Bay from the water. Board your vessel from the ship’s shell door landing with assistance by a member of Viking’s Expedition Team. Once securely on board, lines will be untethered and your thrilling journey will begin. As you motor along, keep watch for potential sightings of the local fauna that inhabit the region, including harbor seals, seabirds and humpback whales. Your highly maneuverable vessel will allow you to reach less accessible locations along the water’s edge. Admire the dramatic coastline and the stunted, windswept trees of this former whaling town. Knowledgeable specialists will be on hand to explain your surroundings and to alert you to wildlife sightings. At the end of your excursion, your Special Operations Boat will return you and your fellow travelers to your ship.

Investigate Red Bay’s dramatic scenery during an exhilarating Zodiac ride. Board your Viking Zodiac with a small group of fellow travelers onto the pristine waters of Red Bay, a historic Basque whaling port. Admire the spectacular scenery of the dramatic Labradorian landscape, with its rugged coastline and thick boreal forests. Marvel at the blue-tinged waters as you keep watch for possible sightings of the local fauna; the region is home to a variety of marine life, including seabirds, grey seals and humpback whales. Marvel at the remnants of the former whaling settlement that dot the shoreline and immerse yourself in the history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your Expedition team will answer any questions you may have along the way, as well as share stories and insights. At the end of your excursion, your Zodiac will return to your ship.

Travel through small coastal villages to gain insight into Labradorian history and sample the local cuisine. Disembark your ship and set out on a memorable journey along the coastline of Labrador, accompanied by a local guide. Travel through the communities of Pinware and L’Anse au Loup on your way to Point Amour. This 19th-century lighthouse, the tallest in Atlantic Canada, offers panoramic views of the surrounding land and sea for those who climb the 128 steps to the top. Next, head to the 7,500-year-old L’Anse Amour burial site, overlooking the Strait of Belle Isle. Marvel at this ancient burial mound, the final resting place of a young Maritime Archaic child and a designated National Historic Site. Afterward, drive through the community of Forteau and enjoy a traditional home-cooked meal of local fish and wild berries before you return to Red Bay and your awaiting ship.

Admire the captivating surroundings of Atlantic Canada on a guided experience to two significant historical sites. Begin your journey with a scenic drive through the coastal villages of Labrador, passing through Pinware and L’Anse au Loup before reaching your first stop , the 108-foot-tall Point Amour Lighthouse. This symbol of Labrador’s maritime heritage is the tallest lighthouse in Atlantic Canada; step inside to learn about the nautical history of the Labrador Straits or climb the 128 steps to the top of the tower for stunning views of the surrounding land and sea. Enjoy a traditional local snack while admiring the spectacular view of the Strait of Belle Isle before continuing to the 7,500-year-old L’Anse Amour burial mound, the oldest known First Nations funerary monument in North America. After, return to your coach for the drive back to Red Bay and your awaiting ship.

Step into a world deeply rooted in tradition and community as you explore the village of Red Bay. Nestled along the stunning coast of Labrador, this former Basque whaling port and current UNESCO World Heritage Site was once  home to the first large-scale production of whale oil in the world. Accompanied by your local guide, set out on a scenic walk to explore its quaint streets, where life unfolds at a gentle pace. Take in the breathtaking views of rocky shores and expansive ocean as you immerse yourself in the traditional life of a Basque whaler. As you explore, your guide will share insights about the local way of life. Afterward, continue your journey of discovery at your leisure at the Parks Canada orientation center, where you will learn more about Red Bay’s rich whaling history and the lifestyle of the Basque people who established the village during the 16th century.

Watch for Canada jay, boreal chickadees and more as you travel through small, picturesque communities. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local birder, grab your camera and binoculars and set out on your bird-watching quest along the Labradorian coast. Marvel at Red Bay’s breathtaking natural beauty as you keep watch for the abundant birdlife that make their home here. Watch for willow ptarmigans and gray-cheeked thrushes along Battery Road and listen for the melodic songs of the Canada jay and the boreal chickadee at the local ski trail. At Point Amour Lighthouse, you will be captivated by the stunning scenery and the array of seabirds that soar overhead. If you are lucky, you may also catch sight of breeding blackpoll warblers, alder flycatchers and the elusive spruce grouse on your birding journey. Enjoy a delicious lunch before returning to Red Bay and your awaiting ship.

Embark on a boat trip around Red Bay to uncover the fascinating history of the region and taste local delicacies. Board your vessel and begin your journey around the eastern shores of this former Basque whaling station and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Uncover the evolution of this coastal community as your guide shares insights about Red Bay’s Basque roots, its underwater archaeological significance and the enduring fishing lifestyle of the locals. Sample complimentary tarts and take in the scenery as you cruise around the inner basin and outer harbor, home to fisherman’s wharves and the 16th-century shipwreck of the San Juan de Pasajes. The only licensed bar in town is on the water; stop here to appreciate spectacular ocean views as you listen to traditional music. You may also choose to purchase an ice-cold, locally brewed iceberg beer, at your own expense. After, return to your ship.

Set out on an educational voyage to discover the techniques of local anglers and indulge in the catch of the day. Board your vessel for a memorable ocean-to-plate experience in scenic Red Bay, accompanied by a veteran fisherman as your guide. This small community, steeped in history, was once a Basque whaling port and boasts a bustling fishing industry today. As you journey along Red Bay’s coastline, you will gain insight into the daily lives of the people who make their living fishing in these bountiful waters. Immerse yourself in the everyday routines of Labrador's fishermen; learn about their techniques and traditions, the gear that they use and even try your hand at making your own fishing equipment. Watch an expert at work as you witness a live harvest of seafood in season. After, enjoy a taste of the catch of the day before returning to your awaiting ship.