It’s almost a week into the new year, and there are already tons of articles, lists, and more suggesting where to travel in 2023. As the travel industry returns to pre-pandemic numbers, trends and habits among travelers are changing. , and many are investing time and money in longer vacations with deeper experiences.
That often means getting off the beaten track and/or finally planning one of those once-in-a-lifetime trips. One destination that certainly fits the bill is the Northwest Passage, a historic sea route between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans through the Arctic Ocean, touching North America through the Canadian Arctic Islands and Europe along the Arctic coast of Norway and Siberia.
Michelle Valberg
Abercrombie & Kent Founder and CEO Geoffrey Kent along with award-winning onboard photographer Michelle Valberg recently shared more with fortune about capturing the scenery on the A&K voyage between Greenland and the Bering Sea last November. Valberg also provides an exclusive look at the footage he captured that has not been published elsewhere.
Michelle Valberg
fortune: What brought you to the Northwest Passage for this trip? What is your experience?
Valberg: I’ve been through the Northwest Passage six times, and each experience has been different and unique in its own way. From ice to meeting wildlife, this last adventure is full of surprises, including less ice. So many landscapes and beautiful. The Inuit in the community are very friendly and nice. More often than not, you will be amazed by the beauty and magic of this magical place. As a Canadian, I am always proud and happy to share this part of our country.
Kent: “The Northwest Passage: From Greenland to the Bering Sea” is an adventure inspired by the great polar explorers of the past as well as the rich history of the region, and one that has been at the top of my wish list since I was a child. male. At Beechey Island, I felt honored to visit the graves of men from the 1845 Franklin Expedition, whose legacy helped inspire this trip. I was amazed by the many things we saw, from the incredible landscape to the remote villages and amazing wildlife sightings. It’s exciting to return to my roots and work with our award-winning Expedition Team, exploring remote and uncharted territories. Our Inuit cultural expert, Leslie Qammaniq, shares intimate details of the traditional lifestyle she grew up with, while Russell Potter, our Arctic history lecturer, brings the details of Franklin’s destined expedition to life for us all. It was an unforgettable journey to the top of the world, of which there are still comparatively few.
Michelle Valberg
Compared to most destinations, this is more of an adventure location. What are some unexpected obstacles or problems that you had to deal with, on this trip or previous photography trips?
Valberg: Manage expectations. Flexibility is key in this type of tour, especially in the Arctic. I’ve been to the Canadian Arctic 60 times now. It’s hard not to have expectations, but it’s critical to go with the flow and allow what will be to experience the best possible trip. Due to weather and ice conditions, plans can and often do change in the Arctic. The only thing predictable about wild animals is their unpredictability. I am always grateful for any opportunity that presents itself. After a trip like this, I have over 10,000 pictures to go through, because they are all worth thinking about. That can be a problem – to choose the best image for the story.
Kent: While exploring the “iceberg graveyard” in Melville Bay, we saw a still-impressive melting berg ready for a dramatic photo opportunity. But the elements that make the Arctic such a dream destination – the pristine snow and ice that contrast so sharply with the sea and sky, the abundance of wildlife, plus the ever-present seabirds – create challenges for photographers. My friends and I marveled at the Smoking Hills of Franklin Bay, a rare geological phenomenon that causes smoke to rise from the rocky landscape. Discovered by Sir John Franklin in 1826, the hills are named for the sulfurous fumes that spontaneously emit from tiny particles of iron pyrites. We boarded the Zodiac to sail this single coast in two directions. The black-looking mounds of tarry shale are marred by intrusions of red, yellow, and orange rocks that line the edges, while the shores are covered with burnt conglomerate like giant lumps of coal.
Michelle Valberg
What setting or subject inspires you the most? What do you look for when taking photos?
Valberg: I am and will always be inspired by wildlife, landscapes, and people, in and from all corners of the world. Telling the story is my main goal and passion, whether with a single photo, a series, or a shoot. Also, I like to present the world in a way that I haven’t seen it before, or create a way that I can tell it differently. I’m always looking for ways I can make a difference with my imagery. This is what keeps me motivated and passionate about photography.
Michelle Valberg
What are some basic tips or advice you have for travelers who want to take better wildlife and landscape photos?
Valberg: For wildlife and landscape photography, it’s important that you have the right gear and equipment. I recommend doing your research on the type of tour you will be taking. If it’s an adventure expedition cruise like the Northwest Passage, you need to be prepared for all kinds of weather. The same goes for going south. Different climatic conditions can cause serious problems with your equipment (from cold to hot). Camera caps, lens caps, extra batteries, memory cards, dry bags, etc. are essential pieces that should be in your camera bag.
Also, get to know the camera before you get on the plane. Practice, practice, practice before you go if you want your image to be what you want it to be. I’ve heard many times that people bring (or download) manuals, thinking they’ll read them on the plane or while they’re traveling. That never happens or just leads to more frustration. Know your camera before you go, at least the basics. Explore your menus and settings.
Michelle Valberg
Where are you going next? Where do you think amateur photographers should travel in 2023?
Valberg: I traveled to Antarctica, South Georgia, and the Falkland Islands with Abercrombie & Kent for the month of January. I recommend all of Canada to photographers and non-photographers alike. From coast to coast, you will find beauty everywhere. From prairies and mountains to lakes and seas, it never disappoints. It’s a big country, so you’ll need a lot of time or travel to see it all. Follow your dreams if not. We know very well now that we don’t know what the future holds. Take advantage when you can and also, use a reputable and reliable company to help you.
Kent: In May, I hope to return to England for a once-in-a-lifetime trip during Coronation Week. I created the Royal and Ducal Castle (May 1-9, 2023) to give some guests a glimpse of a world that only people know. Crown or Downton Abbey: life in grand country estates in Great Britain, complete with fine motorsports, polo (your own sport of choice) and, of course, five-star hospitality and exquisite dining. Together with my co-host, His Grace, the Duke of Roxburghe, we will experience some of Britain’s storied private residents-and the most beautiful Gardens-during the excitement of the Coronation Sunday when the whole country will be in its wonderful state.
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