Polar Regions
Great Bear Lodge
Incredible wilderness
Great Bear Lodge is located 80km (50 miles) by seaplane from Port Hardy, right in the heart of a pristine wilderness twice the size of Tanzania’s Serengeti that is a haven for wildlife and stronghold for bears – hence its name, The Great Bear Rainforest.
The lodge itself floats over the water and has just eight somewhat basic yet comfortable rooms, each with an en suite bathroom and shower. Power is from wind and solar, in keeping with the lodge’s commitment to low-impact ecotourism.
The common area is a comfortable place for relaxing and listening to natural history presentations from our wildlife biologists, while the wooden decks surround the lodge are a perfect place to enjoy a glass of wine while enjoying the scenery. Food here is ‘wilderness-gourmet’, with fresh, local and mostly organic produce used. Think freshly caught salmon roasted on a cedar plank with a marinade of maple syrup, mustard seeds and balsamic vinegar.
Activities here, as you’d expect, centre around the bears and exploring the wild archipelago and its forests. There are typically two grizzly bear viewing trips a day with a biologist guide, as well as interpretive walks or boat excursions, perhaps in search of other wildlife such as otters, whales and coastal grey wolves.
Highlights
Bear viewing trips
Guided hikes and nature walks
Boat excursions
Eight bedrooms
Common area
Library
Wind and solar powered
Trip Inspiration
Plan your trip to Polar Regions
Whatever you want from your adventure in Polar Regions, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.
Places to combine Great Bear Lodge with
Antarctica Cruises
Purpose-built for modern exploration, World Voyager is a sleek expedition cruise designed to journey deep into Antarctica in comfort, safety and style. Every detail aboard reflects a profound commitment to discovery and learning.
The cruise accommodates 168 guests across 84 well-appointed cabins, most with walk-out balconies. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer uninterrupted views of drifting icebergs, remote coastlines and wildlife in its natural habitat. At the cruise’s science hub, engage with resident scientists and expedition guides as part of the vessel’s onboard enrichment programme. Beyond exploration, World Voyager is a sanctuary of wellbeing. Unwind in the sauna as snow flurries dance against the glass. Sink into one of two jacuzzis under open skies, or book a treatment at the spa, where L’Occitane products enhance a menu of massages, facials and body therapies. A fully equipped fitness centre and an outdoor running track provide opportunities to stay active amidst the breathtaking surroundings.
The main restaurant serves menus inspired by global cuisine. Breakfasts and lunches are often presented buffet-style, while dinner is plated and served à la carte, with dishes prepared fresh to order. In the evenings, the well-stocked bar becomes a convivial space to share stories with fellow travellers and expedition leaders over carefully selected wines and cocktails.
The auditorium serves as the main venue for expert-led lectures, films and educational briefings. Meanwhile outside, the observation platforms are accessible whenever conditions allow, making it easy to spot whales, seabirds or ice formations with the help of onboard guides.
