A journey to the edge of the world

Billy Connolly will hit our screens later this month (ITV, 19th February) in the 4-part Journey to the Edge of the World series following his 10,000 mile voyage from the Atlantic to the Pacific. Viewers inspired by the comedian-turned-explorer’s escapades in crossing Canada can enjoy their own adventure with Bridge & Wickers (bridgeandwickers.co.uk).

Travelling by sea, road and air, viewers are invited along for the ride. Beginning in Nova Scotia, Connolly embarks on a remarkable 10-week journey crossing the Northwest Passage, a feat attempted and failed by many before him. The passage in the Arctic Circle, usually blocked with impenetrable ice, is passable for just a few weeks in the summer months, when the ice retreats. Other highlights include: whale spotting in Newfoundland, panning for gold in the Yukon and a trip to spot bears in the Cariboo Mountains with renowned bear whisperer Gary Zorn.

Viewers with less time to spare can enjoy the beauty of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick on a 12-day Magic of the Maritimes break with Canada specialist, Bridge & Wickers. This eco-fest of wildlife, rocky shores national parks, fishing villages, lighthouses, harbour cruises and more offers visitors a real insight into Canada’s natural world. Highlights include the UNESCO World Heritage site of Lunenburg and whale spotting at the Bay of Fundy. Price: from £1,113pp including 11 nights’ accommodation, car hire and ferry crossings from Digby to St. John.

For the more adventurous, explore the vast and wild Yukon, where there are two moose, two caribou and half a bear to every human, and the dramatic coastal scenery of Alaska. Over two weeks, travel by plane along the Inside Passage, by boat at Glacier Bay to see calving glaciers, seals and whales, by car along the stunning White Pass and by train to the Denali National Park for a wildlife tour and the chance to spot a grizzly. Other highlights include a visit to Kluane National Park, home to Canada’s tallest mountain, and a wildlife fest at Seward.

Price: a two week Yukon and Alaskan Adventure costs from £3,095pp including 14 nights’ accommodation, car hire, transfers, tours, and rail travel. Alternatively travel on a small escorted group tour from £1,936pp.
For further details, log on to Bridgeandwickers.co.uk.