Akpatok Island, Canada

A remote Arctic wilderness, Akpatok Island is a haven for wildlife and adventure seekers.

A dramatic view of the sheer limestone cliffs of Akpatok Island, towering over the deep blue sea under a clear, bright sky.

Overview

Akpatok Island, Canada Cruise Port

Akpatok Island, a truly remote and uninhabited landmass located in Ungava Bay, Nunavut, Canada, is not a traditional cruise port but an extraordinary stop for expedition cruises venturing into the Canadian Arctic. This isolated island is defined by its dramatic, towering limestone cliffs that rise sheer from the icy waters, making it an imposing and awe-inspiring sight.

Akpatok is globally recognized as one of the most important seabird breeding grounds in the Arctic, hosting immense colonies of Thick-billed Murres and other Arctic birds. Its remote, untouched environment also serves as a crucial habitat for various marine mammals, including polar bears and walruses, drawn to the surrounding ice and nutrient-rich waters. A visit to Akpatok Island offers a profound immersion into the raw, powerful beauty of the high Arctic, providing unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities in a stark, pristine wilderness.

Top Things to Do in Akpatok Island, Canada

Zodiac Cruise Along the Seabird Cliffs

Embark on an exhilarating Zodiac cruise along the base of Akpatok's towering cliffs. Witness the incredible spectacle of hundreds of thousands of Thick-billed Murres (Akpatok means "place of murres" in Inuktitut) nesting on the ledges, with countless birds swirling in the air and diving into the sea.

Tip: Bring binoculars for close-up views of the birds and their nesting sites. Protect your camera from salt spray.

Spot Polar Bears and Walruses

Keep a vigilant eye out for polar bears patrolling the shoreline or ice floes, and groups of walruses hauling out on rocky outcrops or ice. Akpatok's isolation makes it an important habitat for these iconic Arctic creatures.

Tip: Your expedition team will be expert spotters; listen to their announcements and instructions for safe and respectful wildlife viewing.

Photography of Arctic Landscapes and Wildlife

Akpatok Island offers truly epic photographic opportunities. Capture the dramatic scale of the cliffs, the vastness of Ungava Bay, and the dynamic activity of its abundant wildlife against the backdrop of the stark Arctic environment.

Tip: A telephoto lens is essential for capturing clear images of distant wildlife, while a wide-angle lens can convey the grandeur of the landscapes.

Learn from Onboard Naturalists and Arctic Experts

Maximize your understanding of this unique ecosystem by attending lectures and discussions with the onboard naturalists and Arctic experts. They provide invaluable insights into the geology, ecology, and wildlife of Akpatok Island and the broader Arctic region.

Tip: Engage with the experts with your questions; their knowledge can significantly enrich your appreciation of this remote environment.

Experience the Silence and Vastness of the High Arctic

Take a moment to simply absorb the profound silence and vastness of the High Arctic. Far from human settlements, Akpatok offers an unparalleled sense of untouched wilderness, allowing for a deep connection with nature.

Tip: Spend time on deck observing the subtle changes in light and landscape; the Arctic can be surprisingly colorful.

Identify Various Seabird Species

Beyond the dominant murres, look for other seabird species that frequent the island, such as Black-legged Kittiwakes, Northern Fulmars, and various gulls. Your naturalists will help you identify the different species and understand their roles in the ecosystem.

Tip: A good field guide to Arctic birds can enhance your birdwatching experience.

Overview