Baffin Bay, Canada

An icy expanse between Canada and Greenland, Baffin Bay is rich with glaciers and Arctic wildlife.

A remote Greenlandic village with colorful houses built on a rocky coastline, overlooking a fjord filled with massive icebergs in Baffin Bay.

Overview

Baffin Bay, Canada Cruise Port

Baffin Bay is a vast, semi-enclosed sea located between Baffin Island (Nunavut, Canada) to the west and Greenland to the east. It is a premier destination for expedition cruise ships operating during the brief Arctic summer, offering an unparalleled journey into a breathtaking high-Arctic wilderness. This region is characterized by dramatic fjords, towering icebergs calved from immense glaciers, and diverse landscapes ranging from the rugged mountains of Baffin Island to the colorful coastal communities of West Greenland.

Cruising Baffin Bay is an immersive experience focused on wildlife viewing (including polar bears, various whale species, and abundant seabirds), Zodiac excursions through ice-choked waters, shore landings for hiking and exploration, and profound cultural encounters with the resilient Inuit peoples of Canada and Greenland. It is a voyage for intrepid travelers seeking an authentic connection with one of the planet's most spectacular and remote environments.

Top Things to Do in Baffin Bay, Canada

Zodiac Cruising Amidst Icebergs and Glaciers

Embark on exhilarating Zodiac cruises through the majestic fjords and among colossal icebergs. These agile boats allow for close-up views of calving glaciers (such as Eqi Glacier in Greenland), intricate ice formations, and the sheer cliffs that define the coastline, offering incredible photographic opportunities.

Tip: Dress in multiple warm, waterproof layers, as conditions on the water can be cold and spray is common.

Wildlife Spotting (Polar Bears, Whales & Seabirds)

Keep a keen lookout for the iconic wildlife of the Arctic. Baffin Bay is a prime habitat for polar bears (often seen on ice floes or shorelines), and various whale species including bowhead, beluga, humpback, and the elusive narwhal. Huge colonies of seabirds (e.g., guillemots, kittiwakes) nest on towering cliffs.

Tip: Bring high-quality binoculars and a telephoto lens. Attend onboard naturalist lectures to learn about the species you might encounter.

Explore Inuit Communities (e.g., Pond Inlet, Sisimiut, Ilulissat)

Visit remote Inuit communities in both Canadian Nunavut (like Pond Inlet) and Greenland (like Sisimiut or Ilulissat). Engage with local residents, learn about their vibrant culture, traditional lifestyles, and impressive art. Many communities offer small museums or craft shops.

Tip: Approach interactions with respect and curiosity. Purchasing local art and handicrafts directly supports the community.

Hike Arctic Tundra and Dramatic Landscapes

Participate in guided shore landings for invigorating hikes across the Arctic tundra. Explore diverse landscapes, from rolling hills dotted with wildflowers (in summer) to rocky coastlines and areas with ancient Thule ruins. These walks offer unique perspectives of the vast, unspoiled environment.

Tip: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are essential. Terrain can be uneven and wet. Follow the guidance of your expedition leaders for safety.

Witness the Ilulissat Icefjord (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Experience the sheer grandeur of the Ilulissat Icefjord in West Greenland, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most active glaciers in the world. From your ship or during a Zodiac cruise, witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of massive icebergs breaking off and drifting slowly through Disko Bay.

Tip: This is a must-see for anyone cruising Baffin Bay, offering a sense of the immense power of nature.

Cross the Arctic Circle

Many Baffin Bay itineraries include the symbolic crossing of the Arctic Circle. This milestone is often celebrated onboard, marking your journey into the realm of the midnight sun (in summer) or the polar night (in winter, though cruises typically run in summer).

Tip: Enjoy the onboard festivities and take plenty of photos!

Overview