Dundas Harbour, Canada

An abandoned outpost in the Canadian High Arctic.

Overview

Dundas Harbour, Canada Cruise Port

Dundas Harbour is a remote and historically significant site located on the southeastern coast of Devon Island in Nunavut, Canada's High Arctic. Situated within the Canadian Arctic Archipelago, it served as an important Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) outpost and a Hudson's Bay Company trading post in the early 20th century. Today, its abandoned buildings stand as poignant reminders of human endeavor in one of the world's most challenging environments, amidst a starkly beautiful landscape dominated by rocky terrain and resilient Arctic wildlife.

Dundas Harbour is definitively not a mainstream cruise port. It is an exclusive and highly specialized landing site for Arctic expedition cruises that venture into the Canadian High Arctic, often exploring the Northwest Passage or the remote islands of Nunavut. Expedition ships typically anchor offshore, and passengers are brought to shore via Zodiacs (inflatable boats), often for a wet landing on a rocky beach. A visit to Dundas Harbour offers expedition cruise passengers a profound glimpse into Arctic exploration history, opportunities to observe unique wildlife, and an immersive experience of the untouched beauty and isolation of the High Arctic.

Top Things to Do in Dundas Harbour, Nunavut, Canada

Explore the Historic RCMP Outpost Ruins

Wander through the evocative ruins of the former RCMP outpost and Hudson's Bay Company trading post. See the remnants of barracks, living quarters, and storage buildings, offering a tangible connection to the lives of those who once lived and worked in this remote Arctic frontier.

Tip: Your expedition historian or guide will provide fascinating insights into the outpost's challenges and significance in Canadian Arctic history.

Observe Arctic Wildlife (Muskoxen and Birds)

Dundas Harbour and its surroundings are known for their wildlife. Keep a keen eye out for herds of muskoxen grazing on the tundra, and various seabirds nesting on the cliffs, including gulls, kittiwakes, and occasionally Arctic terns.

Tip: Bring binoculars and a good zoom lens for your camera. Always maintain a respectful distance from all wildlife as advised by your guides.

Hike to Scenic Viewpoints

Participate in a guided hike to elevated viewpoints above the harbour. These walks offer spectacular panoramic vistas of the rugged coastline, the vastness of the Arctic sea, and the stark beauty of Devon Island's interior.

Tip: Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support. The terrain can be rocky, uneven, and potentially slippery.

Learn About Arctic Exploration and Inuit History

Engage with your expedition team's naturalists and historians who will share insights into the history of Arctic exploration by European adventurers and the deep historical presence of the Inuit people in this region, long before any outposts were established.

Tip: Ask questions! The knowledge of the expedition team is one of the most valuable aspects of an Arctic voyage.

Photography of Stark Arctic Landscapes

Capture the unique and often dramatic beauty of the High Arctic landscape. The interplay of grey rocks, sparse tundra, and the vast, often ice-strewn sea provides exceptional opportunities for landscape photography.

Tip: The light in the Arctic can be unique, especially with 24-hour daylight in summer. Be prepared for harsh sun, mist, or low clouds, which can create different moods.

Enjoy Zodiac Cruising Along the Coast

Depending on conditions, your expedition may include Zodiac cruising along the shoreline. This allows for closer observation of cliff-nesting birds, coastal geology, and potentially wildlife sightings from a unique water-level perspective.

Tip: Dress in full waterproof gear, as Zodiac rides can be wet and cold, even if the weather seems fair.

Overview