Philpots Island, Canada

A secluded paradise in the Southern Ocean.

A close-up view of a large iceberg floating in the frigid water near Philpots Island, Nunavut, with a huge glacier wall in the background.

Overview

Philpots Island, Canada Cruise Port

Philpots Island, a remote and uninhabited member of the Arctic Archipelago in Nunavut, Canada, is a quintessential expedition cruise destination. Located off the eastern end of Devon Island in Baffin Bay, this island is a protected sanctuary for a staggering variety of Arctic seabirds. Its rugged, cliff-faced coastline and surrounding icy waters are part of a delicate and vibrant ecosystem, making it a crucial stop for those exploring the awe-inspiring Northwest Passage.

A visit to Philpots Island is not about stepping into a bustling port but about immersing yourself in the raw, untouched beauty of the High Arctic. The experience is centered on Zodiac cruises along the island's shores, where guests can witness immense colonies of birds, from northern fulmars to glaucous gulls and ivory gulls. This unique and educational stop offers a profound glimpse into the fragile and powerful natural world that defines the Arctic.

Top Things to Do in Philpots Island, Canada

Zodiac Cruising to View Seabird Colonies

The main event at Philpots Island is a Zodiac cruise along its cliffs. The sheer scale of the seabird colonies nesting on the ledges and soaring overhead is a truly spectacular sight. Expert naturalists on board the Zodiacs will identify the various species and explain their behaviors.

Tip: Bring a good pair of binoculars and a telephoto lens for your camera to capture the action from a respectful distance.

Spot Arctic Marine Wildlife

The waters surrounding Philpots Island are rich with life. During your Zodiac cruise, keep a sharp lookout for Arctic marine wildlife such as seals basking on ice floes, beluga whales, or even a polar bear making its way along the shoreline.

Tip: Alert your expedition guides if you spot any marine life; they are experts at identifying animals and will often get the Zodiacs into a better viewing position.

Photograph Dramatic Arctic Landscapes

The island's steep, rocky cliffs and the ice-dotted waters of Baffin Bay provide dramatic photographic opportunities. Capture the contrasts of the stark landscape with the teeming birdlife, and the unique light of the Arctic.

Tip: Protect your camera from the cold and potential sea spray. Carry extra batteries, as they drain more quickly in the cold.

Attend Onboard Naturalist Briefings

Before and after your visit, attend the onboard naturalist briefings. These sessions provide invaluable context on the geology of the island, the life cycles of the seabirds, and the broader ecosystem of the Arctic. This will greatly enhance your understanding and appreciation of what you're seeing.

Tip: Don't hesitate to ask questions. The naturalists are a wealth of knowledge and are eager to share it.

Experience the Serenity of the High Arctic

Without any human settlement, a stop at Philpots Island offers a moment of profound serenity. Take a moment to simply listen to the cries of the birds and the sound of the wind, and reflect on the privilege of being in such a remote and pristine part of the world.

Tip: Dress in multiple warm, windproof layers to be comfortable on deck or in a Zodiac for extended periods.

Identify Various Bird Species

For the birdwatching enthusiast, Philpots Island is a treasure trove. Challenge yourself to identify different bird species, such as the northern fulmar, glaucous gull, and ivory gull, with the help of your guides and their resources.

Tip: Use a bird identification book or app to help you pinpoint the different species you see during your excursion.

Overview