Resolution Island, Nunavut

Resolution Island is an isolated island in the Canadian Arctic.

A vibrant display of the green Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, illuminating the dark blue sky over a snow-capped mountain and calm water on Resolution Island.

Overview

Resolution Island, Nunavut Cruise Port

Resolution Island, an uninhabited outpost in Canada's vast Arctic territory of Nunavut, is a destination for the truly adventurous. Located at the eastern entrance to the Hudson Strait, it is not a traditional cruise port but a unique stop on expedition voyages through the Arctic. The island's history is as stark as its landscape, having been a site for a former Distant Early Warning (DEW) Line military base. While the base is now a historical footnote, the island's natural ruggedness and strategic location make it a fascinating place to explore.

A visit to Resolution Island is an immersion into a remote, unforgiving, yet beautiful environment. It offers a rare opportunity to witness the stark beauty of the Arctic tundra, observe its resilient wildlife, and gain a unique perspective on the region's past role in North American defense. The experience is about raw nature and history, far from any urban comfort, making it a powerful and memorable highlight of any Arctic expedition.

Top Things to Do in Resolution Island, Nunavut

Zodiac Cruising to Witness Wildlife

The surrounding waters and rocky shores of Resolution Island are home to various marine mammals and birds. Zodiac cruising provides a thrilling way to get close to the coast (at a safe distance), where you might spot seals, a variety of seabirds, or even the occasional polar bear, which are known to frequent the island.

Tip: Always follow your expedition guide's instructions regarding distances from wildlife to ensure safety for both you and the animals.

Hike the Tundra with a Naturalist

With a knowledgeable guide and proper safety precautions (often including bear spotters), take a guided hike across the Arctic tundra. This allows you to explore the rugged landscape, spot unique Arctic flora and fauna, and appreciate the raw, powerful beauty of the island's terrain.

Tip: Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots, as the ground can be uneven, rocky, and wet in many places.

Learn about the Island's Cold War History

Resolution Island was a key site in the Cold War, home to a former DEW Line radar station. Your expedition team will likely provide commentary on this history, and on-site remains offer a tangible link to a different era. This is an opportunity to learn about the strategic importance of the Arctic.

Tip: Ask your onboard historian or guide about the logistics of living and working in such a remote environment.

Birdwatching on the Cliff Faces

The cliffs and coastal areas of Resolution Island are nesting grounds for various species of seabirds. Bring your binoculars to watch for species like thick-billed murres, black guillemots, and other Arctic birds thriving in their natural habitat.

Tip: The sheer number of birds can be impressive; pay attention to your guide, who can help you identify specific species and their behaviors.

Photography of the Stark Arctic Landscape

The dramatic, open landscape of Resolution Island, with its rocky bluffs, vast skies, and ice-strewn waters, is a photographer's paradise. Capture the unique light of the Arctic, the textures of the land, and the sweeping, unobstructed vistas.

Tip: The weather can change in an instant. Bring extra batteries for your camera, as cold temperatures can drain them quickly.

Experience the Remote Isolation

More than any specific activity, a visit to Resolution Island is about experiencing the profound sense of isolation and remoteness. Stand on the land and feel the quiet power of the Arctic, a place where nature is still completely in control.

Tip: Take a moment away from your camera to simply listen to the wind and the sounds of the waves, and truly connect with this unique environment.

Overview