Shaftesbury Inlet, Canada

A remote Arctic waterway rich in wildlife.

A wide-angle, low-light photograph of the aurora borealis, or Northern Lights, illuminating the night sky with vibrant green colors over a small village in Shaftesbury Inlet, Canada.

Overview

Shaftesbury Inlet, Canada Cruise Port

Shaftesbury Inlet, located in Nunavut, Canada, offers an immersive and unique experience in the heart of the Canadian Arctic. This remote inlet, situated on Baffin Island, is not a city or town but a pristine natural environment where the focus is on raw, untouched wilderness. The area is visited by expedition cruises that use it as a base for Zodiac excursions to explore the rugged coastline, observe wildlife, and experience the vast, silent landscapes of the Far North.

A visit here is a true expedition, centered around the natural world. The dramatic fjords and glaciated terrain provide a breathtaking backdrop for searching for marine mammals, such as seals and whales, and a variety of Arctic birdlife. It's an opportunity to connect with an environment that remains largely unchanged by human development, providing a profound sense of isolation and wonder.

Top Things to Do in Shaftesbury Inlet, Canada

Zodiac Cruise the Dramatic Fjords

Embark on an exhilarating Zodiac cruise to navigate the stunning fjords and calm waters of Shaftesbury Inlet. This is the best way to get up close to the rugged, glaciated coastline, providing unparalleled views of the immense scale of the Arctic landscape and ice formations.

Tip: Dress in multiple warm, waterproof layers, including waterproof pants and insulated boots, as Zodiac rides can be wet and cold, even in summer.

Spot Arctic Marine Life

The cold waters of the inlet are a haven for Arctic marine life. Keep a keen eye out for various seal species, including ringed seals, and be on the lookout for the elusive and mystical narwhal and other whales that occasionally frequent these waters.

Tip: Bring a good pair of binoculars to scan the water and ice floes for signs of wildlife from a distance.

Observe Unique Arctic Birdlife

Shaftesbury Inlet is part of a larger ecosystem that supports a variety of seabirds and migratory species. From the ship deck or during a Zodiac excursion, you may have the opportunity to see species like thick-billed murres, black-legged kittiwakes, or other avian life that thrive in this challenging environment.

Tip: Ask the onboard naturalists for tips on identifying the birds and understanding their migration patterns.

Photography of the Epic Arctic Landscape

The pristine, untouched landscapes of Shaftesbury Inlet are a photographer's dream. Capture the stark beauty of the towering fjords, the intricate textures of the ice, and the deep blue of the Arctic waters. The light in the Arctic, especially during the long summer days, is truly unique.

Tip: A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the vastness of the landscape, while a telephoto lens is essential for wildlife photography.

Learn from Onboard Naturalists and Experts

Maximize your understanding of the Arctic ecosystem by attending lectures and presentations from the onboard naturalists and expedition team. Their expertise on the geology, history, and wildlife of the region will provide invaluable context to everything you see.

Tip: Don't hesitate to ask questions; these experts are a wealth of knowledge and are often happy to engage in conversation.

Experience the Remote Wilderness

A stop at Shaftesbury Inlet is all about the experience of being in a truly remote and unspoiled part of the world. Take a moment to simply absorb the profound silence, the clean air, and the feeling of adventure that comes with exploring a place so far off the beaten path.

Tip: Head to the ship's outer deck or observation lounge for a quiet moment to fully appreciate the isolation and grandeur of the scenery.

Overview