The Canadian Arctic Archipelago is in the extreme northern part of North America. It comprises over 35,000 islands which makes up much of Northern Canada. Cruise past towering fjords, visit historical sites and traditional Inuit communities.
Wildlife
Be on the lookout for narwhals, walrus, beluga and right whales, ring and harp seals, as well as muskoxen and the iconic polar bear.
Canadian Arctic Scenery
Cruises in the Canadian Arctic may include a trip through Lancaster Sound, the Gateway to the Northwest Passage, and one of the richest marine habitats found in the Arctic. You can also explore Baffin Island, the fifth-largest island in the world. As always, the Canadian weather and ice conditions will dictate your cruise itinerary to some degree. However, each day and each landing will present a new adventure. Deep fjords, colorful tundra, and Inuit settlements await.
History
This region’s first explorers, groups of people called Sivullirmiut, came most likely from Siberia. Crossing the Bering Straight in their ships, or traversing the frozen sea ice, they explored using hunting and tool techniques. Afterwards, another group of early people migrated to this region. The Thule people, predecessors of the Inuit people, moved to this area from their coastal Alaskan homes.
Robert McClure, the Irish explorer, often receives credit for the first explorer to find the Northwest Passage. His ship and crew sailed from Plymouth, England in 1850. They sailed around South America, through the Bering Straight, and discovered the Prince of Whales Straight. Traveling through it McClure was able to reach the Northwest Passage.
Weather
Generally, he temperatures in the Canadian Arctic range from -20 degrees Fahrenheit to -30 degrees Fahrenheit during the coldest months. From October to May the temperatures will usually remain below 0 degrees Fahrenheit and not likely to go above freezing.
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