Welcome to Akpatok Island

Akpatok Island, located in the remote northern waters of Ungava Bay in Nunavut, Canada, is an uninhabited Arctic island known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, abundant wildlife, and rugged beauty. The island is named after the thick-billed murre (Akpat in Inuktitut), which nests in large colonies along the cliffs. Cruise passengers visiting Akpatok Island can witness breathtaking Arctic landscapes, observe polar bears, and experience the raw, untouched wilderness of the Canadian North. With 6-10 hours to explore, visitors will be captivated by the island’s unique ecosystem and dramatic scenery.

Cruise Docking Information

Akpatok Island does not have a port or docking facilities. Cruise ships anchor offshore, and passengers are brought to the island by Zodiac boats for guided expeditions. Due to the island’s remote and uninhabited nature, visitors must follow strict environmental guidelines. The island is only accessible during the short Arctic summer, and cruise traffic is extremely limited, making it a truly exclusive destination.

Transportation Options

As an uninhabited island, Akpatok has no infrastructure or transportation services. Visitors arrive via:

• Zodiac Landings: Small boats transport passengers from the cruise ship to the shore.
• Hiking: Exploration is done on foot, with guided hikes offering views of cliffs and wildlife.

All excursions are led by experienced guides to ensure safety and minimize environmental impact.

Top Attractions and Nearby Destinations

Akpatok Island is a remote wilderness destination, offering extraordinary natural sights. Here are the highlights:

• Limestone Cliffs: Towering up to 200 meters (656 feet), these dramatic cliffs are home to thousands of seabirds.
• Polar Bear Sightings: The island is an important hunting ground for polar bears, making it one of the best places to observe them in the wild.
• Thick-Billed Murre Colonies: These seabirds nest in vast numbers along the cliffs, creating an incredible spectacle.
• Arctic Wildlife Viewing: Aside from polar bears and murres, visitors may see seals, Arctic foxes, and occasional beluga whales offshore.
• Hiking the Rugged Terrain: Guided treks allow visitors to experience the island’s unique landscape, featuring limestone ridges and tundra.
• Glacial and Ice Formations: Depending on the season, drifting ice and small glaciers enhance the island’s dramatic scenery.

Local Foods

As an uninhabited island, Akpatok does not have restaurants or food services. However, cruise operators often provide Arctic-inspired meals on board, which may include:

• Arctic Char: A cold-water fish similar to salmon, often smoked or grilled.
• Caribou Meat: A traditional protein source for Inuit communities.
• Cloudberries: A rare Arctic berry used in desserts and jams.
• Bannock: A simple bread that is a staple in northern regions.

Interesting Facts

Akpatok Island has a fascinating geological and ecological history. Here are some key facts:

• The island’s name comes from the thick-billed murre, which nests in large colonies along its cliffs.
• It is part of the Arctic Cordillera, a mountain range known for its extreme conditions and unique ecosystems.
• The island’s limestone formations are millions of years old, shaped by glacial activity.

Geographical Position and Surroundings

Akpatok Island is located in Ungava Bay, part of the Arctic region of Nunavut, Canada. The island is remote and surrounded by cold Arctic waters, making it a prime habitat for marine mammals and seabirds. The landscape is mostly barren, with exposed limestone and tundra vegetation. During the summer months, the sun remains visible for long hours, providing an extended window for exploration.

Local Customs and Culture

Although Akpatok Island itself is uninhabited, it has historical significance to Inuit communities, who traditionally hunted seals and birds in the area. Visitors should respect the fragile environment by following Leave No Trace principles. Cruise operators often provide cultural talks about the Inuit way of life, highlighting traditional survival skills and the deep connection between Indigenous communities and the Arctic landscape.

Family-Friendly Activities

While Akpatok Island is an adventurous destination, it offers unique activities suitable for families:

• Children up to 6 years old: Wildlife watching from the ship, including spotting seabirds and ice formations.
• Children 7-12 years old: Zodiac boat tours around the island to see cliffs and Arctic wildlife.
• Teenagers 13-18 years old: Guided hikes and nature photography opportunities to capture the island’s rugged beauty.

Google Maps

Akpatok Island

*Notice: Content and travel advice presented is created by a port moderator and/or AI. It is specifically designed for cruise passengers visiting this port of call. A port moderator could be a local individual, destination expert, port authority, or a tourism agency. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we recommend that you verify critical information like visas, health and safety, customs, and transportation with official sources before departure.*