Resolute (Resolute Bay), Nunavut, Canada Cruise Departure Port Guide

What Cruise Lines Operate from The Port

Several cruise lines sail from Resolute Bay, including Exploration Canada, Hurtigruten, and Quark Expeditions. These companies focus on Arctic trips, taking you close to the High Arctic’s stunning landscapes and wildlife.

Most cruises from Resolute Bay run during the short Arctic summer between July and September. The expedition ships usually carry between 100-200 passengers, which means more personal attention. Each vessel is built specially for polar waters, with ice-strengthened hulls and top safety kit for Arctic conditions.

Cruise Destinations from The Port

From Resolute Bay, ships sail into some of the wildest bits of the High Arctic.

You’ll follow the Northwest Passage, travelling the same routes as the famous explorers through icy waters. The trips usually wind through the Canadian Arctic Archipelago, taking you to Devon Island, Beechey Island, and Prince Leopold Island.

• Watch in amazement as enormous glaciers break into the clear Arctic waters
• Set foot where bold explorers searched for the Northwest Passage
• See polar bears, narwhals, and other Arctic wildlife roaming free
• Learn about Inuit life and customs in far-flung settlements along the way

Your trip might reach Greenland’s western shore or push further north towards the geographic North Pole, depending on ice and which route you choose.

Most trips from Resolute Bay run between 7 and 14 days.

Why Choose This Port for Your Cruise Departure?

Starting your cruise from Resolute Bay gives you three big plus points compared to other Arctic ports.

For a start, you’ll already be well inside the Northwest Passage, meaning more time actually seeing the Arctic rather than travelling there. The port sits at 74°N latitude – brilliantly placed for reaching important polar spots like Devon Island and Beechey Island much faster than if you left from ports further south.

What’s more, you’ll be right where loads of polar exploration history happened, as Resolute Bay was a key base for many Arctic missions over the years.

The modern port facilities and handy location next to Resolute Airport make it dead simple to get from your flight straight to your ship.

These practical advantages make Resolute Bay a clever and historically interesting place to begin your Arctic trip.

How to get to the port

Getting to the port at Resolute Bay takes a bit of planning since it’s in quite a remote Arctic spot.

You’ll need to catch a flight to Resolute Bay Airport (YRB) – either a scheduled one or a charter – from bigger Canadian cities like Iqaluit or Yellowknife.

First Air and Canadian North run regular flights, though times change depending on the season.

Once you’re at the airport, it’s only about 5 minutes by car to reach the port area. Your cruise line usually sorts out the local shuttle service.

• You’ll get quite a buzz landing on one of the world’s most northern commercial runways
• Take in the untamed Arctic beauty from your window seat
• Meet other travellers heading to this once-in-a-lifetime spot
• See the striking change from tundra to sea on your way to the port

Port Parking Options

Parking at Resolute Bay’s port is quite tight, with nowhere to park long-term.

If you’re heading off on a cruise from this far-north Arctic port, you’ll need to sort out different arrangements for your car.

The best bet is to park at Resolute Bay Airport‘s small car park, which sits roughly 1.5 miles from the port.

You’ll want to ring ahead and book this through the Resolute Bay Airport Authority. They charge by the week, and if you’re parking during winter months, make sure your car is properly prepared for the cold.

For safety’s sake, take any valuable items with you and remember to leave your contact details with the airport staff.

Local Transport & Transfers

Transport from Resolute Bay Airport to the cruise port needs planning ahead since there’s very little in the way of local transport in this far-flung Arctic settlement.

You’ll want to sort out your transfer through your cruise company or local hotel, as you won’t find any taxis or buses about. Most cruise operators include airport pickups with their Arctic packages and work with the handful of local drivers who’ve the right vehicles for the harsh conditions.

• It’s quite something to land in one of the world’s most northern communities
• Meet friendly Inuit drivers who know these roads like the back of their hand
• Take in the striking tundra views on your short journey
• Travel with other passengers heading to the expedition ship

If you’re booked into the Resolute Bay Hotel before your cruise, they’ll run you down to the port free of charge – just let them know when you need picking up.

Port Terminal Facilities

The port’s quite basic compared to what you might see at southern cruise terminals.

You’ll spot a simple shelter building by the small dock where passengers gather while waiting for tenders or boarding. Inside, there’s a single toilet and a few seats.

Don’t expect restaurants, shops or duty-free outlets at this Arctic port. The building’s mainly there to keep you out of the weather and serve as a meeting point for cruise passengers.

If you need anything, you’ll want to pop into Resolute’s town centre first – it’s roughly 1.5 kilometres away.

Port staff handle security and boarding, and that’s about it. When it gets busy in the main season, they put up temporary tents to cope with more passengers and give extra protection from the harsh weather.

Things to Do Before Your Cruise in a Day

Before setting sail from Resolute Bay, make the most of your short time in this fascinating Arctic outpost. This distant northern community gives you a real taste of life at the top of the world.

Get your warm clothes on and see what this remarkable hamlet has to show before your ship leaves.

• Pop into the Polar Continental Shelf Program facility where you can see Arctic research in action and get caught up in the thrill of scientific findings.
• Take a stroll to see the remains of the HMS Breadalbane and Sir John Franklin’s ships – it’s quite moving to think about these early Arctic journeys.
• Visit the community centre to watch local Inuit artists at work as they create beautiful soapstone carvings.
• Walk up to the nearby ridge for stunning views across Resolute Bay – you might spot Arctic foxes and snowy owls going about their business.

Dining and Shopping

Once you’ve had a look around Resolute Bay, you might fancy trying the local food and doing a bit of shopping.

The Co-op Hotel runs the only restaurant in the hamlet – they serve proper Inuit dishes along with Canadian food. You can tuck into caribou stew, Arctic char and bannock bread.

If you need to shop, you’ll find two main shops: the Northern Store and the Co-op Store. They sell everyday items, basic food supplies and some traditional Inuit crafts.

You can also buy genuine pieces like soapstone carvings, handmade jewellery and fur items straight from the local artists who make them.

Whilst there aren’t loads of shops to choose from, the unique Arctic bits and bobs you’ll find make lovely keepsakes from your time up north.

Accommodation

When staying in Resolute Bay, your choices for places to sleep are fairly limited. The Co-op Hotel is the main spot, with straightforward but decent rooms that come with en-suite bathrooms, cable telly and phones.

You can use their free Wi-Fi and shared kitchen to cook your own food. If you’re coming during cruise season, book early – the rooms get snapped up fast.

From your room, you’ll see stunning Arctic views outside your window, and you’ll notice the warm welcome that’s typical of northern communities.

It’s quite something to stay in one of the world’s most far-flung settlements, and the hotel becomes a natural meeting point for visitors and locals alike.

If you fancy something different, there are a handful of private lets and basic guest houses around, though they’re not always available year-round.

Tips for First-Time Cruisers from The Port

Getting ready for your Arctic cruise takes a bit of planning once you’ve booked your room.

You’ll want to bring lots of warm clothes – think thermal undies, waterproof gear and proper insulated boots, since it’s quite cold up there even during summer months.

Make sure you’ve got your passport sorted and any visas you might need well ahead of time.

It’s best to get to Resolute Bay a day early, as the weather can be a bit dodgy and cause delays.

Pop to the bank for some cash before you go – you might need it since card machines can be scarce at the port.

Save your important docs and maps onto your mobile for offline use, as the internet’s not brilliant up there.

Keep any must-have medicines in your hand luggage, and don’t forget something for seasickness.

Lastly, pack your camera, binoculars and extra batteries – you’ll want them for spotting Arctic wildlife.

Customs & Immigration at The Port

Getting through customs at Resolute Bay’s port means following proper Canadian rules, even way up here in the Arctic. Bring your passport, cruise papers and any visas you need – the border staff will want to see them.

Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) staff will handle your entry, and you must tell them about anything you’re bringing into Canada.

• Give yourself at least 3 hours before sailing – it helps keep stress levels down during screening
• Keep all your papers organised and easy to find
• Sort out your ArriveCAN app at least 72 hours before you arrive
• Once you’re through customs, you can relax and look forward to your Arctic journey

Be straight with the CBSA officers when they ask questions. They need to check who you’re and make sure you meet all the rules for entering Canada.

Local Currency & Payment Options

Canadian dollars are the main money used in Resolute Bay, and you can pay by Visa or Mastercard at most of the bigger shops.

It’s a good idea to keep some cash with you though, especially when buying from small shops or local Inuit craftspeople.

There’s an ATM at the Northern Store, but since it sometimes breaks down, it’s best to get your Canadian money sorted before you arrive.

Currency rates change often, so look up the latest rates before travelling.

Some tour guides and local operators might only want cash payments, particularly for tours booked at short notice.

Most shop and restaurant prices include the 5% GST (Goods and Services Tax) that applies in Nunavut.

Emergency Contacts

Emergency help in Resolute Bay is quite straightforward when you’re visiting on your cruise.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has a station in town, and the Resolute Bay Health Centre gives round-the-clock emergency care.

The Coast Guard keeps an eye on sea-related troubles from their Arctic command centre, whilst the local fire brigade handles emergencies on land.

• Ring 911 if someone’s life is in danger – it’s your fastest way to get help
• Ring RCMP Resolute Bay station on (867) 252-1111 for police help
• Ring Resolute Bay Health Centre on (867) 252-3844 if you need urgent medical help
• Use Radio Channel 16 (VHF) to reach the Coast Guard if you’re in trouble at sea

It’s a good idea to save these numbers in your mobile and write them down on paper too, just in case your phone runs out of power.

Port Terminal Layout

Inside Resolute Bay’s simple port terminal, you’ll find a basic single-level building that makes passenger processing straightforward.

The main hall has check-in counters along the east wall, whilst customs and security screening sit in the middle.

Two waiting sections with standard seating are placed on either side of the security point.

The loos are near the entrance, and there’s a small café counter that runs during busy boarding periods.

The baggage drop-off area is right outside the main entrance, with the passenger pickup spot at the terminal’s north end.

Digital screens above the check-in counters show when flights leave and boarding updates.

In the northwest corner, there’s a special desk for expedition cruise operations where you can get essential briefing papers and safety details.

History of The Port

Resolute Bay’s port has been a vital Arctic gateway since 1947, when it started life as a weather station and military base.

The harbour really took off during the Cold War, becoming rather important for Arctic sovereignty and research work.

What began as a simple port has grown into a proper maritime hub, now busy with scientific vessels and tourist boats alike.

• Walk the grounds where Inuit families were moved to in the 1950s – it’s a powerful reminder of northern communities’ strength
• The fierce Arctic winds that tested early Northwest Passage explorers still blow through here today
• Take in the stark beauty of a port that’s been home to countless scientific achievements
• These shores tell tales of Cold War rivalry, when nations raced to control the Arctic

Environmental Initiatives at The Port

Since 2015, Resolute Bay’s port has been running some brilliant environmental programmes that match worldwide conservation work.

The port follows strict rules about waste to keep the Arctic waters clean, including a complete ban on ships dumping anything into the sea. Every day, the “Arctic Marine Protection” team keeps an eye on water quality and how shipping affects local sea life.

The terminal’s got solar lights all over and places to charge electric cars, which helps cut down on pollution.

Working with local Inuit people, the port has set up special protected areas for sea mammals and put limits on shipping when animals are migrating.

If you fancy learning more, pop into the port’s Environmental Education Centre – it’s got hands-on displays that show how they’re working to look after the Arctic environment.

Cruise Packages and Deals from The Port

Want to see the Arctic’s beauty while helping protect it? Take a look at our cruise packages sailing through the Northwest Passage from Resolute Bay.

You can join trips lasting 10-17 days between July and September. Book six months early and you could save up to 15% on your fare.

You’ll:

• Sail the same routes as famous explorers through icy waters
• Watch polar bears hunt on ice floes beneath the northern lights
• Meet Inuit people and learn about their culture and way of life
• Spot amazing Arctic wildlife like narwhals, belugas and muskoxen in the wild

Ring the cruise companies straight away or have a chat with Arctic travel experts to find the best seasonal prices and pick your perfect cabin.

Accessibility Information for Disabled Passengers

If you need help getting around, it’s best to ring up the cruise companies before you book to talk about what you require.

Resolute Bay is quite remote, so whilst facilities are basic, most expedition ships have accessible features.

Modern ships have wheelchair-friendly common spaces, though suitable cabins differ between companies.

Keep in mind that getting to and from the ship means using small zodiac boats, which mightn’t work for everyone with mobility issues.

In winter, the ice makes it rather tricky to move about.

Your ship can sort out mobility aids like wheelchairs and walkers if you ask beforehand.

If you’re bringing a carer along, let the company know early so they can arrange proper cabin space.

Most ships allow service animals, but you’ll need the right papers and must plan for their needs whilst on board.

Cruise Insurance and Medical Facilities at The Port

Getting proper travel insurance is essential when you’re going on an Arctic cruise from Resolute Bay. Because it’s so far from anywhere, you need solid coverage that includes emergency medical evacuation. Resolute Bay only has a small nursing station for basic care. If anything serious happens, you’ll need to be flown to bigger hospitals in Iqaluit or southern Canada.

A few things to keep in mind:

• Regular insurance policies often don’t cover the Arctic region, so you’ll need to get special coverage.
• Your usual health insurance likely won’t be enough here – just getting airlifted out can cost more than £40,000.
• Look for a policy that covers cancellations due to harsh weather – it’s quite common up north.
• If you have any existing medical conditions, make sure they’re covered, as the nearest proper hospital is thousands of miles away.

Families: Child-Friendly Services and Activities

Resolute Bay’s cruise port has a few good things for kids to do.

There’s a small visitor centre where children can get stuck into learning about Arctic wildlife through hands-on displays and videos showing polar bears and narwhals.

Kids and parents can go on short guided walks near the port to look for local birds and maybe spot Arctic foxes.

In summer, local Inuit people put on family sessions with traditional games and stories, which is brilliant for the little ones.

Since this is quite a remote spot with tricky weather, you’ll need to keep an eye on your children at all times.

It’s worth bringing plenty of warm clothes, some snacks, and things to keep the kids busy, as you won’t find any proper playgrounds or special facilities for children at the port.

Local Cultural Highlights and Events

Resolute Bay’s Inuit culture shines through brilliant local shows right at the port. You’ll see amazing throat singing and drum dancing that tell stories from hundreds of years ago.

At the community centre, talented local artists work on lovely soapstone carvings and handmade jewellery, which you can watch them create.

• Watch the brilliant Northern Games, where local athletes show off remarkable strength and nimble moves handed down through the ages.
• Sit with village elders as they share old Inuit tales beneath the Arctic sky.
• Pick up traditional ways of living like building igloos and seal hunting from local experts.
• Join in seasonal celebrations marking the sun’s return or successful hunting periods, depending on when you’re about.

The community cultural centre runs sessions where you can try your hand at traditional beadwork and learn to speak a bit of Inuktitut.

Best Times of Year to Cruise from The Port

Want to cruise from Resolute Bay? You’ll need to go between late July and early September when the ice melts enough for ships to pass safely.

During these months, temperatures hover between -2°C and 7°C, and you’ll get round-the-clock daylight – brilliant for watching wildlife and taking photos.

August is usually your best bet, with calmer seas and less ice about. It’s also when you’re most likely to spot polar bears, seals and whales hunting in the open water.

Just remember the weather can turn quickly up here, so pack for fog, rain and wind even in the warmest weeks.

The cruise companies only run trips during this six-week period, as it’s the safest time to sail through these Arctic waters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Wildlife Can Passengers Expect to See During Their Time in Resolute?

You’ll come across loads of Arctic creatures whilst you’re here – keep your eyes peeled for polar bears, muskoxen, Arctic foxes and seals. In summertime, you’ll spot different seabirds flying about, and if you’re lucky, you might catch sight of narwhals and beluga whales in the waters nearby.

Are There Any Traditional Inuit Experiences Available for Cruise Passengers?

There are brilliant chances to get to know Inuit culture through traditional drum dancing, throat singing shows and local craft making. You can meet community elders and try some authentic Arctic food too.

How Reliable Is Internet and Cell Phone Connectivity in Resolute Bay?

Most of Canada’s Arctic lacks decent internet connections, and Resolute Bay’s no different. You’ll get basic satellite internet and rather dodgy mobile signals here. Best to plan for rubbish connectivity whilst you’re in town.

What Emergency Weather Protocols Are in Place for Cruise Ships?

Cruise ships stick to rigid weather safety rules – they’ll change their routes, find safe spots to anchor, and keep a close eye on weather patterns. When sailing conditions look dodgy, they won’t hesitate to push back departure times or switch up their planned routes.

Can Passengers Visit Local Arctic Research Stations Near Resolute Bay?

Around Resolute Bay, you’ll find a few research stations with more than 100 scientists working throughout the year. If you’re on a cruise that stops here in summer, you can pop by the Polar Continental Shelf Programme facility for a look around during planned visits.