Cruise Ship Passenger Port of Call Guide to Beechey Island, Canada

What to See and Do

Experience three key historical sites on Beechey Island that tell the story of Arctic exploration.

Franklin’s Wintering Camp shows you where the Northwest Passage Expedition stayed in 1845-46. You can see remains of their washing areas, drying spaces and forge facilities.

Northumberland House features ruins from an 1852 supply depot. You’ll find the remains of a dwelling, storage area and an old yacht.

The three graves of Franklin’s crew members create a moving memorial. You can visit the final resting places of John Torrington, William Braine and John Hartnell.

Your visit follows these guidelines:

• You’ll explore in groups of 25 people
• You must stay 10 feet from marked archaeological areas
• You can’t touch or move any items
• Each site visit lasts 30 minutes
• You need a Parks Canada permit to visit

Getting Around Beechey Island

Transportation to Beechey Island

You can reach Beechey Island only by joining an Arctic expedition cruise. Ships provide access to this remote location through a network of established routes.

Your journey involves:

• Main transport: Expedition ships
• Shore access: Zodiac boats
• On-island movement: Guided walks
• Optional: Helicopter viewings (select tours)

When you arrive, you’ll transfer from the ship to shore using Zodiac boats. These small, sturdy vessels ensure safe landings in varying conditions.

You can explore the island by:

1. Following marked walking paths
2. Joining guided group tours
3. Walking the flat terrain easily

Your movement depends on:

• Daily weather patterns
• Ice conditions
• Guide recommendations
• Safety protocols

Your expedition team monitors conditions and adjusts routes to maintain safety.

You’ll receive clear directions about where and when you can explore specific areas of the island.

Stay with your group and follow your guide’s instructions to make the most of your visit.

Best Time to Visit

The best times to visit Beechey Island are between July and September, when ships can access the area. Temperatures during these months stay between +4 and -4°C (40-25°F).

You’ll experience the warmest conditions in July, with:

• 24-hour daylight
• Peak wildlife activity (belugas, narwhals, birds)
• Tundra flowers in full bloom

August offers:

• Better ship access as ice melts
• More expedition options
• Frequent polar bear sightings

September brings:

• Northern Lights displays
• Longer nights
• Cooler temperatures
• Fewer birds as migration begins

You should choose your visit month based on your main interests: wildlife watching in July, easier navigation in August, or Northern Lights in September.

Historical Landmarks

You’ll discover remarkable historical sites on Beechey Island, a key location for Arctic exploration in the 1800s. The island holds the winter camp where Sir John Franklin‘s crew stayed in 1845-46, with clear traces of their forge and washing stations still visible.

Key landmarks you can explore:

1. Three crew member graves – John Torrington, William Braine, and John Hartnell – marking the start of Franklin’s ill-fated expedition.
2. Northumberland House ruins, a supply store built in 1852 during search missions.
3. Two stone message cairns on the hilltops, which explorers used to share vital updates.
4. Archaeological sites showing evidence of European explorers alongside Aboriginal and Inuit settlements.

Each site tells you a unique story about human survival in the Arctic. You can walk the same ground where polar explorers once stood, seeing firsthand how they lived and worked in these challenging conditions.

The island serves as an outdoor museum, letting you piece together the fascinating history of Arctic exploration and indigenous life in this remote region.

Wildlife Viewing Tips

Best Times and Locations

You’ll see the most wildlife in July and August. Polar bears gather near Lancaster Sound to follow beluga whale migrations during these months.

Key Wildlife Spots

• Walruses: Find them in shallow waters near Devon and Bathurst Islands
• Seabirds: Visit Prince Leopold Island’s cliffs to spot 500,000 birds, including kittiwakes, puffins and guillemots
• Whales: Look for bowhead whales in Baffin Bay and narwhals in coastal waters

Safety Guidelines

• Join guided zodiac tours for the best viewing experiences
• Stay with armed guides who maintain safe distances from wildlife
• Check weather forecasts, as fog can limit visibility

Tips for Success

• Bring binoculars for distant viewing
• Keep quiet to avoid disturbing animals
• Follow your guide’s instructions at all times
• Respect wildlife by maintaining recommended distances

The text is now more structured, clearer and easier to follow while maintaining essential information. Each section has a clear purpose, and sentences are direct and actionable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Bathroom Facilities or Shelters Available on Beechey Island?

Beechey Island has no working toilets or functional shelters for visitors. The only building you’ll see is Northumberland House, but it’s just a historical ruin you can’t use. You’ll need to plan ahead for your basic needs during your visit.

What Emergency Medical Services Are Accessible During Shore Excursions?

Medical services during shore excursions depend on your cruise ship’s resources. Your ship’s medical team remains your primary source of emergency care whilst you’re ashore. If you need urgent medical attention at Beechey Island, your ship’s staff will coordinate any necessary evacuation procedures. You should always follow your tour guide’s safety instructions and keep your ship’s emergency contact details with you.

Is Photography Allowed Near the Franklin Expedition Graves?

Photography is allowed at the Franklin Expedition grave sites with specific guidelines. You must stay at a respectful distance and avoid any physical contact with the sites. Keep your movements quiet and controlled. Follow all Parks Canada staff directions during your visit. The sites hold historical significance, so treat them as protected heritage locations whilst taking your photos.

How Long Do Typical Shore Excursions Last at Beechey Island?

Shore excursions at Beechey Island typically last 2-4 hours. You’ll take a Zodiac boat to reach the island from your ship. Your visit includes stops at the Franklin expedition graves and Northumberland House. You can spend time watching for local wildlife and taking photos around the historic site. The timing accounts for all transport and exploration activities you’ll do whilst on the island.

What Clothing and Gear Should Passengers Pack for Beechey Island Visits?

Pack these essential items for your Beechey Island visit:

Clothing layers:

• Thermal base layers (underwear)
• Warm fleece mid-layers
• Waterproof outer shell jacket
• Insulated trousers

Footwear and accessories:

• Waterproof boots
• Thick wool socks
• Insulated gloves
• Warm winter hat
• UV-protective sunglasses

Your layers should fit comfortably over each other, letting you adjust to changing temperatures. You’ll want to protect yourself from both the cold and potential rain or snow. The boots need good grip for walking on uneven terrain.