Beechey Island is a remote, uninhabited island in the Canadian Arctic, historically significant as the first winter camp of the ill-fated Franklin Expedition (1845-46). Cruise visitors can view three expedition graves, a cenotaph, and archaeological remains. The site offers stark Arctic landscapes and important polar exploration history within Nunavut’s protected waters.

Quick Port Facts

FactDetail
LocationQikiqtaaluk Region, Nunavut, Canadian Arctic
Port TypeNo dedicated cruise terminal; tender operations only
Closest HubResolute Bay (Qausuittuq), approximately 70 km east
ManagementParks Canada National Historic Site
PopulationUninhabited (no permanent residents or facilities)
CurrencyCanadian Dollar (CAD) – but no shops or services on-site
LanguageEnglish, Inuktitut (interpretation provided by cruise staff)
Best Visiting SeasonJuly to early September (ice-dependent)

Want to know more about other Canadian cruise ports and what to expect when visiting Canada by ship? We’ve got detailed guides for ports across the country, from the Arctic to the Atlantic coast.

Beechey Island Map

The island spans roughly 2.5 km in length, with the main historic sites concentrated along the southwestern shore where Franklin’s ships wintered. The three graves, cenotaph, and remnants of Northumberland House are within a small, protected area accessible via guided landing only.

There is no town on Beechey Island

The island is completely uninhabited and has been since the Franklin Expedition departed in 1846. You won’t find shops, cafes, or even a single building still standing intact. What you will find is one of the Arctic’s most poignant historical sites, accessible only through carefully managed shore excursions.

  • Ships anchor offshore and ferry passengers to the landing site via Zodiac or tender, typically in small groups to minimize environmental impact
  • The walking area is limited to designated paths around the grave sites and archaeological remains, usually covering less than 500 metres total
  • All movement on the island is supervised by Parks Canada regulations and your expedition team—you cannot wander freely
  • The terrain is rocky, uneven, and often muddy or icy even in summer, requiring sturdy waterproof boots and careful footing
  • Shore time is typically restricted to 2-3 hours maximum, including transfer time to and from the ship

How to Get Around from Beechey Island

Transport at Beechey Island is entirely controlled by your cruise operator. There are no public services, rental vehicles, or independent transport options available because the island has no infrastructure whatsoever. Every aspect of your visit is choreographed for safety and preservation of this protected National Historic Site.

Zodiac and Tender Service

  • Your ship will anchor in the relatively sheltered waters near the southwest shore and deploy rigid-hull inflatable boats (Zodiacs) or enclosed tenders
  • Transfers run continuously during the shore visit window, with expedition staff managing boarding queues and safety checks
  • Expect a potentially wet and bumpy ride lasting 10-20 minutes each way, depending on sea conditions and your ship’s anchoring distance
  • Life jackets are mandatory, and you’ll receive a thorough safety briefing before boarding—pay attention, as Arctic water temperatures are life-threatening
  • Some operators use a “wet landing” technique where you step into shallow water to reach shore; waterproof boots that extend above the ankle are essential

Guided Walking

  • Once ashore, movement is on foot along established paths between the historic features
  • Expedition guides and naturalists accompany all groups, providing interpretation and ensuring nobody strays from designated areas
  • The walking distance from landing site to graves is roughly 200-300 metres on rough, sometimes slippery ground
  • There are no handrails, benches, or shelter—this is raw Arctic environment

What to See Within Walking Distance from the Port

Given that shore time at Beechey Island is typically limited to 2-3 hours and the entire accessible area is compact, you’ll have the opportunity to experience everything the site offers during a single visit. The challenge isn’t choosing what to see—it’s absorbing the profound historical significance while coping with Arctic conditions.

Franklin Expedition Graves

  • What it is: Three marked graves containing the remains of Royal Navy sailors who died during the first winter of Franklin’s attempt to navigate the Northwest Passage. The preservation of their bodies in permafrost later allowed forensic examination that revealed lead poisoning as a contributing factor to the expedition’s failure.
  • Why it matters: These graves represent the beginning of a mystery that captivated Victorian Britain and wasn’t fully solved until the discovery of HMS Erebus in 2014 and HMS Terror in 2016. Standing here, you’re at the starting point of one of exploration history’s most studied disasters.
  • Time needed: 20-30 minutes for viewing and photography, though your entire shore group will spend time here as the centrepiece of the visit
  • Practical tips: The grave site is treated as a cemetery—speak quietly and behave respectfully. Photography is permitted but avoid posing on or near the graves themselves. The headboards are fragile and protected; stay behind any barrier ropes. Wind can be ferocious here, so secure your hat and any loose items before approaching.

Northumberland House Archaeological Site

  • What it is: Foundation stones and scattered timbers from a large supply depot built by the HMS North Star expedition in 1854 while searching for Franklin. It once housed provisions and served as a potential refuge for any survivors.
  • Why it matters: This site illustrates the massive scale of the Franklin search operation and the hope that persisted years after the expedition disappeared. It’s a tangible connection to the dozens of search missions that combed the Arctic for decades.
  • Time needed: 15-20 minutes, often incorporated into the guided walking loop between landing site and graves
  • Practical tips: The stones are loose and the ground uneven—watch your footing carefully. Your guide will explain what the structure once looked like and point out specific features like the doorway threshold and corner posts. Don’t climb on or move any stones.

Arctic Wildlife Observation

  • What it is: Beechey Island and the surrounding waters support Arctic foxes, various seabirds including fulmars and guillemots, and occasionally polar bears in the distance. Marine mammals like seals and beluga whales are sometimes spotted from shore or during Zodiac transfers.
  • Why it matters: Experiencing Arctic wildlife in their natural habitat adds another dimension to your visit and reminds you this isn’t just a historical site but a living ecosystem. For many passengers, polar expedition cruising is as much about wildlife as history.
  • Time needed: Wildlife viewing happens opportunistically throughout your shore time, not as a separate activity
  • Practical tips: Bring compact binoculars if you have them, as animals should never be approached. Arctic foxes are curious and may come relatively close, but resist the temptation to feed or touch them. If a polar bear is spotted, your expedition team will immediately implement safety protocols which may include shortening or cancelling the shore visit. Follow instructions without question in this scenario.

Panoramic Arctic Landscape

  • What it is: The raw beauty of the High Arctic surrounds you—towering cliffs across Wellington Channel, the massive Devon Ice Cap visible on Devon Island to the north, pack ice drifting in the distance, and the stark, treeless terrain of Beechey itself.
  • Why it matters: Understanding the Franklin disaster requires experiencing the environment that defeated the expedition. The isolation, cold, and harshness of the landscape drive home why 129 men perished despite being equipped with what Victorians considered the best technology available.
  • Time needed: This is a backdrop to your entire visit, though taking 10-15 minutes to simply absorb the view is worthwhile
  • Practical tips: Photography here is spectacular but challenging. The bright light reflecting off ice and rock requires careful exposure adjustment. Bring lens cleaning cloths as sea spray and wind-blown grit will coat your camera. Dress for the wind chill, which can make still air temperatures of 5°C feel well below freezing.

Port Day Itinerary: Things to Do in 3 Hours

Here’s a realistic schedule that fits a typical 3-hour Beechey Island shore excursion, from leaving your ship to returning aboard. Unlike ports with flexible timing, this itinerary is tightly structured by your expedition team for safety and environmental protection.

  • Hour 1 (Departure to Landing) | Ship to Shore Transfer and Initial Briefing: Gather in your ship’s designated muster area for final safety instructions and group assignments. Dress in full Arctic shore gear before leaving your cabin as there’s limited time for adjustments. Board your assigned Zodiac and make the 10-20 minute crossing to the landing site. The ride can be choppy—hold on to the safety ropes and keep your camera protected in a waterproof phone pouch. Upon landing, your guide conducts a brief orientation covering the walking route, safety perimeter, and historical overview. The surrounding landscape immediately impresses with its bleakness and beauty.
  • Hour 2 (Main Shore Visit) | Historical Sites and Interpretation: Walk as a group to the Franklin graves, stopping along the way at the Northumberland House ruins where your guide explains the 1854 search expedition. At the grave site, spend time reading the headboards and taking photos while the guide details what’s known about each sailor’s death and the later exhumations. The cenotaph stands nearby, offering a moment for reflection on the expedition’s complete loss. Watch for Arctic foxes during this time—they’re often spotted near the historic area. Your guide points out various artifacts scattered across the permafrost and explains the ongoing archaeological work.
  • Hour 3 (Shore to Ship) | Final Photos and Return Transfer: As the group prepares to return, take final photographs of the landscape and coastline. Your guide ensures everyone is accounted for before leading the walk back to the landing site. Board Zodiacs for the return journey, which offers different perspectives of the island and surrounding ice. Back aboard ship, head to a viewing deck if weather permits—many cruise lines serve hot chocolate or soup after cold shore landings. Store your gear properly and warm up before the ship departs for the next destination along your Arctic Canada expedition cruise.

This timing assumes cooperative weather and sea conditions. Arctic operations are fluid, and your expedition team may adjust the schedule or even cancel the landing if conditions deteriorate. Build flexibility into your expectations.

There are no restaurants, cafes, food vendors, or any eating facilities whatsoever on Beechey Island

All meals during your visit will be taken aboard your ship before departure or after returning. This reality is standard for Arctic expedition cruising, where uninhabited landing sites offer historical and natural wonders but zero infrastructure.

  • Shipboard Dining: Your cruise operator will schedule the shore excursion around meal times, typically landing mid-morning after breakfast or early afternoon following lunch. Expedition ships usually offer buffet-style meals with flexible timing to accommodate varying shore schedules. If your landing is scheduled over a mealtime, the galley will provide packed snacks or adjust service hours.
  • Snacks and Hydration: Bring a collapsible water bottle and energy bars in your parka pockets for the shore visit. The cold and physical exertion of walking on uneven terrain deplete energy faster than you’d expect. Staying hydrated in the dry Arctic air is essential, though you’ll need to balance fluid intake against the lack of toilet facilities on shore.
  • Post-Landing Refreshments: Most expedition ships serve hot drinks and light snacks immediately after passengers return from cold landings. This is as much about warming up and rehydrating as it is about socializing and sharing impressions of the visit.
  • Nearby Provisions: If your itinerary includes Resolute Bay, which some ships visit as an embarkation or disembarkation point, you’ll find a small co-op store with basic groceries and supplies. However, restaurant options remain extremely limited even in these small Arctic communities, and prices reflect the extraordinary cost of transporting goods to the High Arctic.

Safety Tips

The island’s remoteness, harsh weather, and lack of infrastructure mean that safety depends entirely on following your expedition team’s protocols and being prepared for Arctic conditions.

  • Hypothermia Risk: Even in summer, air temperatures hover near freezing and wind chill can push effective temperatures well below zero. Dress in proper layers with waterproof and windproof outer shells. Watch for early hypothermia signs in yourself and others: shivering, confusion, slurred speech, and loss of coordination. If you feel unwell, inform your guide immediately.
  • Uneven Terrain Hazards: The rocky, muddy, and sometimes icy ground causes frequent slips and falls. Wear boots with aggressive tread and take your time walking. Twisted ankles and knee injuries are the most common medical issues on Arctic shore landings. There’s no hospital or clinic nearby—serious injuries require ship-based treatment or, in extreme cases, evacuation to Resolute Bay or beyond.
  • Polar Bear Awareness: While bears don’t permanently inhabit Beechey Island, they can appear unexpectedly as they roam across sea ice. Your expedition team carries bear deterrents and constantly scans for wildlife. If staff spot a bear, they’ll order an immediate return to the Zodiacs. Don’t argue or delay—polar bears are dangerous and unpredictable.
  • Weather Changes: Arctic weather can deteriorate with frightening speed. Fog, wind, and sudden temperature drops may force early return to the ship or prevent landing altogether. These decisions are non-negotiable and made by the captain and expedition leader based on safety considerations, not passenger preferences.

Emergency Contacts

  • Ship Emergency: Your primary contact for any emergency is your cruise ship’s bridge and medical officer. Ensure you have the ship’s emergency number saved before disembarking.
  • Canadian Emergency Services: 911 (though cellular coverage at Beechey Island is non-existent; emergencies are handled via ship’s satellite communication)
  • Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC Trenton): 1-800-267-7270 (coordinates Arctic search and rescue operations, contacted via your ship)
  • Parks Canada Emergency Reporting: Routed through your expedition operator who maintains required permits and communication with Parks Canada
  • Nearest Medical Facility: Resolute Bay Health Centre, approximately 70 km away, offers only basic first aid and stabilization. Serious medical emergencies require air evacuation to Iqaluit or southern Canada, weather permitting.

Save your cruise ship’s emergency contact number before going ashore, though realistically, your expedition guides maintain constant radio contact with the ship and will coordinate any emergency response.

Essential Items for Your Day in Beechey Island

The extreme Arctic environment of Beechey Island demands specialized gear that goes far beyond typical cruise port visits. Given the lack of any facilities on the island and the unpredictable weather conditions, having the right equipment can make the difference between a memorable experience and a miserable one. Here’s what you absolutely need for this remote landing.

  • Layered Cold-Weather Clothing: Start with quality merino wool base layers for women or merino wool base layers for men that wick moisture while providing warmth. Add insulating mid-layers and top with a packable rain jacket that’s both waterproof and windproof. Even in summer, wind chill makes temperatures feel far below freezing.
  • Waterproof Boots: Sturdy, insulated boots rated to -20°C are essential for wet landings and walking on rocky, muddy terrain. Your footwear will determine whether you can safely participate in the shore excursion.
  • Hand and Head Protection: Bring insulated waterproof gloves and a warm hat that covers your ears. A neck gaiter or balaclava protects against wind chill that can cause frostbite even in summer months.
  • Eye Protection: Quality sunglasses for men or sunglasses for women with UV protection are crucial, as glare from ice and water can be intense and cause snow blindness.
  • Waterproof Protection for Valuables: Keep your phone, camera, and documents protected during potentially wet Zodiac transfers with a waterproof dry bag backpack or waterproof phone pouch.
  • Binoculars: Compact travel binoculars enhance wildlife viewing opportunities, especially for spotting Arctic foxes, seabirds, and distant polar bears from a safe distance.
  • Hydration: A collapsible water bottle fits easily in your parka pocket and helps you stay hydrated in the dry Arctic air without taking up space in your daypack.
  • Small Daypack: An anti theft travel backpack or packable lightweight backpack carries your essentials while keeping your hands free for boarding Zodiacs and navigating uneven terrain.
  • Sun Protection: Despite the cold, UV exposure is significant. Pack reef safe sunscreen SPF 50 (it’s good for all environments, not just reefs) and apply it to exposed skin before going ashore.
  • Backup Power: A portable phone charger is essential since Arctic cold drains batteries rapidly, and you’ll want sufficient power for photography throughout your shore visit.

Weather by Month

Beechey Island is only accessible during the brief Arctic summer when sea ice breaks up enough to allow navigation. Even during the “warm” season, conditions remain challenging by any temperate-zone standard. Here’s what to expect during the feasible visiting window.

Season/MonthsTemperature RangeConditionsVisiting Viability
Late June to Early July-2°C to 5°C (28-41°F)Melting sea ice, 24-hour daylight, frequent fog, highly variable ice conditions, wind chill often makes it feel -10°C or colderEarly season attempts possible but unpredictable; many operators consider this too risky with heavy ice still present
Mid-July to Mid-August0°C to 8°C (32-46°F)Peak season with most reliable ice-free access, continuous daylight, relatively “mild” temperatures, still windy with occasional rain or wet snow, pack ice remains nearbyOptimal visiting window with highest success rates for landings; most expedition cruises schedule Beechey Island visits during this period
Late August to Early September-2°C to 4°C (28-39°F)Temperatures dropping, daylight hours decreasing but still extended, increasing risk of early freeze-up, more frequent stormsStill feasible but conditions deteriorating; later cruises face higher cancellation risk due to weather and reforming ice
September onwards to May-15°C to -35°C (5 to -31°F)Solid sea ice, polar darkness for much of period, extreme cold, completely inaccessible by shipNo cruise access; island is locked in ice and darkness

Pack for the coldest scenario regardless of your travel dates. Layering is essential: thermal base layer, insulating mid-layer (fleece or down), and waterproof-windproof outer shell. Bring insulated, waterproof boots rated for -20°C or colder, warm gloves, a balaclava or neck gaiter, and a proper winter hat that covers your ears. Sunglasses and sunscreen are necessary despite the cold, as UV reflection off ice and water is intense.

Common Questions & FAQ

Can cruise ships actually dock at Beechey Island?

No, there’s no pier, dock, or harbour infrastructure of any kind. Ships anchor offshore in relatively protected water and ferry passengers to the landing site via Zodiac inflatable boats or enclosed tenders. The crossing typically takes 10-20 minutes and can be bumpy depending on sea conditions. Wet landings, where you step into shallow water to reach shore, are standard practice. This tender operation is why most expedition ships carry under 200 passengers—larger vessels would face logistical nightmares trying to land hundreds of guests on a remote beach.

What are the chances of actually landing at Beechey Island?

Success rates vary by season and operator but generally fall in the 70-85% range during peak summer weeks in late July and early August. Ice conditions, high winds, and fog are the main factors forcing cancellations. Some cruises substitute alternate landings at nearby sites like Prince Leopold Island when Beechey proves inaccessible. Never book an Arctic expedition expecting guaranteed landings at specific sites—flexibility is inherent to polar travel. Reputable operators clearly communicate this reality in their booking terms.

Is Beechey Island suitable for passengers with mobility limitations?

Unfortunately, no. The shore visit involves boarding and exiting Zodiacs (requiring you to step over the inflated pontoons), potentially stepping into cold shallow water during landing, and walking 200-400 metres over uneven, rocky, sometimes muddy terrain with no paved paths or handrails. There are no wheelchairs or mobility aids that can navigate this environment safely. Additionally, there are no toilet facilities on the island. Passengers need a reasonable level of fitness and mobility to participate. If you have concerns, discuss them honestly with your cruise operator before booking—they can advise whether other landings in the itinerary might be more accessible.

Are there toilets or shelter on Beechey Island?

No facilities whatsoever exist on the island. There are no toilets, no buildings, no shelter from wind or weather, and no emergency supplies. This is raw Arctic environment with nothing but the historic grave markers and archaeological remains. Use ship facilities before landing and limit fluid intake if necessary, though staying hydrated in the cold, dry air remains important. If weather turns severe during your visit, the only shelter is a return to the ship. Your expedition team carries emergency communication equipment and first aid supplies, but any serious medical situation requires evacuation by Zodiac.

What’s the best time of day to visit Beechey Island?

During peak summer, the 24-hour daylight means “time of day” becomes somewhat meaningless in the traditional sense. However, many expedition leaders prefer mid-morning or early afternoon landings when temperatures reach their daily peak (still typically only 4-8°C) and winds sometimes moderate slightly. Photography benefits from the lower-angle light of “evening” hours (though it never gets dark), which can provide more dramatic shadows across the grave markers and landscape. In reality, your landing time is determined by your ship’s overall itinerary, ice conditions, and coordination with any other vessels in the area, as Parks Canada limits the number of simultaneous visitors to protect the site.

Can I take artifacts or rocks as souvenirs from Beechey Island?

Absolutely not, and doing so carries serious consequences. Beechey Island is a protected National Historic Site under Canadian law. Removing, disturbing, or even touching archaeological artifacts is illegal and can result in substantial fines and criminal charges. This protection extends to everything on the island—artifacts, rocks, plant life, and even the grave markers themselves. Parks Canada takes enforcement seriously, and expedition ships are occasionally inspected. Photography is your only acceptable souvenir. Reputable cruise operators brief passengers clearly on these rules and will not tolerate violations that could jeopardize their Parks Canada permits for future visits.

Will I see polar bears at Beechey Island?

Possibly, but it’s far from guaranteed. Polar bears roam across the sea ice and can appear on any Arctic island, but Beechey doesn’t support a resident population since there are no seals (their primary prey) in the immediate area year-round. Bears occasionally cross the island or swim past while hunting. If one is spotted, your expedition team will implement immediate safety protocols, which typically means returning everyone to the Zodiacs and abandoning the shore visit. Polar bear guards accompany all Arctic landings, carrying deterrents and maintaining constant vigilance. Arctic foxes are more commonly seen on Beechey itself, and seabirds nest on the cliffs. Marine mammals like seals and belugas are sometimes spotted from ship or during Zodiac transfers.

Why is Beechey Island so important to Arctic exploration history?

Beechey Island marks the last known wintering site of Sir John Franklin’s 1845 expedition to chart the Northwest Passage, one of history’s most famous maritime disasters. Franklin’s two ships, HMS Erebus and HMS Terror, wintered here in 1845-46 before becoming trapped in ice to the south, eventually leading to the loss of all 129 crew members. The three graves on Beechey—John Torrington, John Hartnell, and William Braine—represent the expedition’s first casualties. When exhumed in the 1980s, their remarkably preserved remains revealed lead poisoning from poorly soldered food tins, contributing to our understanding of the disaster’s causes. The site became the focal point for dozens of search expeditions over subsequent decades, and the mystery surrounding Franklin’s fate captivated Victorian Britain. The eventual discovery of both wrecked ships (Erebus in 2014, Terror in 2016) only heightened interest in this starting point of their doomed voyage.

Personal Experience

Standing on Beechey Island feels like stepping into a frozen moment of history. The wind cuts across the barren landscape as you make your way to the three lonely graves of Franklin Expedition crew members, marked by simple wooden headboards that have weathered over 170 years of Arctic storms. Your guide explains how this tiny island became the winter camp for HMS Erebus and Terror in 1845-46, and you can’t help but feel the weight of that doomed voyage. Keep your camera ready but protected from the cold – the stark beauty of the memorial site against the ice-covered backdrop makes for powerful photos, though you’ll want to be respectful of this historic grave site.

The wildlife encounters here are equally memorable. Arctic foxes sometimes dart between the rocky outcrops, their white coats blending perfectly with patches of snow, while seabirds circle overhead near the cliffs. Dress in serious layers – even in summer, temperatures hover around freezing, and the wind makes it feel much colder. Most cruise ships only allow a few hours on shore, so wear your warmest waterproof gear and comfortable boots with good traction since the terrain is uneven and can be slippery. The zodiac landing can be a bit rough depending on conditions, but your expedition team knows these waters well. Bring binoculars if you have them, and remember that everything here is protected, so take only photos and leave only footprints.