Gjoa Haven King William Island Cruise Port Guide

Learn what to expect when visiting this remote Arctic community, from wildlife encounters and Franklin expedition history to essential tips for cruise passengers.

Gjoa Haven is a remote Inuit hamlet on King William Island in Nunavut, Canada, accessible only by expedition cruise ships during summer months. This historic Arctic community of approximately 1,400 residents offers insight into traditional Inuit culture, Northwest Passage exploration history, and Arctic wildlife viewing. The settlement features a small museum, churches, and opportunities for cultural exchanges with local residents.

Quick Port Facts

Fact	Detail
Port type	Anchorage with tender service to harbour
Population	Approximately 1,400 residents
Local name	Uqsuqtuq (Inuktitut)
Currency	Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Language	Inuktitut, English
Emergency contacts	RCMP: 867-360-1111 (emergency), 867-360-0123 (non-emergency)
Airport code	YHK (Gjoa Haven Airport)
Official website	gjoahaven.ca

Want to know more about other ports on Arctic Canada expedition cruises? Explore our comprehensive guide to Canada cruise ports.

Gjoa Haven Map

The community clusters around the southeast coast of King William Island, with all key sites within a compact, walkable area centred on the harbour where tenders arrive.

Ships anchor offshore and passengers are tendered to the harbour

From the landing point, the entire settlement is accessible on foot.

The Nattilik Heritage Centre sits just a short walk from the harbour area, typically five to ten minutes depending on your pace
The entire community stretches less than a kilometre in any direction from the tender landing
Terrain is mostly flat gravel roads and pathways, though surfaces can be uneven
Wind can be fierce even in summer, so walking feels more challenging than the distances suggest
No pavements in the traditional sense, just packed gravel and dirt tracks
Most cruise passengers stay within a defined route between the harbour, Heritage Centre, and nearby points of interest

How to Get Around from Gjoa Haven

Transport options are minimal in this remote community. Most visitors walk everywhere, and that’s genuinely the best way to experience the place.

Walking

The primary and most practical way to explore Gjoa Haven
Everything of interest to cruise passengers is within 15-20 minutes’ walk of the harbour
Wear proper footwear as gravel paths can be rough on ankles – sturdy waterproof walking shoes with good ankle support are essential for the uneven terrain
The Northwest Passage Trail links major heritage sites in a walking loop that takes about two hours to complete
Local guides often lead walking tours as part of ship excursions

Local Taxis

A handful of local vehicles operate as informal taxis for residents
Not reliably available for cruise passengers and not necessary given the compact size of the community
Your ship’s shore excursion team can arrange vehicle transport if you have mobility issues

What to See Within Walking Distance from the Port

Virtually everything in Gjoa Haven is within walking distance of the tender landing, making independent exploration straightforward.

Nattilik Heritage Centre: The community museum and cultural hub showcasing Inuit history, artifacts from Roald Amundsen’s 1903-1906 expedition, and exhibitions on the Franklin search parties. This is the natural first stop for any visitor. About 5-10 minutes’ walk from the harbour on flat terrain.
Northwest Passage Trail: A heritage walking route that connects the Nattilik Heritage Centre, harbour area, sites related to Amundsen’s magnetic observatory, and historic Hudson’s Bay Company locations. The full loop takes roughly two hours at a leisurely pace and is designed for visitors with interpretive markers along the way.
Harbour area and Amundsen commemorations: The small harbour itself holds significance as the place Amundsen called “the finest little harbour in the world” during his successful Northwest Passage transit. Local guides can point out where the Gjøa anchored during its lengthy stay. Immediate vicinity of tender landing.
Ullulaq Inuit Arts gallery: Often located within or adjacent to the Nattilik Heritage Centre, this gallery features carvings, prints, and traditional crafts made by local Inuit artists. Authentic work directly from artists, not tourist reproductions. Same location as Heritage Centre.
Community churches: A Catholic and Anglican church serve the community, and both buildings are visible on a walk through town. Brief exterior viewing, not typically open for tours during port calls. 10-15 minutes from harbour.

Must See Attractions in Gjoa Haven for a One Day Cruise Visit

With limited time ashore in this remote location, focus on cultural and historical experiences that you simply can’t get anywhere else.

Nattilik Heritage Centre

What it is: The community museum and interpretive centre dedicated to Nattilingmiut Inuit culture, the Amundsen expedition, and the tragic Franklin expedition. Recent upgrades have improved facilities to better accommodate cruise visitors.
Why it matters: This is your gateway to understanding both the historic Northwest Passage explorations and the Indigenous people who have lived here for millennia. Artifacts, photographs, and locally-led interpretation bring the stories to life in ways that generic cruise lectures can’t match.
Time needed: Plan for 45 minutes to an hour to properly take in the exhibits and speak with local guides. If cultural performances are scheduled during your visit, add another 30 minutes.
Practical tips: Entry is typically included as part of ship-organized community visits. Photography rules vary, so ask staff before taking pictures of exhibits or people. The attached gift shop sells authentic local art. Facilities are basic but adequate. The centre can get crowded when a full ship tender arrives, so going early or late in the port call helps.

Northwest Passage Trail Walk

What it is: A self-guided or guide-led heritage trail linking significant sites related to Amundsen’s expedition, Hudson’s Bay Company history, and Inuit culture. The path is marked with interpretive signs in multiple languages.
Why it matters: Walking in the footsteps of legendary Arctic explorers puts the enormity and isolation of their achievement into perspective. The trail also offers opportunities to see local wildlife, meet residents going about their daily lives, and photograph the stark Arctic landscape.
Time needed: The full loop takes about two hours at a comfortable pace with stops to read signs and take photos. You can shorten it by skipping outlying points.
Practical tips: Dress for wind even on calm-looking days. The trail surface is gravel and dirt, occasionally muddy after rain. Bring sturdy footwear and a windproof jacket. Many cruise lines offer guided versions of this walk with local Inuit guides who share oral histories not captured on the interpretive signs. Free to walk independently. Watch for caribou, which occasionally pass through the area.

Community Cultural Performances

What it is: Drum dancing, throat singing, and storytelling performances organized specifically for cruise visitors, often held in a community hall or outdoors near the Heritage Centre.
Why it matters: These performances offer direct engagement with living Inuit culture. Watching throat singing competitions between local women or hearing traditional drum songs performed on caribou-skin drums creates memories far more meaningful than passive sightseeing.
Time needed: Performances typically last 30-45 minutes, including a brief Q&A session where performers answer questions about their traditions.
Practical tips: These are usually coordinated through your ship’s shore excursion programme and timed to coincide with tender arrivals. Arrive a few minutes early to get good seating. Respectful photography is generally allowed but always ask first. Performers sometimes sell small crafts or artwork after the show. Tipping is not expected but purchasing their art directly supports local artists.

Local Art and Carving Studios

What it is: Small workshops and homes where Inuit carvers work on soapstone, bone, and antler sculptures. Some artists welcome visitors during cruise calls and sell finished pieces directly.
Why it matters: Buying art directly from the person who created it ensures authenticity and puts your money straight into the local economy. Watching an artist work provides insight into techniques passed down through generations. Gjoa Haven has a strong artistic tradition, and several well-known carvers live in the community.
Time needed: Budget 20-30 minutes if you’re seriously interested in purchasing. Artists enjoy talking about their work if you show genuine interest, and these conversations can easily stretch longer.
Practical tips: Ask your ship’s cultural guides or local shore coordinators which artists are welcoming visitors during your call. Prices are generally fair and negotiation isn’t expected or appropriate. Expect to pay anywhere from CAD 100 for small pieces to several thousand for larger, more intricate works. Artists can provide certificates of authenticity. Bring cash, as card payment is unreliable. Be patient and respectful; this is someone’s home and workspace, not a shop.

Port Day Itinerary: Things to Do in 4-5 Hours

Here’s a realistic schedule that fits a typical morning or afternoon port call, which is how most Arctic expedition cruises structure their Gjoa Haven visits.

09:00-09:15 | Tender to Shore: Tenders begin running from ship to harbour. Dress in full layers before leaving the ship because even summer mornings are cold and windy. Bring your camera, cash, and any necessary medications.
09:15-09:30 | Orientation Walk: From the tender landing, take a few minutes to get your bearings. Local guides or ship staff usually meet passengers at the harbour and direct groups toward the Heritage Centre or other organised activities. If you’re going independently, head toward the most prominent building cluster.
09:30-10:30 | Nattilik Heritage Centre: Spend a solid hour here exploring exhibits on Amundsen’s expedition, Franklin search efforts, and traditional Inuit life in the region. Chat with local staff who can share stories not found in the displays. Browse the attached Ullulaq Inuit Arts gallery and consider purchasing a carving or print.
10:30-12:00 | Northwest Passage Trail Walk: Follow the heritage trail loop from the museum. Take your time reading interpretive signs and photographing the landscape. You might spot caribou, Arctic hares, or various bird species. The trail offers different perspectives of the harbour and settlement. Having compact binoculars in your daypack lets you observe wildlife from a respectful distance.
12:00-12:30 | Community Exploration and Light Refreshment: Walk through the residential areas to get a sense of daily life in this remote location. Pop into a local shop if one is open. The Amundsen Inn North Hotel has a small restaurant if you need a hot drink or snack, though don’t expect fancy options. This is more about refuelling than a culinary experience.
12:30-13:15 | Cultural Performance or Artist Visit: If your cruise line has arranged a cultural performance, this is typically when it happens. Alternatively, visit a carving studio if you’ve identified one that’s welcoming visitors. This is your chance for meaningful cultural exchange.
13:15-13:45 | Final Walk and Shopping: Return to the Heritage Centre gift shop or any artists you met earlier if you’re making purchases. Take a final walk around the harbour area. Absorb the remarkable isolation and beauty of where you are.
13:45-14:00 | Return to Ship: Head back to the tender landing with time to spare. Tenders run on a schedule but can be delayed by weather. The last thing you want is to be rushed or risk missing the ship’s departure.

This timing allows for a comprehensive visit without feeling rushed, and builds in buffer time for the inevitable weather delays or unexpected wildlife sightings that make Arctic cruising special.

Where to Eat Near the Port

Let’s be honest about food in Gjoa Haven: this isn’t a culinary destination, and dining options for visitors are extremely limited.

Amundsen Inn North Hotel: The hotel restaurant is the only real sit-down dining option for visitors. It serves straightforward meals like burgers, sandwiches, and simple hot dishes. The food is basic but filling, and prices reflect the enormous cost of shipping everything to this remote location. Expect to pay CAD 20-30 for a basic meal. Service can be slow when busy.
Northern/Co-op Store: The community’s main grocery store sells packaged snacks, drinks, and some ready-to-eat items. Useful if you need bottled water or want to see what daily food shopping looks like in the Arctic. Prices are shockingly high due to transport costs, which gives you appreciation for local living expenses.
Traditional country foods: If you’re participating in a community cultural event, you may have the opportunity to try traditional Inuit foods like bannock (fried bread), Arctic char, caribou, or seal. These experiences are rare and memorable. Be adventurous and respectful if offered.
Practical reality: Most cruise passengers eat aboard ship before or after their shore time. Gjoa Haven simply isn’t set up for restaurant tourism, and that’s part of what makes it authentic. Bring any snacks or drinks you need from the ship, and treat any local food opportunities as cultural experiences rather than meals.
Food and water safety: Tap water in Gjoa Haven comes from a treated system and is generally safe, but many visitors stick to bottled water from the ship out of caution. Any prepared foods you encounter are safe to eat. This isn’t a street food situation.

Shopping: What to Buy & Where to Go

Shopping in Gjoa Haven is entirely about authentic Inuit art and crafts, not souvenirs or general retail. If you’re looking for mass-produced trinkets, you’re in the wrong place.

Soapstone carvings: The signature purchase here. Local artists carve traditional figures, animals (especially polar bears, seals, caribou), and abstract forms from soapstone quarried in the region. Prices start around CAD 100 for small pieces and rise to thousands for museum-quality work. Buy from the Ullulaq Inuit Arts gallery at the Nattilik Heritage Centre or directly from artists. Every piece is unique and hand-carved.
Prints and drawings: Limited-edition prints by local artists, often depicting traditional scenes or wildlife. Easier to pack than carvings and more affordable, typically CAD 50-200. The Heritage Centre gallery has the best selection.
Bone and antler carvings: Smaller items like jewellery, knife handles, or decorative pieces carved from caribou antler or marine mammal bone. More portable than soapstone. Prices vary widely, CAD 30-300 depending on size and intricacy.
Traditional clothing items: Occasionally you’ll find seal-skin mitts, kamiks (boots), or other garments made by local sewers. These are functional Arctic gear, not costumes, and prices reflect the skill and materials involved. Expect CAD 200+ for quality items.
Bring cash: Card readers are unreliable in Gjoa Haven, and many artists only accept cash. Bring Canadian dollars in various denominations. There is no ATM accessible to cruise passengers, so get cash before you leave the ship or from your last port with banking facilities (likely Cambridge Bay).
Authenticity matters: Everything sold through official channels in Gjoa Haven is genuinely made by local Inuit artists. There’s no market for knock-offs in a community this small and remote. That said, make sure you’re buying from actual locals at the Heritage Centre or in their homes, not from any random seller.
Export considerations: Carvings made from soapstone or caribou antler are fine to take home. Be cautious with marine mammal products (seal, walrus, whale) as some countries have import restrictions. Ask the artist or seller about export documentation if buying anything made from marine mammals.
Shop hours: The Heritage Centre and its gallery are open during cruise ship visits, typically aligned with tender operating hours. Individual artists welcome visitors by arrangement, often coordinated through your ship. Don’t expect regular retail hours or anything resembling a shopping district.
Haggling: Absolutely not appropriate. Prices are set by the artists and are already fair given the skill and time involved. Attempting to negotiate is disrespectful.

Safety Tips

Gjoa Haven is an extraordinarily safe community where crime is rare and locals are genuinely welcoming. The real safety considerations involve the Arctic environment, not other people.

Weather exposure: The biggest risk to cruise passengers is underestimating Arctic weather. Even summer temperatures hover near freezing, and wind chill makes it feel much colder. Hypothermia is a real concern if you’re inadequately dressed and spend hours outside. Layer properly with windproof outer shells, bring gloves and a warm hat, and wear proper footwear.
Polar bear awareness: While polar bears rarely come into the settlement itself, they are present in the region. Do not wander away from the community perimeter. Stay with your group or guide at all times. Local monitors keep watch for bears during cruise visits. If you see a polar bear, do not approach it under any circumstances and immediately alert guides or local authorities.
Wildlife in general: Keep a respectful distance from all wildlife, including caribou, which can appear docile but are wild animals. Never feed wildlife or attempt to touch them.
Uneven terrain: Gravel roads and pathways can cause twisted ankles, especially if you’re watching scenery instead of where you’re stepping. Wear sturdy shoes with good ankle support, not sandals or flimsy trainers.
Tender timing: Missing your tender back to the ship is the most common “emergency” for cruise passengers. Ships cannot wait indefinitely in these remote locations due to weather and ice considerations. Always return with time to spare and pay attention to your ship’s all-aboard time.
Photography respect: Always ask permission before photographing people, homes, or children. Many Inuit people are happy to be photographed but appreciate being asked. Some may decline, and that’s their right. Don’t photograph people through windows or without their knowledge.
Alcohol: Gjoa Haven is a restricted alcohol community, meaning alcohol sales are controlled and limited. Don’t bring alcohol ashore from your ship or offer it to locals. Respect local regulations.
Authentic purchases: The only “scam” risk involves buying art from non-local sources, but this is virtually impossible in a community as small and isolated as Gjoa Haven. Stick to the Heritage Centre gallery, the co-op, or artists working in their homes, and you’re guaranteed authenticity.

Emergency Contacts

RCMP Emergency: 867-360-1111
RCMP Non-Emergency: 867-360-0123
Hamlet of Gjoa Haven General Line: 867-360-7141
Health Centre: 867-360-7441 (for medical concerns)
Your Cruise Ship: Save your ship’s emergency contact number before going ashore. In most cases, your ship is your first point of contact for any problems.

In practice, if you have any issue while ashore, immediately find your ship’s shore excursion staff, local guides, or staff at the Nattilik Heritage Centre, who can contact appropriate help or translate your needs to local authorities.

Essential Items for Your Day in Gjoa Haven

Arctic conditions demand proper preparation, even during the brief summer cruise season. Here are the essential items that will make your shore visit comfortable and safe:

Layering system: Start with quality merino wool base layers for women or merino wool base layers for men as your foundation. These regulate temperature and wick moisture far better than cotton.
Wind and weather protection: A packable rain jacket serves double duty as wind protection and rain coverage. Arctic weather changes quickly, so waterproof outer layers are non-negotiable.
Footwear: Your waterproof walking shoes will see constant use on gravel paths and potentially muddy trails. Skip fashion footwear entirely.
Head and hand protection: A warm hat and insulated gloves are essential even in July and August. Wind chill is the real enemy in the Arctic.
Daypack: An anti-theft backpack or packable lightweight backpack carries your layers as you adjust to changing conditions throughout the day.
Sun protection: Extended daylight and glare off water make quality sunglasses essential. Bring reef safe sunscreen as well, as Arctic sun is surprisingly strong.
Binoculars: Compact travel binoculars let you observe wildlife and appreciate the vast landscape without disturbing animals.
Cash carrier: A hidden money belt or RFID blocking travel wallet keeps your Canadian cash secure and organized for art purchases.
Camera protection: Even if not going in water, a waterproof phone case protects against moisture and unexpected weather.
Cruise essentials: Don’t forget your cruise lanyard for your ship card and magnetic hooks back in your cabin for organizing wet gear.

Currency, ATMs & Money Matters

Financial logistics in Gjoa Haven are simple but require planning ahead since banking facilities for visitors are essentially non-existent.

Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD) is the only currency used. Bring cash in various denominations, including smaller bills (20s, 10s, 5s) for purchases from individual artists.
ATMs: There are no ATMs accessible to cruise passengers in Gjoa Haven. The community has limited banking services for residents only. Get cash before you arrive, either from your ship (if they provide cash advance services) or from your previous port of call.
Credit and debit cards: Card payment is extremely unreliable. The Heritage Centre gift shop may have card facilities, but they often don’t work due to connectivity issues. Individual artists and small shops operate cash-only. Do not count on using cards here.
How much cash to bring: If you’re planning to purchase art, bring at least CAD 200-500 depending on your budget. A quality soapstone carving will easily cost CAD 150-300. Smaller items like prints or jewellery run CAD 30-100. If you’re not buying art and just covering incidentals like a coffee or snack, CAD 40-60 is sufficient.
Exchange rates and fees: If you’re arriving from the US or internationally, exchange currency before your cruise begins. Canadian banks in southern ports have better rates than any option in the Arctic.
Tipping: Not expected in Gjoa Haven for cultural performances or guide services, as these are usually incorporated into ship excursion fees. If you visit an artist in their home and they spend significant time with you, a small tip (CAD 10-20) is a kind gesture but not required. Purchasing their art is the best way to show appreciation.
Costs in context: Everything is expensive in Arctic communities because absolutely everything must be flown in or shipped during the brief summer window. A chocolate bar might cost CAD 5, a bottle of water CAD 3-4. This isn’t price gouging; it’s the reality of Arctic logistics. Don’t complain about prices or try to negotiate. If you want a reference point, CAD 50 will cover a basic lunch at the hotel plus a couple of drinks or snacks.
Bank notifications: If you plan to use a card at all, notify your bank that you’ll be in remote Canadian Arctic locations. Charges from Gjoa Haven, Nunavut might trigger fraud alerts and freeze your card.

Weather by Month

Season	Months	Temperature Range	Conditions & What to Pack
Cruise Season (Summer)	July-September	0°C to 12°C (32°F to 54°F)	The only period when cruise ships can access Gjoa Haven. July and August offer the warmest temperatures and 24-hour daylight (midnight sun). September temperatures drop quickly and ice begins forming. Expect wind, possible rain, and rapidly changing conditions. Pack multiple insulating layers, windproof and waterproof outer shells, warm hat, gloves, neck gaiter or scarf, sturdy waterproof boots. Sunglasses essential due to extended daylight and glare off water. Even at peak summer, temperatures rarely exceed 10°C and wind makes it feel colder. Snow is possible even in summer months.
Shoulder Season	Late June, Early October	-5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F)	Rare for cruise ships due to ice conditions, but some expedition vessels push into early or late season. Pack for full winter conditions with sub-zero temperatures likely. Ice formation is active and wildlife (including polar bears moving with ice) more visible.
Winter (No Cruise Access)	October-June	-40°C to -15°C (-40°F to 5°F)	The community is locked in ice and darkness (24-hour darkness from mid-November to late January). No cruise ships operate during these months. Only reachable by air. Not relevant for cruise passengers but gives context to local life.

Common Questions & FAQ

Can I visit the Franklin Expedition wrecks HMS Erebus and Terror from Gjoa Haven?

No. While both wrecks are in the waters near King William Island, the sites are designated as National Historic Sites with strictly controlled access. Public visits are not permitted, and cruise ships do not go to the wreck locations. The wrecks are protected underwater archaeological sites, and only authorized researchers and Parks Canada teams work there. You can learn about the Franklin story and see artifacts at the Nattilik Heritage Centre, but you cannot visit the actual wrecks.

How long do cruise ships typically stay in Gjoa Haven?

Most ships spend four to six hours at anchor, with tenders running for approximately three to five hours of actual shore time. This is enough for a comprehensive village tour, Heritage Centre visit, cultural performances, and walking the Northwest Passage Trail. Longer stays are rare because the harbour is exposed to weather and ice conditions can change quickly. Your actual time ashore depends on tender operations and weather.

Will I see polar bears during my port call?

Probably not in the community itself, though it’s not impossible. Polar bears generally avoid human settlements, but they do pass through the area, particularly when sea ice is active. Local wildlife monitors keep watch during cruise visits and would clear people from the area if a bear approaches. You’re more likely to see caribou, Arctic foxes, various seabirds, and seals in the harbour. Some ships offer wildlife-focused excursions around the island by Zodiac where polar bear sightings are more likely.

Is there mobile phone or internet service in Gjoa Haven?

Mobile phone service is extremely limited and unreliable. Most UK and international phone plans won’t work at all. The community has satellite-based internet, but it’s slow, limited, and not readily accessible to visitors. Don’t count on internet access or phone service while ashore. Make any necessary communications from your ship before tendering. This is actually part of the appeal—being genuinely disconnected from the digital world for a few hours.

What should I wear for a shore visit in summer?

Dress as if you’re visiting the Scottish Highlands in January, then add more layers. Start with thermal base layers (top and bottom), add a fleece or wool mid-layer, top with a windproof and waterproof jacket and trousers. Bring a warm hat that covers your ears, insulated gloves (not flimsy fashion gloves), and a neck gaiter or scarf. Footwear must be waterproof, insulated, with excellent traction on gravel. Many cruise lines provide expedition parkas, but you’re responsible for everything else. It’s better to be too warm and unzip layers than to be cold and miserable. Wind is the killer in the Arctic, cutting through inadequate clothing instantly.

Are there toilets available to cruise passengers ashore?

Yes. The Nattilik Heritage Centre has public toilets available during cruise visits. The facilities are basic but clean and adequate. The Amundsen Inn North Hotel also has toilets accessible to dining patrons. Don’t expect fancy facilities. Use the toilet on your ship before tendering if you’re at all uncertain.

Can I use US dollars or Euros in Gjoa Haven?

No. Only Canadian dollars are accepted. Even if someone agrees to take US dollars as a personal favour, you’ll get a terrible exchange rate and create complications. Convert currency before your cruise begins or at a southern Canadian port. Your ship may offer currency exchange, though rates are typically poor. Plan ahead and bring Canadian cash in appropriate denominations.

Is Gjoa Haven wheelchair accessible?

Limited accessibility. Tendering from ship to shore is challenging for wheelchair users, though crew can assist. Once ashore, the village has gravel and dirt roads with no paved footpaths or kerb cuts. The Nattilik Heritage Centre is single-level and accessible, but getting there from the harbour involves uneven terrain. Walking the Northwest Passage Trail is not feasible for wheelchair users without significant assistance. If you have mobility limitations, discuss options with your ship’s shore excursion desk well before arrival. They may be able to arrange vehicle transport for limited distances, though options are constrained.

Personal Experience

Stepping off the ship in Gjoa Haven feels like entering another world entirely. This tiny Inuit community of around 1,300 people sits right on the historic Northwest Passage, and you can feel the weight of Arctic exploration history in the air. The locals are genuinely welcoming, and many are happy to share stories about their connection to the Franklin expedition – this is where search parties found some of the most significant clues about what happened to those doomed ships. Walking around town, you’ll likely spot the Heritage Centre, which houses fascinating artifacts and offers insight into both the tragic expedition and the resilient Inuit culture that has thrived here for centuries. Keep your eyes peeled for Arctic wildlife too; caribou sometimes wander right through town, and seals are often visible in the harbour.

The practicalities matter here more than at your typical port stop. Dress in serious layers because even summer days can be surprisingly cold and windy. The community is small enough to explore on foot in a couple of hours, but that’s part of its charm. There aren’t fancy shops or restaurants, just a couple of local stores where you can pick up authentic Inuit carvings and crafts directly from artists. Bring cash if you can, as card readers can be temperamental. Most importantly, be respectful with photos – always ask permission before photographing people, especially elders and children. This isn’t a theme park; it’s a real community sharing their home with you, and approaching it with that mindset makes all the difference.