Baffin Island

Polar Bear habitat and stunning scenery you can't miss

Information about Baffin Island

Baffin Island includes Ellesmere Island, and Baffin Bay itself. It lies between the Canadian Arctic islands and the western coast of Greenland.

Baffin Island is similar to Greenland, with deep fjords, glaciers and icebergs. The north of the island is one of the best places in the world to see both Narwhals and the elusive bowhead whale. It’s also an important habitat for polar bears, musk ox, seals and more.

Ellesmere Island (known as Muskox Island in the native language) is also sometimes known as the “Top of the World” as it features one of the most northerly points of land on the planet. This Canadian territory is another of the world’s largest islands, and yet it’s the permanent home for only 191.

An arctic cruise to Baffin Island will allow you to see some of the most spectacular scenery as well as some of the most iconic arctic species in the world.

Interesting facts about Baffin Island

Our expert guide says: “The scenery along the coasts of Baffin Bay is stunning. Deep fjords, towering glaciers and, as you move north, the beautiful “arctic desert” habitat. Polar bears can be seen, and Bowhead Whale. Less common, but most exciting if you do spot them, are the awesome narwhal. An encounter you’ll remember for a long time if you’re lucky enough to have one!”

Pictures of Baffin Island

Highlights in Baffin Island

Pond Inlet & Mittimatalik

Located in the very northeast of Baffin Island, facing across to Bylot Island. There is the Inuit community and it is also a popular location and base for wildlife tours, including looking for Narwhal along the ice edge before it retreats.

Arctic Bay

On Admiralty Inlet on the very northwest side of Baffin Island.

Named after the whaling ship, the Arctic, in 1872, it is the site of quite a large community (mainly Inuktitut) called Ikpiarjuk, and a popular location to visit for expedition cruise ships. There is a museum and Ikpiarjuk a good place to learn about the culture. The area is great to ship cruise and explore for wildlife.