Lady Franklin Island, Nunavut

Named in honour of Sir John Franklin's widow, Lady Franklin Island stands apart from other cruise ports with its remote, uninhabited shorelines — a pristine Arctic stage where dramatic Archean cliffs plunge into the cold Cumberland Sound. As ships approach, guests are drawn ashore by intimate wildlife moments: up-close seabird colonies, playful seals and the possibility of Atlantic Puffins and Sabine's Gull gliding above the tides. The signature experiences center on behind-the-ropes access to rugged geology and wildlife, guided Zodiac excursions along vertical cliff faces, and guided walks where the stillness of the Arctic morning is interrupted only by the breath of the sea. The destination offers a rare mix of isolation and accessibility: a northern wilderness easily reached by expedition ships in the Cumberland Sound corridor, with Hall Peninsula landmarks nearby for scenic coastal cruises and shoreline explorations. Fleet features on offer include ice-strengthened expedition vessels designed for shallow-water landings, array of Zodiacs, kayaks, and expert naturalists on board to illuminate the geology, Arctic ecology, and seabird behavior. Onboard services emphasize comfort and learning: warm lounges for storytelling under the midnight sun, panoramic observation decks, expert-led lectures, sustainable cuisine celebrating local ingredients, and flexible shore excursion options that let guests tailor each day to wildlife sightings or striking geological formations. Together, these elements create a singular cruise experience that distinguishes Lady Franklin Island from more conventional ports, offering immersive encounters, pristine landscapes, and an intimate scale that makes every stop feel like a private Arctic adventure.