Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to get special vaccinations?
No, no special vaccinations are required.
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Where can I get a map?
A topographical map of Cunningham Inlet is part of the “Resolute Bay” map, scale of 1:250,000, number 58F. Maps are available from World of Maps in Ottawa (613 724-6776) or online at www.worldofmaps.com
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On what kind of plane will I fly?
The charter plane from Yellowknife to Arctic Watch is either a Dash-8, a 38-passenger turbo-prop aircraft, or a Dornier 228, a 19-passenger turbo-prop aircraft.
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Do I really need rubber boots?
Yes, you do. A good set of rubber boots, particularly a pair that you can wear for walking, is the single most useful piece of gear. Rubber boots are the best footwear for the ATVs. When hiking or walking, there are often small streams and wet areas to cross.
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Do I need long underwear?
Yes, the temperature can vary from a high of +20C (70F) to freezing. Normal temperatures are +8C to +12C. This is cool and a layer of synthetic (no cotton please) underwear is the best first layer next to your skin.
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Does it snow during the summer?
In the High Arctic it can snow at any time of the year. If it does snow in the summer, it usually melts within a day.
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Is there running water/electricity in my cabin?
Each cabin has 110-volt electricity, cold running water and a marine toilet.
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Am I likely to see a polar bear?
Polar bears are very unpredictable animals. In the early years, we saw very few polar bears. However, during the last few years, we have seen more bears; more than twenty in 2006, and even more in 2007 and 2008. Recently, the Inuit from Resolute reported seeing many bears with three cubs. If you really want to see a polar bear, please let us know, as there are areas we can go where the chances are greater.
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What is the average temperature during the day and night?
The average daytime temperature is +10C to +12C. At night, the sun is still up, but it is lower on the horizon and the temperature is about five degrees colder.
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Are there mosquitoes or other bugs?
There are no biting insects at Arctic Watch.
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Are single cabins available?
We have 14/16 (?) cabins for guests. We keep the number of guests to about 20 per week, so usually we can accommodate guests in a single cabin if they wish.
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Do I need to bring gear for sea kayaking?
No, all the gear you will need to go sea kayaking is at Arctic Watch, including dry suits, paddles and PFDs.
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Do I need experience to sea kayak?
No, most of the kayaks are for two people (doubles). If you have no experience, we will put you with a guide or someone with experience. The boats are extremely stable. If conditions are windy or wavy, we will not go out.
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Is there alcohol at Arctic Watch?
Alcohol is avalable. If you wish to bring any alcoholic drinks of your own, please do so, it’s your vacation. We do ask that you respect the other guests.
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I require a special diet. Can you accommodate it?
All the food at Arctic Watch is flown 1,500 km from Yellowknife. Although the nearest grocery is that far away, will can provide vegetarian meals if requested. For those with special diets, such as “gluten free,” we will work with you to ensure that you are comfortable during your visit. Please be sure to let us know of your requirements well in advance.
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Exploration Week 2012
Discovery Program 1
Northwest Passage Marathon
Discovery Program 2
Discovery Program 3 “Mystic Week”
Discovery Program 4
Youth Leadership Program
