History of Arctic Watch

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The Arctic is a vast and amazing region, one that we’re passionate about. That’s why we feel that everyone should visit the Arctic at least once in their lifetime.
We started travelling in the arctic in 1985. In 1993, we ran our first commercial trip to the North Pole. Between 1993 and 2000, we ran ski trips, hiking trips and kayak trips throughout Nunavut. We made many treks to the North Pole and even visited the South Pole. In 1998, we held a summer tourist camp in Jackman Sound at the mouth of Frobisher Bay. Our sons, Tessum and Nansen, have spent every summer of their lives in the Arctic. The experience has taught them independence, resourcefulness and much respect for the environment.

In 2000, we purchased Arctic Watch Lodge. We felt that Somerset Island was special because it offered much of what the Arctic can offer, all in one location. It was possible to travel across the land and there was a wide variety and an amazing density of plant life. We felt that this corner of the Arctic offered a great place to do what we love the most and raise our children.

In the beginning, the lodge was a mould-filled structure that had been sitting empty for several years. In the early years after purchasing it, despite the short summer, we strive to make improvements to Arctic Watch. Initially, visitors to Arctic Watch would have to take a commercial flight to Resolute Bay, and then charter a twin otter aircraft to fly to Arctic Watch. Due to busy aircraft, on-going problems with the Resolute Airport and bad weather, all our guests spent at least 24 hours in Resolute and sometimes longer.

In 2007, we took a big risk. We drove a small bulldozer across the ice from Resolute Bay to Arctic Watch. This difficult and dangerous journey (we removed the cab and the driver wore a lifejacket!) took us a week. That summer we built a 3,500 ft airstrip, which means we can now charter planes directly from Yellowknife. Our guests get on a private plane in Yellowknife and four and one half hours later, after a comfortable flight, they are in Arctic Watch. Delays are rare.

So very many people have, both financially and physically, contributed to the establishment and growth of Arctic Watch. Without them, it would not exist. While it’s impossible to name them all, we are indebted Tim Goodsell, Adamee Itorcheak, Tim and Audrey Kenny, Jeff Mantel, Vince McConnell, Michel and Lise Perron, Jean-Claude Savard, and Jim and Louise Wholey for their significant contributions. 
After more than ten years of learning and challenges we still love Arctic Watch. We have met so many very special people… and it still feels wonderful to go out on the land.

Book your trip now, and discover everything that Arctic Watch has to offer.