Charlton IslandCharlton Island at a Glance
When to Go
Best Time to Visit Charlton Island
Short Arctic summer offers the only practical window for visits; plan well in advance with experienced operators.
Summer (Arctic expedition season)
June-August · 0-10°C (32-50°F)
Sea ice retreats and navigation is possible; long daylight hours aid travel.
Late Spring/Early Autumn
May or September · Below freezing to near 0°C
Transit windows can exist, but weather and sea ice change rapidly.
Weather & Climate near Charlton Island
Climate
Charlton Island's climate is classified as Subarctic - Subarctic climate with mild summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -25°C to 21°C. Moderate rainfall (665 mm/year).
Air Quality:
AQI 16
Good
Temperature & Rainfall
Temperature Range
21°
Warmest Month
-25°
Coldest Month
Monthly Conditions
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | -25° - -15° | -29° | 31 mm | - | - | 4.1 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | -24° - -13° | -28° | 20 mm | - | - | 4.2 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | -18° - -6° | -19° | 28 mm | - | - | 4.4 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | -8° - 2° | -8° | 32 mm | - | - | 4.4 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 1° - 11° | 3° | 48 mm | - | - | 4.4 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 7° - 18° | 12° | 65 mm | - | - | 4.3 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 10° - 21° | 15° | 91 mm | - | - | 4.0 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 9° - 20° | 14° | 77 mm | - | - | 4.1 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 6° - 14° | 8° | 87 mm | - | - | 4.4 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | 1° - 7° | 1° | 86 mm | - | - | 4.4 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | -7° - -1° | -10° | 61 mm | - | - | 4.5 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | -18° - -11° | -22° | 39 mm | - | - | 4.2 m/s | - | - |
Getting There & Around
How to Get to Charlton Island
Access is by expedition vessel or charter from larger Arctic hubs in Nunavut. Travellers should coordinate with Nunavut tourism authorities and experienced Arctic operators; helicopter access may be possible but requires permits and careful logistical planning.
Tips for Visiting Charlton Island
- This island is remote and largely uninhabited - travel requires careful logistical planning and permission from Nunavut authorities.
- Bring satellite communications and supply caches - rescue and medical facilities are minimal and far away.
- Respect protected wildlife habitats and be prepared for polar bear country in summer months.