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Matty Island

Island

In Nunavut's Arctic waters, Matty Island is a remote island visited mainly by researchers and expedition cruises for polar landscapes, seabird colonies and Arctic fieldwork.

Matty Island IqaluitCoral HarbourMatty Island
In this guide

Matty Island essentials

Country: Canada
Driest months: Dec-Feb
Pay in: Dollar ($)
Language: French, English

Matty Island at a Glance

About Matty Island

Matty Island is a small island in Nunavut in the Canadian Arctic. It is part of the vast archipelago and Arctic seascape of northern Canada.

Like many small Arctic islands, Matty Island has no recorded long-term human settlement and is not known for historic built features. It falls within the traditional lands and maritime zones used by Inuit populations in the broader region.

The island is located in Nunavut, northern Canada, within the Arctic environment; access requires sea or air transport from regional communities in Nunavut.

When to Go

Best Time to Visit Matty Island

Best visited in the short Arctic summer (June-August) when sea ice is minimal and boat access is most practical.

Arctic summer
June-August · 0-8°C
Sea ice retreats, long daylight; best for boat access and wildlife observation.
Shoulder season (spring/early summer)
May-June · -10-2°C
Sea ice breakup; access becomes possible but conditions still cold.
Autumn
September-October · -5-3°C
Return of sea ice and rapidly shortening days; weather deteriorates.
Getting There & Around

How to Get to Matty Island

Matty Island is accessible only by sea or air charter from communities in Nunavut during the short summer season. Access requires logistical planning with Arctic operators and local authorities; check Nunavut travel advisories and arrange permits where necessary.