Ottawa Islands

Islands

Remote archipelago in Nunavut accessed only by long boat or charter; visited for wilderness travel, seabird colonies and extended boat trips along subarctic coastlines.

Ottawa Islands IqaluitCoral HarbourOttawa Islands
In this guide

Ottawa Islands essentials

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

Ottawa Islands at a Glance

When to Go

Best Time to Visit Ottawa Islands

Best during the Arctic summer (July-September) when ice conditions are most favorable; access is otherwise limited.

Summer
July-September · 0-10°C
Short window when sea ice recedes and islands are accessible by small vessels.
Late spring / early autumn
June, October · -5-5°C
Variable and potentially hazardous conditions-only for experienced expeditions.
Getting There & Around

How to Get to Ottawa Islands

Access to the Ottawa Islands requires expedition planning-boat charters from Churchill or other Hudson Bay ports during the brief summer window, or charter aircraft for scientific teams. There are no scheduled passenger services.

Tips for Visiting Ottawa Islands

  • Island-hopping here is for experienced mariners only-prepare for long passages and few services.
  • Check ice and weather charts carefully outside summer months; conditions in Hudson Bay and Labrador Sea can be severe.
  • Respect local Inuit and indigenous territories-many islands are in traditional hunting and fishing areas.