In the far northern reaches of Canada National Geographic Explorer began the day with a mind toward discovery. In such locales, few things are earned without curiosity and a spirit willingly aimed at exploration. As large icebergs passed in the distance before breakfast was even served, imaginations ran wild describing what shape they may be representing. Shortly after we were fed the expeditions began. Some chose to venture out on a Zodiac cruise exploring Dundas Harbor, while others grabbed a paddle and took to the water on our bright yellow kayaks to get an up close and personal experience with the large icebergs within the bay. Rewarded with stellar views of the landscape, which featured high mountains with sliding scree slopes, our guests were soon to find a herd of musk ox at the head of the bay. To be in such a remote locale is its own wonder, to experience rare wildlife amongst it fully rounds out the experience.
Journeying south to Croker Bay, our guests made their way to shore for some afternoon hikes. Not far from the landing sight our naturalists soon discovered not only large polar bear tracks, but also, and even more rare—wolf tracks! Continuing on the local botany was explored with guests getting down low to photograph the local flora. Sightings of arctic hare and snow bunting were confirmed, but these paled in comparison to when we pulled away from the landing sight and were not only greeted with a more abundant gathering of musk ox but spectacularly—a white wolf running along the shoreline. It cannot be emphasized enough how rare these occurrences are, even in such remote parts of the world. Such encounters are not expected and when found they bring a certain warmth to the experience, particularly when guests put down their cameras for a moment and grab hold of their binoculars knowing that they must take in as much of it as they can. It is these moments that define exploration and we hope for more of them in the days ahead.
