It is this specific area that created navigational problems for the 19th century explorers. Multi year ice is swept south east through the Maclintock Channel. Most of these channels remain ice-choked all summer.
We have been getting regular ice reports via satellite. The latest map indicated that we might need some help.
Assistance came in the form of the Canadian Coastguard Icebreaker, Le Grollieres. We were told that the name
meant some kind of special blueberry but certainly not a bluet. The Canadian government was especially interested in our welfare.
The Ice Captain took over the ship and we proceeded to follow the icebreaker through the Larsen Sound. It even did some needed icebreaking. The mood of the ship was festive. Franklin could have used an icebreaker.
It was not difficult for the icebreaker as this was not multiyear ice. When we were safely back into open water the ships came together and our Captain sent a Zodiac for their Captain and three of their officers who were invited to address our gathered group. They discussed how an icebreaker works and answered questions. It was all great fun. Our Ice Captain (in white) brought down the house by answering the question of when he thought the route would be open for regular navigation. In his classic French Canadian English he replied, "Well, we all be dead before then."
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