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Traveller’s Story
Drive as far north as you can and that is where the excitement starts. Your
chariot to Quirpon Island is a flashy red Zodiac. The ocean was a little rough
but we were assured we would make the short trip to the island docking area.
And what a trip it was. After loading up the small amount of luggage we were
allowed to bring, we donned our rain jackets and ponchos, climbed down the
dock ladder, and boarded the oversized inflatable dinghy. Assured it was safe,
I took a deep breath and held on.
When we arrived we were escorted to a light-keeper’s home built in 1922
and met by the warmest, friendliest staff. The Quirpon Lighthouse Inn is
inviting and comfortable. The meals were absolutely delicious. The staff and
the guests seemed so excited to welcome you. It wasn’t long before we were
hearing people shout “whale” so off to the whale watching station we went.

Whale Tales
I could have sat in the whale watching station all day. The excitement of
spotting a whale circling the island, pods of whales rounding up capelin,
whale tails popping through the surface or best of all - the breach of an
enormous Humpback. Unbelievable. All while sitting in the comfort of a heated
room, relaxing on the rocks on the shoreline, or heading out on a Zodiac tour.
There were lots of whale stories floating around the whale station as well.
Icebergs!
Yes we saw those too! Lots and lots of icebergs floating by the island on their
slow crawl south. The really fun part was heading out in the Zodiac to see
them up close and personal. Close enough to safely scoop up a piece of ice
and taste it. Surprisingly it is not salty!
And Then There’s More…

Despite what appears to be a barren island, there is so much to see. Hiking the
island is encouraged. We saw plenty of sea birds just off shore and the views
were incredible. Nature is all around you if you slow down and take a look.
We came for the whales and icebergs but we were overwhelmed by the
hospitality and beauty of this remote northern island.

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