Gulf of Boothia facts for kids
The Gulf of Boothia is a large body of water located in Nunavut, Canada. It is like a big bay surrounded by land. This gulf is split between two areas of Nunavut: the Kitikmeot Region to the west and the Qikiqtaaluk Region to the east. To the north, the Gulf of Boothia connects with the Prince Regent Inlet. Together, they form one large water area, but they have different names for their parts.
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Where is the Gulf of Boothia Located?
The Gulf of Boothia is surrounded by several important landmasses. Clockwise around the gulf, you will find Baffin Island, the Fury and Hecla Strait, and the Melville Peninsula. It is also bordered by the main part of Canada and the Boothia Peninsula. Sometimes, people consider the Bellot Strait to be part of its northern reach.
The southern end of the gulf is called Committee Bay. To the northwest of Committee Bay are the Simpson Peninsula and Pelly Bay.
How Can You Travel Through the Gulf?
Besides its connection to Prince Regent Inlet, there are other ways to navigate these waters. You can use a special ship called an icebreaker to travel east through the Fury and Hecla Strait. If conditions are good, you might even be able to pass westward through the Bellot Strait.
Who Explored the Gulf of Boothia?
The Gulf of Boothia has a history of exploration by brave adventurers.
Early Sightings by William Edward Parry's Team
In 1822, some of William Edward Parry's men were the first Europeans to see this gulf. They traveled on foot across the ice-filled Fury and Hecla Strait.
John Ross's Expedition and Naming the Gulf
Later, in 1829, John Ross entered the gulf with his ship. His expedition got stuck in the ice for four long years! During this time, Ross named the gulf after his supporter, Sir Felix Booth.
John Rae Explores the Southern End
The southern part of the gulf was explored by John Rae between 1846 and 1847. He reached this area by traveling overland from the south.
See also
In Spanish: Golfo de Boothia para niños
