Based on his experience of a recent cruise through the Northwest Passage on a small cruise ship, Syd tells the story of the trip and the history of the Canadian Arctic. The talk also explores what was known and what was not known in 1845 when John Franklin left the wharf in London. After reviewing that ill-fated trip, Syd relates the many searches for Franklin including the adventures of one of his heroes: Dr. John Rae. Syd concludes with the two early successful Passages. One of the themes of the talk revolves around who learned from the Inuit, who didn’t and how that affected their success.

Syd Dumaresq is a passionate sailor who supports his habit by practicing Architecture in Halifax and Chester. Syd’s other passions are community and history. Syd is Chair of the Friends of Nature Conservation Society and a board member of the Mahone Islands Conservation Association (MICA). Syd and his wife Sandy live in Chester and are the proud parents of five children and eight grandchildren.