This Trip Was A 10/10

Photo © Morten Hilmer

Usually there is a wistful nostalgic air to the last landing of any voyage.  I didn’t detect that same feeling today.  I think it is because this has been an outstanding trip.  For a trip in Spitsbergen I give it a ten out of ten.  We have had superlative weather.  We have had the coolest of wildlife experiences (don’t forget those Blues baby)! 

Siselman Hut at Alkehornet
Photo © Morten Hilmer

We have gone on long hikes featuring glaciers and breath taking scenery.  Many people went kayaking.  We have gone cruising in the PC Boats in the pack ice.  We were treated to a feast of lectures.  We have been pampered on board the ship with fine food and amenities like the sauna, jacuzzi and gym.  I think people are satiated. Their quest for adventure at least partially quenched.  Don’t get me wrong.  If we announced one more landing everyone would be lined up.  I have no doubt of that.

Photo © Morten Hilmer

This morning we had a nice long landing at Alkehornet.  There is a large Black-legged Kittiwake colony on the face of a lofty horn-like cliff.  There is usually a herd of Reindeer grazing on the lush grassy plain and today was no different.  There was also a pair of Arctic Skuas making sure no one strayed too close to their wandering chick. 

Photo © Morten Hilmer

At Alkehornet there is a huge amount of space for people to walk about and it was nice to see people taking advantage of that. All told it was a four and a half hour landing.  We started at 09:30 and finished at 14:00.

For the remainder of the afternoon we indulged in some scenic ship cruising and hosted several lectures.  At 17:00 we joined the Captain in the Observation lounge for his farewell speech which was immediately followed by Fram’s charity Auction to raise money for Polar Bear research.

All in all a full day, a full trip.

The Expedition Team!!!
Photo © Morten Hilmer