National Geographic Resolution was given a chance to shine today. As we steamed up the southeastern corner of the Svalbard archipelago our vessel cut dutifully through the sea ice. We took to the bow and to our Zodiacs to explore this frozen landscape and the creatures that inhabit it. Seals and walrus dotted the ice floes as kittiwakes and fulmars passed by. Several ivory gulls, iconic inhabitants of these high latitudes, gave us quick glances. The capabilities of our vessel are constantly impressive and equally so is the quality of our hotel division. Under sunny skies they hosted an incredible barbecue for lunch and another amazing dinner. Exploring the arctic will always be a phenomenal experience, and we’re delighted to do so on such an incredible ship.
6/20/2024
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National Geographic Resolution
Kognsfjorden
During the night, National Geographic Resolution traveled quite a distance along the northwestern parts of Spitsbergen and in the morning stopped near Sarstangent, a narrow and long sand spit where walruses often haul out. The scouting from the bridge confirmed their presence. For the morning activity, guests were offered landing with, visiting, and observing the walruses resting on the beach. From time to time some of the walruses, probably well rested, moved away and disappeared in the water, others replaced them, coming from the water and joining the group on the beach. After lunch the ship relocated to a nearby Kongsfjorden, offering a spectacular view of a couple of glaciers with ice-covered mountains in the background. The guests had options of a strenuous hike to the top of a mountain for a panoramic view or Zodiac cruising. Large numbers of blue icebergs were scattered in the fjord. Nests of kittiwakes and glaucous gulls were attached to a concaving igneous cliff, providing an excellent shelter from precipitation. Curious harbor seals could be seen around the fjord. The nearby glacial front represented heavily crevassed ice and calved every few minutes. After dinner the guests had a chance to watch the presentation of the voyage slide show. However, the day was not yet over. Later in the evening a few blue whales were spotted near the ship, a very rare observation around Svalbard.
