Krossfjorden, West Spitsbergen
Yesterday was a great introduction to Svalbard in Longyearbyen but today was a dramatic introduction to the true Arctic. In the morning while we were still at sea we were introduced to our team of naturalists, photo instructors, and guest speakers. As well as giving us a few facts about who they are and what their own specialities are they also gave us a thorough and comprehensive briefing on just how to behave in the Arctic. Already we were learning that this is not Kansas anymore! Immediately following this instructive and informative session we all underwent the rather science-fiction sounding “Arctic Biosecurity Decontamination”—basically a good clean of our boots and outer clothing in an attempt to remove any foreign seeds and vegetable matter that should not be here naturally.
But after lunch was our first foray onto the tundra and into the open Arctic vastness. The ship was anchored in Krossfjorden in west Spitsbergen with a great vista of the “14th of July” glacier some distance away but still clearly visible. Three options were offered—a short, medium, and long walk with our naturalists leading and guiding. Each group had different but interesting sightings of wildlife including a handful of nesting puffins that were as curious about us as we were with them; several small Svalbard reindeer; an Arctic fox; and hundreds of kittiwakes, guillemots, and skuas.
The scenery was stunning in all directions. Snow capped mountains surrounding us, at least three visible glaciers, snow covering the bleak and craggy slopes of the hillsides, open waters hiding who knows what whale-secrets and the National Geographic Explorer sitting patiently awaiting our return in the fleet of fast, stable, and versatile Zodiacs that make such memorable landings possible.
Back on board there was just time for a quick clean-up, coffee, and then up to the lounge for a session from the photo team called “Getting To Know Your Camera” where several of the professional tricks of the trade were given out plus basic, commonsense information on how to capture that Arctic moment that will dazzle family and friends on return home.
The long and exciting day was finished in style with Captain Oliver Kruess’ Welcome Aboard Cocktail Party where he introduced several of his senior officers who all work together with the him in keeping us safe, nurtured and in finding us the best places to land and the best opportunities for spotting wildlife. This first day has certainly been a good one. And there is much more to come.
