There’s nothing quite like the sounds and smells of walrus in the morning! Guests began their day with a short (and wet!) Zodiac ride to Edgeoya, the second largest island in the Svalbard Archipelago. On the beach, approximately 20 male walruses were basking in the sun, making loud grunting noises but seemingly undisturbed by our presence. According to the naturalists, the female walruses and their pups were absent because they typically spend their time further northeast of where we were located. What a treat to be so close to these enormous marine mammals.
Staff members left the ship by Zodiac to scout out an area for guests to explore, but quickly determined it would not be possible due to the quicksand-like mud that caused one naturalist to sink in up to his knees. This didn’t dampen the spirits of the guests though. Shortly after, a mama bear and her cub were spotted frolicking across the ice. The young cub entertained the guests by belly flopping into the water and then chasing after its mom.
Our evening ended with a performance by members of the crew who refer to themselves as The Spice Boys. They played popular songs while the guests danced and continued to get to know each other. Another great day in the Arctic has come to an end!
