Melfjorden and Traena, 6/27/2024, National Geographic Endurance
Aboard the
National Geographic Endurance
Europe
This morning, National Geographic Endurance made its way into one of Norway’s most majestic fjords, Nordfjorden. The skies were blue and the seas were calm, providing an opportunity to spend the morning kayaking, hiking, and taking a chilly polar plunge into the arctic waters of the fjord.
In the afternoon, guests explored the scattered islands, wildlife, and waterfalls of the fjord using the ship’s Zodiac fleet. The evening was capped off with an excursion into the coastal town of Traena.
David was born and raised in the concrete jungle of New York City, where the only three animals he ever knew were squirrels, pigeons, and rats. His curiosity of the wider natural world was piqued by the occasional trip to the beach, visits to the Bro...
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Grimsey Island, located off the northern coast of Iceland, is a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers. Our group visited this remote island and was invigorated by the allure of its unique wildlife, particularly the Atlantic puffins. Upon arrival, the island’s rugged beauty and tranquil ambiance immediately enveloped us. Grimsey, though small, offers a vast expanse of untouched natural scenery. As we set out on foot, the cool, crisp air and distant sound of waves crashing against the cliffs created a serene backdrop for our exploration. The highlight of our visit was the opportunity to observe and photograph the Atlantic puffins, a species that nests in large colonies on Grimsey during the summer months. These charming seabirds, with their vibrant beaks and distinctive markings, were a sight to behold. We approached the nesting sites cautiously, respecting the birds’ space while capturing their daily activities through our lenses. Walking along the island’s cliffs, we marveled at the breathtaking views of the North Atlantic. The stark contrast between the dark volcanic rock and the deep blue sea created a dramatic scene. The visit to Grimsey was more than just a photographic expedition, it was an immersive experience into one of the world’s most serene and unspoiled habitats. The island’s natural beauty, combined with the captivating presence of the Atlantic puffins, left an indelible mark on all of us. As we departed, we carried with us not only stunning photographs but also a profound appreciation for the delicate balance of nature that Grimsey so beautifully exemplifies.
The sea was calm and smooth as we rolled along. As we scanned the horizon for whales, naturalist Kelly Coursey Gray told captivating stories of their history in art and culture, from petroglyphs to the whaling industry. Later, when we approached Iceland, cultural specialist Claudia Hoßbach regaled us with tales of the country’s turbulent past. Afternoon found us in Seyđisfjörđur, with three options to choose from. Some opted to explore the nearby archaeological dig and a guided tour with a focus on history, while others went hiking along a path near several beautiful waterfalls. Those who preferred to walk around town could take a guided tour exploring the main landmarks.
The Faroe Islands are not often visited by expedition ships and today, National Geographic Endurance made a first call into the tiny village of Funningur in the Faroe Islands. We were greeted by incredibly friendly locals who enthusiastically shared their experience living in a remote fjord on these remote islands. Guests climbed the highest peak in the Faroe Islands, Slættaratindur, while others enjoyed a less strenuous viewpoint, taking in the sheer cliffs and intense green for which the Faroe Islands are known. While guests met with the friendly locals and learned of their lives, the undersea team dove in the nearby waters, exploring a place that few ever get to see. Forests of kelp made for interesting footage as they swayed in the blue-green waters, and we even found a sessile star jelly attached to one of the fronds. Funningur was a hit among all.
