The National Geographic Explorer arrived alongside Sisimiut, Greenland’s second-largest municipality, and the first stop on our Arctic adventure, at 07.00 this morning. With beautiful clear skies and lovely summer temperatures to kick off our expedition, guests set off in groups with naturalists and local guides to explore this colorful destination. One group walked through the city, enjoying wonderful views of the waterfront that supports a prominent fishing industry, while others ventured on longer hikes to view the remains of historic sites and enjoy performances of traditional song and drumming at the church and museum.
Meanwhile, the undersea team explored the surrounding underwater world. Diving into refreshing waters of 45°F, we were greeted with stunning clear visibility and a unique rocky reef environment cascading down from the nearby islands. Looking closer across the terrain, we discovered a smorgasbord of weird and wonderful marine creatures from Atlantic cod and bountiful sea urchins to tiny camouflaged sea slugs, all with their own special adaptations to survive and thrive in this Arctic environment.
Back on board the National Geographic Explorer, we soaked up the sunshine on the port side deck while we watched an impressive demonstration by a local kayaker who showed us a variety of cold water paddling and rolling techniques. As we left port, Sisimiut treated us to a final parting gift of fin whales displaying their unique asymmetrical coloration. Lunch was served as we set out to open water on our voyage across the Davis Strait toward Baffin Island and the Canadian High Arctic.
After lunch, guests spent time in the Lounge for introductions from the expedition team as well as hearing plans for the voyage from our expedition leader, and safety briefings regarding operations in the Arctic and polar bear territory. Michael Nolan and the photo team then gave an introduction to digital photography, which is always a vital and exciting way to kick off an expedition.
We enjoyed stunningly calm seas and our first sightings of icebergs before gathering once again in the Lounge. We concluded an absolutely fantastic first day with captain Leif Skog’s Welcome Cocktails and Dinner, and everyone is eager to discover for what awaits us across the Davis Strait!
