Today we were supposed to be in the Shetland Islands but due to the hurricane like weather system attacking that area our expeditinon leader and captain wisely decided to spare us from the misery of rocky seas and sail us towards much calmer and more enjoyable conditions. Today we found ourselves tucked safely away in the calm waters of Norways longest and deepest fjord, Sognefjord. The day was run in a true expedition style starting with a beautiful sail through the most narrow parts of the fjord (Nærøyfjord which is only 250 m at its narrowest) and looking at some beautiful waterfalls and potential places for zodiac cruises. Meanwhile the hotel staff served some coffee and baleys to keep us warm. After breakfast we all jumped in zodiacs and kayaks to explore the fjord more intimately. We cruised along the steep mountains and observed the metamorphic rock formations and got a good appreciation for the power of the elements in play when the glacier carved the valley. In the steep hills we saw a variety of trees and plants and to name a few: rose root, aldes, birch, rowan trees and wild geraniums (wood crane’s bill).
We also saw some common gulls, oyster catchers and a single common seal (US: harbor seal) that poked its head up every once in a while while curiously following us around. The famous blue umbrella zodiac boat also made an apperance.
After lunch our fearless captain found a beautiful waterfall that he managed to stear the bow so close to that we were almost able to touch it with our bare hands. The afternoon was also filled with informative and inspiring lectures. Our historian (and upcoming expedition leader) Peter Wilson gave a talk on the Vikings and our National Geographic photographer Erika Larsen gave a talk on her 3 year project living and working with the Sami people.
All in all this has been a very lovely day and definitely a fantastic alternative plan to miserable storms and swells. May exploration and improvision long live!
