Bellsund & Van Mijenfjord.
The morning brought with it snow-capped views and deep blue waters, atmospherically topped by high cloud and periodic glimpses of blue sky. But, as eager as we may have been to start exploring, we couldn’t get into the Zodiacs immediately, and instead gathered in the Discovery Lounge for our Arctic rules and Zodiac briefings. After collecting our rubber boots Frank regaled us with our first lecture on the diversity of wildlife that we may encounter at these latitudes.
After lunch we prepared for our first landing at a dovekie (or little auk ) colony in Bellsund, but with the swell rising and falling almost two metres at the gangway, it had to be called off. Fortunately, our Leader and Captain had a plan B, taking us deeper into Van Mijenfjord towards the icy face of the Fridtjovbreen glacier. With fast ice still clinging to the water’s surface, we headed into it, binoculars fixed on the frozen flats in search of wildlife and turning up a few ringed seals
reclining in the distance.
As we emerged from the ice, the Zodiacs began to come down and soon it was time for our first Zodiac cruise of the trip. Heading out into the calmer waters of Van Mijenfjord, we were rewarded with a group of walrus swimming around the Zodiacs. Following them as they dived and surfaced, often watching us as intently as we were watching them, it was an incredible way to spend moments of our first day.
From here, we drove out into more open water, where the Zodiacs rose and fell with the rolling swell. But with our trust in the safe handling of our drivers,we enjoyed the ride....with some at the front if the zodiacs getting wetter than they bargained for ! Finally we reached our destination, the dovekie cliffs which we had failed to reach earlier, and setting down now was even more satisfying for the delay. Reindeer wandered the tundra, while dovekies and glaucous gulls circled above us. Sitting among the rocks with Frank provided exquisite views of these charismatic little flyers....who as they got used to us sat just behind us ( today's picture).
Heading back through the waves to our the M/S Expedition, brought many smiling, but tired, faces. But there was no rest for the wicked today and, back on board, the Captain welcomed us with a glass of champagne and a fine meal. As we slept the gentle sway of the ship marked our continued journey south as we circled these iconic islands in search of further wildlife.