Today we awoke to find true arctic conditions–freezing temperature with wind and blowing snow. Although exciting, this made observing the bird cliffs at Cape Fanshaw before breakfast difficult. As our Plan B the National Geographic Explorer headed farther north seeking protection in Lomfjorden, along the northeast coast of Spitsbergen. Here we found suitable conditions for our morning explorations. Intrepid explorers went ashore for hikes of varying lengths on the tundra, while others explored at water level by Zodiac. During the afternoon the ship sailed across Hinlopen Strait to Murchisonfjorden along Nordaustlandet, crossing 80 degrees north of planet Earth’s equator. After navigating through the pack ice into a protected bay, we launched the fleet of kayaks and also explored by Zodiac. As with any true expedition, there were many surprises during the day, from walrus approaching the Zodiacs in the morning, to viewing distant polar bears on the ice from kayaks and Zodiacs in the afternoon. And we even made it back to view the spectacular bird cliffs at Cape Fanshaw after dinner. It was another thrilling day in the high Arctic!
6/17/2025
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National Geographic Resolution
Spitsbergen Island, Svalbard
Today, we landed at the stunning glacier front of Nordbreen, nestled deep within the majestic Wijdefjorden. The day offered unforgettable experiences, both on land and at sea. Our long hikers embarked on an epic journey up to the ridge of Slettho. The ascent was rewarded with sweeping views of the rugged, dramatic landscape carved by ancient ice. From this high vantage point, we felt the raw power and isolation of the Arctic. As we stood together in five minutes of silence, taking in the vast stillness, nature answered with a breathtaking moment: the glacier calved. The thunderous sound echoed across the fjord—a powerful reminder of the ever-changing world of ice. Meanwhile, our Zodiac cruisers witnessed the same calving event from sea level. From the water, they felt the full force of the glacier’s collapse—the crash of ice, the rolling waves, and the deep, resonating boom that followed. It was a rare and visceral moment, connecting all of us more deeply with the Arctic wilderness. A day like this reminds us of why we journey to these remote places: for connection, perspective, and awe.
