Into the ice! Today the Caledonian Star was able to touch the edge of the pack ice at 77.10N/23.05E on July 15, 2 o'clock. Usually this time of the year, "early summer in the Arctic," this area is full with thick and dense ice. The ice conditions are unique this year and we are now heading for Kung Karls Land. This island together with Edgeoya is now the most important polar bear breeding area in Spitsbergen.
We are really in the high Arctic. Everyone has to dress warmly to be outside, and the scenery is spectacular. So far today bird sightings include thick-billed murre, black guillemot and dark phase of Fulmar. I photographed the Caledonian Star traveling through the ice in a mysterious fog.