What an amazing day in the world’s largest national park. We sailed deep into Franz Joseph Fjord, beginning with an incredible sunrise (at a very civilized hour now that it’s fall) over the giant icebergs in the fjord. The mountains were lit up pink as we sailed into our anchorage for the morning, and it was a quick Zodiac ride to shore for one of the most beautiful hikes I’ve done in Greenland. After an elevation gain, we finished at a red lake with perfect views of the snowcapped mountains in the background. We spotted muskoxen as we sailed even deeper into the fjord to find the source of all the icebergs: Waltershausen Glacier. Six miles wide and seventy miles long, she was incredible to behold. Surrounded by harp and ringed seals, ivory gulls, and giant icebergs, it was a glorious day.
9/21/2023
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National Geographic Endurance
Romer Fjord, East Greenland
The sun greeted us this morning as we cruised into Romer Fjord in Scoresby Sound. The area has a lot of geothermal activity, and the hot springs greeted us with their very distinctive smell. Some of our guests hiked the impressive and steep mountain on top of the landing site and were rewarded with spectacular views. Others chose a more leisurely approach to the morning activities and joined hikes along the coast. Zodiac cruises were also offered, and it was a pleasure to cruise along the mirrorlike waters of the fjord. The afternoon was spent in the hot springs for those who wished after expedition leader Russ spent the better part of the morning making the springs welcoming. The dive team explored the unknown waters of the area. Just a few meters beneath the surface, another world opened. It was full of life, including kelp, algae, fish, plankton, and exciting small creatures of the undersea world! We could have stayed for much longer, but the temperature eventually forced us to the surface. We are now making our way towards Iceland. Thank you, Greenland, for this visit. It has been amazingly beautiful!
