A simply delicious day on the Kamchatka Peninsula began with a bear sighting followed by our first glimpse of a Stellar sea eagle! This was to be a theme for the day, and we began our walks ashore at Morzhovaya with appropriate caution and excitement. Thankfully no bears witnessed on shore, but many signs were found and rare birds spotted. The afternoon led to our repositioning to the Zupanova River where the Zodiacs were deployed for an extended cruise and low and behold if we didn’t get a phenomenal look at a coastal brown bear and great views of the legendary Stellar sea eagle. The volcanos of Kamchatka watched over the proceedings and peacefully smoldered on the horizon.
6/28/2023
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National Geographic Endurance
Isbukta
We arrived at the Southern Cape of Spitsbergen this morning. Hopes were high for kayaking, which was cancelled at Mushamna a few days ago due to the arrival of two polar bears! Initially, winds around 10 knots were ‘borderline’ for kayak operations, so expedition leader Stef explained that we would wait to see if conditions improved. Thankfully, they did, and kayaking and Zodiac cruising commenced! The sky above us was grey, but that didn’t dampen our spirits; it was amazing to have the freedom to paddle around Isbukta (Ice Bay). Under the watchful gaze of the safety boats, we explored this beautiful area with the stunning Vasil’evbreen and Sørkappfonna glaciers. Small bergy bits drifted by, and we were in awe at the different shapes, textures, and colours. It was a quiet morning for wildlife, except for a large group of eider ducks, including the common and king species. After everyone had the opportunity to kayak and go on a Zodiac cruise, one important activity remained for those feeling brave: the polar plunge! After a quick Arctic dip, plungers were welcomed back on board with a hot drink and an iron-on patch as a reward. The afternoon was spent on board as National Geographic Endurance continued underway towards Longyearbyen. We enjoyed two lectures, a highly entertaining and informative talk by naturalist guide Erlend about his time spent living and working in Svalbard and an insightful talk by National Geographic photographer Erika about her time living with a family of Samí reindeer herders. The wonderful end to the final full day of our expedition was the guest slideshow compiled by photography guide Carlos. This was followed by a delicious Filipino buffet dinner celebrating the friendly, hardworking Filipino crew who we have come to know and appreciate during our voyage.
