June 11, 2025
Today the adventure begins!! We have arrived at our first exploration spot Lillhookfjorded. It is a 14-kilometer long ford branch of Kossfjorden. The glacier is the largest glacier of northwestern Spitsbergen. Suffice it to say that the important part is we are sitting in brash ice with a spectacular glacier in front of the ship.
Kayaking is my chosen adventure for the morning. First I had to gear up in a dry suit and rubber boots for the adventure. Then we headed out in the zodiac with the kayaks following us. Once we got to the brash ice filled bay we got into the kayaks from the zodiac. I bit like getting in my Miata…just roll off the side and plop in the kayak All of this effort was worth it as we began paddling in the brash ice. The quiet amongst the ice only interrupted by the sounds of the ice shelf calving is the most serene moment.
We paddled for almost 2 hours and when it was time to get back on the zodiac I was sad but also feeling blessed that I was able to experience this incredible place.
On the way back to the ship we saw a solo walrus just hanging our one the ice!!!
During lunch we cruised to Fjortende Julibukta. This bay boasts both a magnificent view of the glacier and cliffs that host numerous breeding birds including the cute puffins.
We did a zodiac cruise around the bay in the calm waters. The cliffs were filled with birds with many hovering above us. We were blessed to catch sight of a few puffins. A few glamour shots by the glacier and it was time to head back to the ship.
What an incredible “Best day ever….so far”!!!
