This morning we woke to the soothing voice of our expedition leader informing us that there was a polar bear right where we were due to land! As such, the captain decided to take us to Hogrinden instead. It was beautiful there and we hiked, walked, strolled and photographed our way through ice floes. After our time ashore we navigated across the channel to Edgeøya and made a stealthy landing at an old walrus hunting outpost. Bleached bones lay on the beach, but ironically, a group of walrus were hauled out along the shore. It was a gorgeous encounter with some true ambassadors of the north.
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.
