What a great day for wildlife viewing here in Svalbard on board National Geographic Endurance. Today the ship explored in Woodfjord where we were able to land for hikes on the tundra and visit Monacobreen where we boarded Zodiacs to explore the face of the glacier. Bird sightings were plentiful and once on the ice we had close up views of bearded seals, including a very young pup.
5/28/2025
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National Geographic Endurance
Smola Island, Norway
Continuing our voyage north along the Norway coast, National Geographic Endurance made a stop at Smola Island today. Smola Island looms large in the history of the local fishing industry, and guests were offered two options to explore: a visit to the small, historic Brattværet Island or a walking tour of the more modern fishing village of Veiholman. Before the advent of powered vessels, Brattværet Island was used a safe haven for fleets of the small sailing vessels returning from sea. Fishermen could unload their catch at the island, avoiding the treacherous reefs surrounding the mainland. In the mid-20th century, the fishermen abandoned the island, and it has become a place with a few summer homes. Our hosts guided us around the island and prepared some fresh Norwegian style waffles! Other guests opted for a walking tour of Veiholman village where a small harbor is home to an active modern fishing fleet. Multicolored houses, flower gardens, and narrow streets add to the authenticity of this charming village.
