Arctic Traverse: Alpefjord

On September 13, 2022, the Endurance reached Alpefjord, at 72° 15' North. Low clouds and mist from the night's rough weather were dissipating. This was the view from the bridge (click on the image to enlarge).

The morning was dedicated to extensive zodiac cruising in the fjord. Off we go!

The air was cold, but we'd dressed warmly. Mountains, glaciers, and mist filled the view.

Getting a closer look.

This zodiac zoomed down the length of Alpefjord.

The sun began to peek at us through the mists.

Here's a glance back at the Endurance.

Now, down at the far end of the fjord.

On the way back, we spotted a harbor seal,

and he spotted us.

We drove slowly through some brash ice on the cruise back to the ship.

On board, we saw clear evidence of glacial retreat.

After lunch it was time to go ashore and stretch our legs. A group of musk ox had been sighted in the distance,

so the staff set up a landing spot well away from the herd. (In Greenland, the shore excursions are always scouted out ahead of time, and the guides carry flare guns and rifles as a precaution.)

Then the guests came ashore.

Our musk ox observation post was set up well away to avoid disturbing them. But I bet you can't see the musk oxen in this photo ...

They are tiny black dots at the visible edge of the plain. (Click on the image to enlarge.)

With my camera at maximum zoom ...

And pointing my camera thru the spotting scope ...

Then it was time to take some hikes. The "long walkers" took off first.

Joan and I joined the "medium walkers," and came across evidence of human activity, an old fox trap. When the critter took the bait, the rock-laden boards would slam down on it.

From our high point we could gaze down on the Endurance.

We returned to the ship before the light faded. Shadows crept up the mountains as evening drew near.

Joan and I lucked out; one of the guests at our dinner table was having a birthday today. The celebration included singing staff and a cake presentation followed by individual slices. Yum!

Joan reported good aurora viewing after midnight, especially during session #2 of three. I slept instead 😴.