Walrus and Ice Kinda Day:

 Walrus and Ice Kinda Day:

                          Yes there are Walrus out there

Last night we decided to try the takeaway menu. I had a burger and Lynn had the fish burger. Both were good and ample. The fries were really nice. 



Felix, one of the Expedition Team, gave a lecture on Sled dogs. He had worked as a musher on Svalbard for a dog sled company. A most enjoyable talk as he explained the difference in the different sled dogs breeds.

 

 

 

 

After this mornings breakfast we dressed for some wildlife watching at Moffen Island. This a island where Walrus are often found, and they did not disappoint. Moffen Island is protected and landings are not allowed. 

Currently at this time of the year we can not get closer than 300 meters to wildlife. 

We spent about 1.5 hours off the coast of Moffen observing  the Tooth Walkers.

 

At 0930ish there was a very good lecture about the original MS Fram, the namesake of our ship. 

 

 

 



Next we explored eggs. Yes this was rather fascinating to learn about all the various egg parts and their structure.

Then before lunch was a whale lecture talking about the many different species and how to identify them. 

While eating lunch I noted we were headed into some brash ice, so I went and grabbed some cell photos.

Arriving into the sea ice where we were to zodiac cruise about, the seas were rough and the wind was strong. Now to plan C.

Plan C is off to Smeerenburg  an old whaling station. 

There was an afternoon knot tying session. I found this to be a great review. 

Next up was a lecture on sea ice. 

All the lectures and sessions have been very informative and well presented. I seem to always learn a bit more at each one.

A sea food buffet was in the offerings this evening.
We have yet to arrive at Smeerenburg and the landing time will be rather short (30 min), we may opt to stay onboard.

Here at Smeerenburg the HX ship MS Spitsbergen met us to transfer some people. 

We will be on the MS Spitsbergen for the 2026 Solar Eclipse.

Tonight is the Seasickness Band, (crew band). This is always a fun event. We decided to crash early as a cold has chasing me about. 

Early to be was a good choice.