We have spent the morning cruising around Storøya, a small island covered by an ice cap east of Nordauslandet. A couple of decades ago, this island was part of the icecap of Austfonna, Nordauslandet. As all glaciers retreat, Storøya has been revealed to be an island. We were searching for wildlife and we managed to spot a couple of shy walruses in the distance. Then, in the afternoon, we ventured out on a Zodiac cruise in the Arctic Ocean! We were surrounded by ice floes and gained an understanding of the importance of this material for the ecosystem.
6/17/2025
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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.
