National Geographic Resolution was given a chance to shine today. As we steamed up the southeastern corner of the Svalbard archipelago our vessel cut dutifully through the sea ice. We took to the bow and to our Zodiacs to explore this frozen landscape and the creatures that inhabit it. Seals and walrus dotted the ice floes as kittiwakes and fulmars passed by. Several ivory gulls, iconic inhabitants of these high latitudes, gave us quick glances. The capabilities of our vessel are constantly impressive and equally so is the quality of our hotel division. Under sunny skies they hosted an incredible barbecue for lunch and another amazing dinner. Exploring the arctic will always be a phenomenal experience, and we’re delighted to do so on such an incredible ship.
6/15/2025
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National Geographic Resolution
Spitsbergen Island, Svalbard
This morning, National Geographic Resolution explored the northeast coast of Spitsbergen Island. On approach to our landing, the ever-watchful spotters on the Bridge found a mother and cub polar bear on fast ice at a comfortable distance from our landing site. On shore, we divided into casual, moderate, and long walkers and set off into the high arctic tundra to explore the barren beauty of this high latitude. The long walkers made it to a high point with an amazing view of the ship and fjord, while the casual and moderate walkers explored the fjord-indented coastline. After lunch, we hopped into Zodiacs for an amazing cruise along the bird cliffs at Alkefjellet. The highlight was the thousands of Brunich’s guillemots nesting on dolerite ledges and covering every available space. Birds, birds everywhere! It was truly a sight to see and hear. We found an arctic fox cruising along the rocky shoreline and incredibly steep terrain, looking for anything (eggs, chicks) falling from the sky. Most of these bird cliffs have a resident fox den beneath them, as the abundance of birds helps sustain them. It was another incredible day at Latitude 79 North!
