The drop-off and Stefan’s Garden, Krossfjord
Our voyage in the Land of the Ice Bears began today with…whales! As we cruised up the drop-off on the west coast of Spitsbergen, we encountered a large group of Fin whales. The second largest animals on the planet, while normally quite tranquil in their ways, today put on an amazing show. A huge patch of food was near the surface, and many whales surrounded the ship and repeatedly were lunge feeding on their sides. Birds added to the frenzy as groups of whales drove food to the surface. Standing on the bow before breakfast with these massive animals was a perfect beginning to our trip.
After lunch we entered Krossfjord and dropped anchor at Stefan’s Garden. A green hillside was our beacon for the landing, with some of the lushest vegetation anywhere in Svalbard. A large colony of Kittiwakes and Murres has brought in nutrients from the ocean, creating an oasis of green. The noise of the colony is such a change to our normal city noise, though the activity at times resembles a busy condominium complex. Reindeer and geese were grazing amongst the vibrant flowers, taking advantage of this spot. All of this, with snow covered peaks above and a spectacular glacier at the head of the bay made for a wonderful start to our explorations on shore.
After dinner we went further into Krossfjord for some gorgeous cruising. More incredible views, massive glaciers, and seabirds finished our first day here in the high Arctic of the Svalbard Archipelago.
