South Spitsbergen (Noorderlicht)

Set sail for Alkhornet, a high cliff where we often see Arctic fox and reindeer. We continue to Trygghamna to visit the remains of a 17th century English whaling station and an 18th century Russian Pomor station.

We leave Tryghamna early in the morning and sail to the north side of Bell Sund. Bell Sund is a fjord system with two major branches (Van Mijenfjord, Van Keulenfjord) and one smaller side bay (Recherchefjord). The geology is fascinating and has created amazing landscapes, such as the long, narrow island of Akseløya that blocks Van Mijenfjord almost completely. In Fridtjofhamna, the calving glacier Fridtjofbreen is surrounded by picturesque mountains. The rich wildlife of the area has attracted hunters throughout several centuries - we will walk in their footsteps and see remains of their huts - for example, at Ahlstrandhalvøya. Recherchefjord is one of the places in Spitsbergen with the highest concentration of historical sites, dating back to 17th century whalers and the mining period of the early 20th century. The Recherchebreen glacier ends at a lagoon. We have also seen Beluga (white whales) in this area.

We sail into the labyrinth of side fjords in Hornsund. Behind Brepollen, a large glacial deposit at the head of the fjord; we will sail along a beautiful glacier front with good chances of seeing Bearded seal and Polar bear. On Sofiakammen we can come quite close to colonies of Kittiwakes and Brünnichs guillemots. The geological formations in this area are very spectacular and colourful. We will also pay a visit to the Polish research station at Isbjørnhamna, where the friendly crew will discuss their scientific programs.

On our return voyage we sail into the inner reaches of the Isfjord system, or pay a visit to the Russian settlement Barenstzburg.