Thursday, 5^th August, 2010

Holmiabukta &

Northwestern Spitsbergen

“Viewed from the sea, the greater part of Spitsbergen

appears as an altogether barren and lifeless country.

A place of wild beauty, it is true, but incapable of

supporting the life of even the most hardy plants. Yet, this

first impression is an inaccurate one, and a close search

reveals that on the most lifeless and rock-strew hill-sides

plant-life is generally present, with many and beautiful,

though minute, flowers.”

– Seton Gordon, Amid Snowy Wastes

0630

Early morning tea, coffee and pastries are available in the Lounge/Bar

0700

Wake-up call

0730

Breakfast is served in the Dining Room

0845

We hope to zodiac cruisein Holmiabukta

Located in Spitsbergen’s far northwestern corner, the mountains and fjords around Holmiabukta offer a significantly different landscape from that which we experienced further south.

The name is derived from the Latin name for Stockholm (Holmia) and the Norwegian name for bay (bukta). As we zodiac cruise into this area we may encounter the remnants of the winter’s fast ice, deep in the bay. This is an ideal habitat for the Ursus maritimus, polar bear, for which we will be searching.

1230

Lunch is served in the Dining Room

PM

We hope to explore the northwestern regionof Spitsbergen.

The fjords in this area are of great scenic beauty due to their picturesque mountains and glaciers. This area was one of the first places visited during Barents’ expedition in 1596 but, due to the terrain, there were few landings undertaken.

This afternoon will be one of exploration as we venture around the islands and fjords of the rugged northwest coast.

1630

Afternoon tea is served in the Lounge

1830

Maxwelcomes you to the Bar for Happy Hour

1930

Dinner is served in the Dining Room

2100

Bar Talk: This evening, please join Dave for his talk “Health Care – African Style”

Kayakers, please standby for announcements from Ben regarding today’s kayaking opportunities.