Finally! Today we left Ice Station Borneo. Even though it was lousy weather all night, our meteorologist in Switzerland, Hans Ambühl – the same guy who provided us with weather reports during our expedition – said there should be a short spell of good weather in the middle of the day. And he was right! So at 12 noon the aeroplane landed, with our families, many friends and sponsors. It was really fantastic to be surrounded by friends and loved ones, a truly wonderful conclusion to our journey. And not least – a while later, it was great to set our feet on firm soil, in Longyearbyen on Spitsbergen.
I assure you we’re two overjoyed Arctic explorers. And we had our first shower. Incredible to let warm water flow over a body that hasn’t felt water for 71 days. That’s one of the greatest pleasures in coming here now. Tonight we’re celebrating in one of the better restaurants here in Longyearbyen. Tomorrow, if all goes according to plan, we’re landing on the Norwegian mainland – my family and I returning to Oslo, Mike and his family continuing to Switzerland.
I want to once again thank everyone who has followed our expedition, supported our efforts and sent us their good thoughts.
so joyed your reunited to those close at heart…and a warm shower!! It’s the simple things in life, that we usually take for granted, that can make us sing at the top of our lungs in the fullness of the moment. Onward….so happy for you and yours! To Oslo nirvana now….