We have had a really excellent day today. After progressing another 20 kilometres, we’ve set up camp at N89˚22’55”, W150˚ – and we’re doing great relative to our schedule.
Today we encountered more pack ice and some really wide leads. Fortunately we were able to navigate around these. The widest lead was perhaps 200 metres or so. We found a good crossing point – unfortunately Merete almost went through the ice. Fortunately she’s light, and we were able to manoeuvre her safely across.
There was also some additional drama today, or rather yesterday, when Reidun was ill and was vomiting. Most likely she carried a virus with her from Longyearbyen or Ice Station Barneo. However, today she has been in tip top shape, no sign of difficulties – in fact we’re the ones who are having trouble keeping up with her. Reidun must be the fittest grandmother in all of Norway!
We have really enjoyed the sun, and mild weather with the thermometer hovering around –20˚C. There has been a gentle southern wind. With a warm sun, comfortable temperatures and a mild wind, it’s hard to imagine that things could be better up here so close to the North Pole.
The ice is still young, none of it more than a year old. Today we measured the thickness to 175 cm.
Everyone is doing fine, having a good time, and enjoying each other’s company and the expedition.
