It is a good thing Barneo had educating signs up to train them for the return to ‘our’ world…

Barneo, Thursday evening: Suddenly the helicopter was right on top of them. Hovering over their heads and making the last gasp packing pretty hectic. But soon they were on their way to Barneo. That will be a semi introduction to civilization. Toilets, engines, noise, activity – but first and foremost: a heated mess-tent. To get the first warm meal served sitting on chairs is always special.
The only danger to them now is Russian vodka. But, they are scheduled to an 05:00 flight tomorrow, so they may take it easy. Anyway, they will have a fantastic evening. Nothing is like sitting up there as other explorers come in. It will be for the ‘ice-heads’ only – on one hand it is good for all of us that they get it all out – on the other hand, nothing is more addicting than chatting with other explorers…
So, tomorrow around breakfast time, they will switch on their cell phones and meet the world. Start bombing them with greetings and sms’es!

Pick-up time

Thursday 11:50 – Just this moment the helicopter is landing by their camp to pick them up and return them to the Basecamp at Barneo. They have actually drifted more than 10 kilometres from the geographical North Pole, so the ice is still moving a lot and breaking up, but their camp is well placed in safe ice.
Yesterday was a truly bonus day. They just relaxed, ate and played around. They found a lead and went for a swim! – While being great fun it also filled them with deep respect for the waters up there. It is quite something to swim and struggle around among slush and ice knowing you have 4000 metres of water below you.
But now their sights are on the return. We do not know for sure when they will be back in Longyearbyen, but it still looks like Friday is the best bet as the weather looks good. We should know later today.

Playing at the beach