In late 2019 we came up with the idea to set on an adventure in Svalbard. It is close to Europe where most of the ExC team is located, it is relatively safe, and easy to plan. Nothing can go wrong. Except for the world, which at the beginning of 2020 decided to pause its activities for two years.
We attempted twice to cut through COVID-19's red tape but managed to set sail only in the Summer of 2022. During the three years of preparation, we learnt a lot about regulations introduced by the Governor of Svalbard, gun rental facilities and even the grocery store, which has its own set of rules.
Finally, we were there, supplied and ready to go. Thanks to the wonderful team, our trip gained a purpose and media coverage. Mateusz, our botanist, convinced us to go on a hunt for the northernmost carnivorous plant, which earned us flashlights from National Geographic Poland. Szczepan, our famous writer, ensured every mile of our voyage was reported by a prominent Polish daily newspaper Wyborcza, through his satellite dispatches from the field.
Sailing
We have planned sailing for three years, thus even our backup plans had their contingencies.
We encountered the first ice already in Forlandsundet, but it was never a problem during sailing.
The northernmost point we reached was on our approach to Widefjorden, just shy of 80 N. There, in eerie fog, we met our old friend - s/y Arctic Ice - despite calls on the radio, they refused to shake hands on the water.
The sailing part of the exploration - entire 2 weeks - were divided into watches. With constant Sunlight outside, watches served as a reference point, dividing 2 weeks into shorter intervals of sleep, eat, adventure, sail. Officer on a watch was responsible for meticulous log keeping.
Exploration
Kayaks proved to be helpful when exploring the barren lands of Svalbard.
At all times on land, we kept guard and carried guns in case a polar bear decided to make dinner from our crew.
While on land, we tried to remain within sight of the yacht or within the range of our radios
Life in the desert
There she was! Sitting in a valley, like if taken from a cold version of Jurrasic Park, and unhurriedly hunting for scarce flies. Pingulica Alpina was were it was supposed to be.
Except for the harmless carnivorous plants, we managed to see an abundace of seals and birds. On some occasions, we could see dolphins and whales.
Due to a course of a white bear, we almost missed the king of the Arctic. Thankfully, it appeared on the last day.
Credits
We have spent 18 days in Svalbard, partially investing time in preparation and exploration on foot. We sailed for 14 days, logging more than 500 nautical miles.
This trip was greatly supported by: Helly Hansen, Odlo, NuYarn, Oru Kayaks, Seal Skinz, Peli Case, Hydro Flask, Orliteb, Fuji Film, and Leica.
