Day 2: Lilliehöökbreen, Signehamna and Ny Ålesund
| Date: | 02.07.2025 |
| Position: | 79°16.2’N / 011°33.9’E |
| Wind: | SW3 |
| Weather: | Overcast |
| Air Temperature: | +11 |
We awoke in the innermost reaches of Lilliehöökfjord, greeted by the magnificent Lilliehöökbreen. Breakfast buffet while cruising in this majestic glacial bay.
Morning landing at Signehamna in Krossfjord. This area displays a remarkable glaciated landscape, sculpted by the powerful forces of past ice ages, evident in its U-shaped valleys and polished rock surfaces. We split into groups to explore the undulating terrain before returning to the ship for lunch.
The afternoon brought us to Ny-Ålesund, originally established in 1917 as a mining settlement, which has since transformed into the world’s northernmost permanent settlement and a vital, international Arctic research centre. Our arrival at the port was particularly interesting due to the strong 40-knot winds, making the mooring a skilful display by the crew. During our visit, we had the opportunity to explore the local museum, providing insight into the history of this unique Arctic outpost. Valeria provided an explanation of Roald Amundsen’s history in front of his statue. Ny-Ålesund served as the base for his historic airship expeditions to the North Pole, including the Norge flight in 1926, which made him first to reach both poles. We also visited the Amundsen mast, where his airship was tethered.
