This morning, SH Vega has already arrived at Segelsällskapet Fjord and the views from our balcony are as surreal as every morning so far.

At 10am, we board the Zodiac for the short ride to a wet landing. When we disembark the Zodiac, we are greeted by Dr. Mila who gives us a hug every time she sees us. She has been keeping a close eye on Rickee ever since we visited her medical clinic. She is definitely the most hands-on ship’s doctor we have ever encountered in 149 cruises. She is amazing!

Dr. Mila Delgado and Rickee share an embrace

The geology of this site is like nothing we have ever seen before. There are so many places to get great photos here. It is almost impossible to take a bad picture. The colorful layers of rock, the hovering wispy clouds and the deep blue sky make a unique background.

The group gathers around Brent Alloway, our resident Geologist/Expedition Guide, for a detailed explanation of the geology of this area. These rock formations are up to 900 million years old.

Brent explains the geology of the terrain

We spend most of our time here posing for photos with these unique rock formations. Expedition Leader, Nicki D’Souza, took this photo of me (below) with SH Vega in the background.

At one point, we see the group of kayakers paddle in front of SH Vega. The waters are very calm today and perfect for kayaking.

Once back on board SH Vega, we head up to the pool deck where the chef has prepared an elaborate Indian-themed buffet today. Indian food is one of my favorites and the selection today did not disappoint. For those who have not yet acquired a taste for Indian cuisine, there is also an option for burgers, pizza and other sandwiches.

Rickee is not an Indian food fan, but she was able to enjoy a variety of salads on offer as well as the delicious breads.

The scenery and weather on the Pool Deck today is perfect for an outdoor buffet.

After lunch, we have an opportunity to experience a bridge tour with Captain Lyubo Garciyanov. Rickee even got to sit in the one of the Captain’s chairs. She said it was the most comfortable seat on the ship, and definitely had the best view!

Rickee takes the Captain’s Chair on the Bridge

Captain Garciyanov took a lot of time to explain all of the navigational and safety systems on SH Vega. He explained how SH Vega is a Polar Class 5 vessel, as a result of its unique ice-breaking capabilities. He further explained all of the redundant power systems on board to mitigate any power failures.

Captain Garciyanov explains the bridge wing to Rickee

This afternoon, SH Vega arrived at Alpe Fjord where two glaciers come together in an impressive display of ice. Guests are invited to Base Camp to board Zodiacs for a tour of the glaciers.

Each Zodiac can hold from 10 to 12 guests plus the pilot.

This afternoon, we visit the Swan’s Nest located on Deck 6 forward. The Swan’s Nest is an observation point where guests can get 270° views. This spot is perfect for photo taking and whale watching.

Once everyone is back onboard from the Zodiac excursion, guests are offered the opportunity to take a Polar Plunge into the ice cold waters of the Arctic. Twenty-eight brave souls opted to dive into the water off the side of the ship. One more item checked off the bucket list, no doubt.

Every day ends with a Recap and Briefing where we learn about SH Vega’s plans for the next day. This is held in the Observation Lounge and usually involves pre-dinner cocktails, at least for us.

After the briefing, we enjoy an interesting talk on Lichens by Fran Pothecary. One of the main differences between a “cruise” and an expedition is that every day you learn something new about the environment, wildlife or the world we live in.

Tomorrow morning, we will be at Blomsterbugt, Kong Oscar Fjord. Make sure to follow us on Instagram to see photos posted throughout the day @cruisereport.

Segelsällskapet Fjord & Alpe Fjord

Storefjord & Nørreflord / Warming Islands