Datum: | 25.06.2024 |
Position: | 78°14.6’ N - 015°32.5’ E |
Wind: | NW 4 |
Wetter: | Partly Cloudy |
Lufttemperatur: | +6 |
The day had finally come, it was time to board the good ship Ortelius for our expedition exploring North Spitsbergen! It was a calm, partly clouded day as we arrived at the port in Longyearbyen with still, glassy waters. Some of us had only arrived in Longyearbyen a few hours before, and now we were about to start our adventure onboard M/V Ortelius. The Expedition Team and Hotel Staff had helpfully brought our luggage aboard and taken it to our cabins earlier in the day. All that remained was for us to snap some shots of Ortelius while we made our way up the gangway. What a beautiful and impressive ship she is.
We were warmly welcomed by all the crew and staff who assisted us in finding our cabins. We had some time to explore the ship, get our bearings and grab a tea or coffee in the bar. Once everyone was on board it was time for the mandatory ship safety video and briefing presented by Expedition Leader Claudio and Chief Officer Romanas. We were provided all the information we needed such as moving safely around the ship, the things we could and could not do, and how to put on our emergency life jackets. Following this, it was time for an abandon ship drill. So, after hearing the seven short and one long blast of the ship’s horn we went to our cabins, retrieved our lifejackets, and found our muster station in the bar. We were then led to our lifeboats so we would know where to go in the event of a real emergency.
After the drill, we headed to the bar where Hotel Manager Vova and Expedition Leader Claudio gave a welcome briefing, explaining how life would be on the ship in the coming days. With briefing formalities concluded, it was time to join Captain Per in the bar to raise a glass in celebration of the voyage. Cheers everyone! Soon after, it was time for our first evening meal, with a delicious buffet selection provided by Chef Heinz and his galley team, and served by our friendly dining room staff. After dinner we were given our muck boots, which we would use for going ashore; comfortable but also, very importantly, waterproof! This would be key for our wet Zodiac landings!
After a long, but exciting day of travel for most of us, it was time for bed to get some much-needed rest before the first full day of our trip began in the morning.