Datum: | 21.07.2024 |
Positie: | 78°14.6’N, 015°32.5’E |
Wind: | NW2 |
Weer: | Overcast |
Luchttemperatuur: | +11 |
Finally! The day had come, it was time for us to board our new home for our newly starting expedition, the Hondius! We arrived at the port in Longyearbyen with calm, glassy waters. Some of us only had landed a few hours before and now we were about to start our adventure onboard M/V Hondius. 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 take a few photos of the ship while we made our way up the gangway. We were warmly welcomed by all the crew and staff who assisted us in finding our cabins. With some time left, we explored the ship and enjoyed a cup of tea or coffee in the bar.
Once everyone was onboard, it was time for the mandatory ship safety video and briefing. We were given 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. Having learned this, it was then 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, got our lifejackets, and went to our muster station. Then we were led to our lifeboats so we would know where to go in case of a real emergency.
After the drill we headed to the bar where Hotel Manager Will and Expedition Leader Marcel gave a welcome. With briefing formalities concluded, it was time to join Captain Artur in the bar to raise a glass in celebration of the voyage. Then it was time for our first evening meal, with a delicious buffet selection provided by Chef Gaurav and his galley team 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 for our wet zodiac landings! After a long day of travel for most of us it was time for bed to get some rest before the first full day of our trip tomorrow.