The Hangar Deck

On this relaxed day there is time for the crew to show us all the toys. The Hangar Deck is open and I went down to get up close and personal with the boats we have been enjoying for the last two weeks.

First, though, we passed through the Science Center, where some of the scientists onboard explained their work. A special optical analyzer pumps 100 liters of water each minute through its whizz-bang photo-analyzer to determine the amount of oxygen, phytoplankton and pollution contained in the water on which our ship cruises. Another station examines algae and other invertebrates. Some species have now come together into colonies, and they are producing poisonous waste products that are killing off other types of organisms that inhabit lower depths. The work of the oceanographers is as important here in the Great Lakes as it is in Antarctica.

Next we went down to the Hangar Deck to see the Special Operations Boats, the Zodiacs and our two submarines, George and Ringo. The Viking Octantis has John and Paul. And yes, each of these vessels is in fact a yellow submarine. I discussed with the boat commander the process by which these special boats can be dropped by parachute. It was a fascinating experience to discuss with them the safety features employed when these boats are being used. For example, a dive boat accompanies every submarine deployment, and there is also an ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) available to assist the subs. It is essentially a tethered robot that can perform a multitude of tasks outside the sub if an endangered vessel should ever need them.

Our time here on the Viking Polaris is quickly coming to an end. Tomorrow we will be taken to the Toronto Airport for our flight home. However, our cruise aboard this expedition ship has been one of the most interesting we have ever done.Read more