Land at last!

We have finally had something to look at other than pack ice. Smoking Hills ie land!!
Yesterday was another sea day as previously mentioned. There were several times when the ship encountered pack ice that it couldn’t go around so through we went- I think the passengers are getting quite use to the noises and shuddering when the ship encounters ice.
So what have we been doing? Well - lectures on all sorts of things mainly associated with the region ie volcanoes, rocks, wild life. History lectures on topics such as oil exploration near Alaska, the opening up of the NW Passage, local indigenous groups etc. Plus I do try to venture out on either deck 10 or 6 to observe my surroundings.
On Wednesday night we had a Vegetarian buffet which was very good. However, there was also roast beef on offer. One of the solo travellers (also named Wendy) didn’t go as she couldn’t cope with something so different. She’s British and always starts with the negative. A very glass half empty person. However, Richard, who is also a little on the negative.side, surprised himself by actually liking the food. We were also serenaded by 3 of the waiting staff - mainly Bee Gee’s song. They had us singing along to ‘Its only words’ at one stage.
Thursday just sailed by or through more pack ice. It seems that in the past the crew have had to cruise much further north just to see any ice. Excitement occurred when they announced Bowhead whales at the front of the ship (saw spouts) and polar bears twice. At least I saw the first polar bear as it slid into the water and swam away,
This morning we woke to the Smoking Hills on the Port side. Quite a sight really and very toxic. When we had the briefing about today’s activities, one idiot wanted to know if we could land!! No - toxic. Easier if you look them up. They have had the zodiacs out this afternoon for some general cruising amongst the ice flows. Everyone was quite pleased to get off the ship. However, I took one look at how people were getting into the zodiacs and decided to stay put. Took photos and enjoyed the amazing sunshine and still waters.Meer informatie