Selmaneset

Moving on from the gentle giants of Poolepynten, the day's adventure continued with an afternoon visit to the dramatic bird cliffs of Alkhornet. Rising sharply from the sea, these cliffs were teeming with life and activity. Hundreds of Black-legged Kittiwakes and Brünnich's Guillemots filled the air with their calls, a cacophony that added to the wild charm of the place. The cliffs seemed alive, dotted with the black and white bodies of these seabirds nesting and flying in every direction.

Guests were particularly thrilled to spot the agile and cunning Arctic foxes at Alkhorner, which roamed the area in search of food. Their presence added an element of surprise and excitement to the day. With their thick, pristine fur blending perfectly with the surroundings, they were a sight to behold. They watched as one fox stealthily navigated the rocky terrain, its sharp eyes and keen senses always alert.

The Svalbard reindeer, grazing calmly on the tundra vegetation near the cliffs, added to the enchanting wildlife spectacle. Unlike their mainland relatives, these reindeer are smaller and more compact, adapted perfectly to their harsh Arctic environment. Their presence added a serene and pastoral touch to the rugged landscape, perfectly contrasting with the bustling bird colonies above.

Guests couldn't help but express their delight and wonder at the variety of wildlife they had encountered. Every sighting was a new adventure, every moment a chance to learn and appreciate the delicate balance of life in the Arctic. They took countless photos, eager to capture the memories of these unique experiences.

The bird cliffs at Alkhornet, with their vibrant ecosystem, and the serene, walrus-dotted shores of Poolepynten had provided an unforgettable highlight of the expedition. Throughout the voyage, the sense of camaraderie among guests has grown, bonded by shared experiences and a collective sense of wonder. Poolepynten and Alkhornet offered more than just visual splendor; they provided a profound connection to nature that left a lasting impression on everyone.

Text and photos by Lorenz Thiele-Dohrmann.Read more