Today was a day for hiking! Lindblad does a wonderful job meeting everyone's needs. Passengers could choose their challenge today. Lisa and I rose early for a 7:30 AM departure for a 4.5+ mile hike to Dynandisvogur, "thundering waterfall." Looking at the temps for the morning, we thought it might be chilly. A light rain was falling for the Zodiac ride and the first mile or so of the hike. Very quickly, I had to remove my jacket and wished to bring my lightweight raincoat. Fortunately, the rain stopped, and only a light fog remained. Much of the hike was mostly flat but did give way to some steep climbs nearer the falls. The view from all angles was breathtaking, as was the sound of the thundering falls and the smell of the salt air. Making my way back to the Zodiac I gave thanks for this incredible experience.
This Eurasian Oystercatcher was talking up a storm.
The trail was lined with Arctic Thyme and Cotton Weed.
Travelers taking in the wonder of the "thundering falls".
The lower falls.
Always remember to look behind you.
Take time to listen to the thunder.
I knew it would be a good day when I got the Wordle of the Day on the second try with WHALES! Imagine the excitement when we were called to the deck during the afternoon briefing for a humpback whale sighting. Unfortunately, I was unprepared for this miracle and did not have my camera. Not wanting to miss a single second, I refrained from fetching it. I just stood and took in this special moment, cheering and laughing with each fluke or release of air.
Following dinner, we had our first dry landing on the island of Vigur, where seals greeted us! Vigur is privately owned by Gísli, Felicity, and their son, Þráinn Freyr. Felicity is the first woman to ski solo across Antarctica and a published author. She and her family are the only residents where they clean and collect Eiderdown, a rare and prized resource known for being light and warm. Vigur is also home to Artic Terns, Puffins, and Black Guillemot.
Hiking the island, we moved through the Artic Tern nesting areas. The adults are protective of their nesting areas and will dive-bomb any threats. Terns will attack the highest point of the threat; therefore, we walked holding sticks straight up in the air. As we walked through the nesting area, hundreds of Artic Terns flew swooped above and around us.
We were greeted by Harbor Seals.
Eider Duck: the down from the nests is collected and cleaned.
Black guillemot
Puffins everywhere!
The scientific term for puffins is Fratercula arctica
Puffins next in burrows.
Carry something above your head while moving through Arctic Tern nesting areas.
Be mindful when walking through nesting areas. Nests and chicks are everywhere.
