Today was our last full day at sea as we headed towards the Westman Islands, the main island being Heimaey and Surtsey being the youngest. The archipelago was created by undersea volcanoes between 5000-10,000 years ago. Surtsey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was born in 1963 and was captured on film. This port was the most spectacular of all that we visited. Surrounded by cliffs, textures, and colors I was overwhelmed with the beauty of this planet we call home. Each day of this expedition I am reminded that we need to take better care for her.
The pilot boat that helped guide us in.
Heimaey Port
After lunch, we ventured out for a volcanic hiking tour from the harbor to the volcano Eldfell. Eldfell erupted in 1973, causing all 5,000 residents to flee to safety. Amazingly, only one life was lost, but 400 buildings were destroyed.
Seventeen feet of lava.
Most buildings are made of concrete to withstand the elements.
Hot steam can still be felt.
So many colors!
Always remember to look behind you.
The hike concluded at the Eldheimar Museum, dedicated to the 1973 eruption. On display is this excavated home. Seeing these ruins alongside the other artifacts and displays brings life to that event 50 years ago.
After leaving the museum, we had a wee bit of time to explore the town.
For the love of Puffins!
Rainbow stripes on streets and crosswalks is not uncommon in Iceland.
Heimaey Harbor and National Geographic Explorer
After dinner, we set sail for Reykjavík and gathered on deck to take in a last view of the islands. When Orcas and Pilot Whales stole the show, the geological wonders quickly took the back seat. The Pilot Whales were shy and stayed out in the distance, but the pod of Orcas put on a good show. Unfortunately, I didn't have my big lens on my camera and didn't want to risk missing the moment to change out lenses. Although I don't have the best pictures to share with you, I have the most incredible memories of a moment of pure joy with my travel companions, who share in the love and wonder of our natural world.
So many Orcas!
The little one seemed to so proud of himself!
This Gannet made sure that the whales didn't get all of the attention.
After the whales left, it was time to look to the horizon. It was my last night on the ship, it was an incredible adventure, and I wanted to savor it.
