Belcher Channel - Breaking Ice

15 Aug 2010

Belcher Channel - Breaking Ice

By Blog.Admin

(August 14, 2010, 16:00) - BELCHER CHANNEL - Hamish Fothergill reporting - Waking at 7:00 for an early visit to Trappers Cove and a trudge across
another tundra. The presence of arctic poppies only added to the stunning appearance of the area.

Along the beach , large shards of ice lay scattered where the sea had deposited them. Within the perimeter could also be found
the arctic cotton grass, stunning to in large groups. Like the arrival, the return journey to the KK was hampered by strong winds whipping the wavesinto a primal fury, bouncing our small vessel to its destination.

The landing by helicopter on Axel Heiberg Island was cancelled due to the prevailing weather conditions which had harassed our previous exploit. The strong winds had so far proved relatively reclusive, allowing the helicopter to fly most days.

After dinner my brother fell into his bed, quite an achievement if you are on the top bunk. The day finished with a showing of The
Devil Wears Prada in the lecture hall.

Next day however began with a much more relaxed starting time of 8:00 when breakfast began, followed by various lectures throughout the day, attendance to which was optional. We are heading back south via Belcher channel. The peace of mind was interrupted by the thick ice ahead, as the KK was forced to put its icebreaking credentials to the test breaking ice more than a meter thick. The ship rocked as it broke the ice and the tremors the resonance made walking difficult at times. Soon however the boat was free and continued onwards into the open ocean, thankfully a much softer ride ensued.

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