A Polar Week Between Storms and Wonders!

It was under intense weather conditions that our journey began on November 5th. Constant rain, low clouds, and gusts of wind reaching 100 km/h marked those first days. Despite the elements raging, we braved the weather to explore the island of Uloya, a wild gem nestled in the heart of the Norwegian fjords. The picturesque little port of Hamnes welcomed us with its traditional cod drying racks, sauna, and jacuzzi, offering much-appreciated moments of comfort after our excursions. The protected forests of Uloya, which we traversed, rewarded us with breathtaking views over the majestic Lyngen Alps.

Finally, on November 10th, the weather calmed down, marking the start of unforgettable rewards. In the tranquility of the sea, impressive groups of humpback whales and orcas appeared, chasing herring in a majestic dance. 



As night fell, with the clouds parting, we were lucky to catch a glimpse of the northern lights. Although somewhat dim, this much-anticipated spectacle captivated each of us, offering a suspended moment under the Arctic sky.


On November 11th, we sailed through Skjervoy Bay, and from the early hours, activity was in full swing. Fishing boats were busy, their nets laden with herring, attracting a veritable cloud of birds above the water. Orcas and whales, too, took advantage of this feast, creating a unique spectacle both above and below the water’s surface. For us, it was a rare moment, a privilege to witness this surge of wildlife.


As we set out on our return, a few orcas accompanied us to the edge of the bay, as if to prolong these magical moments. The sun, still present during this season, added a golden touch to this polar scene. We arrived in Tromsø under the cover of night, where we shared one last warm moment aboard the Isbjorn, with a good meal and conversation among crew and passengers.

This journey was intense, full of discoveries and grand moments, but it left us all with an insatiable desire to see even more. The wild beauty of the Arctic is a call that one never tires of answering… and the idea of returning feels like an inevitability.

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Recap of the September 9-15, 2024 Trip
A Week in the Lofoten Islands: Adventure, Pristine Nature, and Unforgettable Moments