Okay, so now I understand the value of a blog over email – I have so many photos I would like to send but am afraid no one will be able to accept the email. So I am sending it in parts. If anyone out there wants to set up a blog for me, thank you.

Here is part one …

I found out more information about the polar bear sighting yesterday. The naturalist onboard spotted him (it was either a young male or mature female) curled up sleeping on a piece of floating ice. Polar bears sleep most of the summertime to conserve energy – it is hibernation time here. So, the captain turned the ship around and approached him downwind to prevent our sound or smell disturbing him (or her). Then approached straight on so the ship would look like an iceberg. Once awaken, he was startled, posed for a moment before diving into the water where he can swim up to 60 miles away. I can’t figure out how he’s not freezing cold while wet but I suppose that’s where that fur coat comes in handy.  

We were planning to go hiking in the afternoon but there was too much ice between the ship and shore that the Zodiacs could not land on the beach so we took scenic cruises instead. The icebergs drifting through the fjords are like sculptures. We are not allowed to get too close as you never know when a piece could break off. This morning one outside our balcony started turning over and over, almost as if it was doing summersaults. It is just a spectacular world we live in. I feel like I’m dreaming and I don’t want anyone to ever wake me up.