24-09-2023
66’20N 053’59W
gc 180
sp 5.5kn
weather, beautiful
https://my.yb.tl/Tecla
We made it! Yesterday we crossed the Arctic Circle for the second time this year, but this time going south! Nearly two months ago we crossed it just north of the Bering Strait on our way to attempt the North West Passage! Yesterday we officially succeeded by leaving the Arctic Circle behind us while sailing into Davis Strait. Of course, we celebrated with a little toast to old Neptune, thanking him for keeping us safe… Nearly 4500 nml we sailed after leaving Dutch Harbor. Departing in summer, arriving in autumn. We have been lucky with the sea ice.
The succession of gales in the north cleared the path for us. We had time to stop at so many places of interest. Either historically or because of their natural beauty and nature! From Beluga to Polar Bear, White tailed eagle to Arctic Hare we met them all. We passed with in only a few miles of where the Erebus and Terror found their last resting place. We overlooked the Bloody Falls, scene of a great massacre 200 years ago. We passed through Bellot strait over the top of the America’s. We anchored at Beechey Island, the last know place of the Franklin expedition. We stood at Ross’s cairn. Passed Rae strait, where the man who’s name it bares discovered a North West Passage. Too much to summon up. It will take some time to sink in be for it all makes sense. We made it and that’s that!!!!
This morning started early as they all have so far. We want to make the best of our time here, both sailing and ashore. This afternoon we are going to look for a nice anchorage to stretch our legs. But tonight, we will push on a little further. Gales are again expected, and I want none of that. Tomorrow we will find shelter in a fjord where we can sit out the windy bits. For now the main activity is basking in the morning sun with a coffee!
All is well Gijs
