The quest for adventure continues! Despite being slowed by headwinds, we embrace the elements. The Devon Island coast is perfect for exploration, with some of the oldest rocks in the world. The sparse vegetation barely sustains the Peary Caribou, the smallest subspecies of caribou, which endures Devon Island’s harsh winters without migrating south.
Polar bears, however, thrive in the cold. Yesterday, we spotted a massive male strolling along the shingle beach, seemingly unfazed by our presence. Male polar bears can weigh up to 500 kilos!
On land, we’re no longer at the top of the food chain, a fact underscored by a pod of orcas, including two females, a calf, and a huge male, swimming under our ship and inspecting the propeller before moving on to better hunting grounds.
Our ultimate goal is Beechy Island, famous for its association with Franklin. We plan at least one more stop before reaching it. The glacial landscape continues to amaze us, and we’re constantly on the lookout for wildlife, ticking off each new sighting.
All is well,
Gijs
That’s a momstah bear!