Field Notes by Benita Tan
What an extraordinary day—three polar bears in a single day. We were blessed with clear skies and sunshine, and the Arctic gave us a truly unforgettable experience.
One bear came incredibly close to the ship—just around 30 meters away. It stood on its hind legs, sniffing the air and looking straight at us. For a moment, it felt like a ritual—a silent exchange between two worlds. It was beautiful and haunting all at once.
Watching these magnificent animals on the ice is a powerful reminder of what’s at stake. I know that our presence and the ice-breaking aren’t helping them, but I do hope the awareness we bring back will.
A day full of awe, reflection, and deep respect for the Arctic and its wild inhabitants.
