Field Notes by Hock Woon Chiang
Today was packed with bold moments and wild beauty. Our expedition leader, Christle, expertly navigated through shifting weather systems overnight to bring us to a relatively sheltered landing site known for its walrus population. Despite light drizzle and a sizable swell, we made a successful Zodiac landing—thanks to precise coordination and skillful ship positioning to shield loading and unloading. Once ashore, we were met by hundreds of walruses, both on the beach and bobbing in the water—an unforgettable sight.

Elsewhere, kayakers set off on a 4km paddle around a nearby island in light rain and moderate swell. Everyone returned safely, and the moment was made even more memorable by a haunting Irish pipe performance—a fitting soundtrack for the misty, moody Arctic setting.

Meanwhile, our divers descended into a kelp forest for their second or third Arctic dive. Visibility was limited at 10–20 meters, but conditions were calm and manageable—a unique underwater experience.

To top it all off, we had the classic polar plunge—a rite of passage in these waters. Adventurers of all ages jumped in, including some who rushed back from diving just in time for the freezing dip, before warming up in the sauna and Jacuzzi.

A day that perfectly captured the spirit of Arctic exploration—raw, resilient, and unforgettable.