June 20 - Into the Pack Ice

Video by Bill Megalos

87-89 degrees N

The breaking of the ice has become more intense. We are hitting very thick ice (up to 5 meters thick). The icebreaker proceeds but when it hits a tough piece of ice that we hit, we have a sensory experience. Watching the ice undulate. Smelling the fresh crisp air. Feeling the vibrations of the boat as the ice is disturbed and then falls back on itself. Hearing the explosions of ice as they break apart.

How can I describe this experience?

We are all excited to be reaching the North Pole. The crew has planned a huge day for us tomorrow. And as a prelude they performed a small play dedicated to Neptune. We received a ceremonial syringe of vodka as we danced to some great music on the bow of the boat.

*Bill and I cannot stop photographing the ice.*