Spitsbergen 2013

Now, I accept the photos are not prize-winning (you try from a rolling deck),  but the unmistakeably tall fin and blaze of white confirmed beyond doubt a multiple group of killer whales.  Two groups, in fact, although one was too far away to see clearly.  A cluster of fulmar and a single predatory skua over the site suggested the orca were feeding - perhaps on one or more of the fulmar whose companions had grouped to commiserate their loss - or, more likely, fight for the scraps.  As we approached more closely, the whales were off; sounding and not to be seen again.  It was a wonderful sight and perhaps a taster of things to come.  It is certainly an experience we hope to witness more of as our expedition continues.  Enthused, we altered course once more for Svalbard.

The Soldier's Breeze' we spoke of in an earlier blog has begun to fill in; albeit, at this stage with the limp lacklustre of ......[I'll check myself here before insulting anyone] .... but it is certainly not yet the magnificent gusto befitting a crew pair of ex General Officers.  In an confused swell, without the dampening effect of wind in the sails, it makes for an uncomfortable ride. 

The [Dying?] Swan