My energy level had been dragging for most of the day, the walk to Igaliku and back only adding to that fatigue, so, despite speeding along in the Zodiac boat, the brisk cold breeze nipping at my exposed face, I was nearly dozing off. Zipping along our pilot turned down another fjord, where we began seeing larger icebergs and then as the fjord narrowed, we entered a sea of countless smaller icebergs floating all around us. Further ahead, at the end of that fjord, lay the broad glacial body squeezing itself between mountains on either side, with all of its broken off ice parts now all around us. This amazing site revived me, my senses now alert and receptive to experiencing yet another of Greenland’s beautiful wonders of nature.
Quietly, slowly, our pilot maneuvered through and amongst the glimmering white and blue tinged icebergs. Reaching out we could have touched the cold chunks of ice, but safer not to submit to that urge. Far into the field of icebergs, our pilot cut the motor allowing us to absorb the magnitude of the beautiful creation all around us.
Near total silence.
Gentle waves lapping against the boat.
A soothing, peaceful melody began as our pilot played a tune from his mobile device further heightening our reverent reverie, music drifting out over the entire scene.
In total absorption of the moment, the entire world felt at peace.
While it was a moment in time to savor, it was also a time to celebrate.
How does one celebrate whilst floating amidst icebergs in frigid waters?
Using one of the most readily available items on hand – ICE – from an iceberg naturally. Kunuk chipped away at a small block of iceberg ice, dropped them into our cups and added a splash of alcohol. And thus we all raised our cups and shouted “KASUTA”, Greenlandic for “Cheers”.
What a great way to cap off another adventurous day, but returning to the hostel we passed by several more, larger icebergs, like many miniature mountains afloat in the water.
Photo Gallery below. Click on the first photo for a slideshow of all.
White streaks of clouds, as though freestyle brush strokes, floated in the blue skies above as the lowering sun cast blue translucent light through the titanic masses of ice, an almost otherworldly yet calming glow. Even though cold air and frigid waters surrounded us, there was a peace about the scene that warmed the soul.
Snuggled up in our expedition coats, scarves pulled up over our faces, caps and hats pulled down over our ears we braced against the cold for the last several miles on our return to the hostel.
Good night to another day of Greenland adventure.
Waves In The Desert 