Days at sea (June 19/20)

We’ve just had two sea days behind us—and no, boredom was definitely not on board. The entertainment program is so good that the real challenge is deciding what to do next: attend a lecture, join a quiz, listen to live music, or simply grab another coffee? Sadly, being in several places at once is still not an option (although it would come in handy).

After a leisurely breakfast, the first sea day featured the Arctic Circle Crossing Ceremony. Neptune himself paid us a visit and presented us with a series of challenges. To be officially welcomed into the ranks of Arctic Circle travelers, we had to eat sea worms and sea cucumber jelly, as well as drink Neptune’s blood—or perhaps algae slime. Whether they were actually sea worms remains unconfirmed, but we bravely endured the ordeal and passed the test. As a reward, we later found a certificate waiting for us in our cabin. Official proof in black and white: we are now certified Arctic veterans!

We spent the afternoon apart. My girlfriend headed to the gym, while her mother and I chose the considerably more relaxing option: coffee and cake in a Viennese-style café. Some people train their muscles; others train their ability to appreciate a good slice of cake.

In the evening, we returned to the Gallery Bar for some cocktail sipping. Later, there was live music as well, and of course our regular card game sessions could not be missed. UNO, Switch, or Phase 10—we’re happy to play anything. And let’s just say that after one or two cocktails, some interpretations of the rules become remarkably creative.

The second sea day began—unsurprisingly—with another generous breakfast. After all, one must keep energy levels up for the demanding card game championships. Until the afternoon lecture about our next destination, Svalbard, we passed the time with several more rounds of cards.

Tonight, my friend and her mother have massages and beauty treatments planned. As for me, I remain loyal to my personal wellness routine: a good book and a comfortable seat with a nice view. Later, we’ll meet again for a comparatively late dinner in the restaurant at around 8 p.m.

And while we’re enjoying all of this, the thermometer out on the Arctic Ocean proudly reads 4°C (39°F). Chilly enough that you keep a firm grip on your cocktail before it decides to freeze itself. And at night, it never gets completely dark because the midnight sun is just around the corner. You wake up at 2:30 a.m., glance outside—and the sun is shining as if it’s the middle of the afternoon.