The Holy Grail of Ornithologists….Prince Leopold Island

Back on board, we continue our voyage going north. There is not a lot to see but still visible are the rocky low-lying shores on both sides of the ship. Despite the fog, we continue on our way until we reach the Bellot Strait and turn to the starboard. This was a wonderful passage on a beautiful afternoon. Cold and windy on the observation deck, we were not deterred to take in the 32-mile stretch, braving the elements. It is a rare thing when we see fellow travellers up here. Not encountering other forms of human life gets everyone excited when another ship comes into view. Passing us in the opposite direction, it is on its way to where we have come. At the end of the strait, we see two buildings on the port side which is known as Fort Ross. This was a place of refuge for early explorers, but today the buildings are abandoned and seem so lost in the expanse of the artic. We turn left and continue heading north to Lancaster Sound. The birders on board are in a flutter as our next destination is Prince Leopold Island. Apparently, this is a must see and a rare opportunity, as government permits to get close to the island are scarce. There is excitement in the dining room at lunch when an announcement says that there has been a sighting of four polar bears on the beach. A mass exodos of the buffet line to rush up to the observation deck allows me the opportunity to have my lunch in peace with no lineups for a refill of roast beef and pasta. I’ll have another glass of wine please. Eventually we make it back to our cabin where we have a front row seat of the bears. Fortunately, we have binoculars for the sightings, but my camera is not up to the task to take good quality pictures from that distance, so you’ll just have to take my word for it. There was a mother with two cubs and a male counterpart. The sound from the birds is deafening and I’m sure I wouldn’t be exaggerating when I say there must have been a million birds flying all around and nesting in the high cliffs. Truly a remarkable site and sound experience. Now back to the dining room, for we wouldn’t want to miss a meal or another glass of wine.