Close Call in Rough Seas 1990

Things that happen on expeditions remain clear in our memories, some are glamourous and others much less so. Still, they are each treasured and help to make us who we are. Ian Frearson, Founder of the ARG, recalls one such memory of a close call in rough seas off the West Coast of Spitsbergen.

"I recall in 1990 we set out from Longyearbyen towards our intended expedition base camp area in Rindersbukta, a short finger of sea at the end of Van-Mijenfjorden.  The voyage aboard the chartered vessel began smoothly enough in Adventfjorden and through the enormous, impressive Isfjorden. A few hours later as we then transited along the West Coast of Spitsbergen, the weather deteriorated and we were soon in much rougher seas, and the boat began to roll rather alarmingly, with the deck cargo of around 3 tonnes of our expedition freight not helping one bit for us to have a smoother passage.  Our Captain was confident and calm and clearly knew his boat well, though for us there were concerned expressions and glances exchanged

between us.

Calmer waters on another voyage - image © Mike Haynes

The timing was also rather unfortunate for one of our team. As the boat lurched from side to side, we were enjoying a delicious meal of boiled cod and fatty bacon that would likely be a test for many digestive systems. Almost inevitably one of our Georges, rushed out partway through the meal and found his solace and relief on the lee side of the boat, rapidly jettisoning his lunch back to Poseidon.  George looked really unwell and none too secure leaning over the railing, so, making my way across the deck to him, I took hold of his belt and grabbed as much cloth as I could, with the clear intent to keep him safe onboard.  It had all the hallmarks of a close call of losing him over the side. Fortunately soon, the weather abated, the wind died and we glided in the calmer waters of Rindersbukta to our desired drop off point,

all secure.

The arrival was well received and the recent past forgotten as George and I, with the rest of the team, threw ourselves into the job of moving our gear and equipment ashore and beginning to set up camp.  The looks of relief on the teams' faces was a welcome change from those seen during the journey, especially for George".

Ian Frearson FRGS

Founder Arctic Research Group