07 Sep 2015

Bear in a Hot Tub

We are anchored off Karaginskiy Island where the wind has been blowing strongly from the N-NE for the last 24 hours. Until now it hasn’t stopped us from landing but as the forecast is that it will strengthen we have decided to abandon our plans to land for the first time on this expedition. The wind/sea is directly on shore at our proposed landing site and with no sheltered bays or harbours as an alternative, we have decided to depart for the Commander Islands and will use the extra time for additional lectures.

One of the highlights in the last few days was at Tintikun Lagoon where we enjoyed a glorious afternoon before this weather hit. Some expeditioners took the opportunity to go for a swim in the lagoon and then warm up in a small geothermal pool nearby. Later in the afternoon we observed two young Kamchatka Brown Bears near the same pool and watched in amazement as one jumped in for a soak. After getting out it decided that more heat was needed and jumped in again to soak for a few more minutes. After a time the bear got out again and continued feeding. I couldn’t help but think that a territory with a private hot tub must be much sought after in winter!