22 Aug 2018

Exploring Senyavina Strait

As the day warmed on Ytyygran Island, the fog lifted revealing Senyavina Strait, Aramkachechan Island and of course one of the most significant archaeological sites in the Arctic - the bowhead jaw bones of Whale Bone Alley.   Some of us climbed high to the summit of a hill offering great views, while others wandered freely enjoying ground squirrels and the beautiful silence.  Late morning we set off on a zodiac cruise and found many Gray whales which feed in the shallow productive waters.  We even had a great view of a full breach of a particularly active whale near the end!   Over lunch we relocated across the Strait to Gil'mimyl and visited Ivan - a local Chukchi man who makes his home on the tundra during the summer months.  His hospitality was delightful and many tucked into some local delicacies from the tundra and nearby waterways, as well as a cup of freshly brewed chai on an open fire.  A nature walk took others to the natural hot pools which gave much laughter and enjoyment in the very hot waters surrounded by tundra views.  

Image © H. Ahern