We’ve been on the go almost continuously for the past 48 hours, making the most of some excellent weather and only sleeping on the few occasions when fog and drizzle have returned.  We crossed the 80th parallel (just 600nm from the North Pole – about the distance from Inverness to London) at 0415 local time this morning under full sail in light winds and clear bright conditions, with the magnificent mountains of Svalbard to our south east and only open water ahead of us.  Our autohelm, Alfie, has had difficulty steering a straight course because the fluxgate compass is struggling to find north, and the steering compasses are both rather sluggish.  Thank goodness for GPS! 

 

We’ve celebrated with a tot of rum each (provided by Bridget and Jim, Bob’s daughter and son in law, specifically for this purpose) cooled by ancient glacial ice picked up from a fjord this morning, and some of Claire’s excellent fruit cake.  As we turned south we warmed ourselves up with soup and freshly baked rolls.  It was a great feeling.

 

With no wifi at 80N this is being sent by satellite phone with just a couple of pics: one of the team celebrating and one of our GPS screen.  The story of an excellent and full past 48 hours in glacial ice and exploring more of Svalbard’s heritage will follow as quickly as we can make it happen.  We’ve packed in an amazing amount.  Thanks to everyone at home for all your support.