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Date: 30 April 2009 Location: film | |
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Here is the link for our new movie trailer --- 9 lives trailer
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Date: 7 July 2008 Location: On the ice distance: 29 nautical mile (53.708km) wind: 20 knots (37.04kph) Coordinates: N 80°00.003, E 15°57.000 | |
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the information we had before the paddle:
Forecast: southerly wind force 2. Ice: close drift ice next to the tip (yesterday map), but "lots of open water, no problem to land on the other side" according to one of the ships we talked to by VHF. With this info at hand we decided not to wait, but to go for the crossing. We quickly folded the tent and the rest of our gear and started to paddle. The conditions seemed perfect. We paddled for a few hours, easily going around blocks of ice paddling towards N 80°00.000' E 16°00.000'. 25km went by and then the air started to move, I looked at the barometer, a drop of 7 millibar within the last two hours, in the next two hors the drop should complete a total of nine millibar. I started to worry. The wind picked up and it was force 4 after a short while. the sea, how ironically, was in its most open status since we started to paddle. We pushed hard against the side wind. The force 4 became force 5 with gusts of force 6-7. It was much colder as well. We wrapped ourselves with poggies and hats and continue. We started to see more and more ice. We looked for the big "lakes" in between the ice sheets, and we tried hard to move on, closer to shore closer to the warm tent. the ice kept closing leaving less and less free water to paddle in. We started to climb the ice in order to jump from one "lake" to another. We tried going from the left, then from the right strait into a dead end. We tried to turn but we couldn't, not enough room for the kayak, we reversed, just to bump into the ice and then we had only ice surrounding our kayaks. no water. We had to jump out of the kayak on to the ice. Looking around us we could only see Ice and more ice. There were hardly any blue patches in this ocean of white.We looked at the GPS, about 7km to shore. We started to walk. The boats are heavy (about 80kg), the terrain is very rough and the way is long. We were pushing the boats, then we connected a rope and pulled them. It was hard! There was not much time, the ice was constantly moving north while we were walking east toward the shore. My old back injury came alive and the pain grow stronger by the minute. after another hour with growing pain I asked Tim to wait. We had to make a decision whether should we call it off. for Tim it was way to soon. He could move on, slowly, but progress to shore. I couldn't. I wasn't sure I was able to actually walk that distance with no heavy boat I need to drag. After about 30 minutes of sitting still and trying to decide the right thing I decided to call for help. Tim, although frustrated, supported me on this call. We started as a team and finished as one. Thanks Tim. Two hours later rescue came, and took us to safety in Longyearbyen.Both Tim and I will add our summary of the trip in a few days, just check the summary tab on the website. Thank you all for the comments and support. Alon Comments: "Hi Tim and Alon
I'm glad to hear that you are both safe - the ability to assess and back out of such a situation, tells a lot about you guys - it requires strength, both as individuals and as a team to take the right decision." Tue Olesen 15/07/2008 12:03 "bummer dude, see you at the wedding," Boyd 12/07/2008 22:12 "I`m sorry on your behalf guys. You have been putting a lot of effort into this project and it`s always frustrating to call it off after so much work. But that`s how it can be up there- from one summer to the next the conditions can change dramtically from icefree to icefilledup. Anyway you have seriously tried but nature would not alove you to come through this time ." Norwegian 10/07/2008 22:19 "I am sorry to hear your trip did not work out as planned, but happy and relieved to hear you are healthy and alive.
Hats off to your accomplishments, and your wise decision to call for help at a time you found is appropriate! Marcus" Marcus Demuth 10/07/2008 19:18 "Hi alon i hope you get well soon then you'll be ready for an other expedition,see you on the water." karel 10/07/2008 17:53 "You guys have done so well, I really enjoyed waking up in the morning and seeing your progress. I imagine you are very disappointed with when you had to finish and it must have been a very agonising time out there making that decision. Know that we are all here sick with jealously at the sights you have seen and look forward to seeing some photos." Penny Clemow - NZ 10/07/2008 6:11 "Dear Tim & Alon,
I think you should be both very pride of what you have achieved up there North, really amazing to made it this far! It's already a great personal achievement demanding strong courage. I can imagine taking this team decision wasn't easy but it brings friends even more closer. It was the wisest thing to do & this is respectful at 100%. In Polar expeditions, security is always the priority. Many explorers have had a few attempts before reaching their final goal, so think already about next time. In the meantime, you are both safe & this is the most essential news for all. May I just ask you one question which is in my mind since end of June: for which reason did you start this expedition so early - didn't anyone in Longyearbyen advise you to wait end of July before starting (less ice at 80° in August)? Hope to meet you both to exchange experiences. Keep in mind the best moments, your laughs, Svalbard beautiful wildlife secrets...this will give you both some positive energy to restart soon some new ventures. Very curious to see your pictures & paper work , when will they be on line? Hope your back is getting better Alon? Take care & all the very best to both, Patrick from Brussels - Belgium." patrick of www.arctic05.org 10/07/2008 3:07 "Glad you guys are safe and I can stop worrying about polar bears. A truly epic voyage even though interrupted!! Have enjoyed reading your daily logs and trying to imagine it (force 5!): can't wait for the paperback to come out. Thanks and best of luck for the next adventure!" other Paul 10/07/2008 1:47 "That sounds absolutely grueling! I am amazed that you guys made it this far! I couldn't imagine even attempting something like this in a million years. I know it must be frustrating for you, but it sounds like you made the right decision to call it off. Well done!!" Pete 09/07/2008 23:58 "טיילתי השנה במשך חודש בנורווגיה. אלו היו הנופים הכי משגעים שראיתי בחיי!
למרות שטיילתי הרבה בצפון המגינה, לא הצלחתי להגיע לסבאלברד, לצערי הרב! ברגע שראיתי את הכתבה הראשונה ב-ynet אודות המסע שלכם התחלתי לעקוב בדריכות... הרגשתי שחלק ממני נמצא שם איתכם ובטח שהמחשבות והקנאה... ממש הרגשתי שאתם גם עושים את זה בשבילי... אז רציתי לומר תודה!! תודה רבה!!! זה לא נורא שלא הצחתם, העיקר שניסיתם ועשיתם כמיטב יכולתכם והכי חשוב: בריאות... מקווה שתרגישו טוב בהקדם" גילה 09/07/2008 23:41 "Alon motek,
You are our hero, no matter what!!! Looking forward to meet you home: safe and defrosted :) You know what's great about paddling, that there's always place to paddle trough next time! Take care" Hadas Rapaport 09/07/2008 22:30 "My be 2008 is no the year when Svalbard circumnavigation is possible.
If hundred years of industrial revolution didn't melt all this polar ice, what can a kayaker do? I want to thank you for an unique opportunity to take a little observer part in your exceptional effort. And a good preparation for the next guy:)" Gadi G. 09/07/2008 15:38 "Well done boys!!! There is always another opportunity !!
Alon hope to see you soon......" Paul 09/07/2008 12:36 "glad that you safe thats the most important. there will be more trips in the future/
love shlomi" shlomi 09/07/2008 11:45 "You made a sensible decision to call for help. Enough is enough. What you both have done so far is well and truely beyong human capabilities.
Congratualtions - you are a champ. Shoshana" shoshana - Sydney 09/07/2008 6:39 "Alon's back injury is really bad. He had terrible aches in Tasmania and Ireland. He was alright while being in the kayak, but after long paddles he was not able to walk more than 10 minutes without laying on the ground and having a rest for a few minutes. Dragging a heavy kayak long distance while battling strong wind and drifting ice must be way too much for Alon's injury." Misha 09/07/2008 4:22 "Alon, Tim, really sorry to hear about what happened. I'm sure you both are very frustrated. But bad things happen. Don't take it too hard. You were heading very rugged areas, and there were definitely high risks in the expedition. You're safe now - that's the most important thing. Relax now, have a bit rest from the tensted day." Misha 09/07/2008 4:08 "as usual i am lacking the right words, so quoting someone else: "I don't like people who have never fallen or stumbled. Their virtue is lifeless and it isn't of much value. Life hasn't revealed its beauty to them."" Eva 08/07/2008 20:50 "Alon, you both must feel disappointed, but hey, thank god you are safe back on safe land - I'm sure you carried on with your inurjerd back much more than you should have. From watching your everyday progress it was hard to believe you went that far - having all that weather conditions. You sure went through so much adventures during this expedition - you could defenetly be proud of yourselves! Alon, I hope you are now taking good care of your back. Waiting here for you at home - with that choclate cake you earned with honors!" Anat Harel 08/07/2008 19:31 "Tim & Alon, I know you both must feel disappointed in not being able to complete your journey, but your safety outweighs any goal. The two of you should be proud of what you accomplished in this expedition! There is not many of us that would even begin such a venture. What you two did takes courage and determination and there is still time in your lives to do more adventures. I am glad you are safe and well." Uncle Bob 08/07/2008 17:57 "Alon
Glad you are safe. I know you can continue with pain more than anybody else I know. Hope you feel well." Oded 08/07/2008 15:24 "sorry to hear about your back, i hope you recover soon.good luck." hadas 08/07/2008 13:05 "Hi
I'm with you, reading everyday about you." Oded 08/07/2008 11:24 "I had a Norwegian friend translate the news article for me, and they are in Longyearnben in a hospital. I think you guys did make a great effort. You should both be very proud of yourselves." Uncle Bob 08/07/2008 6:51 "hi tim and alon
glad you are safe and warmer. hope you achieved some of your goals with the great paddles already accomplished. let us know details. love you both. great effort" mom 08/07/2008 6:02 "Glad to hear they are safe - but safe where? Are they back in civilization?" Cate 08/07/2008 4:11 |
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Date: 5 July 2008 Location: Velkomstpynten | |
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Still at the same spot. The weather and the ice wont allow the guys to continue. Tim already read his book twice, so I guess he will have to get going on the third time soon. I don't have updates on the ice during the weekend but really hope to see more clearance on Monday!
Comments: "Hi Tim, we had a party today for Amadeus and it was super fun. Only thing missing was you...but I am sure you will be here for many birthday to come. HOpe all is well in the where you are. Have you seen some polar bears yet? Please take pictures. Love the postcard. Miss you and hope to hear from you really soon. Love Troy, Sara and Amadeus and Monty the dog." Sara 07/07/2008 9:27 "Hey there boys. Sitting here in Wellington city in our own little cold space. Ice and snow over the past few days with roads closed through the central north island. All Blacks won a torrid game against Springboks on Saturday night and the populace is now all at peace with the world. Bummer about the book Tim, but you sometimes get that on the big jobs. Hang in there - (like you have a choice...)" Daryl 07/07/2008 1:40 "hi there tim. grandpa is here for dinner. we had a great lentil soup with peasant rye bread. all good.
the post cards are great fun. we will pass them around tomorrow at the party. scott and niki will be here and peter. grandpa is coming too. maybe with a date called anne. love you both paddle well" mom 06/07/2008 8:41 "Hi Alon and Tim;
this is old Gord, thank you for the postcard. I am still in the old folks home wondering what you are doing up near the north pole. Do what you are doing as I cant do that sort of stuphph anymore. love you lads." old gord 06/07/2008 8:35 "I hope its a really really interesting book - he will probably be able to come home and do a reading of it for everyone!" Penny 06/07/2008 4:19 |
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Date: 4 July 2008 Location: Velkomstpynten | |
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Today most of the time was spent in the sleeping bags. Its cold, the fog is makes the visibility poor and the ice are making it difficult to do the big crossing, so for tonight they will once again stay put and hope for a better forecast tomorrow. The thing is that the ice changes a lot, and for a big crossing like the one they are about to do, they surely want to know that they are not putting themselves at risk.
Comments: "Hi Tim, We are following your expedition with interest. All the best for the crossing. From wet and wild Wellington, NZ" Fernah and Jonathan 05/07/2008 12:08 "Good talking to you Tim a few hours ago. A bit surrealistic thinking of you so far north from us. My mate Nick Davies just sent his good wishes from Kiribati (what a contrast). Excellent effort and keep it up!" dad 05/07/2008 7:51 "Yes, the crossing appears to be at least 20 miles! I am guessing one of the longest in the whole trip. Best to be well rested and well planned. Yskr your time." Uncle Bob 05/07/2008 6:59 "rest well. wait for a good day. just like in the mountains.
news from home. the plum tree cracked and crashed in a winter storm. it is now firewood. the stump will be removed so that we can plant a new tree. bday party sunday for amadeus. love you paddle well, paddle stong." mom 05/07/2008 0:55 |
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Date: 3 July 2008 Location: Velkomstpynten distance: 19 nautical mile (35.188km)  wind: 5 knots (9.26kph) Coordinates: N 79°52.631, E 13°46.471 | |
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There was hardly no wind on this paddle but on the other hand lots of ice, so they had some difficulty finding their way. Now tonight the wind picked up a little bit and there is no visibility! So looks like they are gonna spend the night at Velkomstpynten (Welcome bay).
Comments: "Go Tim you good thing! Your cold thoughts must have found there way back to NZ. It snowed at the Kaituna on Sunday. Yes, 20 mins of snow. Amazing. Got photos to prove it. Anna Kaituna Calder was dragged out to experience her first ever snow fall by a very proud Nat." Dave "Dinglemouse" Addison 08/07/2008 7:17 "Hi Tim, hope everything is going great. We are hear planning Amadeus' first birthday party...we are thinking of you. Oh and we got a new puppy last weekend. His name is Monty and he is purebred Chocolate Lab. Very nice dog. Talk to you soon. Luv Sara, Troy and Amadeus xoxox" Sara 04/07/2008 10:29 "good on you, guys. we are almost home from the dessert. great hiking an weird land formations everywhere. we even went in a cave. cooler and no sun.
we will try or the last boat tonight" mom 04/07/2008 8:09 "Wow! That meal sure powered you guys up. I came to the site expecting you to be at the same place, only to find you all the way round the corner! Just sitting here in sunny CA sending melty thoughts your way." Cate 04/07/2008 6:05 "Looks like they have a lot of open water to cross next. Be careful!" Uncle Bob 04/07/2008 5:22 |
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Date: 2 July 2008 Location: Biscayarhuken | |
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This evening the guys met with expedition leader Woody from Quark expeditions and recieved their first food drop. So now its time for a good meal, a little bit of rest and then to continue the paddle. Woody wrote me that they both looked well and in good spirits, always good to hear. It looks like the ice is melting, but its still a bit tricky as it opens and closes pretty quickly in some areas. But for now they will just continue as far as possible, good spirits :) Comments: "Misha - Misha Hoichman?
Welcome back to planet Earth!" Gadi G. 03/07/2008 21:56 "Ah! Nothing beats a good meal!!!!! It's great that you feel like you can continue. Hope the ice gives way and you both stay safe." Uncle Bob 03/07/2008 4:13 "Good progress! Bon appetite, guys!" Misha 03/07/2008 3:29 "I read with great interest your adventure.This time last year I visited the west and northern coasts of Svalbard but could only get to
N 80:35 due to pack ice. I continue to monitor the ice coverage on met.no Iskart. This year the ice seems to extend further south at this time of the year. Good luck and have a safe onward adventure. P.S. I believe your longitude position is to the East and not the West as your coordinates state" Bill Hunt 03/07/2008 2:56 "Wonderful guys, already a great achievement to be were you are now, a few miles from Woodfjorden...Hope the "chef" did prepared a "haute cuisine" meal for you both in order to warm you up & give you some extra peps:-)...Bring back some breathtaking pictures as Svalbard is a so lovely place with stunning sceneries...You are entering a spot where you could observe walruses & belugas, perhaps polar bears...Keep the focus & enjoy it all the way...We are following your progress & updates...Your expedition makes me dream & gives me too ideas for new polar projects, ths to both...All the very best from Brussels, Belgium." Patrick of www.arctic05.org 03/07/2008 2:54 |
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Date: 1 July 2008 Location: Biscayarhuken distance: 9 nautical mile (16.668km) wind: 20 knots (37.04kph) Coordinates: N 79°49.999, E 12°22.726 | |
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They guys got as far as crossing Raudfjorden, its wasn't an easy paddle but they did it. Now that they are facing even colder conditions with lots of ice and snow, they have decided to stay put here and wait for the boat that are arranging the food drops, hoping that it will be able to get this far east and deliver depot#1. Comments: "One food drop is supposed to last for about 30 days. But for now they are just gonna refill the kayaks so they can keep on going. No worries of running out of food, they planned all this very carefully." Anna 03/07/2008 1:47 "Well Done Guys! It is hard to imagine the conditions you are paddling in. I'm watching your progress daily from here in Tel-Aviv, and it is terrifying and amazing at the same time. Alon, you were right about paddling in Tel-Aviv during the summer - I already miss winter. I'm sure you wouldn't mind some of this hot wheather right now! Hope the ice melts quickly and the boat arrives with your food shortly!" Anat Harel 02/07/2008 18:19 "You guys are going great! I am impressed! keep on going well, I hope the ice melts for you." Penny 02/07/2008 12:20 "Good progress!
Looks like a good place to wait for boat. Actually, in this ice conditions, it looks like a last place to wait for boat. Eva asked very good question ? fully loaded, for how long will the food last?" Gadi G. 02/07/2008 2:40 "Hey Tim, Happy Canada Day from Vancouver! I can't believe how far you've come already!" Pete 02/07/2008 1:57 "hello anna, you might be able to answer this: for how many weeks did they pack food in the kayaks? and how many weeks worth of food would the depot #1 stuff be?" Eva 02/07/2008 0:33 |
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Date: 30 June 2008 Location: Birger Fjellet distance: 15 nautical mile (27.78km)  wind: 5 knots (9.26kph)  Coordinates: N 79°49.059, E 11°36.017 | |
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During the night Tim and Alon made it to Birger fjellet and are already having problems with the ice blocking their way. Since the website for the ice charts aren't updated during weekends, we will only be able to see what the ice are up too in the afternoon today. Either way it sounds like the guys are up for giving it a try, seeing how far through they can get! Comments: "Like Eva, I looked at the charts too and saw a remarkable difference. Of course, reality is being there! Food? Can't you catch fish? :) Drag a trolling line in behind the kayak! Great Progress!!! Keep Going!!!!" Uncle Bob 01/07/2008 5:02 "Hey boys, looking at the charts it seems the ice is melting fast! am sure you can make it! how's it looking with food though? or best not mention (anna: leave it to you to decide!)? or might they still do the food drops? if worst comes to worst i guess you'll have to sacrifice your seal friends..." Eva 01/07/2008 2:02 "So much progress! I can't believe you guys can travel so far in one day. We are back in CA now and I am almost done with work. Time to start getting ready for the baby! You'll always be able to wow the new little one with stories of where you were when he/she was born. Keep warm. C." Cate 30/06/2008 23:12 "We are all following your updates on a daily basis, here in Amadeus!
keep paddeling, and show us that it's possible to follow our dreams!!" Guy 30/06/2008 14:46 "Just to answer Uncle Bobs question. They brought with them a solar panel to charge all the equipment. And since they have 24 hours of daylight (if its not cloudy) they should have plenty time to charge phone, camera and video camera :)" Anna 30/06/2008 10:24 |
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Date: 29 June 2008 Location: Bluffodden distance: 19 nautical mile (35.188km)  wind: 18 knots (33.336kph) Coordinates: N 79°38.733, E 11°01.042 | |
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Yep, they were in the kayaks, fighting a 18 knot wind but made it all the way to the Northwest corner of Spitsbergen. It was a hard paddle and they had trouble with finding a landing spot to put up the tent, eat and rest. Its hard not hearing from them for almost 24 hours, but knowing that they both are good paddlers, wouldn't do too crazy things, that the both of them have a tracer on them and that they have rifle, its a bit easier not to worry all the time. A bit.
Comments: "Of course Tim will do crazy things...." Andrew 01/07/2008 1:56 "Must be spectacular up there no matter what the weather is! I am glad that you answered a question in my mind about whether they had any protection with them. Make sense, it is a bit uneasy when they don't comunicate. And how do they keep batteries charged on their phone?" Uncle Bob 30/06/2008 9:21 "We're cheering you on with every update!
Keep at 'er lads!" Glenn & Sara P 30/06/2008 8:10 "Hey Alon,tonight the big final!!! Will it be a good game where Spain plays better and the Germans win ...again..
Good luck boys!!!" Paul 29/06/2008 19:38 "Have just discovered this exciting adventure and would just like to wish the guys every success. I visited the area in 2007 and it's a stunning place. I shall be tracking this epic trip daily. Stay safe." Gill. UK 29/06/2008 13:20 |
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Date: 28 June 2008 Location: Nissen | |
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As far as I know Tim and Alon are still at Nissen, but since I didn't hear from them for a while they might be in the kayaks, who knows! As it looks now the wind should have settled for force 4 so there is a chance that they are in the kayaks going even further north, I hope I will be able to let you know by tomorrow.
Comments: "Good luck for you, guys, and hope there won't be ice on the north!" Misha 29/06/2008 8:01 |
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Date: 27 June 2008 Location: Nissen | |
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Today was a day in the tent. The wind picked up again and the guys had occasionally near gale force 7, so not a day for paddling. At the moment it doesn't hurt with a day or two off, as they will have to wait at some point anyway for the ice to melt. At the moment its not even possible to circumnavigate Spitsbergen cause of too much ice! But we are staying optimistic and hoping that it will melt away by the time they get so far.
Anna Comments: "Hello again from NYC! We are ready to head back to California today. We are thinking melty thoughts to all that ice so you don't have to wait too long once you round the bend. Try playing I spy to pass the time: I spy with my little eye, something that is white..." Cate and Dylan 28/06/2008 16:53 "I guess it is good to get some rest every now and again. Keep you spirits up!" Uncle Bob 28/06/2008 8:31 "Hey Tim, if you get bored you can always taunt the polar bears and see what happens..." Pete 28/06/2008 8:16 |
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Date: 26 June 2008 Location: Nissen distance: 20 nautical mile (37.04km) wind: 10 knots (18.52kph)  Coordinates: N 79°23.066, E 10°52.0048 | |
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The paddle was close to the shore and the guys spotted the first white bear!! I guess there will be more of those as they get closer to the all the ice. Today is a hot day, 13 degrees, so its perfect for relaxing outside of the tent for once. Happy days, keep them coming.
Comments: "Ohad Bring some ice for the Grappa for Yuri.." Yaniv 27/06/2008 21:09 "BTW, have you seen Santa yet. Nissen is his name in Norway" Uncle Bob 27/06/2008 8:29 "Man! That's some great progress that you guys are making! Stick close to each and watch out for each other and you will make it. Careful about those cute white bears; I hope you know how to back paddle!" Uncle Bob 27/06/2008 8:13 "You guys are doing really well! I'm proud of both of you. Well done and don't let the length or the difficulty get you down." dad 27/06/2008 1:35 "very hot here. hard to sleep in the heat. you would like all the interesting rock formations. hardly any are climbed. keep paddling. dont get close to the white bears. they are not as gentle as the island spirit bears. your trip looks great so far. get pictures!
mom" mom 27/06/2008 1:33 "hello putzteufel 2
donˇt clean the polarbears too much ,otherwise you can only see their eyes during the night. have fun" konrad ingrid 26/06/2008 15:52 |
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Date: 25 June 2008 Location: Mitra Halvøya distance: 27 nautical mile (50.004km) wind: 8 knots (14.816kph) Coordinates: N 79°08.083, E 11°10.454 | |
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Good paddle with a light wind. And the kayaks are followed by seals regularly, seems like they are happy to get some company. Its sunny which makes it feel a bit warmer, so it was good to rest after a good long paddle, both of the guys were feeling a bit sore but its only the nice feeling of progressing.
Comments: "Hi Guys - watching with interest as usual ... sounds daunting but think of the stories you can tell your grandchildren! Uncle Bob will get this first time - the game of life is all bound up in rock'n'roll philosophy. From the Book of Kenny - "you gotta know when to hold 'em, and know when to fold 'em".
Kia kaha!" Daryl 27/06/2008 5:05 "Keep it guys! Good work!" Uncle Bob 26/06/2008 10:05 "Mom and Dad just checked in from Utah, USA. Arches National Park. Its very hot!" Sara 26/06/2008 3:33 "hey guys, more than well done! remember good old sir edmund hillary known for hangin around cold unpleasurable spots: "it is not the mountains (sea!) we conquer, but ourselves."" Eva 25/06/2008 18:16 |
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Date: 24 June 2008 Location: Sarstangen | |
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The spirit in the orange Eureka tent is not that high today. The ice conditions of the North of Spitsbergen, not to say Nordaustlandet are not accessible. At the moment its impossible to go around, and it doesn't look like its about to change anytime soon...They are gonna keep on going to see what it looks like themselves and then we will have to see what the conclusion will be. Lets hope for the best! Comments: "Hello Aron. I hope the ice retreats soon, but statistically there are poor iceconditions on the northside of Spitsbergen (not to mention Nordaustlandet) before mid/end og July. I curcumnavigated Spitsbergen sucsessfully in 1990 (started from LY mid July), and attemted a curcumnavigation in 2005 of Nordaustlandet 3. August. Mid August we were forced to return at Chermsideרya (Northcape) because of bad iceconditions. Still, with continuous southern winds, you might be lucky.. Good luck, padle safe, and be patient!" Aart Verhage 25/06/2008 15:48 "There is no dragging along the ice.
This is because there is no continuous flat ice, but floating ice flocks. There is no dragging on land, because the country is mountainous. And glaciers are dropping straight into the ocean. Further, we are talking about an obstacle of some 500 km of extension. So the only way to travel is to paddle..." Petri 25/06/2008 15:29 "Thank you for variety of weather sites.
Uncle Bob, regarding kayak dragging: Fiberglass kayaks can't be dragged on the solid ground. I suppose they can be dragged on soft snow but is the ground covered by soft snow?" Gadi G. 25/06/2008 12:57 "Be patient. Stay friend. Good luck living in each other's pockets and travel smart!!!
ciao" hadas 25/06/2008 12:26 "The unfortunate ice chart is in
http://retro.met.no/kyst_og_hav/iskart.html Please click the text "Fargebilde" on the upper part of the rightmost column." Petri 25/06/2008 10:06 "Found this picture of where they are. A bit foreboding for me.
http://flickr.com/photos/janofnorway/426583871/sizes/o/" Uncle Bob 25/06/2008 9:22 "Hi Gadi. I mainly use:
http://retro.met.no/english/maritime/65-80degN.html and http://www.yr.no/place/Norway/Svalbard/" Anna 25/06/2008 7:58 "Gadi here is one reference:
http://www.wunderground.com/global/stations/01008.html And another: http://haldde.unis.no/vaerdata/ Nothing too close to where they are tho; I don't think there is anything out there. Sorry that these obstacles turn up. I guess you could drag the kayaks over the bad areas." Uncle Bob 25/06/2008 4:27 "Sorry for ignorance, but were you people find desent weather/wind/ice forecast for Svalbard?" Gadi G. 25/06/2008 0:33 "Looks bad. It appears (maybe) possible to get around Spitsbergen, with supplies for 11 weeks. Not around Nordaustlandet. We are now living a very early season. But: Why is the ocean more icy now than by 20070514, for example? Because the month of May this year had hardly any temperatures above freezing?" Petri 24/06/2008 14:46 "hey boys, looks like i should send more brain teasers your way while you'll be sitting around waiting for the ice to melt. maybe it will also help to go skinny dipping in a river at full moon, with the butterfly effect and all... wishing you all the best xxoo eva" Eva 24/06/2008 14:37 |
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Date: 23 June 2008 Location: Sarstangen distance: 24 nautical mile (44.448km)  wind: 10 knots (18.52kph) Coordinates: N 78°47.175, E 11°41.115 | |
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Progress of almost 45 km. Tim and Alon are trying to make up for their bad luck with crappy weather. They had a good paddle even though it was rainy and snowy..! This time a seal accompanied them for a while. They sure get to see some stunning animals on their way, but yet to come is the polar bear. After having eaten its off to rest.
Comments: "Glad to see you two are on the move again. I think the only way I would want to see a polar bear is thru a pair of field glasses!!!!" Uncle Bob 24/06/2008 6:27 "Sorry, didn't add the wind since I left my note from last nights weather at home and only came back now to add it." Anna 23/06/2008 22:15 "Hey Alon, don't worry about the euro2008 finals.....Holland is not there.....:(" Paul 23/06/2008 20:30 "Wow, in one day the wind dropped from 45 knots to 0 knot. Funny weather.
Glad to see you making good progress. Alon, the question is - will you stop to see Euro finals? :) Gadi" Gadi G. 23/06/2008 15:59 |
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Date: 22 June 2008 Location: Mullerneset | |
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Today the guys have had a wind of 45 knots and rain. Alon had to get out of the tent (Tim happy he didn't have to) to secure the tent so they wouldn't fly away. So right now they are just sitting around and waiting for better weather. The good luck is that Alon brought his mobile phone and Eva sent them card games, while they still had reception, so maybe after the 80 days they will be professional card players.. Comments: "Wishing you better weather soon and hoping the stakes are not too high in the card games!" Jenn 23/06/2008 8:45 "Four strong winds that blow lonely, seven seas that run high. Just how many seas are coming together there? Hope the winds die down soon, that can't be fun. Keep yourselves as dry and as warm as you can. We DO know you can do this." Uncle Bob 23/06/2008 8:32 "Hello from New York! Dylan is asleep, but I'll tell him about the walrus when he wakes up - that is so exciting. I suppose it's too much to hope that you got a picture out there in the middle of the water! Gherkin is doing well, flip flopping and kicking to his/her heart's content. Paddle strong." Cate 23/06/2008 8:25 "well guys, hope the card games kept you busy, at least until the battery went off. Crossing our fingers for better weather, for a few days!" Anat Harel 22/06/2008 23:41 "Wish you good weather." Oded Lavi 22/06/2008 22:26 |
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Date: 21 June 2008 Location: Mullerneset distance: 22 nautical mile (40.744km) wind: 2 knots (3.704kph)  Coordinates: N 78°28.856, E 12°21.687 | |
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Finally the good weather came, the mood is going up and they saw a walrus 3 meters from Alons kayak!! Almost as scary as fascinating meeting animals like this! Now its time for a well deserved rest, hoping that the good weather continues.
Comments: "I am with Uncle Bob - go the Walrus - oop oopie doo. Pity you guys likely have no idea at all what Bob and I are on about ... And the answer to Mom's question is probably "yes"; so be careful out there." Daryl 22/06/2008 5:38 "Congrats on this cool adventure guys.
Tim, bring back some good pics and maybe I can make a painting outta one for you." Glenn & Sara P 21/06/2008 21:19 "hi again, my computer did something odd and didn't want to make any more '?' it is working again.
as you travel north will there be a rough place at the top of the world where currents meet? send news when you can. collect your love and encouragement from the hugs bouncing off the satellites. paddle well." mom 21/06/2008 21:06 "great effort and what a day!
how big was the walrus? do they eat boys? enjoy the flat water. if you have eaten enough you could be skimming over the surface like you belong on the water. are the new boats up to expectations for distance paddles" mom 21/06/2008 21:02 "Bet you felt like you were "sitting on a cornflake"! I am the walrus, goo goo gjoob :-) Sorry, just the sixties hippy in me. Glad that you guys are on the move again. Love from both of us." Uncle Bob 21/06/2008 20:08 "Well done guys! You are really cranking!" dad 21/06/2008 18:14 |
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Date: 20 June 2008 Location: Daudmannsodden | |
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There has been no progress since yesterday, the morale is a bit low, its cold, windy and none of the guys are too happy. Getting drinking water is also work, they have to go to a lake to collect water, walk back to the camp and boil it. Its all adding up to be quite a few walks back and forth. So today is not the happiest day of the expedition. Its only still the beginning so it will take some time for them to get use to the daily rutines, which are a bit different from the normal everyday life. But I'm sure that once more days passes by they will get properly into it. I just gave them the forecast and it looks like the wind will go down quite a bit, so lets hope that they will get some progress within the next 24 hours. And keep writing comments, I'm sending all of them to Svalbard, so help me to cheer them up a bit! Comments: "You don`t need to boil the water unless its a river directly from bird cliffs. The water is normally quite sandy, but just let the water "sink" for a while and all the sediments will sink to the bottom." local 21/06/2008 15:48 "Tim and Alon - sounds tough guys. Don't get too caught up in the right now - stay focused on the main objective. It's there for you. We are going to be willing you on. You made it through a few Wellington winters Tim - you should be up for the conditions there ... Take care. D" Daryl 21/06/2008 5:38 "Hey Guys, Staying a bit longer in one spot might get you the chance to meet the "Big Bear", and use your shooting skills ... :) Well - I'm sure its too cold and to tyring to move a finger, never mind running around for water, but knowing you (at least Alon) I'm sure you'll utilize this experince to make the up coming days more energy efficient! meanwhile, until the wind quiets down a little (as Anna promised :) eat well, and remember there is a Huge Choclate Cake waiting for you when you get back to Lev Hayam - Tim is invited of course!!!" Anat Harel 21/06/2008 0:48 "hi tim and alon
have a good feed. boats will be lighter and the wind will be less. give your bodies a chance to rest and enjoy the scenery. tim, pete is back from toronto. no go. cate is round and heading to ny with dylan.the amo is a starr eater and a creeper and crawler. he can belly flop into the pool. grandpa says 'hello'. paddle well tomorrow." mom 20/06/2008 18:57 "Hang in there guys! Playing survivor man is a tough game, but it sure can be done. Take your time when you are doing things and conserve your energy. I have faith in you and you will make it. Just be careful and watch out for each other." Uncle Bob 20/06/2008 18:24 |
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Date: 19 June 2008 Location: Daudmannsodden distance: 16 nautical mile (29.632km)  wind: 5 knots (9.26kph) Coordinates: N 78°12.339, E 13°00.629 | |
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Again a night paddle, starting from 21 to 03 in the morning! Both of them are tired after a tough paddle. Towards the end of the paddle the wind picked up from force 2 to force 4, so the last 3 hours of the paddle they had a rather strong headwind, this is not easy with kayaks loaded this heavily and also with a lot of stuff on the decks. Alons back is aching but at least Tims mood is a lot better than yesterday ;)
Comments: "wishing you both a great adventure. and us an enjoyable read from here in the worm worm israel.
ciao" hadas 20/06/2008 14:16 "unbelievable with this wind blowing! Good thing Tim feels better now that Alon's back is aching... Alon, just say a word and we are flying Edo there..." Anat Harel (Lev Hayam) 20/06/2008 0:14 "great stuff. keep going and enjoy the view. is the air clear? is it foggy some days even in all the wind?
keep you boats and moods on an even keel. love you guys. mom" mom 19/06/2008 19:22 "Man! Am I proud of you guys taking on such an adventure!!! Have fun and be careful. We will be following your progress here CA.
Bob" Uncle Bob 19/06/2008 9:23 |
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Date: 18 June 2008 Location: Erdmannodden distance: 21 nautical mile (38.892km) wind: 9 knots (16.668kph) Coordinates: N 78°15.286, E 14°06.304 | |
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Finally!! Last night at 21:00 Tim and Alon started paddling. They started with a big crossing at about 30 km. For the first few hours it was still quite windy but as they paddled the wind decided to ease up on them. Tim ended up getting rather seasick and puked, a lot... But he is already feeling a lot better. Now they are both resting after the first paddling day(night)! Good thing that they could paddle without worrying about it getting dark.
Anna Comments: "following your progress.
You are a champ." Shoshana and Anat 19/06/2008 7:03 "You are a legend Tim - so is your mate. The NZ rock lobster boys are tracking your progress and willing you on. Happy trails." Daryl 18/06/2008 23:21 "congratulations guys!
so glad you were able to start. it must be frustrating to have land days when you are eager and ready to paddle. it seems you were able to do quite a long haul with such heavy boats. looking forward to following you along. tim we leave saturday for an extended camping trip. back early july to celebrate the bday of amadeus. paddle strong and paddle safe." mom 18/06/2008 23:08 "Good luck!, following your progress." Evgeny 18/06/2008 12:11 "Good Luck Alon! we are all following your progress with excitement from Tel-Aviv, you became a "celeb" here - as Hadas put it - as soon as it got on the "y-net"! we are proud of you, and your courage! Have a safe trip!" Anat Harel (Hoteret) 18/06/2008 11:20 |
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Date: 17 June 2008 Location: Longyearbyen | |
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Hopefully this will be the last add from Longyearbyen. The wind have been teasing the guys so they have had to stay longer than wanted in Longyearbyen. Both Tim and Alon are now eager to start paddling since everything have been ready for a while, so lets hope the wind will easy up a bit so they can start paddling tonight!
Anna |
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Date: 16 June 2008 Location: Longyearbyen (still) | |
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We got up this morning eager to paddle at last, but this was the forecast: ...Northwest force 5, today occasionally force 6... Not a good day to start!
We have noticed this strange pattern, of wind easing in the afternoons and evening, and according to locals, evenings and nights do have a more calm nature than mornings. So... we will wait by the sea this afternoon with the hope that wind will die out so we can start our expedition already. We might decide to paddle on days with force 5 or 6 later on, but as a first day, when he boats are so heavily loaded with gear and food (also on the deck) it is not the best idea... WE WANT TO GO!!!!!! Comments: "Good Luck !!!
Alan and Me are heading tommorow to Greenland so come visit if you have time :-)" Kobi Sade 16/06/2008 23:18 |
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Date: 14 June 2008 Location: around Svalbard in 80 days | |
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so still in longyearbyen.... but ready to go now, at last!!! the kayak was fixed finally and then the tense moments of trying to load them came... we had only guessed when making the depots as to how much we could fit in our boats... ack! we each had 12 boxes of dried food plus extra food plus camping gear plus tent plus stove ...etc etc. thanks to two wxtex deck bags each from pacific outdoor equipment it all fit just - every spare inch from behind the seat to strapped to the deck is chockas. this leaves our entire stern and stern deck bag crammed full of food plus more in bow and in the bow deck bag... man i hope i'm hungry. so we have a few more days here in longyearbyen to make sure nothing is forgotten and the weather is right. in a strange aside i(Tim) found an old workmate from Sydney rolling around downtown longyearbyen. Tommi and i worked together in garfish a year or so ago and i hadn't seen him since so it was a bit bizarre to randomly see him. he gave us a tour of his current kitchen aboard the national geographic endeavor and a promise of a hot shower should we find him on the high seas... sweet at least i may get one shower in the next 80 days*...
Tim *80 days --- the length of time Alon has calculated as the max (ie. the total amount of food) time it should take to circumnavigate Svalbard... i hope its less :) |
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Date: 12 June 2008 Location: Longyearbyen distance: (0km) wind: (0kph) Coordinates: N 78°13.379, E 15°39.871 | |
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After working on the broken boat for a few days, we can say that we are almost done... the kayak was broken in three places, it all now looks ok, we just have wait for it to dry before we can go and on run a wet test to it.
We also padded the boats with foam, to make it a little bit warmer, although, Tim finds the kayak a bit small for him, lets hope it is not to small. With testing the fixed boat and the other gear we think that we will start on Monday, not before... the good thing about waiting here is that the ice is clearing from Nordaustlandet, so hopefully, by the time we get there, we won't need to wait Comments: "Hi Alon,
Shoshana just told me about your crazy adventure. Just wanted to say good luck and i am following your journey. My only bit of advice is "I hope you took a warm jumper!" Stay safe. Best regards. Carolyn" Carolyn Linz 23/06/2008 8:54 |
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Date: 10 June 2008 Location: Longyearbyen | |
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Most of today went by with getting material for fixing the damaged kayak, a special thanks to Tommy for providing a sanding machine which helps making the progress much quicker! So everything is progressing already. Hopefully they will be ready to start paddling in about 5 days. |
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Date: 9 June 2008 Location: longyearbyen | |
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we made it!!! ---- well sort of... we got here at least. all our stuff has arrived and we found a place to stay (thanks fabrice) the first two days have been a little crazy finding our stuff and organizing the drops. in the end we had 2 hours to sort and pack three food drops. lets hope that all the rest of the food will fit into the kayaks.... ooops first we have to fix one. it seems that the kayaks are more fragile then someone thought... when they dropped it!!! at least that`s our best guess as to whats happened to cause so much damaged to a boat. we will now be spending some more time here trying to fix the broken boat before we set off. at least this will give tim's broken foot time to heal... yes that's right he managed to break the 2nd metacarpal in his foot clambering around river rocks in norway. thankfully he avoid the swim over the fourty foot waterfall that was after the pool. so we have a few days here yet
---- see ya tim and alon |
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Date: 8 June 2008 Location: Longyearbyen | |
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The day started a bit messy, there were no access to the kayaks and all the things that Alon already sent to Svalbard, cause its Sunday and everything was closed. People they were supposed to meet with had delays which made it a bit complicated. But as the day went by Alon and Tim both managed to meet who they arranged to meet with and even got some shopping done. They purchased a few goodies like cheese, a bit of meat, 2 kg of chocolate and other basic things. There was a bit of an argument about toilet paper! Alon insisted on buying toilet paper but Tim was more up for using seawater..!! Though it all ended up with a few roles, and seawater... lets say it wont be a problem to get hold of.
After a lot of walking Tims foot is a bit aching, but he will be fine. Once they get started they will spend more time sitting than walking so the spirit is good. All in all the day turned out to be good and tomorrow there should be access to the kayaks. They will also meet with the Governor of Svalbard to finalize their permits and they have until the afternoon to arrange their food drops! So its gonna be another busy day tomorrow. Get some good sleep tonight, there wont be many more nights left in normal beds. Anna Comments: "Good Luck guys! I look forward to following your progress!" Penny 09/06/2008 12:11 |
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Date: 8 June 2008 Location: Longyearbyen, Svalbard | |
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Yesterday Alon and Tim finally arrived in Longyearbyen! After such a long time of planning this expedition, there are now there. The following days they are gonna be busy with getting the kayaks ready, organizing food drops and making sure that that everything is set so they can take off. Good luck guys, if anyone can do it its the two of you.
I will keep you updated! Anna |
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Date: 28 May 2008 Location: St Johann, Austria | |
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Here it goes... I feel like a bomb is going to drop. You know that one --- lurking somewhere behind your stomach, aching. Six week of Austria and the Alps has passed. I had some grand plans of training that of course half evaporated and the rest half-baked. At least I pretended to organize some more with Alon (that means we actually talk on the phone -- more than once even). Really this is definitely been Alon's show and big thanks have to go to him. So tomorrow I head to Norway for some more ww boating for a week and then to Svalbard. Alon and I will both be arriving on June 7 to pack food drops and load them on the ship June 9. After that I guess we are off. Arrgh I'm sure I haven't packed my toothbrush
Tim |
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Date: 10 May 2008 Location: Istanbul, Turkey | |
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This is my final day out of four here in Istanbul. I came here to run sea kayak sessions for the local paddlers . Kayaking is a relatively new sport in this country, but what I found is great enthusiasm and eagerness to learn.
Yesterday we paddled from the black sea, on the Bosphorus. Green hills on both sides, the water is much more clean than one expects on such busy channel. It was also a break for me from all the stress before Svalbard. Tim and I have about three weeks to think about all the things we didn't think about yet ;) Thank you Turkey. Alon |
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Date: 4 May 2008 Location: Tel Aviv | |
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It is now only one month prior to my flight to Svalbard. There are so many little issues needs to be addressed; finalizing our menu, making sure we got all the gear. The kayaks are now on their way to Longyearbyen, there is always a worry something will go wrong...
Wednesday, May 7th, I am taking a break from all these preparations. I will fly to Istanbul (Turkey) to run a kayak course for a group of local paddlers there. A small group from BODEKA club visited Israel a few months ago, and it was an amazing to see these brave paddlers, teaching themselves, sometimes with improvised gear, but nonetheless, some became really good paddlers. I am glad I can contribute something to promote this sport in Turkey. Those four days are excellent break for me... not to think about Svalbard for a change ;) Alon |
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Date: 7 April 2008 Location: Wellington, NZ | |
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So I'm still obsessed with the act of starting this nut ball task, that and the polar bears (although alon says walruses are scarier - i say i can only worry about one large mammal at a time as my brain is too full). but back to the starting i have been with the parents to sort that ever growing accumulation of stuff called life and i guess to start my journey proper like. so later this week i guess i start, with a short week of driving to see my friends in various places in the north island, get some last boating in and to say goodbye. most of them don't realize that i won't be back for a while. mostly that's my fault. face with the difficultly of explaining svalbard i just don't. at the end of my drive i will be at auckland international ready to fly to europe the long way through the states and on to six weeks of boating in the alps of austria, switzerland, germany, and italy. So back to packing the stuff and then gone..... |
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Date: 4 April 2008 Location: New Zealand | |
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Well everything must start somewhere and usually with most stupid things that starts with tenacity, audacity and blind stupidity. Now this is not to say that this is an exercise in stupidity but more a case of not clearly thinking a thing through, so as such the start started
>....also i think im going to start looking for a good sea >kayaking adventure. heard about..... >...I am planning a big expedition for summer 2008 (June-July). The >destination is Svalbard.... > Sure looks cold..... >...also this place was in the news recently for the seed vault >thingy yah?.... >Hey Tim >Didn't understand if it is a yes or a no about Svalbard.... >...as for norwiegen island in the far north it does sound >tempting let me pretend to think about for a day so i have >something to tell. (yes honey its a great idea i even thought >about it being a great idea for a whole day before i told alon >it was a fine idea. see i didn't make any rash decisions)...... >Hi Tim, >There is so much to do for Svalbard. > > >Hi Tim, >There is so much to do for Svalbard. > > >Hi Tim, >There is so much to do for Svalbard. |
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Date: 31 March 2008 Location: Tel Aviv | |
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Slowly, everything is getting organized. The boats are in Tromsø - Norway and Alf will send them to Svalbard in a few weeks.
Tim and I got all the gear, we need now only to arrange some final details as repair kit for the kayaks and extra food. By June, I am sure, everything will be ready. Alon |
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Date: 13 March 2008 Location: Tel Aviv | |
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The kayaks are in Grimsby (east side of England), soon enough they will be loaded on the ship to make their way to Norway. Things are getting together for us :)
Alon |
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Date: 7 March 2008 Location: Home | |
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So another week went by.
This week I was busy with trying to organize the transfer of the boats from Wales (where Nigel Dennis makes his boats) to Norway. Now it seem like a matter of time before the boats will get there. I also got the second package from ARC'TERIX, so we are now got almost everything we need for our trip. Today it was almost 30°C, the sea was calm and paddling was excellent. But this weather is not what I need for Svalbard... Alon |
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Date: 12 February 2008 Location: Tel Aviv | |
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In this post, Tim and I will try to bring some of our thoughts and actions while preparing for our expedition in Svalbard.
It has been about a year now that we are working on this trip, a long and hard year, but now we actually can see the end, or rather, the beginning :) You may follow our preparations and later on, our progress through this page. Alon |
last updated April 2009
col hakavod on both your amazing efforts.
hopefully you can have another chance to complete this trip in the future.
i look forward to following the next time.
phil levy (sydney)"
phil levy 21/07/2008 15:37