“Good Golly Miss Molly”

 Jan Mayen was covered in mist and low clouds as we stepped into our Zodiacs. No chance to see the volcano Beerenberg,  but the sea was remarkably calm and our spirits were high. 

The rocky cliffs were spotted with birds - don’t ask me to name any of them. I simply marvel at their skills and  beautiful aerodynamic shape. Bundles of perfection cutting across our path as we bounced on the sea parallel to the rugged coast line. 

A whale having been spotted earlier from our boat we had hoped of encountering a couple during our Zodiac ride: it was not to be. Never mind, there was enough to interest us hardy sailors. Although we weren’t able to land - something to do with stores being delivered to the metrological outpost on the island - we were able to get very close to the shore and cliffs. 

It struck me as mean of the authorities to ban us. We only have one opportunity to visit the island - couldn’t the supplies be delivered another day? I will write a formal letter of complaint to the head of the Norwegian civil servant.

We have left Jan Mayen heading for Svalbard but we were given a farewell gift - a spectacular view of the volcano with a layer of cloud at its base and it peak bathed in sunshine.