Kappeln
Parting and departing
Day 1 of our journey:
Kappeln – Middelfart, Insel Fyn, DK (55°30´47´´N, 009°43´´53´´E)
We have often cast off on a long journey. Every time with mixed feelings of tension,
anticipation, concern, respect and aware of the incredible potential the unknown holds waiting to greet us.
A number of people important to us have come to the jetty to see us off. It is 8.15 am, misty and grey, 8°C with an unusually fresh wind for May. A big breakfast with steaming cups of tea in a warm dining room wouldn´t be bad. Last hugs, machines are running, a long signal from the ship´s horn, goodbyes and the long-planned departure for the Arctic Circle. On the dot of 8.45 am the double bascule bridge in Kappeln opens for us and lets the MAREVIDA pass from the Schlei to take the last five nautical miles up to the Baltic See. We are the only ship. We glide slowly past Kappeln´s always beautiful harbour panorama, leaving the last jetties and small shipyards behind off to port. Only one rowing boat with two people shares
our course. In this cold! Incredulously, we recognize Hanna and Hauke, who want to join us later on the Lofoten and round Spitzbergen and are now escorting us in this two-man skiff for more than a mile on the first part of our journey. Again greetings, waves, good wishes. I´m really moved. Continue reading Parting and departing