Arctic Ocean, 9 September 2026

Everyone works hard on board Oden. Whether you are part of the crew or the research team, the days – and nights – are intense. There is hardly any distinction between weekdays and weekends here. It is therefore important to make time to recharge, and there are plenty of opportunities to do so on board.

Games, sauna and good company

Table tennis is played in various forms, and the tournament now entering its knockout stage has been a resounding success, with much of the crew and research team taking part. Unfortunately, I must report that yours truly was knocked out in the round of 16 this afternoon after a fiercely contested three-set match against Dr Leif. He has a wicked spin serve and is as steady as they come. He could go far in the tournament …

The crayfish party a few weeks ago was a real highlight. Mistluren – the expedition’s orchestra – opened with a little gathering music. We then sat down in homemade hats, enjoyed delicacies from both lake and sea, sang suitably festive songs, and raised our glasses of alcohol-free drinks. It was a much-appreciated cultural experience, not least for the expedition’s international participants.

There are many ways to unwind in the evenings. The sauna is, of course, a natural gathering place. It is where the day’s challenges and highlights are discussed, while the body prepares for a good night’s sleep. Film enthusiasts regularly gather in Oden’s small cinema, where the selection is vast – there is something for everyone.

To keep ourselves physically fit, there is also a well-equipped gym where we can maintain fitness and strength. Anyone wishing to improve their flexibility can join yoga classes led by Alva, one of the students in the research school.

In the lounge, card games and jigsaw puzzles are both popular. The Swedish card game Vändtia is the undisputed favourite. One table in the lounge is reserved for puzzles. A big thank you goes to our chef Eva, who brought a large selection of new puzzles on the expedition. They are being assembled with considerable fervour by a dedicated band of puzzle enthusiasts.

From choral singing to Arctic stillness

Various forms of artistic expression have also taken root on board. As previously mentioned, we have an orchestra whose responsibilities are primarily ceremonial. A few weeks ago, the Oden Choir began rehearsing. After just two rehearsals, it gave its first acclaimed performance: a classic English sea shanty.

A dance competition between the different research teams is taking place over several weeks, with the entries being filmed for judging. Those with an artistic streak can also contribute work to an exhibition planned for the end of the expedition.

A wonderful way to end the day is to visit the bridge. The atmosphere there is almost sacred: stillness, peace and light, thanks to the large windows and the absence of darkness. Here, you can take in the vastness of the Arctic and our own smallness within it.

And there you have it – an existential end to the day. Good night!

Text: Henrik Swärd, teacher