By Craig Mathieson, Founder
Expedition 2025 log
Craig’s expedition log from the 2025 adventure in Tasiilaq.
Saturday 8th March – Iceland to Tasiilaq
An early start with breakfast packed and a coach to the airport. Flight 1 (Teams 1 & 2) took off at 10:45 without any issues. The Dash 8 aircraft had plenty of spare seats, and all baggage arrived safely for the helicopter transfers. Snowmobiles were waiting, although the ATV had battery issues again, temporarily fixed with a spare battery. Girls and Teacher Natalie stayed in the Red House; boys stayed at HQ.
George’s team (Teams 3 & 4) also departed Keflavík on time. The first helicopter transfer brought part of the team at 17:00. However, heavy snowfall and a dropping cloud base led to the cancellation of remaining helicopter flights. George and Team 4 stayed overnight at the Kulusuk Hotel. All were fine. Parents were updated and reassured.
After dinner, the students created and performed a surreal play. Everyone was tired from traveling and headed to bed by 21:00.
Sunday 9th March – Tasiilaq
Heavy snowfall overnight ruled out helicopter flights. George kept morale high with a sightseeing tour of Kulusuk. Meanwhile, the first group organised gear and participated in a ski lesson led by Denise and Nicola. Everyone did well and spirits remained high.
Monday 10th March – Tasiilaq
With clear skies, George’s team crossed via helicopter by 11:00. Kit preparation continued with Lucy and Nicola methodically organising equipment. Denise ensured all tasks were completed efficiently. Anticipation was building, Millie became quiet, a typical response to feeling overwhelmed. Craig checked in with Ella, who was anxious about her fitness but reassured her of her capability.
Tuesday 11th March – To lake 1
A clear, calm day at -3°C. The group skied across the fjord, making excellent time due to ideal snow conditions. Camp was set up at the south end of Lake 1 by evening. Magnus arrived by snowmobile to report a polar bear sighting 30km north, an important update, but no immediate concern.
Wednesday 12th March – To lake 2
At -12°C, the team packed up and skied across Lake 1. Navigating the gorge saved significant time and effort. Camp was set up at the top of Lake 2. That afternoon, a distressed police officer arrived, her partner had driven a snowmobile into the river. Craig provided a rope, and George assisted the rescue. Thankfully, all ended well.
Thursday 13th March – To lake 5
The team skied efficiently across Lake 2 and up the hill to reach Lake 3, then onward to Lake 5. A sheltered campsite was chosen in anticipation of forecasted NE winds. Justus and Oli advised staying in nearby huts once the storm arrived. Winds began picking up in the evening.
Friday 14th March – Glacier Science & Storm Prep
Despite earlier forecasts, clear skies greeted the team. They skied toward the glacier for microplastic sampling. When time ran out, teachers were sent with snowmobilers to the Tinit Glacier to complete the data collection. After watching the weather closely, Craig decided the team would move to the huts early the next morning.
Saturday 15th March – Into the Huts
Camp was broken down at 05:30 and moved to the huts just before snow and 50mph winds hit. The team split across four huts. Despite tight sleeping quarters, the storm experience became a bonding moment. The group stayed upbeat and safe.
Sunday 16th March – Stormbound
One metre of snow fell overnight. With temperatures rising and more poor weather forecast, Craig decided the team would ski back to Tasiilaq the next morning. Magnus visited with Danish Dream Cake, made by his wife Michelle, much appreciated and quickly devoured.
Monday 17th March – Return to Tasiilaq
An early start and careful avalanche checks ensured the route was safe. Waxed skins helped with sticky snow. By 09:30 the group reached Lake 2. With minimal breaks, they reached Lake 1 by 11:00. Skiing Lake 1 non-stop, fatigue only appeared on the sea ice. Jack and Evie led the final push. Everyone arrived back in town tired but proud.
Tuesday 18th March – Kit Admin
The team had a slower start. Most of the day was spent drying tents, cleaning gear, servicing stoves, and refilling fuel. A government house was secured to help dry equipment, hugely helpful.
Wednesday 19th March – Museum & Shopping
With most kit packed, the group visited the local museum and then the Stunk shop for souvenirs. Craig ensured every participant could bring something home.
Thursday 20th March – Ski Tour & Science
A spectacular ski tour through the Valley of the Flowers and over the lakes led to another round of scientific data collection on the sea ice. The team witnessed a rare atmospheric halo around the sun. Denise later organised a video call with a Canadian school, where participants shared their journey and answered questions.
Friday 21st March – Cultural Exchange
A bright, sunny day. That evening, the group attended a cultural night at the town hall. They shared food and competed in strength games with local Greenlandic youth. Scottish songs and dances wrapped up a joyful night.
Saturday 22nd March – Journey Home Begins
Flights were initially cancelled and later reinstated. Eventually, all participants were transferred to Kulusuk and flew back to Iceland. At the hostel, dinner and rest awaited. The team was tired but excited.
Sunday 23rd March – Glasgow
Up at 04:00 for a smooth check-in and return to Glasgow. The team was welcomed by families with pride and emotion.
Craig reflected: “This was a truly special expedition. The young people who left Scotland a year ago had returned transformed – confident, united, and prepared for the future.”