The morning at the lighthouse started with the normal routines, but then it was time to change shift with the new crew. Aino and Harri arrived with Bengt, and anchored the boat to the South side.

That meant that we had to row to Bengt's boat with the plastic rocking dinghy. I tied the other oar (or actually a paddle only) with a rubber band and put on a light life vest, as ordered.


A hard day's rowing for the lighthouse keepers today.

Luckily, there was no crossing waves and the sea was quite calm, so I managed to make my way to Bengt's boat. There was quite a lot of stuff to bring ashore, so the dinghy made four trips to get the gear, construction material and the new guards on shore.

Surprisingly, another boat also approached the reef, and it appeared to be a divers’ boat. Soon after that also a helicopter came visible, and quite close, but, unfortunately, it did not land. So we didn't get any visitors during our one week shift, not even on the last day.


Divers got close by but only close this time.

Then Minna-Lotta advised the new guards with all the necessary details, while I had coffee and a chat with Bengt.

Hopefully the new crew get's some visitors, fine shots, and an exiting experience! Thanks a lot to SMS and Minna-Lotta, who made my unforgettable trip to Märket possible! I'll remember to mention this in my evening prayer for many, many times.


Harri and Aino take charge (left), Minna-Lotta is going away on Bengt's boat. Brando is leaving the picture.

***

From the new crew of lighthouse keepers:

The weather was excellent, the sun was shining and the wind was sweet for a change. Bengt brought us to the rocky isle and we were briefed in by Minna-Lotta and Pirjo. We also brought a new SIM -card to the lighthouse phone, so we have re-established the connection to the outside world!

Praise the kind folks at the telephone shop in Mariehamn who made this possible: especially the guy who was persistent enough to fix all the hassle we had gotten ourselves into with customer service... Thank you all!

We also brought a lot off supplies and construction material. Our mission here, this week, is to install some heavy duty windows for the winter and do some measuring & drawing.

The first exciting thing on the isle was a helicopter. They flew around, but didn't land.

Having briefed us in, Pirjo, Minna-Lotta and Bengt and the brave lighthouse dog Brando left. This time he didn't try to bite Bengt, which was nice.

After that, we were alone. The sun was shining. We took a break. And went for a walk, getting accustomed to the lighthouse and its surroundings.

During the walk we saw some divers. They were pretty close to the reef... wonder what they were diving? A wreck? At least they posed when I snapped a picture.

And greetings to Klubi (Päivi& the boys), now we are here!!!!

Harri & Aino