The moderate wind of 6 m/s NE made it possible to exchange lighthouse keepers as scheduled. The weather was cloudy and grayish as we crossed the Åland Sea, but our minds were filled with expectations and thrill for the upcoming experience.

Our secret wishes of facing a free seal was fullfilled already by the Sankrona cliff which was, along with the surrounding waters, literaturely crowded with these peculiar creatures. According to our skipper Granberg, there were several hundreds of them in this very spot of the Ålands Sea - a view, that seemingly made an impression also to the local folks. Some of the seals were holding their faces above the waterline and observing us curiously, others were just lying on the cliffs and ignoring us. As we passed the island, a bunch of them escorted us half way to the Märket. A wonderful welcome to the lighthouse, indeed!


Calm seas and infinite skies

After exchanging thoughts and practical issues over a cup of coffee, Christa and Torolf left Märket along with the daytime guests: Kerstin and the photographer from the local newspaper and Sven, a lighthouse enthusiast.

Before even settling down, we had the pleasure of touring the first visiors of our own, two couples from Hammarland, Åland. We had a delightful conversation and feel that we are priviledged to meet people this way.

Märket itself seems to be in much worse condition than we expected. The facelift made by the Lighthouse Society is noticeable, but the outer walls of the building are in desperate need of a thorough repair. Large investments are required in order to preserve Märkets dignity.

New lighthouse keepers Annukka and Johan