I believe that sea is unique in that the temperatures vary so little
in it. It is above the ice which sees critically low temperatures.
Once the ice has gone, the air temperature will have to be roughly the
same at the sea surface as sea temperatures.

Whatever they turn out to be.
Does that sound reasonable? Just a logical argument. No model runs or
other cobblers to mess up the thinking capacity.

Yes, once the multi-year ice has all melted then the Arctic will no
longer freeze over each winter, although some ice may grow out from
the snow covered shores. (But the snow won't lie on sea water.)

I rather think the ability of sea crocks to go where they please
depends on the fact they weigh one or two tons *and have rather nasty
looking dentistry.

Yes not as appealing as polar bears, but probably less dangerous since
they tend to stay in the sea.

Cheers, Alastair.

And if they want to sit where you are sitting, they damn well will. If
I were one I'd go where I pleased too. And the Arctic, even for a spot
of tourism, wouldn't be one of my first choices.

Though who knows, with a couple of centuries of fishing restrictions
it might become attractive to the wife and hatchlings. (What do you
call baby crocks? Besides long distance, that is.)