Leaving a place at the end of a trip is always bittersweet, especially when leaving a place as amazing as Antarctica. Our first full day at sea, heading back to civilization, brought a bit more wind than our journey south. It wasn’t too bad though, considering what the Drake Passage can produce. There were many seabirds out enjoying the breeze, which allowed us great views of albatross and petrels. With lectures by the onboard naturalists, we all learned just a little bit more about the special place through which we had just traveled.
11/14/2024
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Mikkelsen Harbor and Spert Island
Our day at sea began with the awe-inspiring sight of Antarctica’s vast, icy landscapes. As we awoke, we found ourselves surrounded by towering mountains and glaciers, with Mikkelsen Harbor on the horizon. This small island, just south of Trinity Island, offered an unforgettable landing. We ventured ashore, walking among playful gentoo penguins and encountering four Weddell seals, including an adorable nursing pup. While some soaked in the sights, our undersea specialist, Emmet, captivated us with a fascinating lecture on the Southern Ocean’s currents. After returning aboard, we savored a delicious lunch as we cruised icy waters toward our afternoon destination, the rugged Spert Island. Zodiacs took us on a thrilling exploration of the island’s dramatic coastline where towering cliffs, steep rock faces, and natural rock arches formed a surreal backdrop, all framed by gigantic icebergs in every shape and size. As the day drew to a close, we gathered for our evening recap and briefing, reflecting on the day’s highlights and eagerly anticipating tomorrow’s adventures. It was yet another unforgettable day in the heart of Antarctica, where nature’s raw beauty never fails to amaze.
