The day began with an early breakfast in C. Greens, stretches in the sanctuary, and then regular breakfast in Two Seven Zero and C. Greens. South Georgia was still approximately 400 nautical miles ahead, and birds were all about. By 0915, historian Josh Peck spoke to us about his fascinating time as Station Manager for the British Antarctic Service based out of Grytviken, South Georgia. This was followed by a lecture from our marine mammal specialist, Toby Stephenson, who introduced us to the pinnipeds of South Georgia. After lunch, guests received a briefing about the sensitivity of South Georgia, and then biosecurity of all boots and outer garments was conducted at Base Camp. Coinciding with the completion of biosecurity, our bridge crew spotted a group of fin and sei whales in the distance, and Captain Oliver graciously detoured so we could view them. Following Pilates and tea at 1600, we were treated to an extraordinary lecture by Mensun Bound, the man responsible for the discovery of Sir Earnest Shackleton’s wrecked vessel, Endurance, in 2021.
10/23/2024
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National Geographic Endurance
At Sea and the Beagle Channel
The last day of an expedition is always a mix of feelings. There is the rush to pack and get last minute things done, combined with a cascade of emotions from all that has been experienced during a once in a lifetime journey. The sunrise was colorful, the seas calm, and seabirds dotted the skies around National Geographic Endurance. Throughout the day there were a number of presentations and during lunch we were able to enjoy the stunning mountains of Isla de los Estados off our port side. Teatime was a superb occasion! There was an impressive choice of cheeses, crackers, vegetable sticks, and jams all paired with a selection of wines. On our port side, a rainbow appeared over the gray seas. During dinner and throughout the evening, we sailed along the Beagle Channel and past the Bay of Good Success. It was from here that a 23-year-old man wrote in a letter home, “I have decided to dedicate myself to natural history and hope to make some small contribution to it.” His name was Charles Darwin.