We awoke to a spectacular Antarctic day with blue skies, calm seas, and ice as far as the eye could see. After breakfast, the ship navigated through thick pack ice into the remarkable Cierva Cove. The Zodiacs were lowered and soon we were out exploring the ice and its myriad of inhabitants. We encountered leopard seals, multiple species of whale, and the ever-curious gentoo penguins. After lunch, we stepped ashore at Hydrurga Rocks and were immediately surrounded by sleeping Weddell seals and chatty gentoos with their large, fuzzy chicks. The chicks were almost ready to leave the nest and start feeding in the rich krill-infested Antarctic waters. What an amazing day! We can’t wait for what magical Antarctic experiences are in store for us tomorrow.
2/20/2024
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Cape Horn and Beagle Channel
The huge distances we have covered on this journey meant that our last full day was spent almost completely at sea on our return leg from Antarctica. After a merciful lie-in, we crowded the decks as we sailed past Cape Horn, the majestic headland at the bottom tip of Hornos Island, the southernmost point of Tierra del Fuego and the entire South American continent. Despite its fearsome reputation, pleasant seas allowed for an enjoyable brunch before we plunged into our presentation schedule for the morning and afternoon. Naturalist Gail Ashton related her experience of living on the Antarctica continent for 18 months, Jonny Reid discussed marine mammal acoustics and the underwater soundscapes of this region, and Jess Farrer explained how the study of whale and seal poop can tell us so much about these animals. As we entered the Beagle Channel, the stunning mountains of Tierra del Fuego lined our passage to Ushuaia. Gathering in the Ice Lounge for the captain’s farewell party, we toasted a hugely enjoyable trip and the new friends we have made.
