New Year’s Day in Antarctica! Our incredible ship, the National Geographic Endurance is steaming south down the Gerlache Strait toward Cuverville Island, the destination for this morning’s adventure. Conditions ashore for a landing were difficult, so the decision was made by our expedition leader to do a Zodiac cruise instead. The combination of many large icebergs and light falling snow, made it a wonderland for our small boats to explore! After lunch the ship approached Neko Harbor, and gently caressed the bottom very close to shore, an impressive feat by Captain Wood! All ashore for a landing on the Antarctic Peninsula itself, and then an incredible transit through the Lemaire Channel, on our way south, shortly after dinner! Happy New Year!
1/24/2023
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National Geographic Resolution
Penola Strait and Prospect Point
The passengers and crew of National Geographic Resolution started their day surrounded by stunning scenery just south of the Lemaire Channel. We were very close to the Ukraine Research Station, Vernadsky. As we sailed on steadily, passengers were treated to a lecture about snow algae and its effect on the snow and ice of Antarctica by Alia Kahn, our visiting scientist. A short while later, Jim Coyer offered some very interesting insights into krill, which is literally the foundation of the Antarctic life cycle. After lunch, we arrived at Prospect Point at the southern end of the Penola Strait. Zodiacs were lowered, and guests were treated to a wonderfully serene, peaceful cruise amongst ice floes and huge icebergs of various shapes. The sheer majesty of the scenery of the Antarctic Peninsula rarely fails to move us and engage all our senses. Back on board, undersea specialist and naturalist Tanish Peelgrane provided guests with the opportunity to show off their artistic talents with watercolors. This yielded many wonderful interpretations of the afternoon’s experiences. As one more exceptional day draws to an end, we look forward to seeing what delights tomorrow brings.
