National Geographic Explorer at Sea
Today was spent in its entirety within the Drake Passage, as we set a course north toward South America. The seas today were slate gray, with flashes of white each time wind took the top off of a wave. Magnificent birds of the Southern Ocean were our constant companions throughout, soaring effortlessly above the wind-swept surface.
Most of us took advantage of the slow, easy pace of the day to catch up on sleep, reading, and relaxing. After an incredible, inspiring, and exhausting visit to the Antarctic Peninsula, we all welcomed the opportunity to rest. In the morning, Eric took us through the steps of exploring ice caves around the world, and shared a video made about his adventures by a Japanese film crew. The words, “Kamikaze Pizza” will not soon be forgotten.
We also returned to the theme of wildlife in Antarctica, with a few films shown in the ship’s lounge. Mid afternoon, we moved over the political boundary of Antarctica at 60° S latitude, and late in the evening we crossed the biological boundary of Antarctica, the Antarctic Convergence. Shortly thereafter, the air and sea temperatures rose considerably and continued to do so as we headed north.
It seems such a fast visit to the White Continent, but our memories will be filled with the beauty of the peninsula. The Drake Passage, with its reputation for weather and waves, seems a fitting boundary to this pristine place. Despite its propensity for rough seas, it is always worth a crossing to be able to enjoy one of the most remote and unspoiled locales on Earth.
