This morning we awoke to a new and stunning destination. We were surrounded by icebergs and towering mountains on all sides. While most of us marveled at the landscape from the warm comforts of the ship’s many panoramic windows while sipping coffee, undersea specialists Nick and David had already departed to dive into subzero waters to explore and video the whaler shipwreck, Governoren. Once back aboard, we began the day’s transition through the Bransfield Strait with the goal of reaching Deception Island by midafternoon. Along the way we enjoyed phenomenal presentations from Michael George, on-board National Geographic expert, and Captain Martin about the extraordinary features that make National Geographic Resolution one of the best expedition ships in the world. The shore landing on this volcanically formed island offered us a snapshot into the region’s whaling history while also providing great wildlife observations, including gentoo and chinstrap penguins plus a resting leopard seal.
2/24/2025
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National Geographic Explorer
On the way to Antarctica
Yesterday, our excited group of adventurous travelers gathered early for the group flight to Ushuaia, Argentina, the self-proclaimed “End of the World.” The expedition began with a quick trip through the National Park of Tierra del Fuego, which certainly is one end of the road, the Pan American Highway. However, for us it represented the beginning of our marine explorations. A catamaran ride in the Beagle Channel, including spectacular views and abundant seabirds and sealions, deposited us with perfect timing for our embarkation onto National Geographic Explorer . We are making good time towards the White Continent; after transiting eastward through the Beagle Channel, we turned southbound into the Drake Passage. Heading directly to the lower part of the Antarctic Peninsula, we are aiming for destinations further south than any previous this season on National Geographic Explorer . Our day was filled with necessary preparations for the days ahead and also included several interesting and informative presentations from the naturalist staff.
