After departing Ushuaia, Argentina and transiting eastward through the Beagle Channel yesterday evening, we have, like the albatross, cast our fortunes to the wind and the waves far from the sight of land. Although we cannot shed our land-based habits as easily as those elegantly adapted seabirds, we trust the ship and crew to carry us away from encumbrances and away from daily concerns. We are moving toward adventure and experience in places far removed from our daily milieu as we travel almost due east, directly to the island of South Georgia. We are in search of wildlife and wild landscapes. A unique bit of mountain range rises directly out of the sea, where cold Antarctic waters intrude into the South Atlantic Ocean. Our journey will take several days, giving us time to adapt to shipboard life and prepare ourselves for the adventure ahead as we enjoy the comfortable embrace of National Geographic Resolution.
3/12/2025
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National Geographic Endurance
At Sea towards Ushuaia
It was a day for reflection. Our journey was coming to an end as we left the Falklands behind and National Geographic Endurance steamed towards South America and Ushuaia. The seas were kind to us, and despite low winds, we had black-browed albatross, among other birds, around us. In the morning, we listened to the naturalists onboard as they presented on different subjects in the ice lounge. Land-ho! Mid-morning we had land in sight, South America was appearing on the horizon. Upon entering the Beagle Channel, we saw possibly a hundred sei whales. While the seabirds were waiting for the wind on the surface, the whales were feeding a short distance from the ship. As our vessel waited for the pilot to arrive, we could still see whale blows in the distance. We enjoyed a teatime extravaganza with Chef Sara and her team. Cheese and wine brought most of the ship’s inhabitants to deck 8, and while sipping wine we watched sea lions, dolphins, and stunning views of Tierra del Fuego go by until it was time for Captain Aaron’s farewell toast. As much as we are reflecting on our expedition today, it has also been a day of celebration! It has been an incredible journey of many miles, great people, and wonderful experiences. Thank you all!
