National Geographic Explorer awoke with eager anticipation; for many had come to the White Continent in anticipation of reaching the landmark of the Antarctic Circle, and upon waking, it was within but a few nautical miles of being reached. To add to the myth of the moment, a dense fog obscured visibility, allowing building-sized icebergs to appear out of the ether to greet us for a moment before they disappeared back into the haze. Crossing the line, a cheer went out on the Bridge, as our guests celebrated a new milestone. The rest of the morning was filled with informative talks on Shackleton and the Cryosphere by our talented natural history staff. In the afternoon, we took to Zodiacs to weave the monoliths of ice in Skogg Bay, named after our legendary captain currently navigating the vessel. As the wind picked up, the ice pushed in and the expedition truly took form, as our pathway back to the ship was blocked and new pathways had to be formed. Another fine day in one of the finest places on our spinning planet.
2/28/2025
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National Geographic Resolution
Northbound Drake Passage, Cape Horn, and the Beagle Channel
This morning, we had a later start than usual after a late night enjoying the crew show. Our galley team gifted us with a fulfilling brunch. We then had a brilliant forum about climate change with the participation of our panel of experts onboard. Afterward, our expedition leader called us to the bow to see Cape Horn, which was only a few miles ahead. The good weather allowed us to have a smooth and fast crossing, allowing extra time to swing by Cape Horn, the most southern tip of the Americas. Over the PA system, Steven provided a very interesting description of the historical importance of this area, then Pablo read a beautiful poem, a memorial to the seaman lost at sea. We could see the monument in the distance, two metal sheets that depict an albatross in flight. During the afternoon, we enjoyed Madalena’s presentation about Women in Antarctica. This was an incredible voyage through the struggles and delays of allowing women to participate in science and logistics in Antarctica. We entered the Beagle Channel around 17:00 and we encountered black-browed albatrosses, cormorants, dolphins, and whales. On our final approach to the beautiful city of Ushuaia, we passed by Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse and some of the seals that live in the Bridges Islands Archipelago.







