This morning we awoke early to an announcement of “Whales ahead!” Leaping from our comfortable beds and springing into action, all assembled on the bow, the bridge, or at any of the hundreds of windows on board the National Geographic Explorer. We watched the hour-long encounter with many different fin and humpback whales. A pre-breakfast appetizer that only Antarctica can serve up. Later we enjoyed the informational lecture about biosecurity in Antarctica and decontaminated our belongings with the staff in order to keep this beautiful continent pristine. The afternoon saw our first landing in the South Shetland Islands and the welcoming committee of chinstrap penguins received us in formal attire. A snow flurry added to the authenticity of the White Continent and to top it all off, Captain Oliver threw a cocktail party afterward
2/20/2024
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Cape Horn and Beagle Channel
The huge distances we have covered on this journey meant that our last full day was spent almost completely at sea on our return leg from Antarctica. After a merciful lie-in, we crowded the decks as we sailed past Cape Horn, the majestic headland at the bottom tip of Hornos Island, the southernmost point of Tierra del Fuego and the entire South American continent. Despite its fearsome reputation, pleasant seas allowed for an enjoyable brunch before we plunged into our presentation schedule for the morning and afternoon. Naturalist Gail Ashton related her experience of living on the Antarctica continent for 18 months, Jonny Reid discussed marine mammal acoustics and the underwater soundscapes of this region, and Jess Farrer explained how the study of whale and seal poop can tell us so much about these animals. As we entered the Beagle Channel, the stunning mountains of Tierra del Fuego lined our passage to Ushuaia. Gathering in the Ice Lounge for the captain’s farewell party, we toasted a hugely enjoyable trip and the new friends we have made.
