On most people’s minds arriving in the town of Ushuaia was what the transit across the “dreaded” Drake Passage would be like. Historical reputation and common knowledge word of mouth have it that this body of water between the southernmost islands of South America and the northernmost islands of the Antarctica Peninsula, is one of the most treacherous and nasty bits of ocean water in the world. Guests were prepared for this “right of passage” to get south and to Antarctica. Little did they know their voyage would be unbelievable!
After landing in Ushuaia we had a very pleasant trip on a small local catamaran through the Beagle Channel. Approaching a couple of small rocky islands we got our first looks at some of the wildlife, including southern sea lions and a variety of birds. Then to the dock, passing the National Geographic Explorer which would be our transportation and home as we traveled south. Efficiently we boarded the ship and were escorted to our cabins before learning about onboard safety, about the operations of the hotel side of the ship, and then a bit about the plan for the voyage ahead. Then it was off to dinner and a well-deserved sleep after the long travels.
The morning found us well into the Drake Passage on a course directly to the Antarctic Peninsula. Even though the day was at sea it was not idle. First we were introduced to the naturalists and special speakers that will be guiding us and talking with us about various aspects of Antarctica from natural history, human history, and geology, to glaciology, and exploration. This was followed by an introduction to digital photography and small group instruction on camera use. In the afternoon we learned about the evolution of adaptations in Southern Ocean seabirds and their ecology. Last of the presentations was by Global Perspective Guest Speaker Tim Jarvis. All of us were amazed at the hardship and effort involved in Tim’s experience recreating the famous Australian explorer Mawson’s harrowing journey in Antarctica.
Since we were experiencing such calm sea conditions the evening began with a Captain’s Welcome cocktail party and introduction to the ship’s officers. Topping off the night was a wonderful Captain’s Welcome Dinner. Retiring to their cabins, everyone was anxious for tomorrow when we would be approaching Antarctica searching for marine wildlife and of course ice and land.
