Our third morning at sea since leaving the Falkland Islands brought sightings of many seabirds and our first look at South Georgia. We arrived and anchored in the protected cove of Elsehul, and from there, we spent the afternoon hiking and Zodiac cruising. It was a wonderful first day in South Georgia. We saw our first southern elephant seals, Antarctic fur seals, and three different species of penguins! The weather was gray and cool—not unusual for South Georgia—but the animals and beautiful landscape made it all worth it. After dinner, we took an impromptu Zodiac cruise to Welcome Island; it was the first time National Geographic Explorer and crew have visited.
3/12/2025
Read
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!