Often I hear it said that tomorrow cannot get better than the day we just had. But day after day we prove this statement wrong. Today was no exception. The morning began with crossing the Antarctic Circle -an accomplishment celebrated by all. Shortly after we visited the historic British Base W on Detaille Island. The base has been left mostly as it was when it was abandoned in 1959 after only a few short years of use. Once everyone was safe back on board after experiencing some Antarctic weather all were treated to amazing cruising though some sea ice. To celebrate the day, and a change of weather, we had beer and brats on the back deck. As if this was not enough the afternoon lecture giving by the whale researchers was appropriately cut short by some Little B Killer whales.
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!