We could not have asked for a better day today with sunny skies and calm seas as we navigated through the Gerlache Strait on our way to Wilhelmina Bay. The deep blue skies painted a stark contrast to the glacially topped mountains of the peninsula. After arriving to Wilhelmina Bay, our captain pushed through the fast ice and parked the ship for the remainder of the afternoon. It was an ideal day for walking on the frozen ocean, kayaking, enjoying the wildlife, and even going for a polar plunge.
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.
