Nov 07, 2018 - National Geographic Explorer
We spent the night at anchor in the shelter of Port William, just outside Port Stanley Harbour. This was most welcome after yesterday’s bumpy ride.
The early morning was beautiful and the skies were filled with warm, pastel shades. There was no wind. Perfect weather to stretch, shake away the sleepy feeling, grab a coffee, and head to the open decks or the bridge to enjoy sights of the Falkland Islands. The bright colors of the houses in Port Stanley brightened up the scene.
Those going ashore enjoyed a hearty breakfast and then headed to put on foul-weather gear; the wind had picked up dramatically and was now gusting at 30 knots. Conditions at the side gates were challenging, and as we headed off toward the jetty, we took on quite a lot of sea spray. With the wind, it was a most invigorating ride.
Our options for the day were:
The rest of the busy day was spent packing—always a chore—and getting ready for the last Recap from our undersea team after their dive in Gypsy Cove, not far from Port Stanley. This was followed by the captain’s farewell dinner and a wonderful music event in the lounge with local musicians. Many of the songs were from the ’60s and ’70s, and we were all reminded of what great music was composed then and how timely the words continue to be. They were almost prophetic. Our journey was at an end, certainly a sad moment, but we were all brimming with wonderful memories. And for that, we were grateful.
Edward Shaw has travelled widely as a naturalist and guide. For the past 29 years he has lived with his family in northwestern Patagonia, initially working as a teacher and subsequently working in community projects before returning to expedition ships. Edward is deeply committed to the principles behind sustainable development. He is happily married and the father of five children.