This morning the guests of National Geographic Explorer woke up to the optimistic, but wisely cautious headline on the daily program: “Possibly Pleasant Drake Passage.” Crossing the Drake Passage, a notorious section of the Atlantic Ocean, is the price that one has to pay in order to enter the wonderland of Antarctica’s spectacular beauty. Fortunately, we experienced a pleasant and almost lake-like Drake sea state. We used the day at sea to sort our photos, catch up on our travel journals and enjoy sights of all the amazing seabirds, such as the wandering albatross, who make their home in the Drake Passage. We also attended fascinating presentations from the talented naturalists and reflected on all the amazing experiences we had in Antarctica.
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.
