It is difficult to believe we’re on our last expedition landing day. Overnight we were peacefully anchored in Ship Cove and woke up to another fine morning. Even after such an active, eventful voyage, there was still an atmosphere of enthusiasm to seize this final day ashore. Disembarking near the New Island Settlement, we went on a walk through short grass to the tussock atop mixed cliffside colonies of black-browed albatross, rockhopper penguins, and imperial shags. After returning for a quick lunch on board, some of us opted for a long hike along the northern spine of the island to a small sandy beach on the northwest side. The rest of us rode the National Geographic Endurance around the island to meet our comrades on the beach or on the hillsides above the cove.
3/10/2024
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National Geographic Endurance
Port Egmont, Saunders Island
Today turned out to be stunning, from beginning to end. It began with a gorgeous sunrise – the huge sky was lit up with resplendent reds, oranges, and yellows, giving way to blues and indigos. The seas calmed as we made our way to Saunders Island. The first part of the morning was spent walking from Port Egmont to the main settlement. Port Egmont was the first British settlement in the Falkland Islands. The British were unaware of the French settlement at Port Louis on East Falkland, which was founded the year before in 1764. At the main settlement, we were treated to demonstrations of sheepshearing, a working sheepdog, and wool sorting. After wandering around for a bit, we headed to the landing area for lunch. This was a special affair – a lamb barbecue with copious salad choices and, of course, complemented with drinks. In the afternoon, we landed on a vast, stunning beach and walked to observe colonies of black-browed albatrosses, rockhopper penguins, and blue-eyed shags. It was a sensational afternoon. Today gave us a much clearer idea of what life is like in the "camp."