Scotia Sea
Our second day at sea was another adventure in the Southern Seas. The weather had been cool and just a little breezy, but as the ship crossed the convergence and the water temperature went down to just a few degrees above freezing, the air temperature dipped as well. The wind also increased but was still following us to South Georgia. The day was filled with briefings and information about South Georgia and what we should expect upon our arrival.
In the afternoon we all brought our outer wear and anything else we might take ashore for decontamination. This is to make sure that we are not introducing any plants of animals to the island of South Georgia. This British Dependency is very serious about making sure that while visitors enjoy their stay, they should respect the special nature of this amazing place.
Later in the day the Captain slowed the ship down for a view of Shag Rocks. A small group of jagged islets in the Southern Ocean that cause a good deal of upwelling currents and productivity to take place. Numerous species of seabirds were seen flying around the impressive peaks. The guano covered rocks are home many thousands of blue eyed shags, a heavy bodied bird that swims after krill and small fish. The birds are nesting at this time of year.
We look forward to our first landing in South Georgia, for after today we are ready for the adventure to continue.
