This morning a dense fog covered our little piece of planet earth, dampening more than the decks of National Geographic Explorer. We were all excited about visiting this landing site after our expedition leader Jimmy had given us such rave reviews of the place. It would be, after all, one of the few places we could see all three species of brush-tailed penguins in one place. He had also talked about the incredible beauty of the bay, packed with icebergs of magnificent grandeur. His voice over the PA at breakfast was hopeful as he announced that we would spend our morning listening to a couple lectures and hope that the fog would lift in time for us to venture out after lunch. With an almost clairvoyant ability he was right on the money as we watched the sky and the view clear before our eyes during our mid-day meal.
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.
