On our first full day in Patagonia, we cruised west through Glacier Alley on National Geographic Endurance. We arrived at Seno Pía, a spectacular glacially-carved fjord in Patagonia. After breakfast and a safety briefing, the low clouds lifted. We boarded Zodiacs for a trip to get closer to the faces of the two tidewater glaciers. We noticed an abundance of seabirds, fur seals, and floating icebergs along the way. As we cruised out of the fjord, we admired the breathtaking scenery with glacial features and waterfalls. Later, we cruised east along Glacier Alley, noticing the abundant glaciers and glacial features. We made a landing at Caleta Olla and enjoyed walking along the shoreline and going on various exploratory hikes to see Hollandia Glacier and its glacial lake. At recap and Captain’s Welcome Cocktail Hour, we enjoyed sharing our adventures with our fellow guests as we continue cruising deeper into the fjords.
3/29/2023
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National Geographic Endurance
Capitan Canepa Bay, Isla de los Estados
This morning’s destination was Capitan Canepa Bay, located on the southern end of Isla de los Estados. The entrance to the bay is covered with impressive, rugged cliffs. Southern swells have slowly eroded the cliffs, creating several large sea caves. As the ship proceeded to the end of the fiord, it passed several small bays that were later explored via Zodiac. At the end of one bay, a small waterfall spilled its watershed from a hidden lake sitting above the rocky cliffs and out of our sight. As guests explored the small lagoons and hidden caves, seal pups were often found tucked away in the rocky outcroppings by their worried mothers who were far out to sea. Guests returned to the ship for lunch, and we began our transit to Franklin Bay in pursuit of rockhopper penguins. Upon arrival, a few penguins were spotted in the water. We observed at least a dozen invasive red deer in the surrounding hills and valleys. A small herd of feral goats was discovered in the intertidal zone, evidence of poorly understood introductions in the past. After a ship cruise of Franklin Bay, we departed for Ushuaia to arrive in time for guest disembarkation. The evening closed with presentations by the naturalist staff, the guest slideshow, and the captain’s farewell. After an amazing experience in Southern Patagonia, the trip came to a happy ending.
