Early in the morning National Geographic Orion slowly approached Spert Island from the north. This is a beautiful and rugged island that is adjacent to the much larger Trinity Island situated on the north end of the Gerlache Strait. Under almost perfect conditions, we were able to do Zodiac cruises through the small channels and islets on the west side of this scenic island. Later, steaming south for about four hours, the ship entered Charlotte Bay, on the Antarctic Peninsula, where we encountered beautiful icebergs, and several feeding humpback whales. Dropping our Zodiacs again, we were able to watch these magnificent cetaceans from water level, as they deployed rings of bubbles, and engulfed their favorite food: krill! Another amazing day exploring this incredible wilderness!
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.
