We were fortunate enough to have very calm seas (by Drake Passage standards), as the National Geographic Orion moved south towards Antarctica. The wind kicked up to nearly thirty knots for the first few hours of the morning but completely settled by the afternoon. Wandering albatross occasionally visited, while giant petrels tailed us the entire day. Onboard there was no shortage of activity. There was a presentation on geology, an introduction to digital photography, the IAATO Antarctic briefing, staff introductions and, of course, the captain’s “Welcome Aboard” cocktail party. We are one day closer to reaching our long sought after destination, ANTARCTICA!