The entrance to the Weddell Sea was surprisingly clear of ice for a visit this early in the season, and we fully took advantage of the opportunity to sail well south of what is normally possible at this time of the year. When we finally found the fast ice, south of Snow Hill Island, we sighted what we were looking for. Scattered here and there were groups of emperor penguins, from the only colony known in this section of Antarctica. But the best was yet to come. By the end of the day the wind died down completely and we found sea ice that was firm enough for us to walk on. Within minutes, a group of raucous emperor penguins found us and approached for a memorable encounter with these near mythical birds!
2/20/2022
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National Geographic Resolution
Fortuna Bay and Hercules Bay, South Georgia
National Geographic Resolution arrived to Fortuna Bay early in the morning under a cloud-covered sky. The protection of the bay created a nice relief from the winds. We landed our long hikers shortly after breakfast so they could begin their trek over the headlands to the colony. We then repositioned the ship toward the head of the bay to land the rest of our guests. Fortuna Bay is known as the final leg of Shackleton’s route across the island, and it is home to a large king penguin colony. After we sailed to nearby Hercules Bay, we were treated to conditions calm enough for kayaking and Zodiac cruising. With so much wildlife in the area, guests had some wonderful encounters, especially with the colony of macaroni penguins low on the cliffs of the bay. The ever-fickle weather brought sunshine and light snow flurries, embodying the nature of the island.