Our first day heading south to Antarctica was a quiet one on board National Geographic Explorer. We spent time resting and preparing for the adventures ahead. The wind was up, which kept a few of us down but brought out lots of seabirds, including five species of albatross. In the main lounge, we enjoyed a presentation by the photo team as well as some hands-on instruction to get us all ready to shoot. In the afternoon, we had a briefing on proper interaction with wildlife and practiced a decontamination session in the mudroom to ensure we wouldn’t introduce alien species to the pristine shores of the White Continent. Now we’re ready to go!
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.