What a day! The National Geographic Explorer woke on another stunning morning in Antarctica as the ship navigated through the Gerlache Strait towards Enterprise Island. Conditions allowed for mirror reflections of the passing icebergs and mountains as well as good humpback whale sightings. The day’s busy activities started with kayaking and Zodiac cruising within the sheltered bay before the bravest of guests and staff took the polar plunge. Next up was a brief repositioning, once again through spectacular scenery into Wilhelmina Bay in search of fast ice. The ship was soon nosing into the ice allowing for an easy disembarkation. Our two ski guides led a long cross-country ski into the wilderness while the rest of us enjoyed the ice with a beer and BBQ. The best was yet to come, as a young emperor penguin made its way onto the ice and navigated around the entire group before plopping back in the water. The best thing was it actually waited for the skiers to return so all were rewarded with great views of this magnificent bird.
3/12/2025
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National Geographic Endurance
At Sea towards Ushuaia
It was a day for reflection. Our journey was coming to an end as we left the Falklands behind and National Geographic Endurance steamed towards South America and Ushuaia. The seas were kind to us, and despite low winds, we had black-browed albatross, among other birds, around us. In the morning, we listened to the naturalists onboard as they presented on different subjects in the ice lounge. Land-ho! Mid-morning we had land in sight, South America was appearing on the horizon. Upon entering the Beagle Channel, we saw possibly a hundred sei whales. While the seabirds were waiting for the wind on the surface, the whales were feeding a short distance from the ship. As our vessel waited for the pilot to arrive, we could still see whale blows in the distance. We enjoyed a teatime extravaganza with Chef Sara and her team. Cheese and wine brought most of the ship’s inhabitants to deck 8, and while sipping wine we watched sea lions, dolphins, and stunning views of Tierra del Fuego go by until it was time for Captain Aaron’s farewell toast. As much as we are reflecting on our expedition today, it has also been a day of celebration! It has been an incredible journey of many miles, great people, and wonderful experiences. Thank you all!
