Only the bridge crew took notice as we passed into the Weddell Sea side of the Antarctic Peninsula, transiting the Antarctic Sound in the wee hours of the morning. But many folks and steaming cups of coffee were already on deck before breakfast as we moved into Fridtjof Sound and around the Tabarin Peninsula. The Captain and expedition leader had determined that a good weather window and mostly open water would allow us to reach sites that are seldom easy to access, particularly this early in the season. We were searching for a good, clean fast ice edge in Duse Bay in the morning, then a visit to Devil Island during the afternoon.
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!
