Guests were invited to enjoy a diverse range of presentations throughout the day. Lisa began by sharing her personal journey and experiences in developing the art of visual storytelling. After a short disembarkation briefing, Ezra gave us a comparative glimpse into Scott and Amundsen’s South Pole expeditions and the factors that may have influenced their very different outcomes. After lunch and perhaps a bit of a catnap, afternoon presentations included an overview of the seals of the Southern Ocean by Shell. Mike finished off by sharing the history of Antarctic diving along with a bit of show-and-tell of the gear he and Jason use to capture the stunning underwater images and footage they have shared with us this trip. Recap continued with lively offerings from the team, including geomorphology, krill, and even a wool-spinning demonstration before we headed to dinner.
11/14/2024
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National Geographic Endurance
Drake Passage
Traveling south aboard National Geographic Endurance , we ride the steady rhythm of the following seas toward Antarctica. Albatrosses, prions, and petrels accompany us, their effortless flight a constant presence above the waves. These seabirds, perfectly adapted to the harsh conditions, escort the ship through one of the most remote regions on earth. In the galley, preparations continue as usual, with the occasional clatter of a spatula against a pan punctuating the ship’s daily routines. This small sound offers a sense of normalcy amidst the vast and untamed Southern Ocean. Outside, the air sharpens, and the sea begins to hint at the icy landscapes ahead. As the ship presses on, the anticipation grows. The seabirds continue to follow, a living connection to the wilderness around us. Soon, icebergs will break the horizon, and the familiar blue of the ocean will give way to the stark whites of Antarctica. Each mile south reinforces the sense of entering a world where survival is a delicate balance, and every element of life must adapt to extremes. The journey promises discovery and an encounter with one of the planet’s last frontiers.
