Today was a truly Antarctic day that started south of the circle. We would soon experience two opposite sides of the weather this continent has to offer. Early on winds gusting up to 90 km an hour produced lively seas that crushed against the many icebergs floating around and that, combined with the very dark skies, created a gloomy yet very interesting environment through which to travel. In the afternoon, we witnessed a much kinder Antarctica—winds died completely to create glassy, calm waters and fantastic reflections of the many bergs around appeared. We visited an historic British base converted into a museum and ended the day sailing north among icebergs and humpback whales.
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!
