We started our first full day of expedition a little earlier than expected thanks to a pre-breakfast showing of humpback whales. After the whale viewing, and after a hearty breakfast, we made our way to Cuverville Island. Cuverville Island was used by whalers in the 1920s as an area to flense the whales they caught nearby, the many whale bones left on the beach are evidence of that time. The island is also home to a large colony of gentoo penguins as well as an opportunity to hike up and enjoy the amazing view of the Errera Channel. After we finish our landing at Cuverville we headed over to Neko Harbor. The landing at Neko Harbor was our first continental landing on the Antarctic Peninsula and home to a gentoo penguin colony. As if the day was not amazing enough, the guests of National Geographic Orion were treated to a Zodiac tour of Neko Harbor.
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!
