Today we had a true Antarctic expedition. We started our day at Danco Island where we had the chance to hike to great heights and take in the scenery all around us. Gentoo penguins were in constant motion up and down the penguin highways, making their way to the sea. We then repositioned to Chiriguano Bay where we offered Zodiac cruises and kayaking inside of this super scenic bay.
1/22/2025
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Whalers Bay, Deception Island, and King George Island
Today was an exciting last day of expeditions for this voyage. The morning started with gloomy skies as we entered Whalers Bay on Deception Island. The weather fit the mood of this strange place that felt part Antarctica, part moonscape, and part lava fields. From 1906-1931, Whalers Bay was home to a shoreside whaling station. The large boiling tanks and even larger whale oil storage tanks were the backdrop to the deserted beach and towering caldera hillsides. We were fortunate to hike to the top of the caldera. Deception Island is the most active volcanic island in Antarctica. The last large eruption happened in 1979, covering many of the artifacts and buildings. We returned to the ship for a well-earned lunch and ship cruise to see Edinburgh Hill. This rock is a beautiful example of hard volcanic rock. The World Premiere of the Guest Slide Show at cocktail hour gave us an opportunity to reflect on the beauty of this special place. We are very fortunate to have this experience together. New memories, friendships, wildlife, ice, and the badge of crossing the Drake Passage will forever bond us.
