Drake Passage, 2/19/2024, National Geographic Resolution
Aboard the
National Geographic Resolution
Antarctica
“To be whole is to be part; true voyage is return.” – Ursula K. Le Guin
The return voyage from the Antarctic is as essential as every other part. As we sail north towards Tierra del Fuego, we keep the company of seabirds and whales. The gentle roars and endless horizon of the ocean a perfect backdrop to reflect upon our time on the seventh continent. A trip like no other and unforgettable memories in tow, the sun sets on our last day within the borders of the Antarctic.
Born in the mountains of east Tennessee, it was easy for Steve to fall in love with the wonderful natural environment around him. What started as a childhood passion to scan the creeks and ponds for all they would reveal evolved into a studied desire...
Enter travel details to receive reports from a single expedition
Loading...
Loading...
Loading...
Send Daily Expedition Reports to friends and family
*By clicking the submit button, I authorize Lindblad Expeditions to email me; however, I am able to unsubscribe at any time. For more details, see our Privacy Policy.
Please note: All Daily Expedition Reports (DERs) are posted Monday-Friday,
during normal business hours. DERs are written onboard the ship only and do
not apply to land-based portions of expeditions.
This morning, we entered the Weddell Sea after exploring the western side of the peninsula for the past few days. The icy scenery was enjoyed by all. As we ship-cruised in the morning, the expedition staff provided us with some insightful presentations on glaciers and marine mammal acoustics. The hotel department then surprised us all with a BBQ feast for lunch and some delicious donuts for dessert. The afternoon activities included a landing at Brown Bluff where we enjoyed observing the Adelie penguin colony. We then returned to National Geographic Resolution and began sailing deeper south into the Weddell Sea.
National Geographic Endurance journeyed south through the Gerlache Strait today, braving heavy winds and waves that shattered against towering icebergs. The raw power of Antarctica was on full display this morning. By afternoon, we reached the more tranquil expanse of Wilhelmina Bay, where sea ice stretched to the base of the surrounding peaks. The conditions shifted, and while the wind remained strong, the skies cleared revealing a stunning sunlit landscape. On snowshoes and cross-country skis, we explored the frozen expanse, much like the early explorers. Although, they were clad in reindeer skin, wooden skis, and sledges and we have high-tech gear and iPhones. Were they enchanted by its beauty, or humbled by the pristine vastness of the Antarctic Peninsula? After our vigilant (but decidedly comfortable) snow adventure, we returned to the ship for yet another gourmet meal and a soak in the hot tub. Not exactly roughing it by any stretch. This place is magical, and skiing across a frozen ocean with the backdrop of Antarctic mountains is enough to humble anyone.
This morning Captain Martin drove National Geographic Resolution into the fast ice in Charlotte Bay, and we spent the morning walking and skiing on the frozen sea. What a thrill it was! In a few days or weeks, this sea ice will break up and disappear, as it does every spring. In the afternoon we kayaked, and then the hearty among us did the polar plunge – brrr!!
