Today’s sail through the storied Passage has been more Drake Lake than the dreaded Drake Shake. With just enough wind and waves to keep us honest and the seabirds aloft, we enjoyed the company of numerous tube-nosed albatrosses and petrels using our slipstream for a free ride south, full steam ahead.
The leisurely day allowed ample time for unpacking, exploring the ship, recovering sleep, and for our briefings on visiting the White Continent responsibly. Certified Photo Instructor Andrew prepped our mind’s eyes for the shot for future landings, with freshly decontaminated gear from the morning’s efforts.
In the evening, Naturalist Torre praised our seafaring dino-soaring companions as light-mantled and black-browed albatrosses danced at our stern, before Naturalists Jennifer and Sergei introduced the Antarctic Treaty and Convergence as we sailed into the wonder waters of the true Southern Ocean. Expedition Leader Mike introduced Captain Martin, who then welcomed us to the ship and into the hands that watch over us on our adventure together. A beautiful dinner ensued, light fog rising as the water temperature continued to drop on our journey beyond the Circle. Onward!
