Continuing on a southward trajectory today, National Geographic Explorer brought us to the South Shetland Islands for an afternoon landing at Half Moon Island. By breakfast we were in the Antarctic realm, evidenced by a huge tabular iceberg just off the port side of the ship. This morning our presentation series continued with National Geographic Expert Martin Gregus offering, “On Assignment with National Geographic”, and naturalist Shelli Ogilvy presenting, “Penguins of the Antarctic Peninsula”.
By the middle of the afternoon, our first landing of the voyage took place on Half Moon Island. Chinstrap penguins were front and center, along with excellent sightings of gentoo penguins, Weddell seals, and a variety of other Antarctic species. Icebergs, lichens, and unique rock formations created a striking backdrop. Captain Peik Aalto hosted the captain’s welcome aboard cocktail party and dinner to conclude our fabulous first day in Antarctica.
