Early in the morning the call came to our cabins “we have killer whales ahead, it’s a good sized pod!” So as most of us scrambled to get dressed, grab cameras and binoculars, and rush to the outside decks, National Geographic Orion slowly worked its way to a closer range. Soon the ship was surrounded by the animals, and they approached us to get a look, some swimming right under the bow! The highlight, however, was when the group cased and killed a penguin right next to the ship; amazing. Later we did a Zodiac cruise in Borgen Bay, followed by an afternoon landing Port Lockroy and Jougla Point.
3/12/2025
Read
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!