As National Geographic Explorer continued to sail into the New Year here in Antarctica, we arrived at James Ross Island. The beach was laden with ice, and we hiked into the epic landscape. On our way through the Erebus and Terror Gulf, we encountered a pod of killer whales in the middle of a hunt for penguins. We then arrived at Devil Island. Aboard our flotilla of Zodiacs, we toured the coastline to observe Adelie penguins. The sights, sounds, and smells of the colony were memorable.
2/4/2025
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National Geographic Endurance
Red Rock Ridge and Horseshoe Island
We awoke to an astonishing view of Marguerite Bay as we slowly cruised between icebergs and humpback whales towards our first excursion. Our first day landing on the Antarctic Continent at Red Rock Ridge was nothing short of breathtaking. The day unfolded like a dream, starting with a beautiful visit to an Adélie penguin colony. These charming, resilient birds captivated us as they waddled across the rocky terrain along with their downy chicks. From there, we went in our Zodiacs to explore the surrounding waters. Gliding between towering icebergs, we watched seals, their serene presence a striking contrast to the dramatic Antarctic backdrop. The glassy waters reflected the surreal landscape, making every moment on the Zodiac feel like stepping into a postcard. Our adventure continued on Horseshoe Island where we embarked on a hike that revealed stunning views of the snow-clad peaks and historical remnants from past expeditions. The air was crisp and invigorating as we followed in the footsteps of explorers who had once relied on these very outposts. Each step brought us closer to the stories of human resilience and the untouched beauty of this icy frontier. By the end of the day, as we stood together overlooking the glacial expanse, we felt an incredible connection to this otherworldly place. Antarctica has already imprinted itself and we can’t wait to see what lies ahead.
