We passed through the Lemaire Channel twice today. The first time was early in the morning when guests were just waking up, and then again during cocktail hour and recap, when we took a break to observe the beautiful scenery. Port Charcot is on the other side of the channel. We had a chance to visit Booth Island, which separates two iceberg-packed coves. Several colonies of gentoo penguins live on the island. Some guests opted for Zodiac cruises amongst the immense and prolific icebergs in the bay. We spent the afternoon a short distance away at Petermann Island, where we visited more colonies of gentoos mixed in with a few chinstrap and Adelie penguins as well.
2/13/2025
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National Geographic Endurance
At Sea towards Marguerite Bay
Our second sea day towards Marguerite Bay, south of Adelaide Island, was filled with content. The Global Explorer Program had a tour of the bridge which ended with one of our young explorers at the helm! Several presentations from the staff were provided to help prepare us for the experience that lies ahead, including plenty of whales, penguins, and ice! Fittingly during the whale presentation, some spouts were spotted not too far from the vessel. Fin and humpback whales were identified. Expedition Leader Russ held a mandatory meeting where we learned about code of conduct as we are now entering the realm of Antarctica. Then the vacuum party ensued. The importance of keeping alien species out of Antarctica is getting more and more important. After the recap, briefing, and dinner we were anxious to rest before the big day of arrival! There was just one more thing on the agenda…the crossing of the Antarctic Circle! We met for a toast on deck eight to celebrate having made it further south in the Antarctic than we had ever anticipated.