After a wonderfully sunny day yesterday, National Geographic Resolution cruised overnight to the west side of the Antarctic Peninsula. We traveled south to avoid some weather, enjoying talks by naturalists about the importance of Antarctic krill and explorers of Antarctica. By the afternoon, we made it to Mikkelson Harbor and hopped into Zodiacs to cruise around on a very wet afternoon. We saw a gentoo penguin colony on D’Hainaut Island and enjoyed observing nearby icebergs. We returned to the ship for a wine and cheese tasting and some beautiful cruising through iceberg-filled waterways.
11/14/2024
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National Geographic Resolution
Mikkelsen Harbor and Spert Island
Our day at sea began with the awe-inspiring sight of Antarctica’s vast, icy landscapes. As we awoke, we found ourselves surrounded by towering mountains and glaciers, with Mikkelsen Harbor on the horizon. This small island, just south of Trinity Island, offered an unforgettable landing. We ventured ashore, walking among playful gentoo penguins and encountering four Weddell seals, including an adorable nursing pup. While some soaked in the sights, our undersea specialist, Emmet, captivated us with a fascinating lecture on the Southern Ocean’s currents. After returning aboard, we savored a delicious lunch as we cruised icy waters toward our afternoon destination, the rugged Spert Island. Zodiacs took us on a thrilling exploration of the island’s dramatic coastline where towering cliffs, steep rock faces, and natural rock arches formed a surreal backdrop, all framed by gigantic icebergs in every shape and size. As the day drew to a close, we gathered for our evening recap and briefing, reflecting on the day’s highlights and eagerly anticipating tomorrow’s adventures. It was yet another unforgettable day in the heart of Antarctica, where nature’s raw beauty never fails to amaze.
