The Drake Passage (northbound), 12/1/2023, National Geographic Resolution
Aboard the
National Geographic Resolution
Antarctica
The sea gods were kind to us today for our northbound crossing of the Drake Passage. We woke up on the gently rolling waves and icy blue waters of the Southern Ocean, and the still line of the horizon surrounded us as we were treated to an amazing brunch. The conditions were perfect for observing wildlife; throughout the day we spotted fin whales, humpbacks, many kinds of seabirds and albatrosses, and even two errant icebergs!
Guadalupe was born and raised in the Argentine pampas, but she could never resist the call of the wild and the sea. After graduating from the University of Buenos Aires, she went straight to Southern Patagonia to work as tour coordinator.
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It was a truly spectacular expedition day in the Weddell Sea on National Geographic Resolution . The day started with a visit from a large pod of killer whales while guests and crew sipped coffee and watched from the bridge or outer decks. We continued with many more sightings of killer whales as well as humpback whales, both either feeding or resting. In between whale watching opportunities, we enjoyed ice cruising in Zodiacs with the whales, Antarctic fur seals, and penguins on ice. After lunch, we explored the shores of Paulet Island while enjoying the raucous nature of a late season Adelie and Antarctic shag colony.
National Geographic Resolution found herself ever closer to the Great White Continent this morning. We spent the first part of our day finishing the transit of the Drake Passage, and by breakfast we encountered our first big ice, a tabular iceberg. In the afternoon, we arrived at our first destination here in Antarctica, Deception Island. Located in the South Shetland Islands, Deception Island is actually the caldera of an active volcano. With basically the shape of a horseshoe, there is only one small gap to enter the calm waters of its interior. Under the most beautiful weather conditions you can ask for, Captain Martin of National Geographic Resolution skillfully took her through. During an early dinner, we repositioned just outside the island’s coast. We launched our Zodiacs and offered a sunset cruise. With our first close-ups of a massive chinstrap penguin colony, it was an amazing first outing down here in Antarctica.
After a splendid week exploring the southern Chilean fjords, we find ourselves sailing between South America and Antarctica crossing the famous Drake Passage, a stretch of water feared by some but greatly anticipated by those who love nature. It is here that we have a chance to experience some of the most magnificent creatures that live in the open oceans. It is also here where we have time to fully comprehend how far Antarctica is from the rest of the world and to earn serious bragging rights for overcoming this almost ritualistic crossing!