Cruising Antarctica, South Shetland Islands – We woke up around 6:30 to find that the fog was much lighter, there were icebergs in sight and we were passing an island. Soon we saw dolphins leaping through the waves, but had no hope of a photo. Later we found out that they were likely porpoising penguins, so learned a little something there. We could see whales spouting in the distance and a seal swam by right beside the ship. While we were enjoying breakfast by a window in the dining room, we entered Admiralty Bay on King George Island, where there are several research stations. Back on our balcony, wearing several layers and wrapped in blankets, we enjoyed all the sights around the bay, including more whales, much closer,
and seals and likely
penguins. The research stations have interesting histories and carry out great
scientific work, and represent many different nations. Although there were
low-hanging clouds, we were told that this is, in fact, a good-weather day for
this area. Lots still to see – spectacular scenery, porpoising penguins, the
occasional iceberg…for much of this afternoon we enjoyed the comfort of our
suite, playing cards and admiring passing icebergs large and small and distant
mountains. At one point the PA system came on to announce nearby whales, which
we saw well from our balcony. Late in the afternoon, the bridge received word
of a giant tabular iceberg and we diverted course to do a trip around it. It’s
estimated to weight ~51 million tons!!
Quite the sight! Then on to Deception
Island, with a harbour that is the caldera of an active volcano and an inviting
entry channel that hides a blockade in the form of a submerged rock. Several
research stations and a whaling camp have been there, but most were destroyed
by volcanic eruptions over the years. The island also has the largest colony of
chinstrap penguins and a population of seals or sea lions. The individuals were
barely visible with the binoculars, but we could see the crowds . Great dinner followed by terrific singers
in the lounge. Wonderful day! (Including, btw, another Mensa win and a prize
for 3
rd in trivia.)
Pictures of the day
