All onboard the National Geographic Endurance are excited about our trip to Peter I Island in the Bellingshausen Sea! The first landing of this island came on February 3, 1929, and it was claimed for Norway. This is the first time that every officer, staff member, crew, or guest have been to this very remote island in the western section of Antarctica. Weather conditions look fantastic for our visit to the island. Southern fulmars and Antarctic petrels escort the ship all day long. Humpback whales are seen at the surface throughout the day. And as the day turns to evening, huge icebergs begin to dot the sea, telling us of our proximity to the island. At this latitude the sun doesn’t set this time of year. What adventures will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned dear reader, for the answer may surprise you!
2/20/2024
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Cape Horn and Beagle Channel
The huge distances we have covered on this journey meant that our last full day was spent almost completely at sea on our return leg from Antarctica. After a merciful lie-in, we crowded the decks as we sailed past Cape Horn, the majestic headland at the bottom tip of Hornos Island, the southernmost point of Tierra del Fuego and the entire South American continent. Despite its fearsome reputation, pleasant seas allowed for an enjoyable brunch before we plunged into our presentation schedule for the morning and afternoon. Naturalist Gail Ashton related her experience of living on the Antarctica continent for 18 months, Jonny Reid discussed marine mammal acoustics and the underwater soundscapes of this region, and Jess Farrer explained how the study of whale and seal poop can tell us so much about these animals. As we entered the Beagle Channel, the stunning mountains of Tierra del Fuego lined our passage to Ushuaia. Gathering in the Ice Lounge for the captain’s farewell party, we toasted a hugely enjoyable trip and the new friends we have made.
