Today was the first full day of our voyage, and we made good progress through the Drake Passage towards “The White Continent.” For most of us, the expedition began several days ago when we journeyed across broad distances to gather in Santiago de Chile. We had a brief respite (very brief for some) prior to boarding the charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina, the self-proclaimed end of the earth and certainly the southernmost city on the globe. We enjoyed a chance for short excursions in Santiago and Ushuaia. We could feel the transition from weeks and even months of planning to the actualization of our embarkation aboard National Geographic Resolution last night as we made our departure from the South American continent through the Beagle Channel and towards the wild Southern Ocean.
1/13/2025
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National Geographic Resolution
Detaille Island and Skog Bay
Today aboard National Geographic Resolution , it was a day filled with awe and adventure as the ship crossed the Antarctic Circle in the early hours of the morning. Guests woke to clear skies, snow-capped mountains, and colossal glaciers surrounding them in every direction. The first stop of the day was a morning landing at Detaille Island, where guests explored the historic British Antarctic Survey Base "W." This site, once a key research station during the 1950s, offered a fascinating insight into the history of Antarctic exploration. The afternoon brought more excitement with a kayaking excursion in the pristine waters of Skog Bay. Guests glided through the tranquil bay surrounded by towering icebergs and breathtaking scenery while keeping a lookout for wildlife. For the more adventurous, the Polar Plunge offered a true taste of Antarctica, with guests bravely taking the plunge into the frigid waters. The day ended with a recap of the day's experiences, followed by a delicious dinner, all while enjoying stunning views as the ship made its way further south. With the promise of more exploration and adventure to come, everyone aboard eagerly anticipates what tomorrow’s journey will bring in this remote and pristine part of the world.
