It is difficult to believe we’re on our last expedition landing day. Overnight we were peacefully anchored in Ship Cove and woke up to another fine morning. Even after such an active, eventful voyage, there was still an atmosphere of enthusiasm to seize this final day ashore. Disembarking near the New Island Settlement, we went on a walk through short grass to the tussock atop mixed cliffside colonies of black-browed albatross, rockhopper penguins, and imperial shags. After returning for a quick lunch on board, some of us opted for a long hike along the northern spine of the island to a small sandy beach on the northwest side. The rest of us rode the National Geographic Endurance around the island to meet our comrades on the beach or on the hillsides above the cove.
11/29/2022
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National Geographic Endurance
At Sea
National Geographic Endurance set sail from the western edge of the Falkland Islands late last evening, and we enjoyed a relaxing day at sea. Guests were treated to smooth seas with plenty of albatrosses soaring about the vessel. The morning was full of educational opportunities. The undersea team shared photos collected while exploring the diverse underwater environments that the Falkland Islands provide. Next came a presentation by marine biologist Connor Ryan who spoke about the dynamics of how plankton and seabirds dictate the ecological rhythms of the upper layer of the ocean. Such a trip as we have had is certainly hard to summarize. Over the past three weeks, we visited some of the most spectacular and densely populated wildlife regions on our planet. Today was a day of reflection, photo editing, fine food, and contemplation of all that has occurred.
