Shortly after dinner, we said goodbye to the Falkland Islands, initiating our way south to Ushuaia. During the night we experienced very heavy winds, but in the morning the winds calmed down and National Geographic Explorer continued its journey south in smooth seas.
We have spent more than two weeks in Antarctica, South Georgia, and the Falkland Islands, where we have had very intense experiences. Now that we are heading back home, it’s time to reflect on our journey. When we think about Antarctica it becomes clear in our minds that Antarctica is not only a place; it is also a feeling, a way of perceiving nature. Only someone who has experienced the long sunsets, the endless skies, the vastness of the sea ice, the majesty of mountain peaks and hanging glaciers, the brightness of the ice, the sinuosity of channels and inlets, the tranquility of bays and coves, the delicate beauty of floating icebergs, and the rich diversity of marine fauna in Antarctica is aware of the effect that this region offers the human soul.
Antarctica is like an eternal spirit and we are certain that we will not be the same after having been on the White Continent. Antarctica makes us think about how we relate to nature in general and the responsibility that we have to protect the ecosystems that keep us alive. This is the perfect place to commit ourselves to do our utmost to preserve our planet. Now we might ask ourselves how we will contribute to the protection of Antarctica and the Antarctic marine ecosystem. What are the things that we will do, or do differently, when we get back home so as help protect the White Continent? We can do little things or we can be more ambitious, but after having the unique opportunity of experiencing the Frozen Planet, it is imperative that we become ambassadors of Antarctica, spreading the word about the need to protect this ecosystem.
It is time to leave now, but Antarctica will remain in our minds and hearts for years to come.
