Anticipation was palpable this morning as we looked out the window: our bow faced a bay filled with fast ice. After breakfast, we went out on deck to witness a small display of the ice-breaking prowess of National Geographic Resolution. Then, with the ship surrounded by ice, our crew set out the gangway, and we were able to walk from our vessel straight onto frozen ocean. The world class entertainment extended into the afternoon when we visited Pourquoi Pas Island, named for the vessel of the second expedition of Frenchman Jean-Baptiste Charcot. With an increasing chill in the air, a sky transitioning to low and thick clouds, and rapidly changing ice conditions near shore, we could finally appreciate that the Antarctic Peninsula is not always sunshine and barbecue weather. This did not deter us. We bundled up and spent hours delighting in Adelie penguins and their young, fluffy chicks. Today was a well-rounded day of Antarctic adventure bookended by fabulous meals!
1/24/2023
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National Geographic Resolution
Penola Strait and Prospect Point
The passengers and crew of National Geographic Resolution started their day surrounded by stunning scenery just south of the Lemaire Channel. We were very close to the Ukraine Research Station, Vernadsky. As we sailed on steadily, passengers were treated to a lecture about snow algae and its effect on the snow and ice of Antarctica by Alia Kahn, our visiting scientist. A short while later, Jim Coyer offered some very interesting insights into krill, which is literally the foundation of the Antarctic life cycle. After lunch, we arrived at Prospect Point at the southern end of the Penola Strait. Zodiacs were lowered, and guests were treated to a wonderfully serene, peaceful cruise amongst ice floes and huge icebergs of various shapes. The sheer majesty of the scenery of the Antarctic Peninsula rarely fails to move us and engage all our senses. Back on board, undersea specialist and naturalist Tanish Peelgrane provided guests with the opportunity to show off their artistic talents with watercolors. This yielded many wonderful interpretations of the afternoon’s experiences. As one more exceptional day draws to an end, we look forward to seeing what delights tomorrow brings.
