As National Geographic Resolution cruised through Marguerite Bay early this morning, an attempt was made to land at Red Rock Ridge to visit an Adelie penguin colony. Staff departed before breakfast in a Zodiac to brave the large waves and icebergs looming around the ship. After searching for a safe landing site, the staff concluded that conditions would not allow a safe landing. Plan B was set in motion. By the end of breakfast, National Geographic Resolution reached our second location, the historic site and monument of Stonington, Base E (a British Antarctic survey hut). After an amazing breakfast with stunning views of the surrounding glaciers, we departed for the shores of Stonington Island. Upon landing, guests explored the interior of the British hut and caught glimpses of the U.S. East Base, the oldest American base in Antarctica. The British hut was closed in 1975, and many of the contents were removed. However, it remains true to the era and was restored as a historical site. During the height of its use, the UK base often cooperated with the U.S. base to provide sledging support to the American aerial survey. A solitary cross sits upon a rocky outcropping on the far end of the island, a tribute to the death of two men who died in a storm while sledging in 1966. After exploring the island, guests departed for the ship for an afternoon of cruising and talks by on-board naturalists. Shortly after lunch, one of the largest icebergs seen this voyage (taller than National Geographic Resolution) swept past the ship. As the evening came to an end, naturalists presented their daily recaps and guests relaxed as we cruised north.
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.
