No landing at Hercules Bay due the number of Fur Seals and small beaches. So instead we had a 45 minute zodiac cruise around the bay visiting and photographing the wildlife from the water.
A “Shackleton Hike” was offered which would discharge all those interested (limited to 45 participants) at Fortuna Bay. The hike would take up to 4 hours over extremely steep terrain (up and back down) and was classified as extremely strenuous. We would pick up the hikers later in the day at Stromness. Unfortunately, due to high winds and rain the hike had to be canceled. Safety is of the utmost importance.
Another abandoned whaling station that is also contaminated by asbestos. One by one the stations will be dismantled but it is a long and expensive process. Not only is the asbestos a problem but also the oils and other industrial pollutants.
The seals here were very aggressive and we were thankful for the watchful eyes of the expedition team members.
