Antarctica

No landing this morning so we climbed into the Zodiacs and cruised Godthul harbor. Encountered our first mini icebergs this morning while traveling to Grytviken. I‘m sure there will be many more to come. During the 18th century, sealing and

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

Our first stop was a zodiac cruise around Prince Olav Harbor, home of the long abandoned whaling station. As it is contaminated by asbestos we had to keep 200 meters (220 yards) from shore so no landing was possible. Salisbury

Lots of scientific projects happening on board. There is a Christmas decoration contest where the various departments on the ship compete for the best decoration. Only recycled materials are allowed. Passengers vote for their favorite. We received lots of information

Today was pretty much dedicated to cleaning and disinfecting jackets, boots, camera bags, backpacks and rain pants. There are very strict regulations to ensure that no foreign seeds or alien organisms are brought into South Georgia or Antarctica. In the

3 hour nature walk in Stanley. Stanley Community…

Our first landing on New Island was a wet landing. Our ship is the white, red and black one in the background, not the one in the foreground. 😊

The first day was spent getting lots of information from Zodiac safety to learning about the science team and their work. Muck boots are required for wet landings where we disembark from/embark to the zodiac through somewhat shallow water.

Early start to the day, our bus to the airport leaves at 6:10 AM for an 8:20 AM flight. We were advised that if we want a breakfast to go we should be in the lobby at around 4:30 AM.