16 March Cold, But Very Comfortable

Temperature was 14F as we headed out today for Draco Island. With the bright sunshine, absence of wind and humidity, plus double socks, long underwear and our Viking outerwear, it was very comfortable. This second day of blue skies and bright sunshine really light up the water and snow. I’m afraid pictures just fail to capture the beauty.

The beach here was gravel, much easier walking. The penguin rookery, however, was high on the island. The Expedition leaders laid out a zig-zag path to the top. A sizable colony of Gentoo penguins, not as many as yesterday, but very active, was sunning on the rocky outcropping. I saw one confused fellow searching for pebbles, carefully selecting the right one and carrying it back to a potential nest. I say “confused” because it is way past the breeding season. Maybe he was just doing home improvement for next year.

They Don't All Make It

This isn't the confused nest builder, but the background has some swimmers. Hard to catch them in action on purpose.

When our schedule suffered yet another COVID induced change and we were told we would spend six days exploring Antarctica in stead of three that seemed like way too much. Instead, we both feel the earlier cruises could not have had the any near the experiences we have had.

Our First Sighting of Chinstrap Penguins

My Valet helping with my boots

Dinner tonight with three other couples. Great fun, we closed the restaurant down with conversation, wine and a very pretty dessert. Conversation halted to watch the whales spouting nearby. A great evening.

I have failed to write about the evening presentations by the on-board scientists and historian. They have discussed in layman terms the papers they are writing, the research underway, and the history of Antarctic exploration. We got three extra days that others have missed, besides landings at additional sights.