Heading home! Last evening National Geographic Orion left the South Shetland Islands and entered the Drake Passage as we made our way toward Ushuaia, and the end of our incredible journey to Antarctica. It was a day to get caught up on some sleep, listen to a number of presentations, and get to see some of those amazing seabirds that patrol the Southern Ocean, which they call home! The seas were kind to us in general, a little bumpy in the morning, but settled down later in the day. All-in-all a pretty relaxing day after a very busy time on the Antarctic Peninsula!
2/20/2024
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Cape Horn and Beagle Channel
The huge distances we have covered on this journey meant that our last full day was spent almost completely at sea on our return leg from Antarctica. After a merciful lie-in, we crowded the decks as we sailed past Cape Horn, the majestic headland at the bottom tip of Hornos Island, the southernmost point of Tierra del Fuego and the entire South American continent. Despite its fearsome reputation, pleasant seas allowed for an enjoyable brunch before we plunged into our presentation schedule for the morning and afternoon. Naturalist Gail Ashton related her experience of living on the Antarctica continent for 18 months, Jonny Reid discussed marine mammal acoustics and the underwater soundscapes of this region, and Jess Farrer explained how the study of whale and seal poop can tell us so much about these animals. As we entered the Beagle Channel, the stunning mountains of Tierra del Fuego lined our passage to Ushuaia. Gathering in the Ice Lounge for the captain’s farewell party, we toasted a hugely enjoyable trip and the new friends we have made.
