This morning we awoke to calm seas, beautiful sunshine and land in view. We were nearing the tip of South American and could see Cape Horn. The captain navigated the ship as close as allowed in Chilean waters and we stood on the bow enjoying the sun and thinking of how many sailors have rounded Cape Horn after rough seas and were thrilled to see the Cape in view. For us it is a bittersweet sight, our incredible adventures in Antarctica and the Southern Ocean are coming to an end and tomorrow we travel off to various parts of the world.

Today was not without more sightings. This morning there was a large group of black-browed albatross, petrels and some Magellanic penguins on the water beside the ship as well as several albatrosses showing off their skills and soaring around the ship. This afternoon as we entered Beagle Channel we were accompanied by Peale’s dolphins, which chose to bow ride in front of the ship. The pressure wave created in front of the ship allows them to get a free ride and be pushed along. Dolphins, being toothed whales, have only one blow hole, and they were straight down below us, allowing us to practically look into their blow holes as they came up to breathe.

As we head into Ushuaia we have been reminded of many of the adventures of our trip with the guest slideshow in the lounge. Antarctica has seeped into our souls and our memories (and mountains of photos) will make us smile for months and years to come.

To sum up the trip, three of our younger guests have written about their highlights:

“During this trip there have been many memorable moments. Some better than others, but it has been a great experience. Some of my favorite parts of this trip were going on the continent of Antarctica, seeing whales, and driving a Zodiac. When we were on the continent I saw many glaciers calving along with a mini avalanche. The whales were great to see especially when they fluked in a 1, 2, 3 manner. Zodiac driving finished the trip off perfectly.”

Katie Carroll, age 13

“One of the 3 million hightlights of the trip for me was on our first excursion. I was walking on one of the trails when 27 penguins rushed me (I counted). So I laid down and let them pass and my mom got it all on tape. Another highlight was the people. Thank you to everyone who made this trip what it is, the crew and the guests.”

JJ Carroll, Age 13

“Of the amazing trip we had, there are many highlights such as the humpback whales feeding, and massive penguin colonies. I don’t think I could choose a highlight. This is one of my favorite vacations and birthdays. Everyone is very nice, crew and guests alike. I thank all of you for a wonderful trip (including the penguins).”

Cam Chesbrough, Age 12