Cape Horn and the Beagle Channel, 11/28/2019, National Geographic Explorer
Aboard the
National Geographic Explorer
Antarctica
As National Geographic Explorer journeyed into view of Cape Horn, we knew that our voyage was soon to come to a close. With all the miles we have traveled and all the wildlife we have seen behind us, guests spent the day marvelling at the green shores of South America after weeks in polar waters. From the holy grail of encountering emperor penguins in uncountable numbers to the varied marine mammals we saw on beaches and surrounding our vessel—this trip has been one for the books.
Paul North is the founder of the educational nonprofit Meet the Ocean and host of its online podcast. As a polar diver with Lindblad Expeditions/National Geographic, he tours the remote underwater landscapes of Antarctica and other sub-zero destinati...
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Saunders Island offered us a day of contrasts, from dramatic wildlife encounters to rich cultural experiences. The morning greeted us with rain and wind, but the weather did little to dampen our spirits as we explored the island’s extraordinary wildlife. Four species of penguins captivated our attention: king penguins stood in regal elegance, rockhopper penguins bounded nimbly over rocky terrain, and both gentoo and Magellanic penguins busily tended to their nests. Adding to the spectacle, black-browed albatross soared above and tended their own nesting sites, their grace and beauty mesmerizing against the wild Falklands backdrop. By afternoon, the rain gave way to sunshine, though the winds remained brisk. We ventured to Port Egmont, where we visited a working farm and experienced a slice of island life. Upon arrival, we gathered for a delightful barbecue, savoring local flavors amidst the stunning scenery of rolling hills and windswept coastlines. A demonstration of sheep shearing highlighted the vital role of farming in this remote community. As the day drew to a close, we returned to National Geographic Endurance, reflecting on the remarkable blend of wildlife and culture that makes Saunders Island an unforgettable destination.
Today was a beautiful, exciting start to a spectacular expedition. Though we felt the waves gently rocking the ship throughout the night, we woke up to bright, sunny skies casting rainbows of light through the spray of the ocean. Throughout the day, we had several presentations in the Ice Lounge, including an excellent talk describing unique behaviors and identification techniques for the seabirds of the region from Naturalist Doug Gualtieri. We also had a chance to work with Certified Photo Instructor Sean Neilson to learn how to use our smart phone cameras in creative ways in the field over the next few weeks to produce interesting and thoughtful images.
Our second day at sea after leaving the landscape of Antarctica, we awoke to a gentle rolling ocean and sunshine. The waves were bedazzled with blue petrels, sooty shearwaters, black-browed and wandering albatross. Midmorning, National Geographic Explorer was granted permission to enter the three-mile radius of Cape Horn. We headed to the bow, the bridge, and the monkey deck to experience the wind and take in the views. Ezra spoke of the history of the landscape and sailing this notorious rough ocean, whilst other staff members recited the “Poem of the Albatross”, in both English and Spanish. By late afternoon, we entered the Beagle Channel and calmer waters while reflecting on this amazing voyage, the memories made, and packing for our future travels home. At the evening meeting, we enjoyed the slide show of the last 21 days of adventure and with a farewell speech from our captain, we did not say “goodbye,” rather a “see you next time.”
