At sea, Southern Ocean
After leaving the Valdez peninsula last night, National Geographic Explorer set a southeast course heading towards the Falkland Islands. We awoke this morning to light winds, calm seas and a transition to the colder waters of the southern ocean. Birds were our constant companions throughout the day, with a change from the more land oriented birds we saw yesterday. Our first prions of the voyage appeared, as well as abundant Cape Petrels. Black-browed Albatross were always in sight, and numerous massive Royal Albatross passed by as well. Our second penguin species of the trip was also spotted, with a few Rockhopper Penguins being a preview of what is to come in the Falklands.
Numerous presentations occupied our day, with topics as diverse as cetaceans, geology, digital photography, and an introduction to the Falklands. Marine mammals were scattered throughout the day with some dolphins spotted at various times, including while many of us enjoyed lunch out on the sundeck. Yes, lunch in the southern ocean on the SUN deck! We also had numerous sightings of Southern Right Whales. One individual put on quite a show, being a bit surface active, and approaching the ship fairly close. With a final lift of its tail, we said goodbye to South America.
A beautiful sunset with calm seas left us thinking ahead to the islands and our plans for the next two days. Falklands: here we come!
