National Geographic Endurance was forced to leave McMurdo Station as the wind blew in a large amount of pack ice from the northwest. However, in the morning we had clear skies and great visibility as we cruised toward the continent across from Ross Island. As our mighty ship penetrated through the sea ice, we had spectacular views of Mount Discovery, the Royal Society Range, and the McMurdo Dry Valley area! While moving along and through the ice, we had encounters with emperor penguins, Adelie penguins, Weddell and crabeater seals, minke whales, and killer whales! What a fabulous way to spend the day.