Our final day of exploration on Staten Island began with a Zodiac cruise along the shores of Observatorio Island. Here, wildlife was abundant! As we made our way to shore, various species of birds lined the rocks. Gulls, geese, ducks, cormorants, and penguins were everywhere we looked. One prominent point appeared to have a buzz cut, when in reality it was thousands of nests of blue-eyed or imperial cormorants. Many Magellanic penguins were running up and down the slopes. It was comical to watch them gather in their groups and react to various creatures passing by.  

Another certain highlight? All of the sea lions and fur seals. Individual sea lions, including a few massive males, were scattered throughout while the far point was filled with fur seals. The males were beginning to spar, with many fights breaking out and some of them were even climbing up to the top of the island, showing off their ability to move on land. In the water, they were even more graceful and agile. Large waves were breaking on the point, but this proved no problem for the fur seals as they played in and even surfed some of the biggest waves.

After lunch, it was time to say goodbye to Staten Island and head towards Ushuaia. As we left, passing rain showers created dramatic light on the island. As we pulled farther away, we picked up an escort of giant petrels and albatross. Soon, we also attracted some Peale’s dolphins who began to bow-ride. When some whale blows were spotted we maneuvered closer to find at least three Sei whales. These medium-sized baleen whales were charging through the water, putting on quite a show for us.  

As the evening progressed, we all gathered in the lounge for our final group slideshow and some excellent words from the captain. Just as he was wrapping up our trip, a wandering albatross passed closely by the windows of the lounge, almost within touching distance. It was a very fitting end!

 

Live on Facebook!

Following this South Georgia & the Falklands expedition? Get a live look at where our guests are exploring. We’ll be broadcasting live on Facebook from the Falklands on Friday, October 28th and live from South Georgia in the first few days of November. Follow Lindblad Expeditions & National Geographic on Facebook to watch.