Port Lockroy, 2/16/2020, National Geographic Orion
Aboard the
National Geographic Orion
Antarctica
Waking up to blue skies and big smiles, we sail into our last true day down on the white continent. Finding ourselves at the well-known anchorage of Port Lockroy for one last morning of adventures before pulling anchor and head north back into the famous Drake Passage once more.
Born on Australia’s northern beaches and raised on the coast of tropical Queensland, Beau developed his love for the ocean and all things water at an early age. Forever planning a career revolving around water, he became a PADI Divemaster before grad...
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Today we are crossing of the infamous Drake Passage, the body of water separating the tip of South America from Antarctica. Weather plays in our favor, and thanks to calms seas and northerly winds, we are able to cover a good distance at a great speed. If everything goes according to plan, we might step foot in Antarctica as early as tomorrow morning!
The huge distances we have covered on this journey meant that our last full day was spent almost completely at sea on our return leg from Antarctica. After a merciful lie-in, we crowded the decks as we sailed past Cape Horn, the majestic headland at the bottom tip of Hornos Island, the southernmost point of Tierra del Fuego and the entire South American continent. Despite its fearsome reputation, pleasant seas allowed for an enjoyable brunch before we plunged into our presentation schedule for the morning and afternoon. Naturalist Gail Ashton related her experience of living on the Antarctica continent for 18 months, Jonny Reid discussed marine mammal acoustics and the underwater soundscapes of this region, and Jess Farrer explained how the study of whale and seal poop can tell us so much about these animals. As we entered the Beagle Channel, the stunning mountains of Tierra del Fuego lined our passage to Ushuaia. Gathering in the Ice Lounge for the captain’s farewell party, we toasted a hugely enjoyable trip and the new friends we have made.
“To be whole is to be part; true voyage is return.” – Ursula K. Le Guin The return voyage from the Antarctic is as essential as every other part. As we sail north towards Tierra del Fuego, we keep the company of seabirds and whales. The gentle roars and endless horizon of the ocean a perfect backdrop to reflect upon our time on the seventh continent. A trip like no other and unforgettable memories in tow, the sun sets on our last day within the borders of the Antarctic.
