Locals say that it’s possible to experience an entire year of weather in just one day in Stanley. This was most certainly true today! What began as a warm and sunny but breezy day abruptly changed to sleet, hail, lightning, and torrential rain—then back to sunny and fair. We didn’t let this stop us from enjoying all our planned adventures, though.
Some guests chose to visit the Long Island Farm to learn more about the sheep-farming heritage of the islands, as well as the importance of peat in daily life. Others opted for a ride out to Gypsy Cove for a chance to view Magellanic penguins, rock cormorants, and upland geese followed by a brisk walk back to the ship just prior to the dramatic change in weather.
Those who saw the Stanley highlights with a local guide had the opportunity to learn more about some of the most noteworthy structures, shipwrecks, and historical events of this part of the world. Some highlights included stops at the bust of Margaret Thatcher, the beautifully landscaped Government House, the soaring jawbone arch made of blue whale bones, and the Christ Church Cathedral.
In the afternoon, a small group of enthusiastic gardeners met at Stanley Growers, a local institution that has been in existence since 1988. Owner Tim Miller showed us around the polytunnels and explained the remarkable hydroponics system he devised and perfected over the years in order to supply the people of Stanley—as well as visiting tour vessels—with a surprisingly large variety of produce. We toured the rows of peppers, eggplants (also called aubergines), cucumbers, tomatoes, and lettuces and then lingered longingly in the strawberry polytunnel while the heavens opened. The visit was a real treat that’s only offered to guests traveling on Lindblad-National Geographic voyages!
