09 Dec 2015

Macquarie in Sight

The Spirit of Enderby has been experiencing one of the most defining features of the El Nino weather system – that of a persistent and strong westerly airflow.  After a magnificent few days on and around the Auckland Islands, ending with a wet and windy landing in Carnley Harbour, the flooded caldera of the long extinct Carnley Volcano, it was time to head towards Macquarie Island. This must be one of the most difficult islands to reach as you have to go against the prevailing weather. We punched into a strong south westerly which slowed us down and confined a number of people to their bunks. The seas finally eased last night and we appreciated the calm overnight sail. Macquarie Island can now be seen on the horizon. We plan two days there before turning and running north to Campbell Island.