03 Mar 2016

2 Feb Voyage: Shokalskiy Auckland Island Times

This morning we enjoyed a dramatised documentary about the wreck of the Grafton as we approached Erebus Cove on Auckland Island, coming to anchor in Port Ross at 1600. The rolling mist and light rain magically lifted in time for everyone to enjoy a short Zodiac ride ashore to the old boat shed and the cemetery at the ill fated Hardwicke settlement where many died of starvation and exposure.  Later we took a walk through the beautiful forest of rata trees that sparkled under dappled light from the sun, made all the more magical by a chorus of Bellbirds singing from the tree tops. The port was like a millpond in the evening and we had spectacular views of Hooker Hill, named after Joseph Hooker, the naturalist who accompanied James Clark Ross on his voyage to Antarctica on Erebus and Terror after which the coves on the island are named.  Although there are no artefacts, the site where James set up an observatory in Terror Cove was pointed out to the Ross descendants on board.

Expeditioners were invited to wear or bring something to the bar that reminded them of their trip.  There was a clear winner who dressed as a penguin adorned with beak, flippers and webbed feet.  Special cocktails named Antarctica Sunset, Skua and Quest were served to whet memories for a 30 question trivia quiz.  The evening was rounded off with a birthday celebration and a short skit was presented by a talented group amongst us.