24 Feb 2016

Busy Days Exploring

We have had a very busy time making the most of the super long Antarctic days and the wonderful weather. After an extended visit to New Zealand’s Scott Base a few days ago some keen climbers made the ascent of Observation Hill which provides stunning views over McMurdo Sound. The highlight of that day for many however was the infamous ‘Polar Plunge’ which a dozen hardy expeditioners and Lorna from the office reservations team endured to the delight of their fellow shipmates. It is of course compulsory for any Heritage staff to do this on their first visit to Antarctica! Later we took the ship along the coast past Cape Crozier to view the awe-inspiring Ross Ice Shelf as Humpback Whales frolicked around us.

Today we have experienced a cloudless day sailing through calm seas of pancake ice and have anchored in picture perfect Terra Nova Bay. On the way here we visited the Korean Jang Bogo Antarctic Research Station and sailed past the German and Italian stations which are already closed for the winter. Wildlife sighted includes some elegant Snow Petrels, distinctive Weddell Seals and the ever present opportunist Skuas. The galley which continues to produce excellent meals, the glorious weather and Antarctic magic have combined to ensure that all aboard are enjoying our time here. After dinner tonight we are planning to land at Inexpressible Island.