25 Jan 2015

Historic First Visit to Korean Station

We have just had an incredibly busy and invigorating 24 hours!

At around 1900hrs yesterday we encountered a lone Emperor Penguin resting on the ice pack in flat calm seas. He was very relaxed in our presence and allowed us drift 1.5 metres away from him in the Zodiacs to observe and photograph both him and the various seals who shared his raft.

Lone Emperor

At 0200hrs this morning we landed in brilliant sunshine and no winds on Inexpressable Island, spending four hours exploring ashore. We returned to the ship at 0700hrs for breakfast, then at 0930hrs landed at the German Station on the Antarctic continent.

Inexpressable Island

Later we walked over to the new Korean Station and met the station team. It was an honour to be the first international tourists to visit the station.

The group outside the new Korean Station

During lunch we cruised towards the Italian Station where again we were warmly received by staff who welcomed a break in their regular routine. By 1700hrs everyone was back aboard and most took the opportunity for a nap before dinner. At 2000hrs we came close to Drygalski Island where we are staying overnight so passengers can enjoy the wonderful views of the Drygalski Ice Tongue and northern foothills all the way to Mt Melbourne.

What a day!