29 Jan 2018

SOE: A Spectacular Day At Cape Evans

Our pilgrimage to Cape Scott’s and Ernest Shackleton’s huts in the Ross Sea is complete .. we are heading north, as I write this we are anchored at Franklin Island. Sadly weather conditions have deteriorated and although we can see the beach landing is very achievable, getting in and out of the zodiacs alongside the ship would be hazardous with the rough sea conditions, freezing temperatures and driving snow, so the landing is on hold right now.

The weather today is a stark contrast to what we experienced  in McMurdo Sound and at the huts. Cape Evans turned on one of the best days of the year for us and we spent a whole there with people able to make multiple visits to the hut, spending as much time as they liked inside the hut simply soaking in the special atmosphere and looking at the history in all the artefacts.

If we thought we had a good weather for our day Cape Evans .. our day at Cape Royds and Shackleton’s Hut was even better. In bright sunshine, blue sky and warm temperatures we walked across the frozen waters of Backdoor Bay to enjoy the atmosphere and history of the Shackleton and  the Nimrod Expedition.  It was made even more special as we had spectacular views of Mt Erebus.

Back on board early evening, I think it was 11 folk took a Polar Plunge before dinner. A great way to end amazing day.

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