Weddell Sea and Brown Bluff, 11/17/2024, National Geographic Resolution
Aboard the
National Geographic Resolution
Antarctica
This morning, we entered the Weddell Sea after exploring the western side of the peninsula for the past few days. The icy scenery was enjoyed by all.
As we ship-cruised in the morning, the expedition staff provided us with some insightful presentations on glaciers and marine mammal acoustics. The hotel department then surprised us all with a BBQ feast for lunch and some delicious donuts for dessert.
The afternoon activities included a landing at Brown Bluff where we enjoyed observing the Adelie penguin colony. We then returned to National Geographic Resolution and began sailing deeper south into the Weddell Sea.
Kristian Gillies is an Expedition Guide, Wildlife Ecologist and Photographer based on Vancouver Island, B.C. Growing up on the beautiful South Coast of New South Wales in Australia, Kristian was immersed in the ocean and surrounding seascapes from a ...
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National Geographic Resolution, our trusty expedition vessel, continued its northward journey with ease, navigating the gentle "Drake Shake" effortlessly. Along the way, we were treated to numerous whale sightings, a true spectacle of nature's magnificence. In the afternoon, the first sight of land appeared on the horizon, marking a significant milestone in our voyage. As we sailed into the Beagle Channel, we enjoyed the company of seabirds that joined us, soaring gracefully alongside the ship. It was a beautiful moment to watch these creatures in their natural habitat, a reminder of the remote and untamed beauty of this region. The undersea team delivered insightful presentations, sharing the immense effort and challenges involved in diving in Antarctica's icy waters. Later, our captain himself gave a fascinating talk about the design and construction of National Geographic Resolution , offering a behind-the-scenes look at this remarkable vessel. To cap off the day, we indulged in a delightful afternoon tea accompanied by a famous cheese and wine tasting, a true culinary treat after days of adventure. As the evening set in, we savored our last dinner aboard the ship, reflecting on the epic journey we had shared to the White Continent, now preparing to return to port and head home with memories that will last a lifetime.
On our last day in Antarctica, we woke to an otherwordly view as National Geographic Endurance sailed through the waters of Cierva Cove. The first adventure of the day was a Zodiac cruise across this iceberg-filled bay. We were lucky to spot a crabeater seal on an iceberg along with several snow petrels, Antarctic terns, and skuas soaring above us. After the cruise, Captain Oliver expertly steered National Geographic Endurance closer to the Breguet Glacier, allowing us to have a closer look at this massive ice wall. In the afternoon, we embarked on another Zodiac cruise around Spert Island. This time, we were impressed by the island’s unique geology shaped by glacial forces. The landscape was dominated by dramatic volcanic rock formations and colossal icebergs. The combination of natural beauty and the sheer scale of the surroundings left us in awe, marking a perfect end to our Antarctic adventure.
After unforgettable days exploring Antarctica, it was time to head north across the Drake Passage. Known for its unpredictable conditions, we were lucky to experience a smooth crossing with mild winds and swells up to three meters. National Geographic Resolution , our sturdy expedition ship, handled the gentle “Drake Shake” effortlessly. Onboard, the adventure continued. Naturalists and our photo instructor hosted fascinating presentations in the ice lounge, covering everything from Antarctica’s ecosystems to photography tips. These sessions were also broadcast to the cabins for those who preferred to watch from the comfort of their rooms. A highlight of the day was a behind-the-scenes tour of the ship’s galley. It was amazing to see how the crew managed to prepare the amazing, several course meals for us in such a small space. The teamwork and dedication in the galley were impressive, and it was a treat to get a glimpse of the kitchen’s operation. As we sailed north, we reflected on the incredible journey so far. While we looked ahead to new adventures, this peaceful crossing across the Drake Passage was a perfect way to transition from the awe of Antarctica to the next chapter of our expedition.
