OTL28-25, trip log, Antarctica - Discovery and learning voyage + navigational workshop

The day had finally come! It was time to leave Ushuaia and board the good ship Ortelius for our epic expedition. The crew and expedition team had loaded our luggage onboard and delivered it to our cabins earlier in the day. All that remained was for us to take a few photos of Ortelius, our home for the next ten days, before heading up the gangway.

We were warmly welcomed by the crew and expedition team who assisted us in finding our cabins. We had some time to explore the ship, get our bearings and grab a coffee in the bar, then it was time to gather in the lecture room for the mandatory ship safety briefing where we met Expedition Leader Sara Jenner, and her team who gave a practical demonstration on how to put on our emergency life jackets.

We underwent the abandon ship drill, putting-on our lifejackets and heading outside to be shown to the lifeboats, where we realised that we had already cast-off from the pier and our journey was underway! Following the drill, we assembled in the bar where Captain Remmert welcomed us with champagne and canapés, Hotel Manager Volodymyr talked about the shipboard services, and Sara gave an overview of the voyage and introduced the expedition team.

It was soon time for our first evening meal, with a delicious buffet selection prepared by Head Chef Ivan and his galley team, served by the friendly dining room staff. After dinner we were called back to the bar so that two more mandatory briefings could be delivered in the sheltered waters of the Beagle Channel. Sara first briefed us on the Antarctic Visitor Guidelines, as laid down by IAATO – the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators – of which Oceanwide is a founding member, and this was then followed by the Zodiac safety briefing.

With the formalities out of the way, many of us went onto the outside decks to enjoy what remained of the Beagle channel, marvelling at the spectacular mountains on either side in the evening light, scanning the waters for seabirds, whales and dolphins.

Our first day on the Drake passage, one of the roughest seas on the planet. Luckily, we were blessed by the weather gods as the waves reached maximum 3 meters. Straight after breakfast, each deck was invited to the lecture room to pick up their muck boots. Fortunately, the nickname of this room, Vomitorium, did not become reality this time.

The first briefing was mandatory for those who wanted to kayak.

After the mandatory briefings we had our first lecture where Simon was giving as some more information about the Sea birds of the Drake passage.

During our lunch time many birds were gliding along the ship. The wildlife sightings, especially the wandering albatross with its impressive wingspan up to 3.5 meters, was breathtaking. We also saw black browed albatross, southern giant petrels and small prions flying around the ship.

In the afternoon, it was time to learn more about the whales and the dolphins from the southern oceans. Chloé talked not only about these big marine mammals, no, she also talked about her favorite topic Plankton.

During recap we learned more about the drake passage, the circumpolar current ant the convergence zone. After the dinner we met up in the lounge to learn more about the history and the whaling which was happening at Deception Island.

Today started a bit earlier than usual as we were all excited to see something special. Our team had spotted a lot of whale blows in the distance, so we gathered quickly to get a closer look. The sight of the whales spouting water into the air was incredible and made us even more eager for the day ahead.

After the whale sighting, we had breakfast. Koen gave a talk about the exploration of Antarctica up until 1900. He shared fascinating stories of the early explorers who made brave journeys to this cold and remote land. It was amazing to learn how difficult their travels were, and it gave us a sense of respect for how much effort went into discovering this place.

Later in the morning, Sara gave a wonderful presentation about penguins. She talked about their unique behaviours, their life in the cold, and the different types of penguins living in this region. After her talk, we had the chance to ask questions, and Sara answered the 20 most common one’s people often ask about penguins. We learned a lot about how penguins survive the harsh conditions and how they manage to travel long distances across ice and water.

Just after the penguin presentation, we were lucky enough to see our first iceberg. It was a massive, beautiful sight floating in the water. The iceberg had a striking blue colour, and its size was so large that it seemed to go on forever. It was a powerful reminder of how amazing and untouched Antarctica is.

After that exciting sighting, we had lunch together. The meal was delicious, and we were all feeling quite energized. However, right after lunch, we had to take part in a mandatory biosecurity check. This was to make sure that our clothes and boots were free of any dirt or plants that could harm the Antarctic environment. We did this check in the lounge, and everyone was careful to follow the rules to protect the area we were visiting.

In the afternoon, Ben gave an interesting talk about navigation and mapping. He explained how the ship uses tools to safely navigate the waters, and how they keep track of our position in this vast and icy landscape. It was clear that the crew’s skill and knowledge were very important for keeping us safe in such a remote place.

Then, we sailed through Neptune's Bellows, the narrow passageway near Deception Island. It was incredible to pass through this natural wonder, and the views of the volcanic landscape around us were stunning. Afterward, we dropped off a small team at Deception Island to help remove graffiti that had been left by past visitors. This was part of our efforts to keep the environment clean and respect the natural beauty of Antarctica.

Later in the afternoon, Sara shared the plans for tomorrow. We were all excited about what the next day would bring, but just as we were finishing up, there was a call from the bridge. Orcas had been spotted nearby! Everyone rushed to the deck to see these amazing creatures swimming through the water. It was a thrilling moment, and we were all in awe of the powerful animals.

Finally, we had dinner, and after that, we watched a new movie about Ernest Shackleton, the famous explorer. The movie showed his incredible journey to Antarctica and the challenges his team faced. It was a great way to end the day, as it inspired us to think about the history and importance of exploration in this harsh and beautiful part of the world.

Overall, it was an exciting and educational day, full of wildlife sightings, learning, and amazing experiences. We couldn’t wait to see what tomorrow would bring!  

We woke up to a calm and peaceful morning, with the weather being perfect for our planned activities. The day started with a lovely wake-up call, setting the tone for a smooth and enjoyable day ahead. After getting ready, we set off for our first landing of the day at Palaver Point. This was an exciting moment as we got the chance to see chinstrap penguins in their natural habitat. The penguins were busy, waddling around, and some were even sliding down the snowy slopes on their bellies. It was a beautiful sight to see these playful creatures up close.

Once we had enough time to enjoy the penguins, we returned to the ship for a well-deserved lunch. After eating, those who had signed up for the OLEX workshop gathered to learn more about navigation tools and techniques used on our journey. It was interesting to see how advanced technology helps guide the ship through the waters, especially in such remote locations. The workshop provided a lot of useful information for those of us who were curious about how the ship navigated through the icy waters.

Next on the agenda was a Zodiac cruise at Foyn Harbour. The Zodiac boats allowed us to get even closer to the water and see some incredible sights. The first highlight of the cruise was a shipwreck we passed by. It was a haunting yet fascinating sight to see the old, decaying remains of a ship, surrounded by water and ice. As we continued, we spotted some humpback whales swimming nearby. The sight of these majestic creatures was awe-inspiring, and we were lucky enough to see their huge tails rising out of the water as they dove deeper.

For some of us, it was the first kayaking experience. Paddling through the icy waters was both thrilling and peaceful. We moved carefully, surrounded by towering icebergs and the calm sea. The experience of being so close to the water, with nothing but the sounds of our paddles and the gentle waves, made it feel like we were in a completely different world.

After the kayaking, we had a recap session, where we learned more about chinstrap penguin behaviour, especially how they sleep. It turns out that penguins tend to sleep in a unique way, as they do second sleep and this around 10’000 times a day. We also learned about the different shapes of icebergs, some of which were sharp and jagged, while others were smooth and rounded, creating stunning views against the backdrop of the sky.

After dinner, the team started preparing for the next kayaking outing. It was a lot of fun getting ready and collecting the necessary gear for the adventure. We were all excited about the possibility of exploring the water again. As the ship sailed through the Gerlache Strait, the evening sky began to change colour, casting a soft glow over the landscape.

Later in the night, Sara made an exciting announcement: humpback whales were feeding nearby! This was a rare and special opportunity to see these incredible creatures up close as they fed on the rich waters of the region. Everyone was thrilled by the announcement, and it was the perfect way to end the day.

With our excitement still buzzing, it was finally time for bed. We settled into our rooms, reflecting on the amazing experiences of the day, and drifted off to sleep, eagerly anticipating the adventures that tomorrow would bring.

At 6 am, we began our sailing through the Neumayer Channel. The weather was cold, but there was an air of excitement as the ship navigated through the icy waters. The Neumayer Channel is known for its stunning views, with towering ice cliffs on either side, and the early morning light made everything look even more magical. As the ship moved slowly, we could see glaciers and icebergs floating nearby. It was a quiet, peaceful start to the day, and everyone on deck was eager to see what lay ahead.

By the time we arrived at Damoy Point, located on Wiencke Island, it was breakfast time. The morning had brought with it a strong wind, gusting up to 30 knots. This made the landing at Damoy Point a bit challenging. We docked, and the wind made the gangway choppy, causing it to sway. It was a little tricky to keep our balance, but everyone helped each other, and we managed to get onto solid ground. Despite the rough landing, the excitement of exploring such a unique location made it all worth it. Upon arriving, we were greeted by a large group of Gentoo penguins. The penguins had chicks with them, and it was wonderful to see these tiny, fluffy birds waddling around. The penguin families seemed to be busy with their daily routines, and we couldn’t get enough of watching them. We spent a good amount of time observing them and taking photos. It was a perfect opportunity to see how the penguins interact with their chicks and with each other.

Damoy Point is home to a hut that was once used by the British Antarctic Survey. In the earlier days, it served as a runway for aircraft landing on the continent. It’s hard to imagine such a place being used for air travel, given the harsh weather conditions. After taking in the views and exploring the hut, we continued on our journey.

After spending time with the penguins, we decided to take a long leg stretch. It felt good to walk around after being on the boat for a while. The fresh Antarctic air was refreshing, and the landscape around us was beautiful, with snow-capped peaks and vast stretches of white.

We returned to the ship for lunch, and it was a treat to get back to the warmth of the ship. It was burger day, and the crew had prepared a delicious meal for us. Everyone enjoyed the hearty lunch, chatting about the day’s events and sharing stories. It was nice to relax and refuel before heading back out for another adventure.

In the afternoon, we had an outing with the Zodiacs. We took a ride around Port Lockroy, a famous location on the Antarctic Peninsula. While on the Zodiac, we spotted a Weddell seal swimming in the water. It was an amazing sight, as the seal seemed so calm and graceful in the icy waters. We also saw penguins swimming nearby and learned about the whale bones scattered along the shore. These bones were remnants of the whaling era, and it was a reminder of the harsh history that shaped the region.

Back on the ship, we attended a lecture by Carina, who shared fascinating details about the Ortelius ship. She gave us a behind-the-scenes look at the ship’s history, showing us photos and telling stories about its adventures in these remote waters. The lecture was a great way to learn more about the ship and its role in our journey.

After the lecture, we had a recap of the day, and then it was time for dinner. The food was delicious, and everyone enjoyed the opportunity to relax after a busy day of exploring. As the evening settled in, we prepared for one last adventure of the day.

After dinner, we sailed through the breathtaking Lemaire Channel. The narrow channel was surrounded by towering icebergs and steep cliffs. The view was simply stunning. To make the experience even more special, we enjoyed hot chocolate, rum, and whipped cream on the bow of the ship. The warm drinks helped us fight off the chill as we watched the icebergs drift by, their sharp edges gleaming in the fading light. It felt like we were in a dream, surrounded by such beauty and silence. As the ship moved on toward our position for the night, the peacefulness of the moment stayed with us, making it a perfect end to an unforgettable day.

This morning, we woke up to a cold, crisp 1-degree temperature in the air. The sun was shining brightly, lighting up the beautiful surrounding landscape. Everywhere we looked, there were huge icebergs scattered across the water. It was like being in a completely different world, one filled with frozen beauty and tranquility.

After breakfast, we got ready for a zodiac cruise. Our destination was close to Pléneau Island, where we would pass through the iceberg graveyard. The area was full of incredible wildlife. We saw leopard seals lounging on the ice, as well as gentoo penguins with their chicks. It was amazing to see the penguins so close, their little ones waddling around. We also spotted humpback whales surfacing nearby, their large bodies gliding through the water. The place was alive with nature. There were also a lot of stunning icebergs around, their shapes and sizes so unique and striking.

Back onboard, we were treated to a warm and hearty lunch. It was much needed after spending time out on the cold water. As we ate, the ship began to reposition, heading towards Petermann Island. This was the most southern point of our voyage, and the journey there offered more beautiful views.

When we arrived at Petermann Island, we went ashore. There, we encountered a colony of Adelie penguins with their chicks. The sight was adorable, with the little ones trying to stay close to their parents. The snow around us was slushy and uneven, making it a bit tricky to walk, but the adventure was worth it. Everywhere you looked, there was ice surrounding us, adding to the raw and untouched beauty of the place.

After a busy day of exploration, we returned to the ship for our daily recap. Shan gave an interesting explanation about the Chinese New Year and how it’s celebrated in different parts of the world. Then Koen talked about Weddell seals, explaining their habits and the role they play in the Antarctic ecosystem. It was a fascinating insight into the wildlife we had seen that day.

For dinner, we had a special BBQ night. The food was delicious, and afterward, the fun continued with dancing. It was a great way to unwind and enjoy the company of the other passengers.

Later in the evening, around 9:30 PM, we entered the Lemaire Channel. The sun was setting, casting a beautiful golden glow over the icebergs. Navigating through the channel was tricky because of all the ice, but the crew did an excellent job steering the ship safely through the narrow passages. The view of the icebergs illuminated by the sunset was breathtaking. It was the perfect end to another unforgettable day in the Antarctic.

We woke up in Paradise Bay after a long evening of dancing. The air was still, and although the weather was overcast, the calm conditions made everything seem peaceful. The view outside the window was incredible—tall icy mountains surrounded by smooth, glassy water. It felt like we had woken up in another world, far from everything familiar.

After a quick breakfast, we prepared for a morning cruise around Paradise Bay and near the Argentinian research station, Brown Base. Everyone was excited to explore. As we set out in the zodiacs, the bay came alive with wildlife. We were lucky to see humpback whales feeding in the distance. Their huge tails slapped the water as they dove, creating ripples that spread far and wide.

A moment of excitement came when a leopard seal appeared near our zodiac. Its sleek, spotted body cut through the water as it swam effortlessly around us. It was thrilling to be so close to such a powerful animal. Not far away, we saw crabeater seals lounging on the ice, their pale bodies blending with their icy surroundings. Penguins were everywhere. Some were swimming quickly in the water, darting in and out like little torpedoes. Others were on the ice, busy cleaning their feathers. Watching their playful behavior made everyone smile. It was like the wildlife was putting on a special show just for us.

The cold started to creep in after a while, so we headed back to the ship for lunch. Inside, it was warm and welcoming. Lunch was hearty and delicious, just what we needed after being out in the chilly air. We could feel the hands and face warming up as we enjoyed the meal, chatting with others about all the incredible wildlife we had just seen.

After lunch, we didn’t waste any time. We went ashore at a spot in Paradise Bay called Stony Point our continental landing. Stepping off the zodiac, we were greeted by the sight of untouched snow stretching across the landscape. It was fresh and powdery, and the crunch under our boots felt satisfying.

We played in the snow like children. Some of us laid down in it, making snow angels, while others knelt or sat to enjoy the softness. A snowball fight soon broke out, and laughter echoed around the bay as people threw snow at each other, slipping and sliding. Touching the snow with our bare hands was magical. It was icy cold, but we didn’t mind; We was having too much fun.

Then came the moment many of us had been waiting for: the polar plunge. On the stony beach, we braved the freezing water. As we stepped in, the cold hit us instantly, sending a shock through our body. But once we dove in, it felt exhilarating. The icy water was both shocking and refreshing. We quickly climbed out, shivering but smiling. Drying off and wrapping up in warm clothes back on the ship felt so comforting.

Later in the afternoon, Jens, gave a presentation about our next destination, Deception Island. It was fascinating to learn about its history and unique volcanic features.

As evening came, we gathered for the daily recap. Plans for the next day were discussed, and we reflected on everything we had seen and done that day. The snowy sheathbill and salp were mentioned, and it was exciting to think about what tomorrow might bring.

Dinner that evening was beautifully plated and absolutely delicious. Sitting with the group, sharing stories and laughter, made the meal even better. It was the perfect way to end such an adventurous day.

When bedtime came, we felt happy and exhausted. As we lay in bed, we thought about the feeding whales, playful penguins, and that shocking polar plunge. It had been a day full of unforgettable moments, and we couldn’t wait to see what adventures tomorrow would bring.

We started the day by sailing through Neptune’s Bellow, the entrance to Deception Island. The sun was shining, and fresh snow covered the active volcano, making everything look magical. The air was crisp but refreshing, and the sea was calm as we made our way forward. The landscape around us was breathtaking, with the dark volcanic rocks of Deception Island contrasting beautifully against the white snow. It was the perfect way to begin our last day in Antarctica.

Our landing was at Telefon Bay, a place known for its dramatic volcanic scenery. As soon as we stepped onto the island, we prepared for a long and steep walk around the crater. The climb was a bit challenging, but we took our time, enjoying the stunning views along the way. The sun was still shining brightly, and despite being in Antarctica, it felt surprisingly warm. We could feel the heat reflecting off the snow, making the hike quite comfortable. The silence around us was incredible—just the sound of our footsteps and the occasional gust of wind. It felt like we were walking on another planet.

After our rewarding hike, we returned to the ship, where we had a special learning session with Sara. She spoke to us about the threats facing marine mammals, such as whales and seals. It was eye-opening to learn how climate change, pollution, and human activities affect these magnificent animals. We left the session with a deeper understanding of the challenges marine life faces and why conservation efforts are so important.

Right after lunch, we got ready for our afternoon landing at Elephant Point. This place is often called "Little South Georgia in Antarctica" because of its diverse wildlife and stunning scenery. However, we experienced a slight delay before heading out. Even so, when we finally arrived, there was still plenty of time to enjoy the wildlife.

One of the highlights of Elephant Point was watching the elephant seals. These young seals were in their teenage years, which made them quite playful and noisy. They made all sorts of funny sounds—grunts, growls, and even loud snorts. Some of them were play-fighting, while others were just lying around, enjoying the sun. Their large, blubbery bodies looked clumsy on land, but we knew that in the water, they were strong and fast swimmers.

In addition to the elephant seals, there were also many penguins at the site. Most of them were molting, which means they were shedding their old feathers and growing new ones. This process makes them look quite funny because their feathers fall off in patches. Some of them looked scruffy, while others were almost done with their new coats. Molting is an important stage in a penguin's life because, during this time, they cannot go into the water to hunt for food. They must stay on land and wait until their new feathers grow in fully, providing them with waterproof protection.

As the day came to an end, we had our last landing and final ride back to the ship. The sea had become a bit rough, making the gangway a little tricky to use, but with some patience, we all got back on board safely.

Just before our evening recap session, something incredible happened—we saw humpback whales in the distance. They were breaching, leaping out of the water, and creating massive splashes. Watching these giants of the ocean perform such an amazing display was a moment none of us would forget. It was a perfect way to close out our final full day in Antarctica.

During the recap, Sara gave us more details about whale sizes, explaining the differences between various species. It was fascinating to learn how big some whales can get. Then, Adam showed us pictures of the efforts to remove the graffiti from the old hangar at Whaler’s Bay. It was good to see the work being done to preserve historical sites in Antarctica.

After that, we enjoyed a delicious buffet dinner. Everyone was in a good mood, chatting about the day's adventures and reflecting on our incredible journey. As we finished our meals, the ship started heading back into the Drake Passage. The reality of leaving Antarctica was sinking in, but we all felt grateful for the unforgettable experiences we had.

We woke up to the wake-up call from Sara. It was a wake-up call that signaled the beginning of an exciting day ahead. As we stepped outside, we could see the moderate Drake Passage before us, with a lot of fog hanging in the air, making it hard to see very far. The fog added to the mystery and adventure of the journey, and we all felt a sense of anticipation as the ship slowly moved through the waters. The Drake Passage, a body of water between South America and Antarctica, is known for its rough conditions, but this day was more calm than usual.

Shortly after breakfast, Hana, gave us more detailed information about how to observe the ocean beneath a 400-meter-thick ice shelf in Antarctica. This ice shelf is a large, floating sheet of ice that covers parts of the ocean. The thickness of the ice makes it difficult to study the water below, but Hana explained how scientists use advanced equipment to monitor and learn about this hidden ocean. The water under such thick ice shelves is home to a wide variety of unique sea creatures that have adapted to live in such extreme conditions. Hana’s talk was eye-opening, and we all had a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by researchers working in this icy part of the world.

After the short break, it was time for Chloé’s presentation about plankton. She was very enthusiastic about it, which made her presentation even more exciting. Plankton are tiny organisms that live in the water and play a huge role in the ocean ecosystem. Even though they are small, they are essential for the health of the ocean, as they are a primary food source for many marine animals. Chloé explained the two main types of plankton: phytoplankton, which are tiny plants, and zooplankton, which are tiny animals. She even showed us how plankton are collected and studied to better understand ocean life.

The Drake Passage was continuously calm that day, with waves of only about 2 meters. It made the trip much smoother than we had expected. The weather was on our side, and everyone felt comfortable moving around the ship without worrying too much about seasickness. The gentle waves gave us a chance to enjoy the surroundings and focus on the presentations without distraction.

At lunch, we were served a delicious pizza Margherita. It was a nice break after a morning of lectures and discussions. A few of us took the chance to relax and enjoy the meal while chatting with each other about what we had learned so far.

After lunch, some of us attended the navigational workshop led by Adam and Ben. The workshop was focused on teaching us the basics of navigating through the vast ocean, using maps, GPS, and other tools to help ships find their way. Adam and Ben made sure everyone understood the importance of navigation in these waters, especially when heading towards places like Antarctica, where the weather and terrain can change quickly and unexpectedly. Meanwhile, others took a short nap to recharge.

Later in the afternoon, Jens gave a lecture about ‘A Race to the South Pole’. It was a fascinating talk about the early explorers who competed to be the first to reach the South Pole. Jens explained the hardships and dangers they faced, including harsh weather, treacherous terrain, and the risks of starvation. The story of this race is a powerful reminder of the human spirit and determination, and it was a perfect way to keep up with the mindset of exploring the remote and challenging landscapes of Antarctica.

We met again for the daily recap session where Sara informed us that a storm was expected to hit us during the night. We were all a little nervous, but Sara reassured us that the ship was well-prepared to handle rough conditions. Around 10 PM, the storm started, and the wind picked up, reaching speeds of up to 70 knots. The waves grew higher, and during the night, they reached 5 to 7 meters in height. It was a real "Drake Shake" – the kind of weather that the Drake Passage is famous for. Despite the rough conditions, we all felt safe and secure on the ship, and the storm only added to the excitement of the adventure.

After a rough night with waves up to 7 meters high, we had to pick up everything that had fallen or slid around. Our chair, which had tipped over during the storm, needed to be set back up. The night had been chaotic with loud noises and strong waves, but now we were finally starting to recover from it.

"Good morning, good morning, good morning!" These were the first words we heard from Sara over the PA system after all the noise from the rough night. Her cheerful voice brought a sense of calm, and it was nice to hear her greeting after the storm.

We started our day with a simple breakfast, just eggs and bread, but it was exactly what we needed to get going. After breakfast, we joined Koen for his lecture about the ecological importance of sea ice. He explained how sea ice is crucial for many species in the Antarctic ecosystem. It's not just a cold, empty expanse; it's home to penguins, seals, and even algae that thrive in its freezing waters. Koen also mentioned how sea ice affects global climate patterns, influencing ocean currents and weather systems across the globe.

After the lecture, we had another presentation from Adam about “Operation Tabarin,” which was a secret mission by the British government in 1944. The mission aimed to establish a permanent presence in Antarctica and assert territorial claims in the region. This operation was a significant part of the history of human activity in Antarctica, as it marked the start of Britain’s interest in permanently stationing people there. Adam told us how the operation led to the founding of the first British research station in Antarctica, which laid the foundation for many future scientific missions.

In the morning, we had the chance to sit on benches on the outer deck. The sun was out, and it felt warm, especially after the wild sea conditions from the previous night. As the waves calmed down, the sea became smooth again, and we were back on a calmer part of the Drake Passage after lunch. The contrast between the rough sea and the peaceful calm we experienced later was a reminder of how unpredictable the ocean can be.

After a little nap or some time playing games in the bar, we attended our last presentation from Sara. This time, she shared information about Oceanwide's other destinations. We learned about various amazing places the company explores, including the Arctic and different parts of the Antarctic Peninsula. Sara explained how each destination offers unique experiences, from seeing polar bears in the Arctic to visiting remote islands in the southern part of the world.

As we approached the end of the journey, it was time for the captain’s farewell. We were almost back in Ushuaia, and there was a sense of excitement in the air. The captain thanked everyone for their cooperation and spirit during the voyage, and we cheered for a successful trip. We also reflected on the journey while watching a slideshow put together by Hana. The slideshow was a beautiful collection of photos from our time on board, capturing the landscapes, wildlife, and the unforgettable moments we had.

After the plated dinner, we raised our glasses in a toast to the crew. We were all grateful for their hard work and dedication. The crew had taken excellent care of us throughout the trip, making sure we were safe and comfortable despite the challenges. Without them, this adventure wouldn’t have been the same.

As we arrived late in the evening in Ushuaia, we sailed through the Beagle Channel, which was a breathtaking sight. The best part was that we got to enjoy it during daylight, as the sun was still shining. The Beagle Channel, with its stunning mountains and calm waters, marked the perfect end to our voyage. We felt a mix of sadness and satisfaction, knowing that our Antarctic adventure had come to an end, but also feeling grateful for the memories and experiences we had gained along the way.

We woke up in the harbour of Ushuaia early morning. It was a calm morning with surrounding mountains covered by a thin layer of clouds.

The crew and Expedition Team handled all the luggage and placed it on the pier, while we enjoyed one last buffet breakfast. At 08:30 it was time to leave the ship, the voyage over, and time to go our separate ways. Fond farewells were exchanged on the dock, as our band of intrepid adventurers dispersed and began the long journey home. For some of us, it was just the beginning of the next chapter in our own personal travel story.