HDS27-25, trip log, Antarctica - Discovery and learning voyage

Our adventure started in Ushuaia, the Southernmost city in the world that is nestled between towering mountains and the infamous Beagle Channel. Having travelled from all over the world, we eagerly boarded Hondius, our state-of-the-art expedition ship and new home for the next ten days.

Welcoming us onboard was the Expedition and Hotel teams that guided us to our cabins and helped familiarize us with our new surroundings, this was followed by our mandatory safety briefing which was held in the lounge, accompanied with a lifejacket demonstration and lifeboat introduction. As Hondius slowly moved off the berth, it pirouetted into a South Easterly direction and started to sail along the 150 mile / 240 km Beagle Channel. During this time, we once again gathered in the lounge for our Captains welcome onboard introduction, accompanied with a customary toast to our forthcoming adventure.

We were then introduced to Chris, our Expedition Leader and his team of Expedition Guides who informed us of their specialty subjects of interest / knowledge and their collective love for the Antarctic region. We ended the day with a buffet dinner in the restaurant and a beautiful evening outside on the bow and open decks. As we continued to sail towards the open ocean we were greeted by our first glimpses of Whales, Albatross and Petrels. A perfect start to our expedition – our Antarctic dream was finally a reality…

After a quiet first night, we woke up to a calm sea with the silhouette of Tierra del Fuego still in sight. Some of us had been up and outside for hours already to observe the different seabird species – including our first Albatrosses - that were effortlessly following the ship. It was nice to feel the breeze of the ocean as it was not too cold yet to be outside and have a walk around the ship.

The day was filled with lectures from Jerry, Charlotte, Mark and Ross. Jerry and Charlotte introduced us to the world of Whales and Mark invited us to hear more about the Seabirds we may encounter and his work on Bird Island on South Georgia. We also received our new muck boots, that will serve us well for our time in Antarctica.

After lunch it started to become foggy outside which made it a little more difficult to find Whales, but the search continued from the team. We spent some time to get to know our fellow travellers and the rest of the staff and crew who will be with us the rest of the trip. In the afternoon Chris and his Expedition Team invited us to the Lounge to explain the plans for tomorrow and the daily recap. As the day came to an end, the sun started to sink behind a layer of clouds just over the horizon, tinting the ocean and the giant petrels, that have accompanied us all day and into the night.

The morning began as the gentle sway of the sea greeted the day. The soft chime of the wake-up call from Expedition Leader Chris at 07:45 stirred everyone from their slumbers. It was a calm, serene morning, with the waves barely rocking the ship. Most of the guests were awake, feeling healthy and energized—there would be no seasickness to slow them down today. The buffet breakfast was a welcome treat, and as they gathered around the tables, the excitement of their upcoming adventure hung in the air. Shortly after breakfast, the passengers were ushered into the lounge for the mandatory IAATO (International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators) and Zodiac briefing. Chris, along with AEL Jerry, explained the importance of following rules while traveling through such an untouched and fragile environment. It was a lesson in respect—respect for the animals, the land, and the water. They also learned the correct way to board and exit the Zodiacs, which, while seemingly simple, was crucial for both safety and efficiency. The excitement was palpable as the group realized just how close they were to stepping onto Antarctica’s shores.

By 11:15, everyone gathered again for a lecture with Expedition Guides Rose and Marcello about Antarctic history. As the speakers shared tales of explorers braving the harsh conditions, of the scientific discoveries made in the icy expanse, and of the wildlife that called this place home, the room was captivated. Lunchtime arrived at 12:30, and the group took the opportunity to recharge and relax. Some ventured out onto the outer decks to catch glimpses of the ocean's wildlife, hoping for a sighting of curious seals or a distant whale spout. The call for biosecurity came soon after, and everyone gathered in the observation lounge, ready for the next step in their preparations. The guides meticulously checked every layer of clothing—waterproof jackets, hats, gloves, backpacks, and boots—cleaning and vacuuming any potential contaminants to keep the Antarctic environment pristine.

At 16:15, Expedition Guide Marco led another fascinating lecture—this time about the different types of ice the group would encounter. The passengers listened intently, learning how icebergs and glaciers come in different shapes and sizes, each with its own story. As the day wound down, at 18:15, everyone gathered in the observation lounge once more for the daily recap. Chris shared the plan for the next day, their first day on the Antarctic continent. And just had dinner commenced Andi had spotted a pod of Orcas behind the ship!! The ship quickly turned and we watched a pod of Type A Orcas next to the ship for 15 minutes, wow what a fantastic start. For many, this was the culmination of a lifelong dream had already started.

Today started with the honking calls of Gentoo Penguins as they surrounded the ship as we came to anchor at Danco Island. Lying in the southern portion of the Errera Channel, initially charted by Gerlache between 1897 and 1899. Once landed, the climb to the top of the peak, passed many gentoo colonies bustling with adults and chicks of varying sizes, the breeding season in full swing. Once at the top, the stunning, brooding and dramatic scenery in every direction meant that there was always something new and impressive to absorb. From the top of the island, it was possible to view many of the Humpback Whales diving and fluking in the channel that were enthralling the mornings zodiac cruise. On the water Leopard Seals on the ice and swimming under the zodiacs provided incredible views.

The afternoon landing and zodiac cruise took place at Cuverville Island and again the Humpback Whales provided a display on the water for the zodiacs with at least on mother and calf present. On the island the stunning views over the iceberg graveyard on the far side of the island were only made more incredible by the whales fluking in front of the icebergs. On land, breeding Adelie and Gentoo Penguins provided the interest; watching chicks being fed, adults providing their ‘ecstasy displays’ claiming nests sites, greeting partners or displaying to potential mates. The day finished with recap from the Expedition Team and a delicious dinner from the chefs.

Diving Team – Danco Island
The first dive of any polar dive trip is always a check out dive. This allows divers to make sure their equipment is configured efficiently and they are weighted correctly. For this we dive a shallow shelving rocky slope to allow the divers to pick a safe depth to test all aspects of the equipment and safety procedures. This can be doubly important as they may be diving with someone they have not met before, and styles of diving differ. Once this basic dive is complete, as long a time allows, all divers get time ashore to explore alongside other ship guests. Although normally just a necessary dive for any trip, today one of the team, Archer Lamp’l also hit a major milestone and became the youngest person ever (being 11) to dive all seven continents.

Cuverville Island
This was a wall dive along the Eastern side of the island offered a classic Antarctic dive, one that promised both beauty and challenge. The divers dropped in, following the simple instruction to "keep the wall to your right," ensuring everyone swam in the same direction underwater and stayed together. The steepness of the site was key; it meant that there was less ice scour during the winter months, creating an environment where life could flourish at relatively shallow depths. Higher up, the kelp swayed in the currents, but as the divers descended, the kelp gave way to rock covered with encrusting organisms, painting a striking contrast between the vibrant life on the surface and the more rugged, intricate ecosystems below. It was a dive that truly captured the essence of the Antarctic underwater world.

Early in the morning, M/V Hondius embarked on a breathtaking navigation through the Lemaire Channel, one of the most spectacular routes in the Antarctic Peninsula. The weather was ideal with a light north-easterly breeze, and though brash ice at the entrance made for a slightly challenging start, it was passable, with Unas tits standing as a natural navigational marker. After crossing the Penola Strait, the ship anchored on the eastern side of Petermann Island, which holds historical significance. It was named by German geographer August Petermann and had been used by Charcot’s 3rd French Antarctic Expedition as a wintering site in the early 1900s.

After breakfast, we set foot on the island and began a hike toward a viewpoint on the western side. As we walked, we encountered scattered rockeries of Gentoo penguins and some less populated areas with Adelie penguins. The brisk air and rising mist slowly unveiled the craggy peaks of the mainland Peninsula, with Mount Scott and Cape Tuxen standing tall in the distance. The sight was mesmerizing, especially as the northern end of the Lemaire Channel came into clear view. Meanwhile, the waters of the Penola Strait were alive with the presence of numerous Humpback whales—some cruising north while others rested on the surface, and nearby, Crabeater Seals lay basking on the ice floes, enjoying the weak warmth of the shy sun.

By lunchtime, the ship repositioned to Salpetriere Bay, located to the north of Booth Island. This area was historically significant, too, as it was where Charcot’s 2nd French Antarctic Expedition wintered in 1904. Today, Port Charcot is home to three penguin species found in the Peninsula region: Gentoo, Adelie, and Chinstrap penguins. We had the chance to see all three species through the expedition team's scope while ashore. The terrain was slippery due to snowmelt, but the high spirits of our group and the incredible landscape kept everyone motivated. We then made our way to Charcot’s cairn, which was built more than a century ago. Charcot had hidden his data and left a message for any future explorers in case his expedition failed to return.

From the cairn, the views were truly stunning. To the west, an endless horizon of icebergs and bergy bits stretched out before us, while to the east, the massive glaciers of Booth Island loomed. Mount Francais, named after Charcot’s first ship, rose majestically to the North. To the south, the iceberg graveyard of Salpetriere Bay was equally awe-inspiring, with its frozen beauty taking our breath away. Later, we boarded Zodiacs for an exploration of the waters surrounding the bay. Humpback whales were feeding in the channels created by the surrounding islands and icebergs.

The excitement was palpable as the whales dove, changed direction, and stirred the waters, creating a feeding frenzy. Penguins, Terns, and Petrels swooped in to take advantage of the churned-up waters. Moving to the Western side of the bay, we encountered several Leopard seals, either resting on the remaining fast ice or joyfully playing near our Zodiac, providing an entertaining end to our exploration.As the day drew to a close and we gathered for the daily recap, we couldn’t help but reflect on how lucky we were to experience such a rich combination of history, wildlife, and landscapes in the White Continent. The end of the second day marked a real sense of privilege—witnessing these magnificent sights so early in the voyage was nothing short of extraordinary.

Diving Team – Petermann Island
Today, we took full advantage of the local conditions and had an 'ice day.' Every diver who visits the area dreams of diving around an iceberg, and this region of the peninsula always delivers with a high number of icebergs in all shapes and sizes. It was relatively easy to find a low and stable berg to dive around, offering the perfect opportunity. Above the water, the smooth, wind-blown surface gave way to sculpted shapes, gullies, and fascinating textures below, often fizzing with bubbles as melting ice continued its slow, natural process. The strange currents caused by shifts in water density and the surreal underwater shapes made for a fun, unique diving experience. The second dive was cut short, however, due to drifting ice, so a group of us decided to head to a small island nearby to explore the macro side of life. We spent time among the rocks, observing the smaller creatures that thrived in this frozen world, adding a new layer of fascination to the day’s diving adventures.

On the sixth day in Antarctica, the group was awakened promptly at 6:45 AM by the crisp sound of the wake-up call. The air outside was biting cold, but the anticipation of another day of exploration kept everyone energized. After a hearty buffet breakfast from 7:00 to 8:00 AM in the dining room on Deck 4, the passengers gathered, excitedly chatting about yesterday’s adventures and ready for the day ahead. The morning activities were especially thrilling, starting with the Blue Group heading to the Zodiac boarding area on Deck 3 at 8:15 AM, bound for Damoy Point. This historic site, once home to the British Antarctic Survey’s “airport,” now stood as a quiet testament to the past. The Zodiacs cut through the icy waters, with Gentoo penguins playfully waddling across the ice. Once ashore, the group hiked briefly, leaving footprints in the pristine snow while exploring the Damoy Hut, a weathered reminder of Antarctica’s harsh history.

At the same time, the Red Group set out on a Zodiac cruise, skimming across the icy waters, marvelling at the untouched beauty of the landscape. Afterward, the groups swapped activities, giving everyone a chance to experience both adventures. By noon, everyone returned to the ship for a buffet lunch, and the afternoon featured a fascinating presentation by the UK Antarctic Heritage Trust (UKAHT) in the lounge, offering insight into the region’s history and conservation efforts. Later, the group boarded Zodiacs again to visit Port Lockroy, home to a historic Antarctic post office. The small, snow-covered building stood as a tribute to earlier British Antarctic expeditions. After a few small groups visited the post office, others enjoyed a Zodiac cruise around Jougla Point, where they spotted Gentoo penguins and cormorants nesting on rocky cliffs.

The day wrapped up with a special BBQ dinner on Deck 5 at 7:00 PM. As the scent of grilled food filled the air, guests gathered under the vast Antarctic sky, with snow-capped mountains providing a stunning backdrop. Despite the chill, the warmth from the food, music, and camaraderie made the evening unforgettable. After dinner, the group gathered on deck to dance and celebrate together, laughter and music echoing under the polar night. The cold air seemed to fuel their energy, and the evening became a joyful and festive celebration in the heart of Antarctica. It was a day of exploration, breathtaking sights, and unforgettable moments, leaving everyone eager for the adventures yet to come.

Diving Team – Damoy Point
The dive site featured a relatively steep rocky slope, nestled within one of the channels. Because of its location, ice scour was usually limited, allowing for a vibrant and colorful underwater world to flourish. As the divers descended, they were greeted by a stunning array of kelp and rocks, all covered in life. Algae, soft corals, and sponges in shades of yellow, orange, and pink added brilliant pops of color against the otherwise stark, icy world. It was a striking contrast to the beautiful but monochromatic scenery above the water, and as the divers explored, the colorful marine life felt like a hidden treasure in the frozen wilderness. It was a dive that highlighted the surprising vibrancy of life beneath the surface, a reminder that even in the most extreme environments, nature found a way to thrive.

Jougla Point (Port Lockroy)
At first, the shallow shelving site with its few rocky terraces and muddy bottom didn’t seem like much of an exciting dive spot. But once the divers descended, they quickly realized there was more to this place than met the eye. Scattered throughout the site were whale bones and partial skeletons, remnants of the Antarctic’s ancient past. The sight of these giant bones against the stark, icy backdrop created an eerie yet fascinating scene, offering a glimpse into the region’s deep history. As the divers moved across the terraces, they also had the chance to spot giant isopods, their massive forms slowly creeping along the ocean floor. The mix of ancient history and unique marine life made the dive unexpectedly captivating, turning what initially seemed like a simple site into a rich and memorable exploration of both the past and the present.

When we woke up this morning, Hondius was anchored in Foyn Harbour, close to Enterprise Island. Thin clouds hung over distant peaks. Close to the ship we could see vertical ice cliffs. It looked like somebody had overdone it with the icing on the birthday cake. Soon after breakfast we boarded the zodiacs for a cruise. In its heyday Foyn Harbour was a busy whaling area between 1915 and 1930. It offered protection to the whaling factory ships and the smaller whale catchers. We visited the rusty wreck of the Governøren. A whaling factory ship that was intentionally run aground and scuttled when a fire broke out on board. Over 16 000 barrels of whale oil, the harvest of a full season, were lost, but all 85 men on board were saved.

Today the whales, once slaughtered to near extinction, have returned. It was amazing to watch these gracious animals. On the coast we also saw Blue-eyed Shags, Antarctic turns, Skuas and Kelp Gulls. Icebergs in all forms and shapes floated in the bays. Another attraction was the beverage zodiac which offered cold guests a hot chocolate with cream and – if desired- a good glug of rum. During lunchtime Hondius repositioned to Charlotte Bay. Our destination for the afternoon was Portal Point. Here we could finally set food on the real continent. Portal Point was named by the British who established a base here in 1956. For them it was a door to the spine of the Antarctic Peninsula, where they carried out survey work supported by dog teams.

For us it was a glorious viewpoint over ice littered bays. The climb to the top of the point was a bit icy, but it was well worth it. Many took photos with the Antarctic flag and for some people it was their 7th continent. A Leopard Seal slept at the bottom of the hill during the whole landing, not aware of the significance of the visit. Two Chinstrap Penguins posed on an ice floe. This was for many a new species of penguins. While one group landed at Portal Point others went on a zodiac cruise. Highlights were encounters with Humpback Whales and the visit of a group of Chinstrap Penguins. Towards the end of the zodiac cruise the wind picked up considerably and the waves made it interesting to get back to the ship.

After the daily recap we joined the queues in the dining room. The galley team had come up with a special surprise for the Chinese New Year and many Asian delicacies were on offer. The Chinese guests got into the swing and celebrated the end of the year of the dragon and the beginning of the year of the snake. After dinner the new year’s celebrations kicked up a notch. There were speeches, games and a quiz. Prices were awarded, cups with popcorn were handed out and one or two alcoholic beverages were consumed. Here we leave the celebrations because what happens in Antarctica stays in Antarctica.

Diving Team – Foyn Harbour (Governøren)
In the shallows of Foyn Harbour, the wreck of a ship broke the surface, its bow providing the perfect spot to tie up the dive zodiacs. Though it had slowly begun collapsing under the relentless forces of snow and ice, the wreck remained a remarkably scenic dive. The low temperatures and absence of wood-boring organisms had helped preserve many of its features. As the divers explored, they discovered the ship’s machinery, boilers, barrels, and wooden decking, along with boxes of harpoon heads that had remained untouched for years. The stern area, protected from the ice, was especially picturesque. The rudder and propeller were covered in colorful algae and anemones, creating a stunning contrast against the backdrop of the icy waters. It was a dive that felt like stepping back in time, as the wreck stood frozen in history, teeming with life in the most unexpected way.

Portal Point
The area we ventured to was a relatively exposed, glaciated landscape, where the rock had been heavily ice-scoured over time. The far side of one of the islands offered a rocky slope, and as we descended, we discovered a surprising variety of benthic life thriving in this seemingly harsh environment. It was a spot that, until our visit, may not have been dived before. The underwater world was pristine and full of life, and the contrast between the ice-carved, rugged rocks and the colorful marine creatures was striking. It felt like we had stumbled upon something untouched, a hidden gem beneath the surface, offering a glimpse into a part of the world few had the chance to explore. The dive was both a discovery and a reminder of how much there was still to uncover in these remote, frozen waters.

Our expedition leader Chris woke us up at 0700 setting the stage for an incredible day ahead. Our day at Deception Island was nothing short of magical. The South Shetland Islands greeted us with an unusually pleasant surprise—a sunny, windless day with fresh snow blanketing the volcanic landscape. This was a rare treat, as Deception Island is known for its harsh and unpredictable weather. The pristine white contrast against the dark volcanic sands gave the island an entirely different look from its usual stark, black terrain. Deception Island is one of the most unique places in Antarctica, a horseshoe-shaped caldera formed by volcanic activity. It is still an active volcano, and its flooded caldera creates a natural harbor, making it a historically significant whaling station. Whalers Bay, where we began our journey, holds the eerie remains of an old Norwegian whaling station from the early 20th century, as well as British research station ruins, a silent testament to the island’s past.

Later in the morning, we embarked on a zodiac cruise to a nearby Chinstrap Penguin colony. These feisty little birds, named for the distinctive black band under their chins, are known for their comical, quarrelsome nature. Fun fact: chinstrap penguins can produce a deafening chorus of calls, earning them the nickname "the noisiest penguins in the world!" We watched in delight as they waddled about, squabbled over pebbles, and leaped effortlessly from the water onto the rocks. Back on shore, we made our way to Deception Island’s extremely steamy beach, a surreal location where geothermal activity warms the sands, creating a misty, almost otherworldly atmosphere. Here, 73 brave and exhilarated adventurers took the ultimate Antarctic challenge—the Polar Plunge! With excited screams and contagious laughter, they dashed into the icy waters, only to rush back out, breathless and triumphant. The energy was electric, and the sheer joy on everyone’s faces made this a moment to remember forever.

In the afternoon, we set off for Hanna Point, a wildlife haven. Almost immediately, we encountered a group of Humpback Whales engaging in lunge feeding, their massive mouths gaping open as they surged through the water, sending cascades of droplets into the air. As we drifted along the shore, we spotted Gentoo and Chinstrap Penguins darting through the water like torpedoes. Elephant Seals lay piled on the beaches, their massive, blubbery bodies heaving with each breath. A Leopard Seal was resting on the shore, its sleek body stretched out on the sand. We observed its powerful build and distinctive spotted coat, a reminder of its status as one of Antarctica’s top predators.

With hearts full of awe and cameras full of memories, we returned to our ship, knowing we had just experienced a truly extraordinary day in one of the world’s most remote and mysterious places. That evening, we gathered to listen to Julian’s fascinating recap about volcanoes in Antarctica, deepening our appreciation for the incredible landscapes we had explored.

Diving Team – South Shetlands Island, Deception Island - Whalers Bay
The divers set out for a dive in the bay offshore from the oil storage tanks, eager to explore the volcanic seabed below. The area was known for its scattered brittle stars and urchins, creating a fascinating, textured landscape. There was also the possibility of finding wreckage from the maintenance of whaling vessels, remnants of a bygone era. However, as they descended into the water, they quickly realized the visibility was far worse than expected. Recent weather had stirred up the sea, leaving the divers with only a few feet of sight. Most of the group, disappointed by the conditions, decided to return early. Despite the murkiness, the wreckage they’d hoped to uncover remained just out of reach, hidden beneath the cloudy waters, leaving a sense of unfinished exploration and a longing for a clearer day to come.

Hannah Point
The site was incredibly exposed to wind and waves, making it a tough location to dive. As the group arrived, they were greeted by a dramatic scene— a leopard seal was seen flailing a penguin in the water before quickly disappearing into the depths. Below, the stony seabed was scattered with penguin bones, a stark indication that this area might be one of the seal’s favorite hunting grounds. Later in the dive, a lucky pair of divers found themselves visited by the very same leopard seal. Curious and unafraid, the seal made several approaches, allowing the divers to capture the mesmerizing moments on camera. It was a rare and unforgettable experience, the perfect way to cap off a busy trip, leaving the group with a sense of awe and wonder at the raw beauty of the Antarctic wildlife.

It was the first full day of Northbound navigation across the Drake, and the Hondius had set course for the next leg of the journey. The wake-up call came at a relaxed 07:45, allowing everyone to ease into the day. As the passengers emerged and looked outside, they were greeted by nothing but thick fog, completely obscuring the landscape. Despite the disorienting conditions, the crew knew the fog wouldn't last long, and the weather forecast promised clearing skies. However, as the ship entered a low-pressure system, winds and waves were expected to increase throughout the day and into the night.

The plan for the day was simple: to relax and endure the rolling seas while enjoying four engaging presentations. Chris kicked things off by sharing his experiences from his summer at Scott Base, offering fascinating insight into life at the Kiwi station. Charlotte and Jerry then teamed up to deliver a bilingual presentation about the "Race to the Pole," detailing the intense competition between Scott and Amundsen to reach the South Pole. In the afternoon, Pierre captivated the group with his personal stories of observing Humpback Whales, offering a rich, heartfelt look at these incredible creatures. The mix of education and entertainment made for a memorable day despite the rough seas.

As evening settled in, the group enjoyed some light entertainment after dinner. The movie Surf’s Up and popcorn provided a cozy distraction just before the weather took a turn for the worse. By 10:30 PM, the winds had strengthened, and the Hondius was pushing its way through larger waves. Passengers who ventured to the bow windows were treated to a dramatic show of nature, with waves crashing against the ship and water splashing high into the air. For many, the night was marked by the relentless rocking of the ship, which continued for hours, reminding everyone of the unpredictable power of the Drake Passage. Despite the challenges, the day was filled with laughter, learning, and the awe-inspiring force of nature.

As the ship sailed through the Drake Passage, making its way back from Antarctica, the passengers woke to the gentle roll of the waves, a comforting rhythm that accompanied them through the early morning. The sound of the ocean was a peaceful reminder of the adventure they had just completed. They gathered for a hearty breakfast buffet, fueling up for a day filled with fascinating lectures. Katja was the first to speak today, her impassioned discussion on climate change resonating deeply with the group. She highlighted the rapid changes occurring on the planet, from melting ice sheets to rising sea levels, leaving the travelers with a renewed sense of urgency and responsibility.

Later, Rose and Marcelo captivated the audience with the remarkable story of the Belgica Expedition, the first men to overwinter in Antarctica in 1897. As they shared the crew's trials—endless isolation, freezing temperatures, and the struggle to survive—everyone felt a new connection to the waters they were crossing. The tale of human perseverance in such extreme conditions struck a chord, reminding them of the incredible resilience it takes to explore the unknown.

The day concluded with Ross’s lecture on the environmental aspects of their own expedition. He explained the advanced technology onboard the Hondius, designed to minimize their environmental impact and adhere to IAATO regulations. At 1800, we all gathered for the Captain’s Cocktail, celebrating the journey with a final farewell. Ross presented a heartfelt slideshow, filled with photos from the trip, which moved many to tears. As the images flickered across the screen, the travelers realized how deeply this experience had touched their hearts, creating bonds and memories that would last long after the ship returned to port.

We heard Chris’s soft Kiwi accent for the final time time for the wakeup call. We put our suitcases outside the cabin at 0730 then made our way to the fabulous buffet breakfast to fill up one more time. What a fantastic trip it has been, far beyond expectations, it was a bitter sweet moment leaving the ship, but we hope to be back one day for a South Georgia expedition. We said our final goodbyes to the staff and off we went into the big wide world, ready to fend for ourselves.