Carcass Island basked in the morning sun, but a strong breeze reminded us all where we were. The mesmerizing white sandy beaches and turquoise color of the seas may confuse the inattentive visitor that this scenery fits in with warmer climate of the tropics. However, playful Commerson’s dolphins followed the wake of our Zodiacs and the sighting of gentoo and Magellanic penguins was well worth facing the wind. The options we had were plenty to feed the appetite of those wishing for a long hike across the island, or for the more exploratory kind.
Polar explorers of bygone eras could guarantee there would be hardship on their voyages in exchange for discovery and conquests. For us modern explorers, our efforts for visiting Carcass Island were rewarded today with a delicious morning tea prepared in true Falkland Island fashion. Our generous hosts invited us to their home for a fantastic treat of homemade scones, cakes and sweet slices. What a great way to invigorate our spirits in the search for more adventure!
The afternoon was also full of surprises. West Point Island is a privately-owned island carefully managed to combine farming with wildlife conservation. Following farm tracks, we arrived at the untamed colony of thousands of black-browed albatross who were soaring above us. To escape the wind we found comfort between the tussock grasses, spending hours watching these graceful gliders coming back from the sea. The seemingly uncoordinated landings of the albatross had us all smiling, as well as enjoying the oversized chicks that could barely fit in their nests but were eagerly awaiting the arrival of their next meal.
