And we are off! Yesterday, we boarded National Geographic Orion in Ushuaia and set sail on this epic journey to Antarctica, South Georgia Island, and the Falklands. We traveled down the Beagle Channel and somewhere last night we entered the southern ocean. The Drake Passage, a body of water known for its rough seas, was placid. We awoke this morning to gentle winds and calm seas as we headed south.
Throughout the day, we kept a continual watch for seabirds. A few albatross were seen circling the ship. A young wandering albatross wowed us with its massive wingspan, the largest of any bird. Petrels, shearwaters, and other albatross allowed us to practice our id skills and photographic skills. Towards mid-day, as we were at least 200 miles off shore, a few groups of macaroni penguins were spotted. This emphasized the point that we have been enjoying true seabirds. This is their home, land is merely a place to lay eggs.
As the day continued the winds built a bit, but we continued south in comfort. Our excitement is building. Tomorrow, we should arrive in Antarctica. We look forward to many things, including landfall, penguins, and icebergs. As the day finished, many of us went out on deck to enjoy a beautiful Drake Passage.
