Early this morning National Geographic Explorer cruised through ice in Antarctic Sound, at the north end of the Antarctic Peninsula, on its way to an island that has been visited infrequently by any ships this season. This particular spot has been trapped in ice for most of the Antarctic season, making it inaccessible to most ships. Paulet Island was the destination this morning, and with our ship and captain working in harmony, we were able to reach the anchorage before breakfast.
This particular landing site is a massive Adelie penguin colony, with dramatic landscape, and lots of ice and icebergs to act as resting platforms for the penguins when they are out feeding. It is a bevy of activity, with Adelies going out, coming in, walking to the beach, walking back to their nests, porpoising in the water, and jumping off and onto icebergs! There is never a dull moment in a penguin colony this size!
There was a landing and long walk offered, as well as a Zodiac cruise in amongst the icebergs, and penguins. Half way through our stay we switched out from the shore to Zodiac cruising, so everyone could enjoy the full experience of one of the biggest penguin colonies on the peninsula.
Soon it was time for lunch, and to make our way toward a possible activity in the afternoon at Brown Bluff, another peninsula landing. There were a few humpback whales along the way, as well as many more penguins on ice and out feeding.
Just about 3 p.m. Explorer arrived at Brown Bluff, and we were given two options: a landing or Zodiac cruise. Things seemed to be split about half-and-half, so everybody got off the ship to enjoy their last outing on our last day in Antarctica. What a way to end a fabulous expedition to this amazing place!
