We woke this morning to find that the ship had relocated to another fabulous small circular harbor surrounded by amazingly high monoliths of granite. There was little shoreline visible with the ice shelves meeting the water’s edge from a sharp decline. After breakfast we suited up for our first landing-a glacial hike up to the top of one of the ridgelines surrounding the bay, and a chance to see our first Chinstrap Penguin colonies. After our landing it was quickly decided that climbing the 45 degree smooth ice face of the slope was not safe and we returned to the ship. After a short sail we found ourselves in yet another quiet cove surrounded by a huge colony of Gento penguins. After landing we spent about two hours roaming through the various nesting spots and taking photos. Afterwards, and before returning to the ship, we were treated to a harbor cruise among the massive icebergs.
Back at the ship we had lunch while cursing to our next destination, Wilhelmina Bay, and with hopes of sighting whales. Laurie also hinted at a special event that would take place in the last afternoon. The scenery was spectacular and sure enough we sighted several humpback whales as we cruised through jagged mountains and a myriad of glaciers and glacial plains.
At 3:00 PM we were all invited to a Polar Plunge. Yep, down to our skivvies, and into the 34 degree water of Antarctica. Of the 100 passengers, 34 decided they were lunatics AND of the 34 lunatics, six of our twelve opted for the event. First in line was Kathryn, followed by Frenchy, then Tom and Bobbie, then Rita, and finishing up with John. Donning lifejackets and a tether with a twenty foot line, we all took our turns at bravely walking down the gangway, jumping in the water, and then very QUICKLY getting out and back up and into the ship. It was a blast and everyone both wet and dry had a great time. Those that braved the lunacy were given certificates to commemorate their feat.
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