Tuesday 28th January, Iceberg Ahead, Land Ahoy!

Once again, we slept well and had an early start to the day. We did some whale spotting before Millie and I went to the gym around 6.15am, while the boys headed to the laundry with our washing. While in the gym, we saw more whales and our first icebergs. This was exciting and the further we ventured the larger the icebergs. Following breakfast, we attended a compulsory briefing for people who hoped to be able to kayak during the next few days in Antarctica. We all went and are really hoping that we will be able to do this activity. We were shown photos of how you get into the kayak and a video of how you get out…..which seemed to be the most challenging part of the excursion.J Another demonstration was how we would put on and take off the specially designed “dry-suit” which you would wear kayaking. Again, this could be quite the challenge. The scenery became more interesting as we passed snow and ice covered volcanic looking islands. These included King George Island, Livingstone, Deception Island and many other small islands.  Another lecture provided us with interesting information about “What is a sea-bird?”. These lectures are provided by members of the expedition team who have the expertise in the topic. Later in the afternoon, we enjoyed an unusual session about crimes in Antarctica. In between the talks we enjoyed watching the ever-changing magnificent scenery of ice, snow, icebergs, whales, birds etc. The actual itinerary for today had a late change and this was due to the fact that we had arrived in Charcot Bay, Antarctica and that zodiac cruises had been organised for the guests.  We were very excited and so had our dinner and then went to our room to dress by layering, up to go out in the zodiacs. It honestly is too difficult to describe the beauty of this zodiac excursion amongst the icebergs and wildlife. We were lucky to see two leopard seals lying on small icebergs and a whale. Our trip lasted around 40 minutes before we returned to the ship. We had only just got back on board the ship and were in the lift, returning to our rooms when there was an announcement to say that 3 humpback whales were frolicking near the ship. They were probably 50 metres from the ship and started at the bow and proceeded to entertain us with a wonderful display that brought joy to all who saw this. They were blowing and making noises, diving, banging their tails etc. Rob captured some great video of this. As they moved away from the stern of the boat, they continued to display these behaviours. It was almost as if they had come to greet the ship. The weather for this excursion was perfect so we were very lucky. Apparently, it is the best it will be for our trip but even if this is all that we got to do I would still die happy and think how lucky we have been.