This was our last day in the Antarctic Peninsula, our last day in a surreal dream world of sculpted ice and amazing creatures. In the morning we sail with the Plancius through the beautiful Neumayer Channel and make one last zodiac cruise between the Melchior islands, before we head back into the Drake passage. We have heard that Humpback whales have been sighted.
Antarctic Camping with the Mv Plancius is indeed a one-of-a-kind opportunity, not to be missed by those looking to forgo a nights comfort on the ship for unique experience. What started out as Antarctic camping became another great adventure. Step 1 – find a flat spot, Step 2 – keep looking for a flat spot (the first one you found was an ice sink hole).
Elephant Seals, this far south, what a treat. Elephant Seals and Penguins existing in harmonious indifference..inspiring! Today was an amazing day of wildlife, man vs. ice, more flying penguins and just plain fun.
Antarctica has a special designation as a place for “Peace and Science”. So far, peace is one of Antarctica’s most impressive feats and Antarctic science has provided important research data regarding global climate conditions that affects us all. And thanks to the extra hard work of Ukrainian researchers, Antarctic vodka is a drink to be savored…much like place itself.
The Plancius provided a delicious outdoor BBQ event on a fine evening for our Antarctic tour. The next morning we were up early sailing through the magnificent Lemaire Channel and kayaking around Pleneau Island…holy smokes, where did all these Leopard Seals come from?
Wow, its so calm…and quiet. Once again the Antarctic exceeds my expectations of freezing white and bitter cold. I have never been more enchanted by the many colors of gray (sky, rocks, water, whales). After a comprehensive briefing on kayak safety, most of us beginners, we were excited and a little nervous to brave these chilly waters. For us kayakers, Dorian Bay did not disappoint…
Hola Travelers, we survived the Drake Passage and have spotted land on the west side of the Antarctic Penninsula. Everyone is very excited to do our 2 landings on solid ground today at Cuverville Island and Neko Harbour to see the Gentoo Penguin colonies. Penguins are both interesting and hilarious to watch.
The Plancius sailed calmly out of Ushuaia via the Beagle Channel. Soon after we began crossing the infamous “Drake Passage”. Here we had 2 days of open seas, informative lectures, wind and big swells. The Drake Passage is where the Atlantic & Pacific converge with the Southern Ocean…hang on.
Hola Travelers, finally ready to start my 11 day to/from voyage to Antarctica on a new ship called the “Plancius”!
After a long flight to Ushuaia, Argentina (on the island of Tierra del Fuego), it was a great to do a day hike to Laguna Esmerelda. My guide Daniela was exceptional at explaining everything from Tierra del Fuego flora and fauna in the area, to favorites bars & restaurants in Ushuaia. Move over Ken Burns… please to enjoy this multimedia extravaganza!
