Well, we got up very early this morning, because the scenic narration was scheduled to begin at 7am. But looking outside our window, we could see nothing but fog, and sort of knew the intended destination of the Antarctic Sound and Hope Bay were doubtful. Thinking positively, we went to the bow, and found that we were the only ones out there. And was it cold and windy? Extremely so, as we waited until 8am for the commentary to begin. At least we did get some good photos of the Cape petrels that were following the ship. Sure would have been nice if someone gave us all a clue as to what was happening. Speaking of the commentary, it has been happening on all outside decks VIA the loudspeakers. However, the speaker's voices have been very controlled, and at times, very difficult to hear. And if you chose to stay inside your room, the commentary was also on TV.
We figured we might as well go to breakfast, and that was when Captain Jonathon announced that due to zero visibility, the scenic cruising had been cancelled for the day. In addition, he added that two Argentinian naval vessels were sailing near us, even though we could not see them. They may have been assisting us with our sailing.
So what did we miss today? The Antarctic Sound is famous for their tabular icebergs. They can be very large. This area is whipped by strong winds called "katabatic", which scream downhill from the polar ice cap. It is reportedly the best sight-seeing in the entire peninsula, best viewed from inside the ship. However, with this dense fog, we could run into them before we saw them. Thoughts of the Titanic flashed before our eyes briefly.
Hope Bay is the area where the Chilean Esperanza Research Station is located at the mouth of the bay. It is Argentina's largest station, housing 50 men, women, and children. Originally staffed by Argentinian army personnel, it is a year-round facility these days. Families are based here for one year, and there is even a school with teachers for the kids. In fact, the very first baby was born here in January 1978, and since then, seven more have been born.
It is probably a good time to mention the political and operational situations in Antarctica, as they are quite unique. Because of the Treaty of 1959, military activity is banned on the continent. Antarctica is to be utilized for scientific and peaceful purposes. Several countries have territorial claims, but the management is carried out cooperatively. As long as the treaty is in force, in accordance with international law, all sovereignty claims are deferred.
One of the highlights for many guests was the Sunday brunch Sampler, with a three-course set menu. We do not participate, because many of the choices are not to our liking or compatible with allergies. Better stick to our favorites in the Lido.
We kept busy all day trying to catch up with three days of back-logged computer work. Breaking for lunch, we had a nice chat with Bill and Leta in the Lido. Normally, we catch up on news while at the Seaview Pool, but the only folks outside are the dedicated smokers. And few of those, since it is so cold out there.
Around 5:45pm, the Captain came on with an announcement that we should be coming upon two gigantic icebergs on our way sailing around the tip of King George Island. So we threw on the jackets and gloves, grabbed the cameras, and headed for the bow. Passing through the Mainstage on deck four, we saw the room decorated for the upcoming Super Bowl football game beginning at 7:30pm. For a change, it was nice to get some pictures of the lounge before it got filled with customers.
Heading for the bow entrance, we found the hatch was closed. But we know how to open the latches, and soon we had the door opened and secured with the hook. Several of us went outside into the coldest and windiest conditions so far this trip. Even though the sun had peeked out, we could barely stand up when the blast of frigid air hit us. But we did get to see those massive ice bergs, one on each side of the ship. Some birds were flying past us, then quite by surprise, we spotted whales. Some very close to the ship. At least the day was not wasted, and we did get to see the last views of Antarctica as we sailed northwesterly towards the Drake Passage.
And with that, our final word on this continent of Antarctica is that it is a land of extremes…..the coldest, windiest, driest, highest, most remote, and least understood continent on earth. – Martin Glassner -. To that, we say…Amen.
We had just enough time to defrost, and get ready for dinner. Barb, Susie and Woody were attending the game festivities in the Mainstage, so we had company for dinner….Leslie and Handler, who we have known since 2005. We sure enjoyed their visit, giving us all a chance to share info on the trip so far. Wanting to taste some of the football game food that was being served in the Mainstage, Leslie took the time to go there and get a plateful of goodies. She brought back sliders, chicken wings, and a lobster sandwich to share with the six of us. That was good for starters, but our meals of breaded chicken tenders and prime rib were even better. Most all of us had light desserts of frozen yogurt or ice cream. By the time we left the room, it was empty of diners. Everyone either went to the show lounge or to their rooms to watch the rest of the game. At least the TV was cooperating, and not rolling with annoying lines like it has been since the trip began. Perhaps ESPN comes in through a different source, like streaming.
We will have two days at sea now as we head for the next port of Ushuaia, a charming city in southern Argentina. In order to get there, we have to transit the Drake Passage, which has been known to be the most turbulent waters in the world. Sure hope it behaves.
Bill & Mary Ann
Friday, February 14, 2020
Report #88 Antarctica Scenic Cruising Day # 4 February 2, 2020 Sunday Foggy & 34 degrees
