With two days left on the schedule, we had plenty of time to explore the South Shetland Islands. Our first stop was at the horse-shoe shaped Deception Island, a sleeping volcano with an opening on the side. Whalers were using it as their base when this activity was at its peak but an eruption a few decades ago stopped any permanent human presence.
Whaling base at Deception Island
Deception Island is now a popular cruise ship stop where the famous polar plunge takes place. After a walk to the side of the crater and back, swimmers gathered on the beach and ran in the near freezing water. Because of the abrupt slop and the cold water, it feels like you’re sinking really fast. The staff is waiting with towels and a shot of Rum to warm you up!
Penguins Highway
The next two landings were spent watching wildlife, penguins and seals mostly. Penguins builds path in the snow which the staff called “Penguins Highways” and at one of the stops there was hundreds of them marching from the shore to their nest, a great sight.
Leopard Seal
Our final stop before going back to Ushuaia was at a Polish research station. We were able to visit the living quarters and walk around the base. A small shop sells souvenirs and you can get a stamp in yout passport (pretty proud of that one, quite unique!)
Polish Research Station
After spending our last moments on the continent sunbathing on the (pebble) beach, everybody got back on the ship for some evening activities and a small party. We started our way back through the Drake Passage hoping it would be as smooth as on the first trip.
Check out all the photos related to this post on Flickr »
Expedition To Antarctica - Part 3: Cruising Down The Peninsula
Expedition To Antarctica - Part 2: First Landing
Expedition To Antarctica - Part 5: End Of The Journey
Expedition To Antarctica - Part 1: Crossing The Drake
A Break From The Altitude In The Pampas
