Penguins, seals and whales

After the slightly gloomy forecast this morning this afternoon was far brighter. Now we could see the magnificent glaciers as they spilled down to the sea. These glaciers were constantly calving so that the sea was full of weird and wonderful shapes, as well as smaller ice floating on the surface.

Visibility had improved so much that we were able to use the zodiacs. Today it was a guided tour around the islands of the area; these islands were home to about 5,000 Adelie penguins. These are the smallest breed of penguin in the peninsular. It was great observing them from the sea as they walked down the penguin highways, yes penguin’s stick to the same route and wear tracks in the rocks. They would then tumble into the water and swim alongside our zodiac, every so often breaking the surface or porpoising as it is known. They were right along side the zodiacs in shoals of up to ten.

Our driver got us up close to some icebergs. They were stunning shades of blue that photographs do not do justice to. They also formed fantastic shapes as if carved by some contemporary artist. Also evident from close inspection was the vast bulk that lies under the surface.

Our next stop was to observe at close quarters five crab seals. These huge creatures weigh as much as 3,000 kilos. When we saw them they were just lying very still on the beach. Ironically these seals do not eat crabs. Later we saw one just laying on top of an iceberg.

We do not have a sudden found expertise, we were accompanies on the zodiac by a naturalist who explained in laymen’s terms every little detail.

After getting back to the ship I spotted at least three whales about a mile away. I did get one slightly blurry tail shot, but also some effective ones of them in the water.

Even though there was quite a swell Marion did magnificently getting in and out of the zodiac, we all agreed that this was the awe inspiring Antarctic that we had expected. So today I have uploaded a photo of us at the front of the zodiac as we return to the Quest, just in time for afternoon coffee. Well that it is it for today time for our evening briefing.