The bus tour ended where we got on a catamaran for lunch and sailed through the Beagle Channel. It is a pretty long channel with snow streaked mountains on either side and little islands with plenty of sea lions and different species of birds. At around 4:30 we reached the pier where the National Geographic Explorer was docked. An amazing ship…truly an expedition ship with a touch of luxury. Fortunately, it did not rain in Ushuaia until around 4 pm so we were spared the bad weather and were able to get plenty of pictures in the open while sailing. It was only while embarking did we have some heavy downpour. The ship set sail at 6PM sharp. (all times local - Argentina is 2 hours ahead of EST). Right now as I blog, we are just about to enter the sea and I can feel the ship pitch a little from side to side…very subtle so far. We are going to pass through Drakes Passage which is considered one of the roughest seas with swells anywhere from 30-60 feet! Can't wait to experience that! They say either its going to be the 'Drake Lake' or the 'Drake Shake' only time will tell.
Once the ship set sail, it was the mandatory fire drill training exercise where we were shown how to wear life vests, evacuate in an orderly fashion. Then there was a presentation by the captain regarding the various features of this ship, the medical facilities, the technology, wellness center, gym etc. Pictures of the Ship…may be tomorrow. Then it was time for dinner….and the food was fabulous…..they had Chana Masala….having it on the very first day was a nice feel!
Its 11:15 and its time to crash. We will be at sea until Thursday morning when we anchor in Port Stanley, Falklands. Just don't know what we might encounter tomorrow while at sea!
Nice shot of the huge sea lion. Its head looks similar to the head of a dog.
ReplyDelete...how close are you getting to the wildlife?