We’re still en route to Antarctica, currently crossing the Drake Passage. The seas are pretty light and we are faring well.

On deck.
On deck.

Today we had to attend a number of briefings: a submarine safety briefing, a helicopter safety briefing, and a sea kayaking safety briefing. We then had to attend a biosecurity session to decontaminate the clothing we have brought with us to ensure that no seeds or other foreign materials are introduced to Antarctica. We also went to a geology lecture (given by our good friend, David Heydon, a world-renowned geologist) and a lecture on the bird life in Antarctica. Then, we attended the captain’s welcome in the lounge, before then heading to dinner. We had a beautiful dinner, and we are now back in our room, thinking about having an early night to get our strength up for the activities over the next few days!

In the lounge.
In the lounge.

Tomorrow we will be in the South Shetland Islands, and the captain is planning to dock at Half Moon Island. We think we’ll be heading out on the Zodiacs tomorrow to explore the area, and hopefully we’ll get to walk around Half Moon Island. In the evening we’ll then set sail for the Antarctic Sound.