Erin, Passenger
Day 2 – 30 January – Whale Breaches and Leopard Seal Sighting
The day began slowly, with guests rising at different times. During the night, the crew kept their 3 hour rotation going to keep us safe and on and track across Bransfield Strait. Winds were low, so Captain Lucas set a reef sail for stability and motored the route.
As we approached Trinity Island mid-morning, things became slightly more interesting with the appearance of icebergs and a family of humpback whales, who blessed us with several breaches and dives. Scottie served up a lentil stew for lunch. Then, most people either napped, hung out in the pilot house, or participated in a spontaneous watercolor class hosted by guide Mak, who is also a scientific illustrator.
After we rounded Hirchell Point, we entered the calm waters of Cierva Cove. Here lies an Argentinian research station and an abundance of wildlife. A leopard seal allowed us to circle its iceberg twice and we were able to witness the magnitude of a Gentoo penguin colony.
Our anchorage is in calm water, surrounded by ice and sheer cliffs. Tonight we plan to take a sunset zodiac cruise and rest well for our course further south for a possible Peninsula landing tomorrow.
Erin
