Ocean Tramp – Surreal

Ocean Tramp blog Day 5. Mon 5 Dec 2022.
What a day!!
Going to the bunk last night with glimpses of the Shetland Islands within sight felt like a shameful waste of a precious opportunity. However, a few hours’ sleep and an early rise for the 03:30 – 05:30 watch was well rewarded. Already fully bright after about three hours of semi-darkness in Antarctica these days, provided a tantalizing taste of what was in store for today.
We motor-sailed southwards towards Antarctica with the magnificent Brabant Island to Port side and Anvers Island visible to our Starboard. They grew in magnificence as we approached. We were blessed with a glorious blue sky to optimize the outline of these heavenly beauties. The rarity of this precious clear sunny day did not escape us. Skipper maneuvered our beloved Ocean Tramp sanctuary towards the Melchior Islands where we put down anchor in the midst of paradise. Our resting place was surrounded by brilliant white snow-covered steeples and icebergs resting atop exquisite aquamarine pedestals.
The next chapter of this magnificent day took the form of a magical trip out in the Zodiacs into the land of icebergs and Antarctic wildlife. We were treated to sightings of Chinstrap & Gentoo penguins, Weddell seals, Antarctic Cormorants, Antarctic Tern, Antarctic Petrel and Brown Skua. The word ‘surreal’ is overused but it is so appropriate for today’s experiences.
After about two hours of Antarctic safari, we returned to Ocean Tramp on a high and in awe of Mother Nature. The piece de resistance was served up by our chef Mak: a beautifully prepared table fit for royalty and a dinner for kings which was much enjoyed by all.
A day to remember and treasure for sure.
Mary.