January 30 – February 2: Antarctica

We have had very little Internet access at the bottom of the world. So here is the update as we leave Antarctica and return to South America.

This was our second time to sail in Antarctic waters, having been here in 2012 on a much shorter cruise. The ice was just as magnificent this time – many hues of blue and green, huge icebergs and more wildlife than last time. Wildlife included many whales, penguins and seals, including the rare leopard seal.

We had three clear days with temperatures mostly in the low 40s (it’s summer here). The fourth day was total fog, so the captain changed course and slowly headed for Ushuaia. The journey across the Drake Passage back to South America is generally the roughest water in the world – but not this time. It was not quite as flat as a pancake, but still very gentle!

We are marveling at how wonderful the food is in the dining room – definitely a step up from normal cruise fare. And it’s easy to get used to someone else cleaning our cabin each day, doing our laundry and generally taking care of our every need.

The entertainment (a live show each evening) is first rate, as well as the multiple daily lectures on history, environment and info on the places we visit.

Next: Ushuaia and two Chile ports