Back in Ushuaia

The Antarctica cruise has ended. Today we fly back to Buenos Aires. It will be Christmas Eve and everything will be closed. Tomorrow we have an all day visit to a ranchero where there will be a typical Argentine BBQ, folkloric dancing and other recreation. In the evening we will go to a Tango show.

We reached as far as 65´o4¨south latitude at about 7 pm on December 21. It was about 1770 miles north of the South Pole. Throughout the trip the weather was fine except for several days of fog. Unfortunately there was some ice blockage which prohibited going to some scheduled landings. My biggest disappointment was that we could not get through the Lemaire Channel. This stretch is said to be the most photogenic passage of the cruise.
Touching the Continent. Visiting Penquins.
More often than not, a first glimpse at any landing was viewed through the space between the heads of fellow travelers on the Zodiacs. Better this than no shot at all.

We were able to set foot upon the continent at Duthiers Point in Paradise Harbour where there was a colony of Chinstrap penquins. These creatures are as delighful as I imagined and more. Where the Zodiac touches shore they are there as the welcoming crew and sentinels. They seem to be as curious about us as we are them.

When I get home I will post more detailed entries and pictures. I found it difficult to do during the trip. There was just too much happening and the Internet connection was impossible.

For now it is time for one last look around this town, lunch onboard and the trip back to Buenos Aires. We probably won´t get there until very late since it is Christmas Eve. Our suitcases are not due to arrive until 10 tonight.

Will try to post from Buenos Aires.