24 January

Feeling much better this morning and after breakfast we boarded the Zodiac for our first excursion at  New Island, Falklands.  This island, which was once used as a base for whaling, as a sheep farm and for some attempts to collect guano, is thought to be one of the most beautiful in the Falklands archipelago as well as having possibly the most diverse range of wildlife.  It’s now a nature reserve established in 1972.  We saw many colonies of rock hopping penguins, geese, King cormorants and black-browed albatross.  

We spent some time talking to the lady who lives here with her husband, they’ve been here 4 years and are shortly returning to Stanley. They keep the place running, have some accommodation for guests and currently have a film crew staying.  We asked her about getting provisions etc as it seems about as far from anywhere you could possibly be, and she said some things come in by air but they have a monthly shipment as well.  Only problem is the ship broke down & she hasn’t had a real delivery since September!!!  But she was a very happy lady, said the only thing she misses is a dishwasher!!!!  

We will move from here to Westpoint after lunch.  

Sailing now to Westpoint, slowed down to view  some whales.  Also saw dolphins earlier.