Cuvervill Island and Neko Bay

This morning we are at Cuverville Island which is the site of a large Gentoo Penguin rookery.  The island was used heavily as a flensing area during the 1920’s and as a result there are several whale vertebra, ribs and jawbones scattered around on the beach.  The cove where the ship is anchored is probably one of the most beautiful and peaceful places you could ever be.  We are surrounded by magnificent ice covered mountains, icebergs and a whale and her calf performing tricks or having a lesson just near the ship. This afternoon we move on to Neko Harbour which will be the first actual landing on the mainland for us.  We missed going into the Antarctic Sound a few days ago due to poor conditions so this is our big moment!  

The beach is pebbled and there is an opportunity to walk up into a glacier, a moderate hike of about 1.6 kms, elevation 125 m.  In the rubber boots issued to us I definitely won’t be doing the hike!  Apparently there are also regular calvings from the nearby glaciers which can cause large waves so we have been warned to keep an eye out for that.  

Well, Neko Harbour proved to be a breathtaking place - truly beyond belief! The sea was like a mirror, calm and full of floating ice.  It was nice to actually put our feet on the Antarctic Continent at last!  The Gentoo penguins were very relaxed and friendly and all going about their business in such a methodical way!  It was rather nice not to have to step around seals today, the fur seal does not come as far south as this.  After disembarking the Zodiac we were offered Irish coffee, quite delicious!  

Last night we enjoyed dinner with our friends from Richmond and another young couple from São Paulo, Brazil.  Tonight we’re booked to have the hot rock dinner on the outside deck so will be rugging up!!!!!