A Day in Paradise

The following is an excerpt from one of my entries from our expedition blog. The day had special significance for me, as it brought me back to Paradise Bay, where I had scattered some of my father’s ashes the year before. The second landing at Orne Harbour was fantastic as well. It’s not often one has the chance to lie down in the snow and take a catnap on the top of a ridge, with no one in sight, in a blizzard, in total silence, with an occasional penguin passing by.

From November 26th…

We’ve reached a point in this experience where words begin to fail to describe the beauty, emotions and inspiration that we are feeling. Antarctica has become something special to each of us in different ways, but collectively we share the belief that this is a spectacular place beyond conventional description. A poet would find it the ultimate muse.

Above photo courtesy of Jack Robert-Tissot

Today the magic of Antarctica was revealed as we arrived at Paradise Bay. Aptly named, this protected bay has been described as the most beautiful place in the world, and while it certainly was impressive this morning when we woke up, it was hard to see its depth and grandeur through the thick white clouds and falling snow. We dressed warmly for our landing, which was intended to offer us some time for individual reflection, and set out in the zodiacs to Almirante Brown Station, named for the Argentinean hero. About 15 minutes after our landing, Paradise Bay transformed when the sun parted the thick cloud cover and broke through to reveal a bay that reflected majestic mountains in its stillness. The temperature rose dramatically and we switched from goggles to sunglasses to take in the precious warmth and stunning scene. Then, moments later, a portion of the glacier across the water calved, in clear view as we hiked up a mountain above the station, and it was as if Paradise Bay had awoken and decided to welcome us to her shores personally. Appreciating the special gift we had been given, we took time by ourselves to let the magical morning sink in.

Hike above Paradise Bay

After lunch we had an optional landing and hike at Orne Harbor and those who went were treated to a steep climb up a ridge to a chinstrap penguin rookery. We crossed over the ridge to the other side and the silently falling snow was entrancing.

Me & a couple of chinstrap penguins hiding in the flakes of a blizzard at Orne Harbour

Upon our return to the ship, we gathered for Robert’s third Leadership on the Edge installment. We also heard from members of the expedition on various topics. Steven Blumenfeld, a student from Yale University, spoke about how the Antarctic Treaty that was formed 50 years ago can serve as a model for climate policy today, and Ken Townsel of the Ron Clark Academy inspired us all with a motivational speech about seizing each moment of this expedition.

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving for the Americans on board the ship. The chef will be preparing a special feast and all send their love to families celebrating at home.