Plan A/B/C..
One of the very first announcements made on the ship was that ultimately mother nature was in control of our daily schedule. So there had to be a Plan A/B/C, even a Plan D. Snow, rain, strong winds, tides, sea ice, floating icebergs and channels blocked by ice - these were the factors that would dictate our itinerary. Every night we would be presented with a first option and have a briefing on that location. Wilhelmina Bay was not on our original schedule for our second day in Antarctica. It was either Plan B or Plan C. Actually, other than our first day which was to land on Half Moon Island - all other days had changes made to the itinerary we discussed the night before. Unfortunately we even had to cancel all land and water activities for two days for weather and safety concerns.
We arrived to Wilhelmina Bay in a fog and slight mist. The bay looked gray and uninviting. I had no idea that this bay would soon show me the shear beauty of a landscape formed by ice.
The plan for our activity was to explore the bay in zodiacs. The drivers were ready to take us on a ride we wouldn't forget.
What an amazing view in all directions. The bay was filled with icebergs that looked like they had been sculpted by natures hands. The rock outcrops that surrounded the bay were laden with majestic glaciers - just beautiful.
Chinstrap Penguin Rookery
While exploring the bay, we came across several species of arctic birds and mammals.
Fur Seals
We observed an exciting encounter with two fur seals. They were hanging out on sea ice when suddenly one decided to show his dominance over the other.
Cormorant Rookery
Humpback Whales
Whales are very hard to spot, even harder to observe and photograph. They don't come to the surface too often and when they do only for a short period of time. Trying to have them in focus with your camera, was very difficult.
What an amazing day - to bad it had to end. With snow beginning to fall harder and a strong cold wind blowing, it was time to head back to the "Mother Ship".
The sun was beginning to set as we headed out of Wilhelmina Bay. If I could capture the time I spent in this beautiful bay - and save it, I would play it over and over again.
Next post from this trip.
