En Route to Palmer

Today we’re slowly steaming our way towards Palmer Station in the protected waters between a chain of islands and the antarctic peninsula, known as the Gerlache Straits. We have a few more ops to perform before we arrive at Palmer Station on Sunday morning, but I’m more than happy to be taking this part of the journey slowly.

I’ve never been in a more beautiful place in my life.

I stepped out onto the deck after breakfast this morning, just as the sun was starting to rise, and couldn’t believe the amazing snowy mountains we’re completely surrounded by.

Every time I turned around I was amazed, and took a photo, then turned again, was amazed, took a photo, for the first few minutes I just kept turning around in circles and taking the same pictures over and over, each turn equally as amazing as the last.

I realize that no picture can ever do this place justice. No picture can ever make you feel as small or as connected to this vast wonderland as actually standing on deck, large fluffy snowflakes sticking to your clothes and hair, and breathing the crisp freezing air.

It makes me think about the earliest of the Antarctic explorers, when they found themselves in these protected waters, surrounded by the snow-covered peaks, what it was like for them? Were they just as enthralled about finding themselves here as I am? Did they pause and try to lock every angle of their surroundings into their memory?

I like to think anyone who’s come through these waters feels the same magic that I felt this morning. Watching icebergs roll by, sometimes a penguin or seal perched happily on top. As the sun peaks over the mountain ranges and humpback whales swim only feet away. 

This place, covered in every imaginable shade of blue, is heaven.