Antarctica - Part 5

After leaving behind us the Lemaire Channel, the Rotterdam moves to traverse the Neumayer Channel, which is still ice free ... or, mostly. We then proceed to Port Lockroy station.

The Rotterdam's bell, found on the forward bow. It needs polishing! Bergs become thick as we move into the Neumayer Channel. This is "ice free?" From the forward bow I spot RuthC, enjoying the snow! She loves the cold and the snow. The ice field becomes thicker the further wee sail. And, as the snow thickens, RuthC snaps a photo of me. And I returned the favor for her. RuthC in her outdoor "office" aft the Lido Restaurant. Some of the Filipino bar staff enjoy the snow. They're great guys. The Rotterdam cuts her way through the floating thin layers of ice and snow.. Of course, some of my fellow passengers are crazy! they have to join ... ... the Penguin Club! Adele and Karl ... crazy! The ice thickens And then the Rotterdam cruises out of the channel and into Gerlache Straight. The bergs here are larger and thicker and the ship has to cruise more slowly ... ... maneuvering through the field of frozen water. The snow thickens The Rotterdam moves toward Port Lockroy, the British Research Station. Visible in the distance, the station is one of the oldest bases on the mainland. The Penguins are everywhere, and so's their poo! Through the snow the old British base is barely visible. Computer enhancement brings it into view ... one can even see 2 people watching!