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This morning sees us moving through some ordinary weather, that is expected to last until Monday at least. The wind has freshened to just over 30knts and is accompanied by snow. Looks like Kate was right with her weather prediction. The conditions will not hamper our marine science program today as we aim to do another two CTDs and nettings. Yesterday we successfully completed two sets of CTD casts to 500m at sites A1 and A8. This took most of the day and the last cast was completed around 2030 last night with the associated processing continuing into the night. The weather was kind to us for the entire day with a millpond like sea and almost no wind. Today is certainly a different story weather wise. Near the end of the CTD evolution we were greeted by the sight of three Humpbacks having a play right alongside the ship. Apparently they got so close to the ship, which was stationary, that you could see their barnacles. They stayed with us for around 40 minutes before heading off. The carpet on the bridge may well need replacing from the wear and tear of the stampede of people moving from side to side of the ship to try and get a better view of our cetacean friends. Many photos were taken of this truly rare experience. Last night our shore party reported that the helicopters had completed all of the additional flying tasks required to be done around Syowa. Well done to all involved! All aboard and ashore doing well and looking forward to the fast approaching halfway point of the voyage. Regards, Rob, Aaron and Mick
Map
A map showing Australia and Antarctica. The map shows the journey of one voyage that has occured in the season, with each route highlighted in a distinct colour.