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As we head into the 50 degree latitudes we are encountering rougher conditions, with waves of 4-5 m. This sounds paltry compared to the 10-14 m of previous trips. However, it is enough to keep some expeditioners from the breakfast table, and to interrupt a good night’s sleep. After four full days and nights at sea, most expeditioners have settled into a regular routine, often cycling from bed to dining room, couches to movie theatre, with the odd check on the bridge to witness the monotony of the westerly swell. Scientists with work programs on board are busy planning their work programs and / or testing and running equipment. All are eagerly awaiting the appearance of some ice!
While it may seem we are bobbing around on this endless ocean, there are obvious signs we are headed south, as the wind has picked up and the thermometer is now below 5 deg C. Rain turned to light snow yesterday, and occasionally hits the windows as sleet. Some have also noticed more subtle changes around us, as the Short-tailed Shearwaters, Wandering Albatross, Black-browed Albatross, White-headed Petrels and Fairy Prions of yesterday, have been joined by Antarctic Prions, Cape Petrels, Light-mantled Sooty Albatross, and Southern Giant Petrels. A sure sign we are getting closer.
Meanwhile, social events continue to entertain. We enjoyed a rather novel Melbourne Cup yesterday as a live radio feed played while some pre-prepared puppetry genius provided visual entertainment. The Communications guys raced cut out paper jockeys and horses on toothpicks around a paper tree and fence lined racecourse. While the film didn’t last the entire duration of the race, and the crackle on the audio made it hard to decipher the winner, the spirit of the event was high and the effort by those involved much appreciated.
Tonight we look forward to a talk on Seabirds by our resident ornithologist Dr Luke Einoder. This will no doubt whet the appetite for sightings of wildlife, as anticipation for the ice grows with every passing day.
Regards,
Karin, Sharon & Adam
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.