Information
Comments
Hello all,
A busy day at the office for the voyagers on V2 – Today was boot and equipment clean day, which required everyone to clean the clothing and equipment to be landed on the ice of any biological matter, seeds etc which might be introduced and propagate in Antarctica. This afternoon this was followed by a visit from HRH King Neptune to welcome everyone into his southern ocean realm. This usually occurs about the time we cross 60S, but unfortunately he was double-booked for tomorrow….what can I say – he’s a busy man! Certificates to recognize this momentous occasion will be awarded this evening at a “special occasion”. Fortunately the weather is more like what you would expect from the Pacific than the Southern Ocean, so we are making very good time at present. The forecasts for the next few days are also looking pretty good as well. CPR #3 was also streamed today.
To matters ephemeral: as we enjoy the longest day of the year in the southern hemisphere, our days are truly getting longer with only about 3-4 hours of total darkness. By the time we reach Casey Station, there will be no absolute darkness, with a lingering twilight over the middle of the night. This will work in our favour as we will be able to maintain our passage speed for longer – usually once we pass the Antarctic Convergence Zone at about 60S, the ship must reduce speed to ensure safe passage in the dark. The other bit of good news is that (so far at least) the world hasn’t ended as predicted by the end of the Mayan Calendar. We’re all pretty happy with that.
The next 24 hours will be pretty busy with the major briefings in preparation for resupply happening, as well as for our early Christmas Day celebration. Until tomorrow, pollywogs,
REGARDS: Chris, Leanne, and the V2 Team
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.