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Well, the sub-Antarctic weather conditions certainly know how to make things interesting. Another day of drizzle and low cloud, with higher swells thrown in for good measure.
The helicopters stayed in their hangar today but the LARC operators were straight into it before work was called off temporarily late morning because of an awkward mix of wind and swell conditions. We've had lots of extra anchor chain out because of the changing, gusty conditions – sometimes the wind has shifted up to 90 degrees. The ship used this time to re-configure cargo to be set for further operations as conditions were forecast to ease.
A pod of orcas cruised by, causing a mass movement of expos from one end of the Observation Lounge to the other, and a few brave souls paced the decks for exercise.
In the afternoon the conditions were deemed suitable for the LARCs to start operating again and they got to it in pretty unpleasant conditions, taking fuel for the helicopters and other bulky items over to station.
Yesterday we cracked 28 per cent of cargo and it will be interesting to see where we get today – DVL Nick will no doubt share the details at tonight's Voyage Leader's "fireside chat" this evening (which now comes with a 'real' fire, via a computer monitor, thanks to some crafty expeditioners).
No passenger transfers at all today unfortunately. For some it'll be day three of an early start kitted out in thermals, followed by a stand-down order.
On the upside, the kitchen staff are excelling themselves day after day and there are endless cups of tea and biscuits on offer.
Thanks to all in those LARCs for their efforts, and on deck and in the cranes. These are not easy operating conditions.
REGARDS: Brendan, Jenn, and Nick
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.