A Falkland Island Dependency hut once stood at Portal Point; however it has recently been removed. Portal Point is of historical significance as it was the gateway for expeditions to the polar plateau. The surrounding topography is mountainous with many nunataks rising from the snow. On both sides of the landing site there are beautiful glacier tongues pouring out towards the ocean. We hope to offer a walk up the surrounding snow slope allowing time for individual contemplation conditions permitting.
These small islets making up Hydruga Rocks are named after the Leopard Seal, Hydrurga leptonyx. Hydruga Rocks lies to the east of Two Hummock Island in the Palmer Archipelago. The main island in the group rises to 25 meters above sea level with a barren and rocky summit. Chinstrap penguins, blue-eyed shags and kelp gulls are all confirmed breeders at this location.
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Todays’ kayaking was postponed due to bad weather conditions, too much wind and swelling sea. Instead zodiac cruising; last group to sail was the luckiest one since they saw whale at the close encounter. The rest of us, especially Jim, were so disappointed since no one call to tell us directions were to go; like a zombie we were cruising around looking for whales! Nothing happened.
Brunch from 9 - 11am. After that another zodiac cruises at Cierva Cove.
Shop was open again; instead went to room. Didn’t wanna risk anything, called Dr Maureen for first half a dose of whatever injection she has. Slept for next 48 hours, without torturing myself through the Drake Passage.
The trip was not only memorable for the amount of animals we saw but also for the people and accommodations at the two camps where we stayed. Our first guide, BK, was a wealth of information about the animals, landscape and down to the plants and what they were used for. Everyday out was a learning experience with him. All the people at the camps were gracious and the food was excellent.
Our second camp in the Okavanga was just as good as the first as far as the staff, accommodations, food and animals. After our experience at the first camp we amazed that the high quality remained the same. Our guide, G, made sure we were able to enjoy every experience including a rush through the bush to witness a cheetah and an ensuing hunt that he heard over his radio.
In both camps there were enough guides out that if they saw something the other guides were informed which helped in seeing as much as possible. It was also nice that the concessions were large enough that we did not have vehicles following each other throughout the day.
Normally there is always something in a trip of this length that we think could be improved upon but this is the rare case where we cannot think of anything. From the time we left the States to when we returned it was one of the most hassle free vacations we took.
Perhaps emphasizing the use of the laundry facilities at the camps would be useful because of the luggage restrictions would be the only thing I can think of as an improvement to future clients.
Kenneth Dropek
2 days ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.