We were awokwn, again very early, by Chris wishing us `Good Morning´. His voice is far more effective than any alarm clock I have ever used. We were to visit Wiencke Island and Port Lockroy this morning. The custodian of Port Lockroy came aboard to explain the history of this British base and how it had been meticulously restored. We landed first on Wiencke on saw numerous Gentoos nesting alongside Blue-eyed Shags, both species nurturing their chicks. We also saw an Elephant Seal – our first. It was only a juvenile, however, so it didn´t have the disproportionately large proboscis which an adult does. The numerous whalebones attested to the destructive impulses of mankind. Over 90% of all whales were eliminated. While our sightings have been amazing, I can’t begin to imagine how spectacular it was when whales were abundant.
Then we were ferried across to Port Lockroy and explored Bransfield House. We became tourists again rather than expeditionists as we browsed in the museum, had our passports stamped and even posted postcards. We returned to the ship a slightly pensive group as this was to be our last landing. We spent the afternoon enjoying the scenery, seabirds, penguins and occasional whale sightings as the ship travelled nothwards. We were privileged to watch a short film that Chris, our expedition leader, had recorded about the the escapades of Douglas Mawson during the Australasian Antarctic Expedition. It was exceptionally well made and gave us an insight into the horrendous conditions endured by early explorers. Our cosy dining room offered a great contrast between his and our expeditions.
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.