Day 44 – Danco Island, Antarctica

After the most extraordinary weather yesterday, it only seemed fair that I would wake up this morning to fog, snow, and colder temperatures, much more typical of Antarctica. Viking Octantis was already anchored in the Errera Channel for excursions to Danco Island to see its rookeries of Gentoo penguins. Danco Island is characterized by a wide, flat cobbled beach that rises to the island’s ice-covered summit, and I could already see guests climbing the hill.

Passengers Climbing the Hill in the Fog on Danco Island

The fact that I was nursing a sore throat, plus the weather, made me decide to cancel my planned zodiac landing. Since Tim and I will be in South America for another three weeks, I figured I’d play it safe. Staying on the ship seemed to be my best option for today, and Tim decided to cancel his excursion, as well.

There was a great view of the island from our stateroom, and I could even see some of the penguins. On the hills, the penguin highways were especially distinct. Penguin highways are natural pathways that are created over time as countless penguins use the same routes, packing the snow into smooth, icy trails that make their journeys easier.

The Kayakers Had Great Views of the Penguins

The Black Lines Are Penguin Highways

Icebergs and sea ice floated by the ship, and some of the shapes were very cool to see.

I Love the Shapes of Icebergs

After the Expedition Team returned to Danco Island after lunch, it appeared that they extended the trail all the way to the top of the hill. Even if I had gone ashore, there is no way I would have made it that far.

A Few People Made It All the Way to the Top of the Hill

Danco Island was our last of four landings in Antarctica, and it was time for Viking Octantis to make its way from the inland channel to the open sea and the Drake Passage. Once again, the scenery as we left was spectacular. The big question for tomorrow - will we encounter the Drake Lake or the Drake Shake? Stayed tuned.

The Sun Came Out as We Passed More Icebergs on Our Way toward the Drake Passage