January 14

Days 19-21  Falklands-Malvinas

The Falklands-Malvinas comprises two large islands (East and West Falkland), with over 700 islands scattered off the coast.  All but seven of these are uninhabited, with windswept coastlines, white sand beaches, and crystal-clear water.  These beautifully barren islands are true wildlife havens, sheltering an impressive diversity of birdlife, including the largest black-browed albatross colony on earth.  The cold, nutrient-rich waters surrounding the islands make this a prime location for spotting marine life.

There are many beautiful areas to explore across the Falklands-Malvinas, each offering a unique perspective on this magnificent archipelago.  Your experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to design your voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing winds, weather, and wildlife opportunities.

Even though we're north of the Antarctic Convergence it can be quite chilly here, so you will want to layer up before joining Zodiac cruises into rocky coves or along sea cliffs, keeping watch for seals, sea lions, dolphins, and penguins.  On landings we may visit albatross colonies, penguin rookeries, and perhaps even have a traditional English "tea and scones" at a local cottage.  

Conditions permitting, we aim to land in historic Stanley, the capital of Falklands-Malvinas.  This charming town has a distinctly British character, with terraced town houses, pioneer cottages, and even an iconic red telephone box!  Colourful buildings house cozy cafes, English pubs, souvenir shops, a post office, and the fascinating Historic Dockyard Museum, with displays on the maritime history of the Falkland Islands, natural history, and links to Antarctica.

Okay, well.....  we're two days behind by the looks of it.  One day delayed on purpose to avoid the likely Stanley port closure, and the crossing is taking 3 days rather than 2 likely because we're fighting wind and current the whole way.  Last night was our roughest one yet, but apparently we've missed the worst of the weather that was forecast a few days ago.   I feel fine, but didn't sleep all that well.  I was awake early, so went to the gym for a bike workout.  My room is on the fourth deck so am not surprised at all that the swells regularly break onto my balcony.  But the gym is on the seventh deck and even its windows were being washed from time to time.  


Another low-key day ahead.  A few lectures and, of course, regular feedings.  I might even get in a little napping.  I'm not sure I've ever had a lazier day.  I even watched the lectures on tv from the comfort of my bed.  The seas are still rockin' out there.........  And the barf bags line the handrails..............  Actually, the ship rides quite well considering how high the swells are.  


We found out at our evening briefing that we didn't officially experience the "Drake Shake".  Winds during the day were a sustained 42 knots, well below what would qualify.  Lots of people not feeling particularly well, though.  


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