Mikkelson Island

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The beginning of this post is from Mikkelson Island, not McMurdo Station. This site demands a region and Mikkelson was not available as a choice, so we just selected another M. The second part is Culverson Island. Between the two we sailed from late afternoon until early this morning. Shore on the port side (our side) was mountainous throughout the transit. Monsters and Doozer there is skiing in Antarctica; we saw many prime locations save for all ending in the ocean. Suspect that would put a dampener on things. But our cruise during daylight was magical consisting of mountains, snow, ocean, and a rarity here, sunshine.

P.S. As we compose the post whales are feeding outside the cabin as snow falls. It snows every day, sometimes several times.

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Photos

Gentoo Penguins in Conversation
At the far left of the picture are whale bones. Between 1905-1912 whalers frequented this area taking many whales. They would strip the whale blubber leaving the bones, etc. in the water. Most of the bones are lighter than water and washed ashore. Our two penguins are discussing the barbarity of the humans.

Water Boat
Whalers required much fresh water for their engines. They used boats such as this to transport ice to the ship. This boat is at least 111 years old.

Survival Hut
There are such huts at various locations should a visitor become stranded. Food, clothing and other essential items are inside.

Gentoo Penguins
Seems a small party is in progress.

Temporary Ice Formation
Notice the ice is separating from what remains and leaning. We hoped for a calving before departure. Alas, no.

Beautiful Day
Long sail with mountains we mentioned to port throughout the day and night.

More Beauty
Same day and area. Just superb scenery, particularly observing from a warm cabin.

Ice Filled Bay
Our landing Zodiacs maneuvered about the mostly floating ice. Some is resting on the bottom. In fact, one rolled over near our zodiac producing rather large waves with the driver beating a hasty retreat.

Penguin Highway
These fellas often have their own trails and typically keep to them when available. Folks here missed their Saturday shower.

Hey, Wait On Me
He objects to being left behind.

Major Partytime
Actually, this is a breeding ground.

Sailboat
Yes, this is about a 60 foot sailboat in Antartica. Not much larger than ours, which we would never ever have sailed across the Drake Channel.

Iceberg
Certainly there are larger icebergs, yet this is definitely sufficient for the captain to avoid even with our hull reinforced for ice.

Even Larger
Aqua color is pretty.