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Published: April 22nd 2024
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Immediately after our last excursion to the landing at Portal Point, we were on our way. We had 2.5 days to cross the Drake Passage and get back to Ushuaia in time for our flight out. Our last night, we had a lovely sunset as well as a special treat from the kitchen: Baked Antarctica (a take on Baked Alaska). This was the night of 5 desserts, so this was in addition!
This was also more along what I had envisioned the Drake Passage being. The swells and waves were a bit more fun and made it more difficult to walk. The poor guys on the back deck presenting the little celebration were rolling and we were trying to get video and photos, but it was entertaining in a different way. On the return, our routine became, wake up, breakfast, Dome, lecture / movie, lunch, lecture / movie, drinks in the Dome or Atlas lounge, dinner, movie and night cap, sleep. Some of the presentations were quite interesting; you could watch them from your room, but I went a couple of times in person. I really liked the Apex Predator presentation (Skua birds, Leopard Seals, and Orcas) and the Captain's
presentation about boat positioning at the equator for a rocket launch.
There was a time or two where the waves got so bad that dishes fell and we would roll a bit. We had to make sure the items in our room were placed or stowed properly. I think some people were a bit green around the gills, but overall it was not so bad. Just a bit of a taste of what the Drake Passage could be. Loved it.
We entered Beagle Bay late the night before our arrival and got into port first thing in the morning. Right on time. We had put our luggage out the night before and we were ready to roll. Our group was the first one off the ship and straight to the shuttle bus and then to the airport. The airport itself is quiet and lovely with great views. We actually got the exit row seats with no one between us, so, great flight back. Then we landed in Buenos Aires once again and took the taxi for our next adventure. We still had four more days until our flight back to UAE.
Overall, I cannot recommend Atlas Ocean
Voyages enough. They delivered on everything they said and then some. The whole process from the time we arrived at the Sheraton that first night until we returned to the airport in Buenos Aires was seamless. We had zero thought and effort - all we had to do was enjoy the adventure! Everyone was so nice, the food was yummy and plentiful, the excursions were well organized and provided as best as possible. We did not spend any extra money once in their circle except for a few minor extras (L got very expensive rain pants, and I paid a nice tip for the stateroom cleaner). We got amazing photos, listened to some nice lectures, and met some nice people. The size of the ship was perfect as was the size of the group of passengers. So, please let me know if you have questions. Maybe I'll see you back in Antarctica!
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D MJ Binkley
Dave and Merry Jo Binkley
Rock and Roll
The Drake Passage can provide entertainment and at times is seriously dangerous.