Monday, January 10th
We sailed overnight and anchored at Prion Island at 7:30am.
Prion Island is a tiny island and prime real estate for the Wandering Albatross, the largest flying bird, because the winds there are very favorable for them to take off. A boardwalk to the top of the island has been built and our zodiacs dropped us off at the start of it. The rules are very strict and one is not allowed off the boardwalk at all. The weather was steadily getting worse, with winds picking up and stingy hail increasing. As the winds picked up to 65mph operations were canceled, but we got lucky. We saw 13 albatrosses, of which 2 were only 5meters away from the top viewing platform. They were all sitting on nests and obviously it wasn’t windy enough for them to take flight. With a wingspan of 5m/15ft they do need strong winds to achieve lift-off.
Later on that day TW sailed to Elsehul Bay. The weather was good enough for zodiac cruises to be offered. Stephen went, Alison and I decided to stay warm and in.
This was also farewell to South Georgia. We left Elsehul Bay around 17:30 for 2 days at sea. And they were 2 rough days at sea. Not much to report on January 11 and 12 other than that I spent most of the time lying down and taking it easy. I hardly enjoyed Alison’s birthday breakfast on the 11th and except for a 10 minute appearance, missed her cocktail party (which I helped organize) and dinner. But with the spray of the waves coming over our balcony on the 10th floor I preferred to be in bed.
Caroline.
Photos
