Sunday, February 18, 2018

Our dread of crossing the Drake passage was for not.  We awoke to 1 meter swells and 25-knot winds…close to what they call the “Drake Lake” versus the “Drake Shake.” We’ve been lucky so far.  We slept well and were reluctant to get out of bed as the lulling of the ship by the gentle waves was so comforting.  However, the slight rocking of the ship still made for a very interesting shower experience….a real test of balance to shower and not hold onto something!

Lectures today included: Staff Introduction, Photography & Landings Briefing.  We had Bio-Security Contamination and had to have any used equipment that would be going ashore inspected and cleaned.  There are very strict rules about not contaminating the environment in this region of the world.  The last lecture of the day was by Caitlyn, the Undersea Specialist who spoke about Southern Ocean Oceanography.

It was the Captain’s Cocktail Hour tonight.  He gave a history of ship, the Orion, and his history in the cruise industry.  He then introduced the key members of the Orion staff.  Of course, the chef and bartender got the loudest applause!  Shockingly it is an open, all inclusive bar so happy hour is truly happy for all!  Jim has already trained the staff to bring him Manhattans (which soon become known for him as Brown Wine!).

We enjoyed another wonderful dinner with new travel companions.   We’ve met some delightful fellow travelers.

We thought today would be a total goof off day to read and relax, but the expedition staff have kept us quite busy with lectures and little chores.  I did manage a brief nap this afternoon.  I’m already starting to hate the overhead PA system that blasts throughout the ship and rouses you for meals, lectures, weather updates, etc.  It’s a rather abrupt and startling sound.

Seas are a bit calmer tonight.  We are hoping to make shore in the Shetland Islands tomorrow and finally get off the ship.