Day 4: LeMaire Channel & Port Lockroy

In the battle between "Ship vs. Ice" today, Ice won.

Due to the LeMaire Channel being blocked by impassable ice, we were not able to sail through it as originally planned. Sad indeed... especially since I jumped out of bed at 6:45am to make sure I was up on deck ready to take pictures as we made our way into the passage. On the upside, we have another clear, calm day - though VERY cold - and the scenery is just spectacular.

We've just arrived at Port Lockroy and the crew are preparing the zodiacs for launch. I'm scheduled to depart in 45 minutes and can't wait to step foot on Antarctica! As I mentioned yesterday, Port Lockroy is indeed British. The station was abandoned in 1962 but recently was refurbished by the UK Antarctic Heritage Trust. (Ok, end of the history lesson... he!)

The zodiacs will be making their landings today at Jouga Point, a rocky shore backed by rugged slopes and glaciers. There is a Gentoo penguin rookery here with more than 3,000 penguins!!! Should make for some most excellent photos.

Ok, time to go 'suit up' in my layers in preparation for my excursion. Just wanted to post an update while I had a few free minutes.

More about Port Lockroy later....