My prior Antarctica post discussed a lost day’s activities during which our ship, Viking’s Octantis, rushed an ill passenger to King George Island for aircraft evacuation. The fine weather we’d experienced during our first three days on the southernmost continent had come to an end. After a successful transfer of the ill passenger, our captain and activities staff tried to reposition the ship later that afternoon and evening so that some activities could be undertaken, but it was too windy.
(Departing the Octantis, on our way to Half Moon Island shown in photo below)
The following morning, we had made our way to Half Moon Island and while it was cloudy, cold and breezy, the staff could safely allow us to land and do some exploring. It was nice to get our feet back on solid land and stretch our legs. Much of our walk was along a long gravel bar, which was dotted with interesting things to see.
(Map of Half Moon Island)
Half Moon Island is a crescent-moon shaped piece of land formed by long extinct volcanoes. It first attracted whalers and sealers in the early 1800’s and now is a common stop for Antarctica cruise ships. The island is part of the South Shetland Islands and is quite small — only about 420 acres — much of which was covered with ice and snow when we visited in late spring.
(Walking on a long gravel bar towards the main part of Half Moon Island)
The island is known for its wildlife, and we were lucky to see a number of species as we walked on the gravel bar. There were several types of seals, including Weddell and elephant seals (don’t ask me to tell them apart) ….
It was our first encounter with the aptly named chinstrap penguins…..
And there were many gentoo penguins, always entertaining with their antics…
Our walk was blocked at its far end by hundreds of nesting penguins incubating their eggs. The penguins were too far away to clearly see but we were told they were an admixture of gentoo and chinstrap penguins. Tourists are required to keep a respectful distance from wildlife when visiting Antarctica, especially their nesting sites.
(Penguins incubating their eggs)
We also encountered a skua…
And a cormorant….
There were relics of the old whaling trade, including rusty metal tubs used to render blubber, and some whale bones…
Lastly, some colorful lichens….
As we departed Half Moon Island, we realize that we’ve only one last day left in Antarctica before we begin making our way back to Ushuaia. But it turned out to be an incredible day! More on that soon.
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For a list of all the posts in DrFumblefinger’s Antarctica series, please click on this link:
