Oct 12 - In enclosed Harbour Waters
RRS James Clark Ross
Sunday 08/10/06
Position at 1200L / 1600 BST: South Georgia, alongside KEP jetty
Wind NWxN 4-5. Barometer 982.7 mb.
Air Temp 2.6 C. Sea Temp 3.0 C.
Variable cloud cover, with occasional snow flurries.
Visibility good.
In enclosed Harbour Waters
This week began with a visit to Stanley, to pick up scientific personnel and work with cargo. For those not on watch there was an opportunity to visit the local shops to buy books, postcards and penguin-shaped souvenirs.
Stanley
There's nothing like your first penguin, and for this unsuspecting Gentoo on the beach at Stromness Bay the glare of the paparazzi seemed all too much. Photographed by Antarctic newcomers from more angles than a seasoned glamour model, this little flightless wonder took umbrage and waddled off for a day's fishing.
Gentoo penguin
The visit to Stromness Bay allowed calibration of the echo-sounding equipment, Peter Enderlein dangling his scientifically calibrated balls in the water. Those not involved were given a run ashore to look at the long-disused Stromness Whaling Station, a significant place in the history of Ernest Shackleton, and so of great interest to visitors.
Stromness Whaling Station
In addition to penguins, there were elephant and fur seals on the beach at Stromness, almost enough photos for us now to go home, and bore the local Women's Institute.
Fur seals
Elephant seal
Heavy snow falls on the 6th of October transformed the main deck into a winter wonderland.
In the snow
Lobbing snowballs
Our deck cadet 'Dougal'
Very safety conscious, Mike the Sparky
Enthralled by the magnificent scenery we arrived at the base at King Edward Point, South Georgia, on the 7th of October, to feed the local feral community.
King Edward Point locals
Thank you to our friends, families and sweethearts for their continued love and support....
