Sunday 24 February:
What an afternoon on Half Moon Island! For almost everyone this was our first opportunity to witness penguins in their natural environment. No matter how blase you might be about these remarkable animals, it is hard not to be totally in love with them after you have been around them even for a brief while. Their cute waddle, their complete lack of fear of people and their natural curiosity is endearing.
After a short while, a group of us is led by expedition leader Andy on a hike to a nearby peak. It takes about an hour or so and leads across a stoney beach, past a deserted Argentine research station and up the side of a snow covered incline. It is not long before we are shedding layers of outing clothing as the exertion is keeping us warm in the bright sunshine. It is steep towards the top but the effort is rewarded by stunning views in all directions. Andy warns us not to step on the native mosses and lichens as it is important to preserve as much as possible of the natural environment.
On our return journey, Andy surprises us by offering us the opportunity to toboggan down the side of the hill on our backsides, warning us to keep well to the left to avoid large rocks in the area. It is a long way down and by the time our turn comes around, the track has become smooth and fast and clearly defined. It is certainly a quick way to the bottom and a lot easier on the knees than walking. Exhilarating!
Back on the Fram, it is straight to the bar where the Fearlerss Four enjoy a well deserved cold beer. Or two.