Paradise Bay, Antarctica

 

Embarking on this extraordinary journey to Antarctica fulfilled Darren's dream—a dream that initially left me questioning why one would willingly seek out the winter wonderland that I annually pay to escape in Saskatchewan. However, on this remarkable day, Antarctica unfolded as a realm unlike any other on Earth.

Our vessel navigated the formidable Drake's Passage, a journey that, while challenging, mercifully spared us from the full force of its potential fury. As we entered Paradise Bay, the temperature, a surprisingly mild 5 degrees Celsius, marked the peak of their summer. Undeterred by the brisk wind, I found myself on the upper decks, compelled to capture the essence of this pristine landscape through the lens of my phone.

Retreating to our cabin on Deck 7, positioned at the ship's stern, we stepped onto our veranda and were greeted by a breathtaking spectacle. Majestic icebergs, adorned in shades of blue and white, and some with intriguing earthy hues, floated gracefully. Whale pods revealed themselves with elegant spouts, while penguins navigated ice floes and the mainland, their presence discernible by the traces of sooty snow—proof of their unique marking. 

I spotted the dirty snow on this berg before I noticed the Penguins on it.

Notice the black spots on the left-hand side of the berg and these are Penguins.

My personal favourite iceberg which was the size of 4 large houses

Screenshot capture of where we were.
 located in Antarctica. 

The object to the left is the balcony divider.

Our stroke of luck was evident, as just two hours before we arrived in Paradise Bay, poor visibility had cast a shadow of doubt on the likelihood of any sightings. Antarctica's fickle weather, known for its capricious nature, can shroud the landscape in grey, rain, or snow, obscuring its grandeur. Miraculously, however, the skies cleared, revealing intermittent sun and patches of blue, while the winds hushed enough so that the Captain let us outside.

The ensuing spectacle was nothing short of a natural symphony. Darren, exuding the infectious excitement of a child in a candy store, spent the remainder of our time on the balcony with his monoscope, capturing the nuanced dance of diving penguins and the captivating array of wildlife. 

The crisp, invigorating air of Antarctica enveloped us, a breath of purity that underscored the realization that everyone should have the privilege of experiencing this untouched marvel of nature.

On the top deck, trying to keep my footing.

The antarctic wind was brisk.

On a rare day 
when the sky is blue, the beautiful blues come out in the bergs.