Falkland Islands - Birdland!

An unforgettable day of landings on the Falkland Islands. We began early in the morning for our first landing at Carcass Island. The weather was overcast, slightly windy – a brisk day! We landed on a jetty – a dry landing! Carcass Island was a birders’ paradise. Everyone was amazed at the great variety of species, including Magellanic penguins, plump upland geese, striated cara caras , crested ducks, voracious skuas, and steamer ducks, to name just a few. Many of the birds had babies or were sitting on eggs.

Several hours later, after lunch, we arrived at our second landing, New Island. We were welcomed by the few inhabitants and a small gift shop. The highlight was the large rockhopper penguin rookery alongside black browed albatross on their nests overlooking a dramatic seascape. Slight rain did not dampen our enthusiasm for this magical day on the Falklands.

PS - We were indeed listening to Weather Report's wonderful Birdland whilst blogging tonight!

South Atlantic Ocean

A quiet day at sea. The wind was moderate with a only few whitecaps to ruffle the blue surface of the water: this pleased the passengers on board. Many albatross, including black browed and the larger wandering albatross, prions and southern giant petrels kept us entertained as they glided around the ship. A pod of dolphins chased the Fram and at least a dozen whales made brief appearances.

Lectures continued through the morning and afternoon with talks on the geology and history of the Falkland Islands, the unique flora and fauna as well as photo workshops where the passengers learned about that most complicated of devices known as the ‘Camera.’ Pre-landing briefings were held discussing our proposed future landings on the Falklands. Bird watching was conducted on the upper decks. The day ended with the world-famous MS Fram fashion show where the Captain, officers and staff modeled various garments available for purchase in the gift shop.

Ushuaia, Beagle Channel

A beautiful sunny day in Ushuaia. The passengers left the vessel in good order, to be replaced by the next group eager to experience the southern ocean, its many moods and unique life forms. The ship was prepared for its voyage of discovery to the Falkland Islands and the crown jewel of the southern ocean, South Georgia Island.









The passengers boarded the ship, located their cabins and after lifeboat drill and other formalities, met the Captain his crew and the staff. The engines churned the water as Fram set sail down the Beagle Channel into the sunset. It will no doubt take everyone a day or two or become familiar with the workings of the ship and all its little secrets.