We arrived in Melchior Islands – a group of many low, ice-covered islands lying near the center of Dallmann Bay in the Palmer Archipelago of Antarctica. The scenery is stunning and we just can’t believe we are on this amazing expedition.

After breakfast, we had to get ready for our Special Ops boat ride. It takes so long to gear- up, that the thought crossed my mind to just sleep in all the polar clothing when we have an early expedition departure!! 😂. We are getting more proficient putting on everything, but it takes a good 15 minutes before we are really set to go… And that’s with already wearing the long johns and fleece pants when we went to breakfast.

I decided I will not be wearing gloves anymore; too much of a pain taking them on and off with the liners. Mittens are the way to go since you can pull them off and snap a pic and put them back on. The wearing of ski goggles is essential since the snow and sleet pummels your face as you zoom along in any of the boats. The heating closet has been doing a fair job of drying everything for the next adventure.

Today on our Op boat, we saw a lot of seals and many Arctic terns that were flying by looking for small fish to dine on. We also passed by Melchior Base, an Argentine base and scientific research center.

After lunch we went on our first zodiac ride and saw lots of fur seals and some amazing ice formations. The sun came out during our ride, and the temperature was much warmer than it was on the special ops boat this morning.

We came back and I took a dip in the infinity pool which was nice and warm.

Tonight we’re meeting friends for a drink and dinner.