Deception Island – Adam

We arrived at Deception Island, a volcano in the South Shetlands, Adam tells about our day…

Another day packed with fun and laughs on and off sailing vessel Ocean Tamp!! After a tasty breakfast by Chef Miguel and a long sail, we bundled up and jumped into the Zodiac for a quick ride to shore. Immediately, we noticed something different upon reaching the shore – STEAM! Remember we were inside an active volcano.

A few decided to treat themselves to a foot spa by sinking their bare feet in the hot volcanic sand. I mean who wouldn’t enjoy soaking their feet in hot water after days of wearing heavy moon boots for several days.

 

In the meantime, our scientist onboard, Bertrand, spun up the blades on his drone offering lessons and capturing amazing pictures of the Ocean Tramp and surroundings. He was calibrating and practicing prior to flights for whale research later in the trip. Due to the cold temperatures, the batteries were too cold to operate the drone. Bertrand had a great idea! “Adam, the penguins sit on their young to keep them warm. Let’s place the batteries in our underwear and sit like penguins.” So there we were, two adult men squatting on the beach with drone batteries in our underpants. Funny moment but sure enough after a few moments of mimicking penguins, we were able to launch the drone.

From the corner of my eye I see Chef Miguel disrobing. Now it was getting interesting. Shortly after Katherine and Bertrand were in their swim trunks as well. Feeling the pressure and seeing another opportunity to make a great memory, I joined them. Yes, we were swimming inside an active volcano in Antarctica – Simply awesome!

Our Expedition Leader, Laura instructed the Captain back to the boat to pick up a game called KUBB, a popular game played in Norway. I asked Laura if it was like Bocce and her response was great – “Oh it is way better than Bocce.” It was a blast and I cannot wait to teach my friends and family back home.

 

After another great day onshore, it was time to get back to the boat to warm up and enjoy a hot meal by Chef Miguel. For dinner we had Biryani with homemade naan and red wine. It was tassssssssty.
We then retreated to our cabin to rest up for another day in Antarctica.

Adam