Page 133 - 2003 - Atlantic Islands

When we left Gold Harbour, the plan was to move on to the Drygalski Fjord for our

sail into that beautiful formation with the hope that we might even get a Zodiac ride

there should conditions permit. In the meantime, we went to the Marco and Patricia

show: a slide presentation on sea mammals with emphasis on how to tell the

differences between the fur seals (which are actually sea lions) and the other seals.

The most obvious difference, of course, is the little ears hanging from the sides of the

fur seal heads. The other dramatic difference is their dependence on their thick and

lustrous fur for thermal protection and insulation while the other seals put on

blubber for their protection from the cold (as do the penguins). The Faveros put on a

good show with lots of jokes and plenty of information as well.

We reached the entrance to the Fjord as scheduled about noon and the change in the

ocean was immediate as soon as we got inside. The water was full of glacial milk so

the color was a lovely turquoise even without the sunshine to reveal that shade and

there was a very calm surface as well. We all trooped out to the front of the ship to

see the glorious scenery all around us.

It was cold but not unbearable so as we had the right gear this time. The face-covers,

mittens, and my new parka were all just the ticket. I could stand out on deck with no

discomfort whatever.

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