More Pitching and Rolling – February 8, 2024
What kind of fool am I?
Last night they announced a bird watching opportunity from 6 AM to 7 AM, led by a member of the expedition crew who specializes in bird watching. Problem was that last night we moved clocks forward one hour so 6 AM felt like 5 AM. Three people showed up: a couple from Chicago and me, but no leader. Finally the front desk was called and they rousted the leader from bed. He forgot to move his watch. We watched for birds from the stern with the deck pitching and rolling. The rain stopped but the deck was wet and slippery.
In the course of an hour we saw two possible species of pitons although they were too small for me to have an ID. Somehow we made it inside across the pitching deck.
You may be wondering why I was out and about in such rough weather. I keep saying that today was worse than yesterday but today really was the worst. The secret to my success? The scopolamine patch that I applied around 5:30 AM. I’ve been fine all day. I’ve eaten three square meals, walked around the ship quite a bit with no problem. It’s a miracle drug, I’m convinced. Actually that three squares thing might be an issue diet wise. Maybe I should lay off the patch as a weight loss regime.
We’ve been traversing the open Southern Sea on our way from South Orkney to South Georgia. We won’t arrive there until 1 PM, at which time the zodiacs, SOBs and submarines will hopefully be launched.
The government of South Georgia has put in place stringent requirements for those going ashore. We had to go through a second thorough cleaning of all external clothing, backpacks, etc. We also had to attend a briefing on cleanliness protocols. Here’s the video if you’re interested. It is narrated by Sir David Attenborough. https://gov.gs/south-georgia-visitors-guide/
We had to sign a document attesting to the steps we have taken to protect the environment. Avian flu is of particular concern.
No lectures this evening. Instead, our captain is leading a “Bad Dad Jokes” contest. Sadly, our dinner reservations interfere.
Just a few bird fact slides and a map to share our current route.
Here’s to smoother sailing tomorrow.
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