Departure: Antarctica

Departure day! Starting off with a fairly clear sky this morning, and calm waters with cape fur seals enjoying the early morning catch, swirling around in the water, with the weather turning to some overcast, mist and a bit of rain to tease. We are officially set to depart the East Pier off to immigration. Cargo loading completed and helicopters onboard, refuelling and with 89 passengers onboard and overwhelming excitement. The SANAE IV 62 expedition is on route to the ice continent! Bon Voyage!

Loads of interesting science to be done along the way, on the ice and at the research base. From sea bird observations, Ross seal tagging and monitoring to water studies and vibration analysis from various research entities.