Exploring Antarctica
The frozen shores
A wall of ice
Neko Harbor on the Antarctic continent is a magnificent place. At the
base of the harbor are several gigantic glaciers. Pressure, from the weight
of all the ice, is released here. Huge thunderous cracking sounds can be
heard, as 500 foot walls of ice break off and plunge into the sea. People
look like ants, or penguins, as they stand at the foot of the ice wall.
Neko Habor
A penguin at Neko Harbor
Brown Station
Not too far from Neko Harbor is Brown Station in Paradise Bay, which is
where one of the Argentine Antarctic research stations is located. Brown
Station is a lonely and often deserted place. Behind Brown is a 166 foot
hill. Going uphill it in knee deep snow wearing wellington boots is hard
work. The best way down is to follow the penguin's lead and slide down on
your back. There is lots of pack ice in Paradise Bay and seals are often
spotted lounging on floating burgs. The bay can get very cold when traveling
around it in rubber boats. But, the view of the glaciers is worth the
discomfort.
Swiming at Whalers Bay
Another must do experience while in the Antarctic is to pass through the
Neptune Bellows of Deception Island. Deception Island is in effect a partly
submerged volcano. The island forms a large ring so once you pass through
the Neptune Bellows, the only way in, you find yourself in a highly
protected bay. Volcanic processes at Whalers Bay heat up the water, at some
beaches, and so it is possible to swim there. The solitude at the now
deserted whaling station can stun you; it really gives you the feeling of a
snow covered ghost town.
Whalers Bay
Half Moon Island
Half Moon Island is the location of another Argentine station. The name
is very appropriate as it does have a perfect half moon shaped bay. This was
the final stop on my tour of Antarctica. It is a truly amazing place to
visit. It is full of life, beauty, and danger. If you do not see it before
you die you will have missed experiencing a part of our world unlike any
other.
Half Moon Island
Antarctica, the forgotten continent
Links:
Map of the trip