THE ICE BLUE WINTER BALL–AND MORE OF ANTARCTICA (1/31/12)

Our itinerary had us cruising through the South Shetland Islands today, but we passed those yesterday and continued south to the Gerlache Strait
• Here, we find ourselves enveloped by dramatic snowy mountain peaks on every side . . . with seals and penguins perching on small ice “islands”
• The frigid cold of yesterday (precipitated largely by robust winds) has left us in favor of a sunny, flat calm.  Passengers have made their way outside to take in the breathtaking scenery from all sides.  Most amazing is how quiet it is; you can hear the slightest movement of ice against the water.
• My friends from Colorado – lovers of snow and mountains – may just find themselves “impressed” with the sights and scenery here!
• Tonight was the (appropriately named) “Ice Blue Winter Ball”.  I donned my teal blue dress and Bill his teal blue tie . . . Here’s a mixture of photos from the day and night . . . 

FROM OUR ROOM