Drake Passage - first night onboard

Yesterday afternoon we officially joined our home for the next part of the adventure — the Fridtjof Nansen. Boarding in Ushuaia at 4pm was smooth and efficient, and before long we were settling into our cabin… and what a cabin it is.
We’re in Cabin 702, right at the very front of Deck 7 on the starboard side. Being at the bow means we have a fantastic balcony and uninterrupted views ahead — perfect for watching where this expedition is taking us.
Passengers are divided into groups for restaurant seatings and expedition activities. We’ve been assigned to the Crabeater Seal group, with a formal dinner sitting at 8:30pm. After our very early travel day though, we opted for an earlier meal in the café-style restaurant. The meal was perfectly fine… nothing extraordinary… although clearly memorable enough that I’m writing about it!
While we were eating, the ship quietly slipped away from Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, and began our journey south.
By 8:30pm we were fast asleep.
Later in the night — around 10:40pm — the ship exited the Beagle Channel and entered the famous Drake Passage. Even though conditions were considered good, we could definitely feel the ship begin to roll gently as we moved into open ocean. Thankfully we both slept well.
This morning started with our 7:30 breakfast, and the buffet selection was outstanding — the sort of spread where restraint becomes a serious challenge.
At 9:30am we attended the expedition briefing, where we learned how the activity system works. Most of the excursions are allocated by lottery, so it’s a bit like waiting to see what adventure you draw next. We’ve put our names down for sea kayaking, which requires two separate briefings before we’re allowed out on the water. 🤞
For now though, we’re simply enjoying the experience — watching the endless ocean roll by as we head further south… soaking up the excitement of what lies ahead.

All while sipping on a rather nice “Tomb Raider” cocktail.
(And yes… if anyone wants the recipe, I might be persuaded to share.)

The adventure to Antarctica has officially begun.Læs mere