Sunset as our zodiac approaches Ortelius — Weddell Sea, Antarctica.

The sunset colors change as the sun gets lower on the horizon — Weddell Sea, Antarctica.

EL Sara uses a photograph of Ortelius in the sea ice for today's recap title slide.

Navigation chart showing where we were yesterday and today — Weddell Sea, Antarctica.

EL Sara downloaded this ice information along tomorrow's planned route.

Post recap, the sunset colors change again ... a colorful end to our day in the Weddell Sea.

RWSE Day 13: Colorful Wrap Up

February 23, Weddell Sea ⋅ ⛅ 27 °F

We returned from our zodiac cruise back to Ortelius around 6:00p … the sun bathing the sea a glorious orange-yellow.

Removing our gear, we headed up to the lounge for the recap, which was delayed until 6:45p to give everyone a chance to return to the ship. Hot cocoa in hand, we tried to warm ourselves … a slight shiver running under our skin as our core body temp had dropped quite a bit while we were out. Nonetheless, when the setting sun turned the sky red and added a mauve tint to the scenery — the ripples on the otherwise calm sea and the cloud deck above reflecting the colors — I could not resist the temptation to go our for a few quick shots.

The plan for tomorrow is very loose. Ortelius will be repositioning further south. The intent is to see if we can get into Vahsel Bay. There is snow in the forecast, and conditions may force us to plan B, or C, or D. Of course, there is quite a bit of ice along the coastline ahead of us … that will impact our plans as well.

In the meantime, we are grateful for the amazing day we had today … and the colorful, serene conclusion … a most definite bonus.Read more