Polar Plunge, Gerlache Strait

Very soon afterward the ice walk, the ship was stopped so that guests could do the polar plunge.

A team of staff were in 2 or 3 zodiacs on the water for backup and a zodiac was tied up next to the ship. One by one, guests disrobed in the boot room and a belt harness was wrapped around their waists, and then once on the zodiac, a rope was attached for safety and the guests could jump into the icy sea. A stiff drink was offered afterwards! There was a jolly atmosphere, music played, and all the staff were having a great time and the medical staff were to hand, watching but waiting in case of emergency, with an AED to hand. Paul slept through it all so I did the polar plunge without ‘backup’. It didn’t matter. I still enjoyed it! Unfortunately the lady trying to take my plunge didn't manage to. She got a photo of me with my back, being hooked up to a rope but that was it. It doesn't matter though.

Unfortunately time was running out and the ship had to leave in time to reach her next destination, so staff didn’t have time to go for the polar plunge. Hopefully they will get an opportunity over the next few weeks/months that the ship is in Antarctica.

Once everyone was on board, it was time for a recap and a briefing for tomorrow. I managed to have a very quick shower and dashed down to the Expedition Lounge – only to discover that I hadn’t washed the conditioner out of my hair. So I ended up having another shower. But I didn’t mind. The lovely warm water….Read more