Drake Shake
Day 16- 22nd January, written by Sonja
No heroic expedition is complete without stories of suffering and survival…..It’s hard to argue that a 16-day voyage on a comfortable cruise ship (even if of the expedition kind) qualifies for hardship explorer status. However, seasickness can find anyone on any vessel that moves…. and in the proper storm (Bft Force 10) we were having with 5-6 m swells even our trusted and stable vessel Roald Amundsen does move some, especially when wind and swell attack from the side. Such conditions are by no means unusual for the infamous Drake’s Passage. Interestingly as we were rock’n rolling in the Drake some of our colleagues and friends back home in the UK were facing similar 65 mph (100 km/h) winds during storm Isha, but with far worse consequences.
Swell and wind conditions in the Drake Passage compared to the UK
Needless to say the ranks of student observers were rather sparse throughout this tumultuous day at sea. Different faces made sometimes short-lived appearances throughout the day. Some even opted to hang out on deck until the outside decks were closed due to the severe conditions. The guest scientists gave short talks about the science they had been doing in Antarctica including the Polar WhaleWatch Duo, the snow algae double and of course our St Andrews team represented by Sonja (with seasoned sea legs). In general, everyone faired better than on the way South so there’s some evidence that sea legs or rather seaworthy stomachs developped over time aboard. Some even managed to enjoy dinner and the beautiful food decorations that the incredible galley team managed to present even in these condition.
Thank you to all the crew and expedition staff for looking after us so well during this incredible voyage.
