Antarctica

Islander · 01-29-2013, 11:10 AM

Bear Islander is leaving on an expedition to Antarctica. Around Cape Horn in a sailboat then sailing down to Antarctica for a month. You can read daily updates and view pictures at www.icetent.net

fatlazyless · 01-30-2013, 01:04 PM

Xplore sure looks like a super-duper, big-bucks sailboat......what it probably takes to sail from the southern tip of South America to Antarctica.....any clue what is its' length, beam, weight and fastest-fastest sailing speed?

Does the Xplore have a hot tub? If I went to Antactica by sailing yacht.....having a 104-degree, hot tub on-board ....would be nice.......yeah......just look at them whales........baby!

Bear Islander · 01-30-2013, 01:27 PM

I will try and post updates every day, however this weekend is the ocean crossing and I will probably be feeding the fish most of the time. 30ft swells.

No hot tub on board but we visit Deception Island which is an active volcano and we can swim in the hot lagoon.

Below is info on Xplore. The important thing is the steel hull. Sometimes we push through ice.

http://www.xplore-expeditions.com/1-15991-The-yacht.php

Specifications:
Length: 18.6m
Beam: 17 feet – 5.26m
Hull material: HSLA steel
Designer: David Thomas
Builder: Devonport Yachts Ltd.
Berths: 12

upthesaukee · 01-30-2013, 02:21 PM

I'm thinking about Bear Islander's trip, and saying to myself why on God's green earth would he go there in the winter....and then Dawn over Marblehead, it is winter here, but in the Southern Hemisphere, it is of course summer... a relative term at the South Pole.

So, BI, enjoy your trip...God speed.

Pineedles · 01-31-2013, 10:49 AM

Speaking of long trips BI, when do you go into orbit?

Bear Islander · 01-31-2013, 11:59 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Pineedles

Speaking of long trips BI, when do you go into orbit?

This year I hope.

I am in Argentina right now.

SIKSUKR · 01-31-2013, 12:59 PM

I had the pleasure of recieving an e-mail from BI on his last expedition to the South Pole.Good luck!!

JMR · 01-31-2013, 01:39 PM

BI

Good luck. Keep us informed. I hope you have time to spend in Buenos Aires, I had a great time there. Great steak and red wine! People were very friendly.

Lucy Goose · 01-31-2013, 02:56 PM

Have a wonderful trip. Something I dream of doing!!!

LG

Sunset Bob · 01-31-2013, 05:44 PM

Enjoy looking forward to your posts

Frankentooth · 01-31-2013, 08:40 PM

Hi Bear Islander--

Since you are in Argentina at present, I thought I might send along some food for thought--I went to Antarctica in 2010 on a decommissioned Russian ice breaker--We had 55 mph winds and 45 foot swells, and on the previous voyage, someone fell and broke their arm just walking around the ship. That said, if at all possible, I would encourage you to go to Ushuaia (southern tip of Argentina), and see if there are any vacancies on larger boats, rather than attempt it in a sailing vessel. There are typically vacancies this time of year, since folks often miss flights due to weather, so it's entirely possible to get a cabin on a larger ship for a fraction of the cost.

While it is technically "summer" in Antarctica, it is still a very dangerous time--I am attaching a photo demonstrating what "summer" looks like. This photo was taken in February 2010.

Wishing you all the best for your adventure, and please stay safe.

lawn psycho · 01-31-2013, 08:57 PM

Kinda hard to call a paid sail/taxi an expedition unless he's self-supported and sailing himself.

Adventure tourism would be more accurate description. I've been to Mt Everest Base camp but would never call it an expedition.

I've been to the North Pole while in the Navy on a submarine. And you can't go on the internet and book a trip to do it.... Other than a check off on a list the poles are not that interesting IMO.

Have fun.

P-3 Guy · 02-01-2013, 07:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Frankentooth

Hi Bear Islander--

Since you are in Argentina at present, I thought I might send along some food for thought--I went to Antarctica in 2010 on a decommissioned Russian ice breaker--We had 55 mph winds and 45 foot swells, and on the previous voyage, someone fell and broke their arm just walking around the ship. That said, if at all possible, I would encourage you to go to Ushuaia (southern tip of Argentina), and see if there are any vacancies on larger boats, rather than attempt it in a sailing vessel. There are typically vacancies this time of year, since folks often miss flights due to weather, so it's entirely possible to get a cabin on a larger ship for a fraction of the cost.

While it is technically "summer" in Antarctica, it is still a very dangerous time--I am attaching a photo demonstrating what "summer" looks like. This photo was taken in February 2010.

Wishing you all the best for your adventure, and please stay safe.

He's BTDT and is well aware of the risks. Check out his website linked in the first post of this thread to see what I am talking about.

moose tracks · 02-03-2013, 07:39 AM

Have a fantastic trip BI. I will be looking forward to your posts. Have fun but the most important thing is; stay safe.

Gearhead · 02-04-2013, 12:57 PM

I'm not much of a fan of really cold weather but I'd say after spending a couple of weeks in Antarctica, everything feels like Spring, even the lakes region. I spent a couple of weeks in Florida in June-July years ago and I swear I'll never complain about the heat up here again.

Myself, in the Winter I'd rather go someplace where I can strut around in my Speedo (okay, not really).

NoBozo · 02-04-2013, 03:08 PM

I had a look at Ushuaia in Google Earth the other day and I believe I found the Yacht Xplore tied up cross ways at the end of the "Yacht Club" dock. It's the longest boat on the pier..checked the length with the "Ruler" under "Tools". It measured 67 feet. Cool.

I'm going to take a guess and say that Yachting doesn't look like a big pastime down there...although it looked like a few smaller boats out on moorings near the Yacht Club dock.

Plug in Ushuaia, Argentina. It's on the big island of Tierra Del Fuego.

The Yacht Xplore is about 625 yards South West of the docked cruise ship.

NB

Rusty · 02-04-2013, 05:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NoBozo

I had a look at Ushuaia in Google Earth the other day and I believe I found the Yacht Xplore tied up cross ways at the end of the "Yacht Club" dock. It's the longest boat on the pier..checked the length with the "Ruler" under "Tools". It measured 67 feet. Cool.

I'm going to take a guess and say that Yachting doesn't look like a big pastime down there...although it looked like a few smaller boats out on moorings near the Yacht Club dock.

Plug in Ushuaia, Argentina. It's on the big island of Tierra Del Fuego.

The Yacht Xplore is about 625 yards South West of the docked cruise ship.

NB

I think you're right about the Yacht Xplore.

I put a push pin where you said Xplore is located:

NoBozo · 02-04-2013, 06:54 PM

YUP: That's the spot.

NB

NoBozo · 02-05-2013, 07:44 PM

BI hasn't posted (http://icetent.net/) since shortly after they got underway so I guess conditions are less than optimal....

It ain't Winni....

NB

FWIW: When the Horizon dissapears..like at sea at NIGHT..No Moon..Lack of Spacial Orientation can lead to Sea Sickness......

GFP · 02-05-2013, 10:19 PM

Has he undertaken this trip before?

Island Girl · 02-05-2013, 10:36 PM

As others suggested, go to BI's website and read about his world adventures. He was on the Xplore in 09... Fascinating read!

Happy Sailing BI!

riverat · 02-06-2013, 06:48 AM

Well they're underway, first post 7pm (tuesday Feb 4th) which was the 5th up here. Dolphins escort them out of the bay.
If you click on the date on this post it will allow you to enter your email address, so you will recieve updates directly to your inbox.
Bon Voyage! XPlorer and crew.

Sal · 02-06-2013, 06:05 PM

Those of you interested in BI's trip might also be interested
in watching this video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tASOq...em-subs_digest

NoBozo · 02-06-2013, 06:28 PM

CAPE HORN is the WORST Place in The World to go sailing. Just sayin'

EDIT: The Transit from Australia/New Zeeland..IE: The Southern Ocean to Cape Horn is also Most Unpleasant. Once you round Cape Horn..(heading East..then North) things are definitely looking better.

BTW: Heading WEST around Cape Horn is ..well .... Captain Bligh, of the BOUNTY tried that for months..and finally turned around and went East to get to the Pacific.

BI is neither sailing West or East..he's sailing South...crosswise to the wind and current. I tip my cocktail to him.

NB

riverat · 02-06-2013, 07:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by riverat

Well they're underway, first post 7pm (tuesday Feb 4th) which was the 5th up here. Dolphins escort them out of the bay.
If you click on the date on this post it will allow you to enter your email address, so you will recieve updates directly to your inbox.
Bon Voyage! XPlorer and crew.

http://icetent.net/
They made it! 4 days and 700 miles!

NoBozo · 02-06-2013, 08:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by riverat

http://icetent.net/
They made it! 4 days and 700 miles!

That's Haulin' Azz....BUT to be expected on a "Beam Reach" in a 67 foot boat. Excellent sailing.

Bartender..I'll have another..

NB

riverat · 02-10-2013, 08:29 AM

"Attached is a photo showing our mooring at Lautaro Island. Explore is moored with four lines, two from the bow and two the stern onto steel cables looped around rocks on the shore. These were placed by Stephen and Richard T using the Zodiac and a little rock climbing.

The forecast looks good and so tomorrow we will head south again aiming for the Antarctic Circle at 67 degrees south. Stay tuned!"

This'nThat · 02-14-2013, 09:25 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by upthesaukee

I'm thinking about Bear Islander's trip, and saying to myself why on God's green earth would he go there in the winter....and then Dawn over Marblehead, it is winter here, but in the Southern Hemisphere, it is of course summer... a relative term at the South Pole.

On Thursday, 14 Feb, the current temp at VOSTOK, Antarctica is -64 degrees F (http://classic.wunderground.com/cgi-...:00000.1.89606). And it's snowing. Friday's forecast high is 44 degrees below zero.

So yeah, summer is the ideal time to visit Antarctica.

tis · 02-15-2013, 07:32 AM

My question is why would he want to go there ANY time of year! I would die if I had to go there!

riverat · 02-15-2013, 08:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by This'nThat

On Thursday, 14 Feb, the current temp at VOSTOK, Antarctica is -64 degrees F (http://classic.wunderground.com/cgi-...:00000.1.89606). And it's snowing. Friday's forecast high is 44 degrees below zero.

So yeah, summer is the ideal time to visit Antarctica.

Why is'nt all the water frozen at that temp.?

This'nThat · 02-15-2013, 01:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by riverat

Why is'nt all the water frozen at that temp.?

Many reasons. Antarctica is a continent, and like any continent, geography, wind patterns, actual location, and bodies of water all contribute to the local climates. Vostok, for example, in in the interior, and is 11,444 ft above sea level. Butler Island, Antarctica, (http://classic.wunderground.com/glob...ons/89266.html) is 6 degrees further North, and is expecting a high temperature of +25 degrees F, and 1/2 foot of snow overnight.

NoBozo · 02-20-2013, 05:43 PM

Follow Bear Islanders Antarctic adventures here.

NB

http://icetent.net/

Bear Islander · 03-01-2013, 11:52 AM

I'm home again safe and sound. Thanks for all the interest.

I did have a couple of interesting experiences. I punched one leg through into a crevasse while climbing Mt. Hovgaard, no big deal really. However I was driving a small zodiac while visiting an iceberg graveyard when a leopard seal, probably about 1,000 pounds, chased us for a couple of miles. Except for killer whales leopard seals are at the top of the food chain down south. We winch the zodiac out of the water when not in use because they love to punch holes in rubber boats. Perhaps you have seen the picture of one trying to bite through our shore lines.

Good thing we don't have them on Winni.

Island Girl · 03-01-2013, 12:03 PM

Does she stay all year long or leave in the fall for warmer climes?

IG

Bear Islander · 03-01-2013, 09:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Island Girl

Does she stay all year long or leave in the fall for warmer climes?

IG

Xplore usually makes two or three trips to Antarctica each year.

Xplore will go north into the Pacific to French Polynesia and spend the summer around Pitcairn Island. Pitcairn was made famous by the mutiny on the HMS Bounty.

pam.in.ny · 03-02-2013, 07:42 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bear Islander

I'm home again safe and sound. Thanks for all the interest.

Glad you are home safe and sound, BI and thank you for allowing us to enjoy your fantastic adventure along with you. I loved reading the updates and the photos were terrific! Beside space and Winni, where are you going next?

bclaker · 03-02-2013, 09:45 AM

Thanks Bear Islander for the daily e-mail on your trip to Antarctica. We looked forward to then daily update. We'll be looking forward to reports on your trip into space.

riverat · 03-02-2013, 11:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bclaker

Thanks Bear Islander for the daily e-mail on your trip to Antarctica. We looked forward to then daily update. We'll be looking forward to reports on your trip into space.

Same here, it was interesting to read about your adventures. Especially the Leopard seal and when the icebergs were blocking you in.

Bear Islander · 03-04-2013, 04:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pam.in.ny

Glad you are home safe and sound, BI and thank you for allowing us to enjoy your fantastic adventure along with you. I loved reading the updates and the photos were terrific! Beside space and Winni, where are you going next?

I will probably ride the centrifuge to six gravities and go on a Zero-G flight in the coming months. And possibly ski to the north pole in a year.

01-29-2013, 11:10 AM	#1
Islander Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2005 Posts: 321 Thanks: 0 Thanked 9 Times in 3 Posts	Antarctica Bear Islander is leaving on an expedition to Antarctica. Around Cape Horn in a sailboat then sailing down to Antarctica for a month. You can read daily updates and view pictures at www.icetent.net

01-30-2013, 01:04 PM	#2
fatlazyless Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Posts: 8,753 Blog Entries: 1 Thanks: 300 Thanked 1,010 Times in 736 Posts	Xplore sure looks like a super-duper, big-bucks sailboat......what it probably takes to sail from the southern tip of South America to Antarctica.....any clue what is its' length, beam, weight and fastest-fastest sailing speed? Does the Xplore have a hot tub? If I went to Antactica by sailing yacht.....having a 104-degree, hot tub on-board ....would be nice.......yeah......just look at them whales........baby! __________________ ... down and out, liv'n that Walmart side of the lake!

01-30-2013, 02:21 PM	#4
upthesaukee Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2003 Location: Alton Bay Posts: 5,599 Blog Entries: 2 Thanks: 2,458 Thanked 1,981 Times in 1,082 Posts	time for me to go to the rest home. I'm thinking about Bear Islander's trip, and saying to myself why on God's green earth would he go there in the winter....and then Dawn over Marblehead, it is winter here, but in the Southern Hemisphere, it is of course summer... a relative term at the South Pole. So, BI, enjoy your trip...God speed. __________________ I Live Here... I am always UPTHESAUKEE !!!!

01-31-2013, 12:59 PM	#7
SIKSUKR Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Posts: 5,075 Thanks: 215 Thanked 903 Times in 509 Posts	I had the pleasure of recieving an e-mail from BI on his last expedition to the South Pole.Good luck!! __________________ SIKSUKR

01-31-2013, 01:39 PM	#8
JMR Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Hampton & Rattlesnake Island Posts: 175 Thanks: 33 Thanked 70 Times in 32 Posts	Argentina BI Good luck. Keep us informed. I hope you have time to spend in Buenos Aires, I had a great time there. Great steak and red wine! People were very friendly.

The Following 7 Users Say Thank You to Islander For This Useful Post:
bclaker (01-31-2013), Bear Islander (01-29-2013), Just Sold (01-31-2013), Newbiesaukee (01-29-2013), NoBozo (02-04-2013), riverat (01-31-2013), trfour (01-29-2013)

01-30-2013, 01:27 PM	#3
Bear Islander Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Bear Island Posts: 1,764 Thanks: 32 Thanked 441 Times in 207 Posts	I will try and post updates every day, however this weekend is the ocean crossing and I will probably be feeding the fish most of the time. 30ft swells. No hot tub on board but we visit Deception Island which is an active volcano and we can swim in the hot lagoon. Below is info on Xplore. The important thing is the steel hull. Sometimes we push through ice. http://www.xplore-expeditions.com/1-15991-The-yacht.php Specifications: Length: 18.6m Beam: 17 feet – 5.26m Hull material: HSLA steel Designer: David Thomas Builder: Devonport Yachts Ltd. Berths: 12

The Following User Says Thank You to Bear Islander For This Useful Post:
NoBozo (02-04-2013)

01-31-2013, 10:49 AM	#5
Pineedles Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2004 Location: Moultonborough & CT Posts: 2,545 Thanks: 1,072 Thanked 668 Times in 367 Posts	Speaking of long trips BI, when do you go into orbit?

The Following User Says Thank You to Bear Islander For This Useful Post:
Pineedles (02-01-2013)

01-31-2013, 02:56 PM	#9
Lucy Goose Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2010 Posts: 228 Thanks: 29 Thanked 108 Times in 29 Posts	Have a wonderful trip. Something I dream of doing!!! LG

01-31-2013, 05:44 PM	#10
Sunset Bob Deceased Member Join Date: Jul 2002 Posts: 1,701 Thanks: 115 Thanked 25 Times in 13 Posts	Enjoy looking forward to your posts

01-31-2013, 08:40 PM	#11
Frankentooth Junior Member Join Date: Nov 2011 Posts: 10 Thanks: 5 Thanked 10 Times in 2 Posts	Antarctica...Yikes Hi Bear Islander-- Since you are in Argentina at present, I thought I might send along some food for thought--I went to Antarctica in 2010 on a decommissioned Russian ice breaker--We had 55 mph winds and 45 foot swells, and on the previous voyage, someone fell and broke their arm just walking around the ship. That said, if at all possible, I would encourage you to go to Ushuaia (southern tip of Argentina), and see if there are any vacancies on larger boats, rather than attempt it in a sailing vessel. There are typically vacancies this time of year, since folks often miss flights due to weather, so it's entirely possible to get a cabin on a larger ship for a fraction of the cost. While it is technically "summer" in Antarctica, it is still a very dangerous time--I am attaching a photo demonstrating what "summer" looks like. This photo was taken in February 2010. Wishing you all the best for your adventure, and please stay safe. Attached Images

01-31-2013, 08:57 PM	#12
lawn psycho Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: On the move... Posts: 987 Thanks: 113 Thanked 248 Times in 133 Posts	Kinda hard to call a paid sail/taxi an expedition unless he's self-supported and sailing himself. Adventure tourism would be more accurate description. I've been to Mt Everest Base camp but would never call it an expedition. I've been to the North Pole while in the Navy on a submarine. And you can't go on the internet and book a trip to do it.... Other than a check off on a list the poles are not that interesting IMO. Have fun.

02-03-2013, 07:39 AM	#14
moose tracks Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: Loudon, Tennessee, foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains Posts: 283 Thanks: 340 Thanked 41 Times in 33 Posts	Have a fantastic trip BI. I will be looking forward to your posts. Have fun but the most important thing is; stay safe. __________________ Moose Tracks

02-04-2013, 12:57 PM	#15
Gearhead Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Alton Posts: 166 Thanks: 13 Thanked 19 Times in 8 Posts	I'm not much of a fan of really cold weather but I'd say after spending a couple of weeks in Antarctica, everything feels like Spring, even the lakes region. I spent a couple of weeks in Florida in June-July years ago and I swear I'll never complain about the heat up here again. Myself, in the Winter I'd rather go someplace where I can strut around in my Speedo (okay, not really).

02-04-2013, 03:08 PM	#16
NoBozo Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Portsmouth. RI Posts: 2,231 Thanks: 400 Thanked 460 Times in 308 Posts	Ushuaia I had a look at Ushuaia in Google Earth the other day and I believe I found the Yacht Xplore tied up cross ways at the end of the "Yacht Club" dock. It's the longest boat on the pier..checked the length with the "Ruler" under "Tools". It measured 67 feet. Cool. I'm going to take a guess and say that Yachting doesn't look like a big pastime down there...although it looked like a few smaller boats out on moorings near the Yacht Club dock. Plug in Ushuaia, Argentina. It's on the big island of Tierra Del Fuego. The Yacht Xplore is about 625 yards South West of the docked cruise ship. NB

02-04-2013, 06:54 PM	#18
NoBozo Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Portsmouth. RI Posts: 2,231 Thanks: 400 Thanked 460 Times in 308 Posts	YUP: That's the spot. NB

02-05-2013, 07:44 PM	#19
NoBozo Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Portsmouth. RI Posts: 2,231 Thanks: 400 Thanked 460 Times in 308 Posts	BI hasn't posted (http://icetent.net/) since shortly after they got underway so I guess conditions are less than optimal.... It ain't Winni.... NB FWIW: When the Horizon dissapears..like at sea at NIGHT..No Moon..Lack of Spacial Orientation can lead to Sea Sickness......

02-05-2013, 10:19 PM	#20
GFP Senior Member Join Date: May 2009 Location: Manchester, NH Posts: 58 Thanks: 48 Thanked 6 Times in 5 Posts	Has he undertaken this trip before?

02-05-2013, 10:36 PM	#21
Island Girl Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: Central MA Posts: 2,352 Thanks: 18 Thanked 535 Times in 179 Posts	Yes As others suggested, go to BI's website and read about his world adventures. He was on the Xplore in 09... Fascinating read! Happy Sailing BI! __________________ Island Girl ....... Make Lemonade

02-06-2013, 06:48 AM	#22
riverat Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: Alton, NH Posts: 722 Thanks: 337 Thanked 280 Times in 123 Posts	Well they're underway, first post 7pm (tuesday Feb 4th) which was the 5th up here. Dolphins escort them out of the bay. If you click on the date on this post it will allow you to enter your email address, so you will recieve updates directly to your inbox. Bon Voyage! XPlorer and crew. __________________ Waking up in the morning is the greatest, everything after that is a bonus

02-06-2013, 06:05 PM	#23
Sal Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Moultonborough Posts: 311 Thanks: 103 Thanked 169 Times in 53 Posts	Those of you interested in BI's trip might also be interested in watching this video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tASOq...em-subs_digest

02-06-2013, 06:28 PM	#24
NoBozo Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Portsmouth. RI Posts: 2,231 Thanks: 400 Thanked 460 Times in 308 Posts	CAPE HORN is the WORST Place in The World to go sailing. Just sayin' EDIT: The Transit from Australia/New Zeeland..IE: The Southern Ocean to Cape Horn is also Most Unpleasant. Once you round Cape Horn..(heading East..then North) things are definitely looking better. BTW: Heading WEST around Cape Horn is ..well .... Captain Bligh, of the BOUNTY tried that for months..and finally turned around and went East to get to the Pacific. BI is neither sailing West or East..he's sailing South...crosswise to the wind and current. I tip my cocktail to him. NB Last edited by NoBozo; 02-06-2013 at 07:28 PM.

02-10-2013, 08:29 AM	#27
riverat Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: Alton, NH Posts: 722 Thanks: 337 Thanked 280 Times in 123 Posts	Latest update "Attached is a photo showing our mooring at Lautaro Island. Explore is moored with four lines, two from the bow and two the stern onto steel cables looped around rocks on the shore. These were placed by Stephen and Richard T using the Zodiac and a little rock climbing. The forecast looks good and so tomorrow we will head south again aiming for the Antarctic Circle at 67 degrees south. Stay tuned!" __________________ Waking up in the morning is the greatest, everything after that is a bonus

02-15-2013, 07:32 AM	#29
tis Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2006 Posts: 6,727 Thanks: 752 Thanked 1,457 Times in 1,014 Posts	My question is why would he want to go there ANY time of year! I would die if I had to go there!

02-20-2013, 05:43 PM	#32
NoBozo Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Portsmouth. RI Posts: 2,231 Thanks: 400 Thanked 460 Times in 308 Posts	Bite me Follow Bear Islanders Antarctic adventures here. NB http://icetent.net/

03-01-2013, 11:52 AM	#33
Bear Islander Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Bear Island Posts: 1,764 Thanks: 32 Thanked 441 Times in 207 Posts	I'm home again safe and sound. Thanks for all the interest. I did have a couple of interesting experiences. I punched one leg through into a crevasse while climbing Mt. Hovgaard, no big deal really. However I was driving a small zodiac while visiting an iceberg graveyard when a leopard seal, probably about 1,000 pounds, chased us for a couple of miles. Except for killer whales leopard seals are at the top of the food chain down south. We winch the zodiac out of the water when not in use because they love to punch holes in rubber boats. Perhaps you have seen the picture of one trying to bite through our shore lines. Good thing we don't have them on Winni.

The Following 3 Users Say Thank You to Bear Islander For This Useful Post:
Just Sold (03-01-2013), pam.in.ny (03-02-2013), Pineedles (03-01-2013)

03-01-2013, 12:03 PM	#34
Island Girl Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: Central MA Posts: 2,352 Thanks: 18 Thanked 535 Times in 179 Posts	How Many voyages a year does Xplore take in Antartica? Does she stay all year long or leave in the fall for warmer climes? IG __________________ Island Girl ....... Make Lemonade

03-02-2013, 09:45 AM	#37
bclaker Senior Member Join Date: May 2008 Location: Laconia Posts: 479 Thanks: 545 Thanked 147 Times in 66 Posts	Thanks Bear Islander for the daily e-mail on your trip to Antarctica. We looked forward to then daily update. We'll be looking forward to reports on your trip into space.