Day 13 Tuesday 3 February Grytviken South Georgia

Our ship arrived in Grytviken, South Georgia at 8.00am and anchored in a sheltered inlet.  

Grytviken is the site of a historic whaling station which closed in 1966.  There are no permanent residents in Grytviken, but there are occasional researchers and British administrative and military personnel.  There are several structures on the site - a warehouse, Whaler's Church, museum and a functioning Post Office.

Our morning involved a zodiac landing - a "wet" landing this time, so our muck boots were definitely going in the water.  We kitted ourselves up - lots of gear as it was cold outside (about 4 degrees C).  Felt like Scott of the Antarctic.  Hopefully a better outcome.

As we approached the shore in the zodiacs, we could hear these mournful cries.  

Thought it was seabirds, but then realised the noise came from fur seals and their pups cavorting in the water.  The whaling station and its rusting equipment has become a home for the fur seals, King penguins and elephant seals.

We were instructed to keep a good 5 metres away from the wildlife. Not easily done. Some of the seal pups were very curious and had no fear.  They insisted on trying to get close.  We were instructed to wave our arms about or make some noise to deter their curiosity.

                                                            Cuteness overload

                                                         Female elephant seals

                                                            Pilates anyone !

                                                                 Good guys ?

We visited the cemetery where the remains of the great Antarctic explorer, Ernest Shackleton, are located.  Also the ashes of Frank Wild, who was Shackleton's first mate.  His plaque describes him as Shackleton's "right hand man".

We sent ourselves a postcard from the Post Office.  Will it beat us home ?

The small museum was actually rather good.

Once back on board, we spent the afternoon in the Explorer's Lounge, enjoying the panoramic views.

We also indulged in afternoon tea at Mamsen's Cafe.

Our ship sailed late afternoon on its way to Fortuna Bay.  An announcement came over the speakers about huge numbers of humpback whales feeding all around the ship.  We could see the puffs of water from their blowholes.  The captain changed course so we could enjoy the spectacle.  The challenge was to photograph their tails as they dived under the water.

                                                           This was no fluke !