We are now in the South Shetland Islands in the north of the Antarctic Peninsula and visiting Deception Island. This is a volcanic caldera with just a narrow entrance. The weather was against us but we went up on deck as we sailed through the narrows called Neptunes Bellows. There is a large rock a few metres below the surface but we obviously made it!
It is 360 degree enclosed with the entrance hidden . It was still very windy so we went ashore half at a time. It is just like Santorini but a very different climate. The caldera has snow rather than white homes.
The last eruption was in 1975 but we are safe today. I think the temperature would freeze moulten lava!
Deception Island was a large whaling station and our first sign of this was the water boats. They used these to gather snow for water for the factory.
The old factory and associated buildings were extensive but were mainly destroyed in the last eruption
This is inside the building. The snow finds its way in even through a nail hole.
We spot our first Chinstrap penguin. It came out of the water took one look at us and went back in. Only 3 people saw it.
Most of the penguins live on the outer part of the island for access to feeding grounds. We also saw a few fur seals.
Rob at Biscoe house now in ruins with most of the roof broken in.
Ruins of the whaling station
As we sail out of the caldera, Deception Island remains under a blanket of mist and fog.
2 comments:
Is it called Deception Island because of the secret harbour? You've had such an interesting trip!
xoxo
When you are outside it is hard to spot the nattow entrance. When inside it is even hard to find the way out!!
Post a Comment