Deception Island

Another great day with very different topography than we have experienced over the past several days. This morning we are on the inside of Deception Island, in a caldera with one side open that allows the ship to pass. We landed on the beach and explored the old, deserted British research center. Before becoming a research center, it was a whaling site, hence the name Whaler's Bay. I explored the structures, some of which were large tanks to store whale oil. There was also an airplane hangar where the Brits would keep their plane. We walked to Neptune's Bellows, the entry to the caldera, and photographed the wall that made up the outside of the caldera. There are steam vents along shore and some people actually went swimming in the 28 degree water.

We also visited Bailey Head, where it is estimated that there are approximately 100,000 chin strap penguins. I will never forget the sound or smell of these creatures. It snowed/sleeted on us...