The Oosterdam had great fortune this season with being able to anchor and tender passengers to the island. Many times ships cannot do this and this ship has done it every time this season.
The island itself is very barren and one wonders what the attraction was to the place. Evidently years ago there were cattle roaming and offered meat and hides to anyone landing or living there. The terrain is bumpy and rocky with peat like ground around the shore. No trees and little greenery except in yards.
We were interested in the penguins of which there are about a million compared to about 3000 people living there. It only took about a half hour to arrive at Bluff point where a privately owned rookery is established. We watched the penguins and enjoyed their antics. The little brown ones were the late bloomers which the adults are trying to get to the stage that they can leave home.
Hot beverages and pastries were served and welcome as the wind was fierce and blew constantly. I had on jeans with leggings underneath, at long sleeve T-shirt, a sweatshirt, a insulated vest and a rain coat. hat, gloves, and sox with sturdy shoes. I was warm but my face got wind burn!!
Before boarding the tender we visited their museum which was very interesting and varied. The town wasn't very large and easily walked. We found a pub, Globe, and had a pint and a plate of fish and chips to share. The fish was local and very fresh.
After a nice dinner we listened to the piano player for a while then hit the hay. We're not night owls nor are many aboard, especially after a tour day.
Tomorrow we visit Ilsa Magdelena to see more penguins via a boat. it will be cold and a tight schedule. The following day we visit Ushuaia and a park to the end of the continent. I'm looking forward to the days despite the need for layers of clothes!!
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