Into the ice
In terms of landscape today was the most exciting so far. Travelling over the past few days the GENTOO team have been excited by lonely icebergs in the water as we pass by, today however I think I can safely say we were left in awe with the scenery we witnessed, I don't think my words could do justice to the scale of ice and icebergs we seen, but I'll give it a go! Stretching for miles it reminded me, after days of sailing at sea, exactly where in the world we were. The sheer scale of beautiful white landscape made me think I was in a completely different world. Although I obviously wanted to record the moment, by taking photographs, I also wanted to take a moment to soak up what was in front of me and how lucky I was to see it. Speaking to one of my colleagues, they described it as both exciting and dangerous sailing into a land of ice where you don't know what could be ahead an the idea that scares but also gives a feeling of great adventure. One thing for sure is that we are all so grateful to be given the chance to have this adventure and see this incredible place.
Ice and seals (yes, they are there somewhere)
For me personally being at sea for the first time has been a tough adjustment, I spent most of the weekend stuck in my cabin suffering from sea sickness missing out in preparation for the science of the mission. However after numerous visits from the ship's doctor and lots of advice and confidence from my colleagues and the crew I am back on my feet and am now starting to not even notice I'm on a ship! Long may it continue. As well as the scenery I am also getting excited by being on an incredible science ship filled with many people from different backgrounds and expertise. I for one do not come from an oceanic background and so am enjoying learning the numerous skills and techniques which are used from such a wide range of subjects. What is great is that despite our different backgrounds we all share a common goal to learn about this remote world and this is obvious when you see experienced researchers show a great enthusiasm to learn about another's work.
Icebergs big and small
After today, standing at the top of the ship looking around as the JCR powered through the incredible landscape of ice, leaving behind a visible path, made up for all the illness.
Back to the journals.