We are continuing onward from Punta Arenas, although the Zaandam has  already passed through to the southern end of the Chilean fjords. But more of that later.  Today’s blog entry goes back to Glacier Alley and Ushuaia.

Tuesday, 11 December 2018
Ushuaia, Chile

We have a very early wake-up call this morning in order to scramble out on the upper decks to witness our passing through Chile’s Glacier Alley, from 5:30-7:00 am.  The early morning viewing is really worth it, in spite of the cold at this hour (low 40s).

Will Enjoying the views in Glacier Alley

Large Glacier Make its Way to the Sea

Zaandam Passes Close to the Glacier

We reach Ushuaia, Argentina, on schedule at noon, but a smaller expedition ship blocks our way to the pier, and so we must anchor off-shore and use tenders.  This works fine, but it is a slow process, and all the shore excursions are delayed about one hour. The Captain assures us that all tours will last their allotted times; the Zaandam will depart one hour later to accommodate everyone.

A view of Ushuaia Town and Port

Ushuaia's Whale Fin Casino (above and below)

We tender to shore to join our tour on a sleek catamaran to visit several large outcroppings, home to Patagonia's sea wildlife--including sea lions, cormorant birds, and some small penguins.

After the excursion we still have time to wander about the city, but there isn't much to see in the port area.  We tender back to the Zaandam, waiting for us at anchor.

Tomorrow will be another early morning, as we round Cape Horn itself.  The next blog will really be from the end of the world.