13 Feb 2023

In the Footsteps of Captain Ross at Possession Islands

Luck was on our side again as Heritage Adventurer landed on the very spot that Captain Ross did in 1841. The shimmer of ice glazed the beach pebbles making them appear velate. Discovered by James Clark Ross and claimed for Britain in January 1841, Possession Islands consists of two islands: Possession and Foyn, at the northern tip of Victoria Land.

The smell however took a little long to appreciate, but the sight of Adélies made forgiveness of the foul smell possible. The still winter weather allowed for greater than normal visibility and what can only be described as a natural wonder, we observed a large flock of Antarctic Petrels consisting of over 2000 birds flying high 1-kilometre in the direction of the mountain and in formation. This observation was supported by another 8 flocks bringing the estimated number to 16000 birds.

The passengers had an option to Zodiac around the island which by all accounts provided as much if not more entertainment that the landing party, with sea stacks and Minke whales on display.