WorldTravelReynolds

We’re in the middle of two sea days as we tiptoe around the edge of the infamous Drake Passage, and so far it’s been more “Drake Wobble” than “Drake Shake.” Not glass-smooth, but manageable if you treat the handrails like your new best friends. Walking down the hallway feels like a slow-motion game of pinball—left, right, grab the bar, repeat. Sleeping? That’s a whole adventure. This ship is petite, so every swell sends us rolling in bed like marbles in a tin can. We’ve mastered the art of wedging pillows to stay put. So far, nobody’s fallen out—victory!

Yesterday was pure recovery mode after South Georgia wore us out (in the best way). I treated myself to the most heavenly massage in the spa—pure bliss—and spent extra time in the relaxation area pretending I was at a fancy resort instead of bobbing in the Southern Ocean. Then came the surprise seafood brunch of dreams: lobster, crab legs, mussels, oysters, and—because why not?—caviar with champagne. We ate like royalty and felt like it too. Superb doesn’t even cover it.

In the afternoon we bundled up for a little whale watching from the deck, but the temperature had dipped into the 25–30°F range with a cheeky wind, so we didn’t last long. Too cold for this Florida girl—I scurried back inside faster than a penguin spotting a leopard seal.

We finished the day with a wonderful dinner in the dining room. Our waiter is an absolute gem—he remembers every little preference without missing a beat. Feels like he’s reading our minds (in the nicest way).

Today we’re back in the mudroom for gear inspections before Antarctica—piece of cake now that we’re pros. Velcro pockets are still the enemy, but we passed with flying colors.

I realize I haven’t said much about ship entertainment, mostly because there’s hardly time for it with all the excursions! But here’s the scoop: during afternoon tea, a lovely pianist plays soft music while we stuff ourselves with tiny sandwiches and little square cakes. Evenings offer two lounges—one with a pianist, one with a guitarist—perfect for drinks and chatting. We get daily lectures and briefings that keep us plenty busy, and every now and then there’s bingo or karaoke for the brave souls.

Oh, and I forgot to mention—we have a butler! Yes, an actual butler. He’s amazing—shines shoes, delivers whatever you fancy, and even offers to help you get dressed (we politely declined that one—felt a tad too King Charles for us!). He keeps trying to bring me caviar every night, but I told him to skip the fish eggs and keep the chocolates and hot tea coming instead. We have priorities.

All in all, not a lot of big excitement these two sea days, but that’s perfectly fine by us. Sometimes the best part of an adventure is catching your breath, eating like a king (or queen), and letting the ocean rock you to sleep—whether you like it or not.

Antarctica is getting closer every hour. Can’t wait!

May God bless you all! Chuck & Lea Ann