16th March, 2008
Awoken by our trusty skipper with his inspiring words, we realised that
we had got through the night almost unscathed, with remarkably kind
seas. We checked outside our cabin doors, but no papers left with
yesterdays news. All our teams will have won anyway. Oh well, somehow
that is all starting to feel like a long long way away.
How do they produce such a cracking breakfast? Lightly scambled eggs and
bacon, fruit and crossaints, against a backdrop of gently rolling seas.
And then a morning of various pursuits: a trip to the bridge to chat
with the hugely focused autopilot and check the charts. 155 degrees
south felt like we were heading vaguely to where we should be. Sea all
around, a few birds watching our progress with quite some interest.
A excellent first lecture on climate change ( thank you James B) in a
crowded conference room. Clearly a subject of major interest for
everyone on the expedition and a real thirst for more information and
discussion over the next few days.
Some walking around the decks ( did we miss the pool and the deck quoits
on our tour?), some reading, some sleeping and some chilling. And a
Latin American afternoon, with siestas for some and some getting used to
the waves for others.
Back to the conference room for Bernice to enlighten us on the wildlife
of Antarctica, all of which awaits us in days to come. Videos and
dinner, time to chat and to reflect on a relaxing day. Just what Sunday
should be like. But yippee: no going to the office tomorrow. Excitement
builds, the expeditionary force in great spirits, and sunset over the
Drake Passage at the end of Day 4.
( for those who have been following this epic tale and enjoying the
photos c/o JC, with regrets we have been unable to locate him at this
hour of broadcast. We will do better tomorrow)
14th March, 2008
An amazing start to day2 , with the sun rising over the Beagle channel as the team were welcomed by Rob Swan, speaking live from the E-base, fully powered by renewable energy. A growing feeling of excitement in the room at the prospect of the adventure ahead. “Jumper’s ” intense safety briefing re-inforced the point that this is a serious Antartic expedition and not a Caribbean jaunt.
And then, the glacier hike. Six teams ventured up the mountain, to the base of the glacier. A chance for a few to lead, for teams to be built and friendships established. The Norwegians were the trusty pathfinders and JC’s magic mix provided the essential nutrient for weary limbs. Goal achieved, boots disinfected by the vigilant Jumper and a welcome lunch break.
The afternoon was all the team together and the “Leadership on the Edge ” programme was kicked off with an honest discussion about what really creates a high performing team, ably led by Nick, our tireless facilitator.
What a way to end the session. Annie held us spellbound with her personal reflection on Antartica, the history and goals of 2041 and the E-base. Most importantly, the point that this is a unique personal journey, something that few have been blessed with and a plea to seize every moment of the expedition.
Bright, clear skies over the Beagle Channel, team dinner and final packing.
Tommorrow, we sail – Southwards.
10th February, 2008
Marcus’ initial thoughts on climate change…
In my time working with BP, I have got a detailed understanding of the science and the issues around climate change. I recognize the overwhelming scientific evidence and the need for the world to take dramatic action now so that we can obtain the twin goals of rising living standards for the whole world as well as a stable climate in 2050. This needs immediate intervention by governments, policy makers, the financial world, manufacturers and most importantly, by individuals. Absent this action, I have to think that our children and our grandchildren will ask why we simply ignored the tough decisions and the hard evidence.
