I had the pleasure of growing up in Hobart, Tasmania, Australia. Antarctica always seemed tantalisingly close, yet so incredibly far. Mawson's pioneering Antarctic exploratory voyage departed from Hobart in 1911. Now days, Australia's national Antarctic research expeditions also originate from Hobart.
In September 2015, I was extremely lucky to undertake a trip of a lifetime to Antarctica. An amazing, inspiring journey to the end of the earth. I flew from Sydney to Ushuaia in Argentina: our departure point for the Antarctic Peninsula. Not one to do things by halves, I chose to sail the tall ship Bark Europa south. Europa is a working tall ship crewed by 14 permanent crew, assisted by 48 voyage crew. Voyage crew help to sail the ship in 24 hour per day watches. It is the most profound feeling to be helming a tall ship in the pitch black, at 2 o'clock in the morning, across the Drake Passage.
Life-long friends were made, pristine landscapes were experienced, unique wildlife was met, fascinating history was learned and priceless adventures were had.
Here are some of my photographs documenting our adventure.
If you like my photos, you can see more by purchasing my book Antarctica here. The book makes a unique and artistic birthday present for the adventurer in your life. Christmas is also coming!
You too can sail a tall ship to Antarctica! Bark Europa sails south every year. You can learn more on their website.
If you like my photos, you can see more by purchasing my book Antarctica here. The book makes a unique and artistic birthday present for the adventurer in your life.