Embarkation, Sunday, December 14, 2008
Embarkation, Sunday, December 14, 2008
By Blog.Admin
The motor coach drive from Christchurch to Lyttelton was under overcast skies. After 45 minutes, we emerged from the mountain tunnel to see before us, a lovely little port surrounded on three sides by mountians. This was the same port from which Robert Falcon Scott sailed on his ill-fated journey to reach the South Pole.
The ship was ready for us, with Expedition and Hospitality Team members to greet us at the gangway and in each stairwell. Karl-Heinz, the Hotel Manager, had arranged for afternoon tea - a delightful break after unpacking and becoming familiar with our cabins.
The introduction to the Expedition Team and the ship was held at 6 PM, ship's time. Jonas, our Expedition Leader, foreshadowed our adventure. Dr. Chris delivered a presentation about health and safety. His good advice should ensure we enjoy our trip!
The mandatory lifeboat drill included a look inside the covered vessels designed to protect us while at sea should anything untoward occur. Once the official activities were concluded we gathered for the Captain's Welcome Cocktail Party, where Captain Pavel and his officers were introduced.
Many people aboard have traveled with Quark before, so there were a lot of "great to see you agains" and reminiscing. The Antarctic addiction can only truly be shared with others who have been infected.
While we enjoyed a wonderful welcome dinner, the icebreaker pulled away from the dock into good sea conditions, as we had the shelter of the coastline of the South Island of New Zealand.