Shag Rocks are a cluster of six remote, jagged sub-Antarctic islets. They rise abruptly out of the open, wild expanses of the Southern Ocean. They are situated roughly 150 miles west of South Georgia Island and about 620 miles east of the Falkland Islands, sitting directly atop the underwater Scotia Ridge.

After two days at sea, it was quite unexpected to see these rocks seemingly materialize out of the fog. A close look at each photo below reveals a staggering number of birds thrilled to have this mid-ocean sanctuary.

Today we crossed the Antarctic Convergence (Antarctic Polar Front). It forms a distinct ecological, hydrological, and climatic ring around the southern polar region, dividing marine life and water temperatures sharply. While at sea, we are attending a number of presentations about the birds, dolphins, whales, geology, and history of the area. Ocean conditions have been favorable relative to our first day at sea, and we are adjusting to life on the water.