Ushuaia—Part II

First, I want to say, we have not been able to upload pix at all yesterday or today. So, while we have some nice ones, we can't share them. We're frustrated, but we hope you will look here a few days after we get home to see what we've put up later!

Well, the Drake Passage was remarkably smooth. In fact, it was so smooth, many veterans to this passage had said they’d never (or at least nearly never) seen it so smooth! Moreover, since it was so smooth, we were able to maintain full speed (it’s a slow vessel, so that is about 14 knots), and got into Ushuaia this evening, about 10PM. We were due in 6AM tomorrow (Sunday) morning. Certainly, the passengers were happy to have a smooth, motionless, sleep. But, frankly, I don’t think anyone was happier than the crew!! Since we were actually in port a day earlier, and there was nothing intended for them, everyone (well, passengers and non-essential crew) were free to disembark and have an evening in Ushuaia. The crew, especially the Expedition Staff, who have been traipsing around with all of us for over 2 weeks, and pretty much get no time off, were extremely keen and all of them got off the ship as soon as we were cleared!! Good for them, if you ask me (which, in a way you did as you did choose to go to this blog, right?). They worked hard, and no matter how much one loves one’s job, a night away to play must be quite desirable.
Theresa and I exchanged contact info with a few people, but not everyone we hope so far. After dinner, we went upstairs and watched the last positioning into dock, and looked at the submarine docked next to us, and another ship as well. Someone shouted down to the sub asking if they were Argentinean (there were no markings on the ship whatsoever). They said yes, obviously. There was another ship named the “Antarctica Dream”, but a few of us concluded it was more of a nightmare. A very small ship, with tiny port holes, no large windows, few decks, and frankly looked like it hadn’t seen paint since lead was in vogue.
Then we went up to the bar, and found some friends, and sat down for a final drink. Well, maybe not final, but one of the later rounds. We had some hearty laughter, and a very good time. But, one of the group was set on going out to the Irish Pub, the Southernmost Irish pub in the world. While that sounds interesting, I opted instead to get a Jameson’s for free, and call it even. So, right now, I am finishing my last drink on the ship, and Theresa is sleeping.
Tomorrow, we must be out of our rooms by 8:30 (5:30 CST), which is the same time our breakfast ends. I don’t know all of the schedule, but I think our flight is about Noon, and we get into AEP (domestic airport) (Buenos Aires) about 3 or so. Our flight at 11:55P in EZE (the international airport) will give us lots of time to wait… We’ll see if they have internet!