Polar Bird, Wednesday, 28th November 2001
Today, one could hardly believe how the weather could change so abrubtly. Due to some quirk in the ship's air conditioning, the temperature in the upper bunks was close to 28° on waking, causing the mind to envisage palm trees growing along the Davis promenade, and swimming excursions in Prydz Bay. This illusion was shattered, stepping on to the deck with a cold E wind blowing snow off the Antarctic Coast and visibility down to a hundred metres. After a chilly excursion onto the heli-deck for a brief on how to operate the Squirrel helicopter the weather really packed it in with a stiff 40 knot gale, blowing snow drifts all over the ship. Anya was still suffering badly from the flu, but made a brave appearance anyway. Unbelievably the ship entered Prydz Bay's open water for the rest of the day, with a 1-2m swell to boot ! Conditions on the deck were a complete contrast to the day before and the planned fly-offs to Davis station some 20km distant had to be curtailed. The ship spent the rest of the day going around in circles looking for leads into the fast ice near Davis. This time was spent sorting out our field gear for the upcoming field training. Dessert was particularly good today, a creme-caramel special. The lack of exercise the last two weeks will no doubt be the cause of ill-fitting clothing for the next few weeks ! Davis ahoy.
Position at 23:02 local time (UT +7hr) S 68°43'23" E 77°09'15"
37 km SW of Davis
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