Our adventure to the southern tip of this world was the first ever organized scouting group expedition to Antarctica and we were 39 fellow Venturers from Crew 774. The following pictures show some of our highlights through my lens, this time with people not wildlife 😉. If you participated and you are interested to see if I have more pictures of you or your youth, please contact me. These pictures are also on my website with full resolution for you to download if you wish. There are many other memorable moments but I already had a hard time limiting to 33 pictures. I hope you find the time to read the caption of each picture.
The 19 Venturer youth on our trip
Arriving at our hotel in Buenos Aires. The Crew President Taleah gives first instructions
We met some Argentinean Scouts in a book store that is a converted theater. Since we always traveled in uniform or wore our neckerchief we were several times approached but local scouters who recognized our scouting outfits. That was always so cool!
Exploring Ushuaia, Argentina. The southernmost town in the world.
At the southernmost post office at the End-of-the-world. Some got a special stamp in their passport and others mailed postcards off to their family and friends. Just awesome.
After an 8 mile hike we arrive at the offical "end of the world". This is were Route Nacional #3 ends at the Tierra del Fuego National Park.
After disembarking we are on the Plancius for 10 days and will spend 2 full days crossing the famous Drake passage. This shows of the many meals on the Plancius. Some during 25+ foot swells and 50mph winds. Not always fun catching the sliding silverware or spilled soup. The staff was amazing how they were able to serve us in those conditions
One of many lectures by one of the 12 expedition staff who were either scientists and/or specialists in their field. I was very impressed by the caliber of staff that was around us all the time
Who can say they have kayaked in Antarctica? Between icebergs and getting close to penguins.
And who can say they have spent a night outside in a snow hole on Antarctica? Prepping our holes and wind shields
All smiles, despite the cold
Well, not everyone was as cold as others.
One of many times in the Zodiacs. On the way back to the mothership, the Plancius
Fearless polar plungers, some more daring, and some more creative. It was a hoot!
Youth assembling at the bow of the ship. Is it really sub-freezing outside?
All of our Order of the Arrow members of the group. Amazing scouting commitment!
Always time for some father-son bonding
As well as time for snow ball fights on the ship
An Eagle Court of Honor in Antarctica. Talking about unique!
And another highlight: Barbecue on the deck of the Plancius. Enjoying ribs, bratwurst, and other goodies in the cold at beer benches (no beer for scouts).
And another snow ball fight, this time on land. How are we getting back to our "little" ship in the background?
One of many bus rides. Some from/to airports or this one to take the backpackers in 3 hours to El Chalten, Patagonia, South Argentina. Right after disembarking from the ship with delay, 21 of us rushed to the airport to fly to El Calafate. We barely made the plane and then sat in the bus for 3 hour ride.
Ice cream was amazing in Argentina. Italian style gelato, consumed in immense quantities. It is sold in 1/4, 1/2 or full Kg.
Starting point of our two-day backpacking trip with guides Matias and Nick.
First view of the glacier below the Fitz Roy massif
Hiking to our camp.
After a cruel uphill hike we arrive at Laguna de los Tres. View to the valley where we just came from.
View of the Fitz Roy massif with our sponsor SDI flag
And still going strong
Second day, to Laguna Torre. Final climb.
At Laguna Torre. Unfortunately, Cerro Torre is hiding behind clouds.
Ducky picture
And on our way back, we meet another scout at the El Calafate Airport.
