Today offered a full programme, beginning with the mandatory South Georgia regulations briefing, an iPhone photography session and a talk on identifying local wildlife. In the afternoon we learned more about Sir Ernest Shackleton’s Trans‑Antarctic Expedition before turning to our own preparations. We followed South Georgia’s strict biosecurity measures by thoroughly vacuuming outdoor clothing and cleaning muck boots, ready for inspections before going ashore.

This evening we welcomed New Year’s Eve with music from our pianist, a lively quiz with the Expedition Team and more music and dancing well past midnight as we celebrated the arrival of the New Year.