Another day at sea brought us steadily southward across the mighty Drake Passage, with a rhythm that now felt somewhat familiar. The morning included the important IAATO briefing, ensuring our guests understood how to responsibly visit one of the most pristine environments on Earth. They were fitted with our sturdy expedition rubber boots, a small but symbolic step closer to our first landing. The remainder of the day offered more opportunities to gather in the lounge and watch the endless horizon roll by. By late afternoon, excitement rippled through the ship as the first faint outlines of land appeared in the distance. The rugged peaks of the South Shetland Islands emerged from the mist, signalling that Antarctica was finally within reach.