Kapitan Khlebnikov in the Weddell Sea
My Antarctic expedition aboard Kapitan Khelbnikov will be bittersweet. This voyage will be the final time that the icebreaker will explore at length the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas). The End of an Era was announced last week.
I am saddened that Khlebnikov is returning to duties as an escort ship in the Russian Arctic in 2012. Yet I am proud of the effort to which we have gone to ensure that the remaining expeditions are unparalleled.
We have invited a gaggle of special guests to augment our outstanding Expedition Team. Many of them have strong connections to the ship and the polar regions. All of them are personable, passionate and excited to share their insight with the guests aboard. I know this because I have had the great honor of inviting them aboard.
Emperors and King may well be the last time I ever sail aboard the grand old gal. When I’m flying high over the Weddell Sea in one of her onboard helicopters, you can bet I’ll be savoring every emotional moment.