Polarstern / CAML expedition: the “roaring forties”
Polarstern in the roaring forties
© H. Robert / Alfred Wegener Institut
Our 6th day of sailing, giving us a real taste of the so-called "roaring forties". Frank & Klaus, the meteorologists, had warned us the wind was going to increase. And indeed, having been 6 to 7 Beauforts the day before, the wind blew at 9 to 10 Beauforts (North-West) the whole morning... to the point where going outside was forbidden for safety reasons. As a result, those enamoured of powerful experiences packed the bridge, which 30m above sea level was still being regularly drenched in sea-spray.
Others met in the winch control room, nearly at the level of the water, to watch the waves regularly drenching the outside working deck. Needless to say, this storm made the boat pitch and roll as never before. For the first time, hooks for fixing chairs and sofas to the ground were put to good use.
The weather then "calmed" down during the afternoon, and at the end of the day, the birdwatchers amongst us welcomed the arrival of about fifteen giant petrels, these scavengers from the Southern Ocean, surrounding several wandering albatrosses which have already became familiar.
Meanwhile the temperature is still going down: the water is now below 4°C. Antarctica gradually draws near ...
Picture: H. Robert / Alfred Wegener Institut
