RSV Aurora Australis, Saturday, 19th January 2002

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Clocks forward yet another hour. Today was bright, sunny and noticeably warmer. A very rare kelp raft was located after lunch. Unforseen efforts were made to retrieve it, the ship turning against the swell causing some alarming rocking which was the cause of much consternation to passengers, videos and loose items alike. Some clown had put a box in the sink of the photo lab. During the heavy rocking a bag fell onto the tap turning it on. Luckily not too much damage was done, with a cargo chain taking boxes and bags out followed by buckets of water. Steve Smith, the marine biologist was very apologetic for the unforseen problems the retrieval had caused. Apparently, it is very unusual to find such extensive kelp rafts so far away from land, this one originating from the Kerguelen Islands, some 1700 nautical miles to the west. Based upon surface current drift, a journey of some 165 days. Hopefully the find's significance would pacify the masses. The Beaverians spent some time on the open deck above the bridge in the warm sun, drinking some of the Boags supply. Many Wandering albatross were gliding around the ship very gracefully. The evening was very enjoyable, a punch party in full swing down in the Husky Bar. The punch was very tasty, and the atmosphere was very good. Finally we had a chance to socialise and meet many of the other expeditioners and crew. Steve and I were the last to leave at about 6 in the morning, after exhausting a substantial supply of Jacobs Creek with the Chief Steward and a few other hardcore crew.

Position at 12:00 local time (UT +10hr) S 49°05' E 111°16'
2919km SW of Hobart

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