I didn’t want to do it at first – in fact I actually hadn’t given it much thought at all…

The ship anchored in Paradise Bay and at that stage, I was happy to photograph everyone and soak up the atmosphere.

There were a few factors that changed my mind….

1. Everyone else was doing it – and I hate missing out on anything.. 🙂

2. There was great music playing and lots of support from the crew…

3. One of my wonderful new friends on the boat found me and said “Chris, why don’t you do it? This is a chance to cleanse your body of all your sins (really?) and wipe the slate clean…

Well what do you say to that? I quickly rushed back to my cabin – put my cossie on and hurried back to deck 3.

I didn’t even hesitate…I ran down the stairs, walked off the back of the ship into the zodiac…and dived in…

Well – that day the Southern Ocean was a balmy 2 degrees…hmmmm

It was exhilarating.

and COLD.

The water was crystal clear and yes, it shocked my body…but it was truly, truly worth it and something I’ll never forget.

Life’s too short to go to The Antarctic and NOT jump into the Southern Ocean….

Here are some of my other new buddies…..

Don’t forget to click on the pics to make them larger.