Falklands Diving expedition
This month we are diving deep into the Falklands.
Vinson is supporting a group of scuba divers and snorkellers in the northwest of the archipelago- in search of Commerson’s dolphins and penguins.
Photo from Giselle Hazell
Diving itinerary
Its early in the season so water temperatures are a frigid 6.6 Celsius but the payoff is the startlingly clear visibility and spring congregations of animals.
Photo from Dylan Stephenson
A 38-hour window weather gave us a gap to race to the Jasons and have a full day in the waters surrounding these iconic islands. Home to the largest Black-Browed Albatross Colony in the world and a safe haven for breeding fur seals, rockhopper and gentoo penguins. A chance to dive at the Jasons is a rare and wondrous opportunity. Think brilliant blue waters, sunlight dappled kelp forests, maniac fur seals zipping every which way around you and penguin torpedos zooming past in the dinner time rush.
Photo from Giselle Hazell
Falklands diving is magical but suits experienced cold water divers that are ‘’expedition style’’ minded. Those that are prepared to wait for the weather gaps, flexible in locations and expectations, and those that can roll with the fluctuating local conditions. Those that can shrug off a flooded drysuit and still get back in while the conditions are perfect. Those that can take joy in the discovery of chlorophyl powered nudibranchs and the symphony of penguin underwater flight. The ability to make Chinese drop dough soup and dumplings on cold stormy days in a safe anchorage is a welcome addition but not a critical skillset.
Giselle Hazell
Nature guide
