Whether you are a seasoned polar explorer or setting foot on the icy continent for the first time, the moment the crew spots their inaugural iceberg is unforgettable. The sight of the massive, glistening block of ice breaking through the endless white sea creates a surge of awe that lingers long after the ship sails onward.
Why the first iceberg matters: It signals that the journey has truly entered the heart of Antarctica. The towering walls of blue‑white crystal, illuminated by the low sun, become a living reminder of the continent’s raw power and pristine beauty.
For the members of The Times expedition, that initial encounter was described as “the closest thing to a heartbeat on the ice.” The feeling was a blend of excitement, reverence, and a profound connection to a landscape that few ever experience firsthand.
As the vessel drifted past, crew members gathered on deck, cameras clicking, and silence fell over the crowd. The iceberg’s sheer scale dwarfed the ship, and for a brief instant, time seemed to stand still—a shared moment that will be recounted in stories and photographs for years to come.
With the first iceberg now behind them, the expedition continues deeper into the Southern Ocean, eager to discover more of Antarctica’s hidden wonders. Yet, that initial glimpse will always remain the benchmark—a touchstone of wonder that defines the spirit of exploration.