This scene shows a fascinating place near the Antarctic Peninsula, Deception Island. It is basically the rim of a volcanic crater, so the island is a thin, steep ring. It is a fairly old volcano, but it is not extinct.
The island was named ‘Deception’ because there is only one slender, slanted passage through the crater wall. Of course, once inside, ships have one of the most sheltered harbours in the world except for the threat of eruption.
Offshore there are hot springs bringing bubbling warm water to the surface: a tempting spot for visitors to have a quick swim in the Antarctic. We couldn't resist.
Kerguelen fur seals visit the island during certain times of the year. Of course, fur seals are not true seals that have no external ears and drag their hind flippers. They are so-called eared seals, or sea lions. Raising up to full height they seem to stand tall, and can almost run on all fours using their hind flippers. The harem bulls weigh over 100 pounds. Many bulls are heavily scarred during the mating and territorial fights.