I was in the slightly weird position of being the only non-yachty on board, but at the same time the most experienced in the unpredictable moods of the southern ocean. This basically means I had the most reason to be afraid, and the least understanding of how we were going to deal with the basis for my fears! I need not have worried because I was in the very best of hands. I was fascinated by the calm and reasoned discussions between Charles, Tom and Vicky over how to handle the various situations that evolved during our trip, and it did not take me long to figure out that these were people who really are at the top of their game. What a pleasure to see them in action. Kevin too.

We have had an amazing trip. Harsh as the environment is, the Auckland Is are heaven for me. I have probably lived there for a total of 18 months over the years of studying the sealions in the 1980s, and various trips since. Being there is a total immersion in the most astonishing wonders of the natural world, and living a bit rough seems to sharpen the immersive nature of it. Seeing these animals live their daily lives, with all their quirky and in many cases extraordinary rituals and habits, is an incalculable privilege.

The islands are photographic heaven, though in this day and age it is galling to see Charles rattle off images on his iPhone that are pretty much as good as those I get with many thousands worth of fancy gear. I have put up a small gallery with a low resolution sample of some of my photos.

I would like to thank my "shipmates" for putting up with me, and keeping me safe. Great company, humour and professionalism. Safe sailing home team! I also thank DOC for letting me represent them, and for letting us go there. Finally, my wife Sian, the families of those others on board for putting up with our absences, and our workmates / colleagues for keeping everything ticking along whilst we had an amazing adventure.

Simon Mitchell