I was on the Clelia II in the Drake Passage, returning to Ushuaia from Antarctica (Dec 2010). While a large wave hit the front of the boat, a piece of wood deck railing broke loose and flew threw one of the bridge windows. This allowed water into the bridge and flooded some of the electronic panels, affecting the communications, navigation instrumentation and communications with the engine room. The National Geographic Explorer ship came up next to us for a few minutes, sent over a satellite phone, and then took off. For the record: we were never without engine power. The captain wisely chose to slow us down, head into the waves, and wait out the store. The entire crew, expedition team, trip leaders and passengers were amazing throughout the ordeal. And yes, visiting Antarctica was worth it and I WILL go back again!
