The spectacular Lemaire Channel is between the continental mainland and rocky Booth Island. The narrow, glacier-lined channel is considered one of Antarctica's most beautiful passages. Often, humpback or killer whales follow in the wake of the ship, allowing for close-up photography. In the southern end of Lemaire there is an archipelago of icy islands, each more breathtaking than the last. Penguin rookeries abound and elephant seals are often seen basking on the rocky beaches.