Crews on Southampton's research vessels, the RRS James Cook and RRS Discovery will be celebrating Christmas at sea.
The ships, operated by the National Oceanography Centre (NOC), will be in the Atlantic Ocean during the festive period, either delivering or travelling between science missions.
Despite being far from home, the crews are determined to keep the holiday spirit alive.
Captain John Leask, aboard the RRS James Cook, said: "We will be sitting down for a traditional meal on Christmas Day even though we are on passage, but the science that our ship is supporting continues."
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Christmas carols and festive cheer aboard the RRS James Cook in the South Atlantic (Image: National Oceanography Centre) The RRS James Cook will be in the South Atlantic Ocean, east of South America, supporting the Atlantic Meridional Transect (AMT) programme.
This year marks the 31st AMT journey, with the ship set to dock in Montevideo, Uruguay, at the end of December.
The crew will enjoy a four-course Christmas Day dinner, complete with all the trimmings.
Captain Leask said: "On some trips we do secret Santa.
"In a year that we didn’t have one, we all woke up and Santa had left everyone a small parcel, so you never know."
For the chefs and stewards on board, Christmas Day is a busy one, as they prepare the feast for the crew who will be in their uniforms for the day.
The captain will give a small address and toast before sitting down at 1pm for the meal.
The RRS Discovery, having recently completed an expedition off Florida, is now en route to Portugal for its next mission.
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RRS Discovery crew prepares for Christmas in the Mediterranean after completing a major ocean mission (Image: National Oceanography Centre) Captain Antonio Gatti said: "Most people will do video calls first thing to their families and friends, now that internet from the ship has improved over the years.
"On some occasions, especially with a full crowd, we do Christmas carols in the lounge, which is popular.
"We haven’t decided if we will watch a Christmas movie yet but if I have my way it will be Frozen."
Both captains extended their festive wishes to their families, friends and colleagues back home.
Captain Leask said: "On behalf of everyone onboard, we would like to wish our family and friends a Merry Christmas."
Captain Gatti added: "Best wishes for the holiday season, Christmas and New Year to all our friends and colleagues at NOC and the wider scientific community from all on board RRS Discovery."
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