Hugh maybe away filming the latest chapter of his Fish Fight in the Southern Ocean over 8,000 miles away, but the sadness he feels following Tuesday night's fire runs deep.
This afternoon he finally managed to reach a phone, climbing aboard a nearby ship to put in his first call to the River Cottage team at Park Farm (February 10).
He was taken aback by its spirit of optimism in the wake of this week's dramatic events.
"It was quite a surreal feeling. I was 500 metres from an iceberg, watching the penguins and seals while digesting the news of the fire," he said.
"I've still not seen the images from River Cottage HQ, and it's quite hard to imagine the devastation. I'm still in shock," he added.
"It's emotional. I feel isolated so far from home, and I'm keen to get back as soon as possible to get involved with the clear-up.
"I'd like to again thank the wonderful River Cottage team, who have been fantastic in returning the farm to business as usual."
This morning the team announced River Cottage courses and events will be returning to normal from Friday 24 February onwards, promising to bounce back better than ever.
LINKS
Steve Lamb: there is strong optimism
Update: business as usual
Press release: Hugh and fire service (February 9)