HIGHLIGHTS
- Explore
the spectacular Antarctic wilderness in a casual atmosphere of
like-minded travelers
- Experience
abundant wildlife including immense penguin colonies and other
seabirds, seals and even some of the great whales at close range
- Cruise
in comfort along towering icebergs, serrated maritime mountains and
luminous glaciers
- Zodiac
landing craft allow visitation on remote shorelines and otherwise
inaccessible areas
- Ship
allows an "open bridge policy" to observe its sophisticated navigation
equipment and provides an excellent location to view wildlife the
landscape (subject to weather and critical navigation maneuvers)
- Expert
naturalist guides
DATES / RATES
Rates are listed per person in USD. Promotional offers are not reflected in the rates below.
Rates are listed per person in USD. Promotional offers are not reflected in the rates below.
ITINERARY
Day
1: Ushuaia, Argentina
Our
journey to Antarctica commences this afternoon in Ushuaia, in southern
Argentina. We gather at our central meeting point and transfer to the
pier and embark our expedition ship, Akademik Sergey Vavilov. After
settling into our cabins and exploring the ship, we meet our expedition
team and fellow passengers. Excitement is in the air as we enjoy a
welcome cocktail and dinner and cast off, bound for Antarctica and the
adventure of a lifetime.
Day
2-3: Drake Passage - At Sea towards Antarctica
Sailing
south towards Antarctica we will be joined by hundreds of seabirds
including the wandering albatross. Giant petrels and smaller Cape
petrels are also constant companions as we transit the Drake Passage.
Photographing these magnificent birds from the deck of the ship takes
patience and skill and our photography expert will be on hand to show
you the best techniques. Join the ship’s Captain on the
bridge and learn about the operations of our modern research vessel.
Throughout the day our onboard experts educate us with a series of
presentations about the environment, wildlife, history and the
locations we hope to visit in the coming days.
Days
4-7: Gerlache Strait and Antarctic Peninsula exploration
We
awaken today and the magnificent snowy peaks of continental Antarctica
are laid out before us. Even our experienced expedition staff, some
with more than 100 journeys south, will take a moment to pause and
reflect on the immense power of Antarctica. Take a deep breath
– you have arrived.
The
waterways of the Antarctic Peninsula are home to deep bays, pristine
coves and inlets and numerous islands. The landscape features heavily
glaciated mountains permanently covered in ice and snow. Rocky
outcrops, known as ‘nunataks’ are home to Gentoo,
Adelie and chinstrap penguin rookeries and the waters are rich in
marine life. We frequently encounter seals, including the powerful
leopard seal, often found relaxing on an ice floe. Curious humpback
whales and the smaller minke whales are found in sizeable numbers
feeding on the rich krill blooms. Sightings of orca are not uncommon.
We
enjoy several days of exploration and our activity program is in full
swing, allowing guests to choose how their adventure unfolds. Popular
activities include guided hikes on shore and visits to wildlife
colonies with our expert naturalist guides, while the historic huts and
science stations provide a fascinating glimpse into the past and the
present. Zodiac cruising among the ice is a memorable activity and our
sea kayakers may range several miles from the ship. Our photography
guide will be on hand to help you with your camera handling, image
composition and the peculiar light found in Antarctica.
Planned
excursions could include Cierva Cove, Danco Island, or a cruise through
the Errera Channel to visit the penguin rookeries at Cuverville Island.
Wilhelmina Bay is another favorite location and one where we frequently
encounter playful humpback whales. Paradise Bay is a particular
highlight and offers an excellent hiking route providing stunning 360?
degree views.
Day
8: South Shetland Islands, Antarctica
After
several busy days of exploration along the Peninsula, we head north
across the Bransfield Strait, bound for the South Shetland Islands. The
adventure is not over and, if the weather conditions allow, we sail the
ship into the flooded volcanic caldera at Deception Island. This is a
very dramatic location. History is all around us as we explore the old
whaling station, with the rusted old boilers and dilapidated wooden
structures. On a sunny day, cruising along the coast of Livingston
Island is a memorable experience. There are several other landing sites
in the vicinity including Half Moon Island, and the broad pebbly beach
at Yankee Harbour, where we often encounter Weddell seals sunning
themselves. This is a great spot for a hike or a zodiac cruise. In the
evening, we navigate north through the McFarlane Strait and into the
Drake Passage, charting a course for South America.
Days
9-10: Drake Passage – return to South America
As
we make our way back to South America, the educational presentations
continue and we enjoy an entertaining and memorable voyage recap by our
Expedition Leader. Join our photography experts in the multimedia room
and download and back up your precious images. If weather conditions
allow, we hope to make a rounding of Cape Horn. This fabled stretch of
water is home to legendary tales of exploration and early navigation.
It’s a fitting place to reflect on a wonderful expedition.
Approaching the entrance to the Beagle Channel in early evening light,
we enjoy a special dinner attended by the Captain of the ship.
Day
11: Ushuaia, Argentina
In
the early morning, we arrive into Ushuaia, Argentina. It is time to say
farewell to your crew and fellow travelers. Guests will be transported
to their hotels or to the airport for return flights home. It will be
possible to connect to flights through to Buenos Aires or other
destinations in South America. Otherwise, enjoy a night in town or
venture further afield to explore the highlights of Patagonia.
(Click image to view Ship details)
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- Voyage
as outlined in the itinerary
- All
meals during the voyage
- All
Zodiac excursions
- Extensive
program of educational presentations from an experienced team of
naturalists
- Onboard
welcome reception and dinner and farewell dinner
- Afternoon
tea with fresh snacks each afternoon
- Coffee,
tea, hot chocolate throughout the day
- Onboard
medical officer
- Access
to our special programs on board (such as hiking, photography)
- Overnight
camping—please note that this activity is free of charge, we
provide all the necessary equipment and gear and you can decide once on
board if you wish to participate – no pre-booking required.
Camping is only available on some departures
- Rubber
boots are available in many sizes as are rain jackets and bib pants
- Use
of multimedia station. We have a multimedia room where you can download
your photos at the end of the day if you wish
ADVENTURE
OPTIONS
- Photography:
Free
- Camping:
Free (weather permitting)
- Kayaking:
USD 795 per person
