Antarctic Explorer

On a state-of-the-art expedition vessel you will explore the White Continent, combining adventure with comfort. This classic Antarctic Peninsula voyage has a wide range of optional adventure activities and is limited to only 100 passengers.

Days 1 & 2 - Punta Arenas to King George Island, South Shetlands:

On arrival in Punta Arenas we will transfer you to your downtown hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is for you to spend at your leisure before a group briefing about tomorrow's flight. We transfer to Punta Arenas airport the next day, for our charter flight to King George Island. As we are flying to very remote areas, flight schedules for Punta Arenas & King George Island are dependent on the weather.

Days 3 to 8 - Antarctica Peninsula:

Along the Antarctic Peninsula's western flanks we will experience long days and relatively ice-free waters. We will Zodiac cruise through narrow straits, past majestic icebergs, visit historic huts, and if we're lucky, watch for whales from the bow of the ship. Sites we hope to visit, amongst others, include Half Moon Bay, Lemaire Channel and Hydrurga Rocks. If weather and ice conditions permit, we will also venture into the Weddell Sea. There will be plans to visit the large Adelie and gentoo penguin colonies of Brown Bluff or Paulet Island, and the fossil-rich Seymour Island. Hiking to spectacular vantage points on Beak or Devil Islands and exploring large tabular icebergs and volcanic scenery will create long lasting memories; wherever we go, wildlife, Heroic Age relics and haunting landscapes await.

Days 9 and 10 - Drake Passage:

We cross the Drake Passage, bound for South America. There will be time for you to relax and reminisce, as our expedition team recap all of the incredible things we've witnessed. You can also take a moment to review the hundreds of photos you will have undoubtedly taken.

Day 11 - Ushuaia, Argentina:

We slip up the Beagle Channel and pull into Ushuaia, where it is time to say goodbye to new friends and begin any onward travel.

Please note: This itinerary is for guidance only as each voyage will vary depending on ice and weather conditions, and opportunities to see wildlife. Flexibility is key and all part of the adventure of an expeditionary cruise.

The 17th Dec 2019 Christmas departure is 1 day longer (13 days).

The optional activities on the 17th Dec 2019 departure are limited to kayaking only.

The 27th Dec 2020 departure starts in Ushuaia and ends in Punta Arenas with a flight back from King George Island in Antarctica.

The 13th Jan 2021 departure starts in Punta Arenas and flies to King George Island in Antarctica. It then sails back to Ushuaia.

The 12th Feb 2021 departure starts in Ushuaia and ends in Punta Arenas with a flight back from King George Island in Antarctica.

Includes:

• Complimentary parka jacket
• Voyage aboard the vessel as indicated in the itinerary
• Accommodation during the voyage on a full-board basis
• Beer, house wine and soft drinks with dinner
• All shore excursions and zodiac activities
• Educational lectures by expert onboard polar guides
• Access to an onboard doctor and basic medical services
• Loan of rubber boots for the voyage's duration
• Port taxes and any entry fees to historic landing sites
• A printed photo book produced with photos from your voyage

Excludes:

• Flights to and from points of embarkation/disembarkation
• Any additional services before and after your voyage
• Transfers not specific to the itinerary
• Travel insurance
• Optional adventure activities
• Any visa, passport and vaccination expenses
• Airport arrival or departure taxes
• Items of a personal nature: laundry, beverages, etc
• Customary staff gratuity at the end of the voyage
• Additional onboard purchases (i.e. gift shop)