Antarctica Cruise : Antarctica & Sub Antarctic Islands, 19 days / 18 nights
The M/V Polar Star (ex-icebreaker) is a safe and comfortable ice class vessel – certified for worldwide international voyages and complying with all SOLAS, ISM, ISPS and MARPOL regulations for safety and environment. In 2000 the ship was completely retrofitted and upgraded specifically for expedition cruising.
K1, Standard
Two lower and one upper berths. Sharing toilet, shower and washbasin with next cabin. Approx 100 sq.feet/10 sq. metres. Portholes. Double or Triple Occupancy
An expedition cruise to the Antarctic is the trip of a lifetime for many travelers. Add to this, time in South Georgia and the Falklands and you have a truly extraordinary experience. Not only is the Falklands history fascinating, it is also home to five penguin species, and at this time of year nesting albatross can be found. South Georgia is often described as the gem of the Southern Ocean with its spectacular mountains and incredibly large King penguin rookeries. Continuing on to the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands, experience sites of historic and scientific interest and bountiful wildlife.
DAY 1 : Ushuaia
Embark in Ushuaia
DAY 2 : At Sea
This day at sea is an excellent opportunity to get oriented onboard and ready for the adventures ahead.
DAYS 3 & 4 : Falkland Islands
These remote and isolated islands have a fascinating history beginning with the European whalers and sealers. Landings at places such as New Island and West Point Island provide an opportunity to see Rockhopper penguins and nesting albatross during the only season of the year when they come to land. Of course a visit to the Falklands would not be complete without time spent in the picturesque “capital” town of Stanley.
DAYS 5 & 6 : At Sea
On this sea passage the ship crosses the Antarctic Convergence into the Southern Ocean heading for South Georgia.
DAYS 7 – 10 : South Georgia
The splendor of South Georgia is hard to describe: stunning snow capped mountain landscapes, tousled tussock grasses and wild beaches. Learn about the history of whaling and exploration, walk in Shackleton’s footsteps and be surrounded by thousands of King Penguins not to mention other penguin species, an abundance of Elephant and Fur seals, seabirds and perhaps whales.
DAYS 11 & 12 : At Sea
During these days at sea the focus is on preparing for the Antarctic with lectures on natural history, geology, exploration and the Antarctic Treaty.
DAY 13 : At Sea, Elephant Island
The first landfall in Antarctica will be Point Wild on Elephant Island famous for being the epic survival location of Shackleton’s men when stranded in 1916 for 135 days.
DAY 14 : South Shetland Islands
These spectacular volcanic islands have steaming black sands and remnants of the whaling days at Deception Island, and prolific wildlife including Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins, whales, seals and seabirds.
DAYS 15 & 16 : Antarctic Peninsula
Early season in Antarctica is incredibly dramatic with magnificent snow and ice brushed by myriad hues of light. In addition to Zodiac cruising, landings are planned at historic and wildlife sites – possibly including Port Lockroy, Paradise Bay, Neko Harbour and Cierva Cove on the Antarctic continent.
DAYS 17 & 18 : At Sea
The passage back crosses the famed Drake Passage and into the Beagle Channel.
DAY 19 : Ushuaia
Disembark in Ushuaia.
JourneySearch
Toll-free number: USA & Canada: 1-866-256-2765