Antarctica Cruise : The Antarctic Adventure Expedition - Exploratory, 14 days / 13 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
For the early travelers, an expedition to the Antarctic was fraught with the unknown. Today this is seldom a factor as expedition cruise ships are well equipped to deal with the challenging environment. However, for many the idea of adventure is still the strongest appeal. This expedition is specifically designed to take a more exploratory approach to the program with the plan to perhaps make a “first ever” landing and to delve deep south to rarely travelled areas. Of course, the program will also still include visits to some of the more popular sites on this lengthened and enhanced program.
DAY 1 : Ushuaia, Argentina
Embark in Ushuaia.
DAYS 2 & 3 : At Sea
Leaving the Beagle Channel behind, the ship heads south into the Drake Passage crossing the Antarctic Convergence where the warmer Atlantic waters meet the cold Southern Ocean. Time onboard is well spent preparing for the days ahead with lectures and other presentations.
DAYS 4 & 5 : South Shetland Islands
The first landfall of the Antarctic region, these islands are well known for their prolific wildlife – expect to see Chinstrap and Gentoo penguin rookeries, haul out sites for Fur seals and perhaps Elephant seals and a multitude of seabirds. A fascinating geological aspect is the black sands and fumeroles in the active volcanic caldera of Deception Island.
DAYS 6 – 10 : Antarctica
As the ship heads south visits are planned to some of the well known highlights of Antarctica such as Port Lockroy, Petermann Island, Lemaire Channel, Neko Harbour, Paradise Bay and others. Crossing the Antarctic Polar Circle at 66°33’S we plan to visit the British Rothera research station and then steam as far south as Marguerite Bay and possibly Stonington Island. If weather and conditions permit, the plan is to make some truly exploratory landings to relive the sensation of anticipation that earlier explorers experienced.
DAY 11 : Antarctica/At Sea
Before heading back to sea for the return voyage a morning continental landing is planned, possibly at Prospect Point and the Fish Islands.
DAYS 12 & 13 : At Sea
Once back at sea the program concludes with lecture programs and reflection on the experiences of our extended time in Antarctica.
DAY 14 : Ushuaia, Argentina
Disembark in Ushuaia.
JourneySearch






Toll-free number: USA & Canada: 1-866-256-2765