OVERVIEW
This is a truly epic adventure through the remote Falkland Islands, the wildlife paradise of South Georgia and the extraordinary landscape of the Antarctic Peninsula. You’ll enjoy unforgettable encounters with untamed wildlife in a vast, dramatic and spectacular setting; you’ll take a step back in time at historically significant sites; and you’ll be mesmerized by the rich diversity and contrasts that make these regions so captivating and unique.
Watch a wild, isolated and extreme world come to life as scores of penguins dive for food, herds of elephant seals bathe in the sun, and pods of orcas pass you by. You’ll be transported to your own wildlife documentary, staged in a magnificent setting of mountains, sea and ice.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Explore the Antarctic Peninsula, the northernmost tip of the world’s 7th continent, by ship, Zodiac and foot.
• Learn about Antarctica’s unique geology, history and wildlife with our expert team of on-board lecturers.
• See South Georgia’s incredible wildlife, including 30 breeding bird species and four penguin species.
• Follow in the footsteps of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s perilous voyages to South Georgia and pause for a moment at his gravesite.
• Wander the quaint British town of Stanley in the Falkland Islands.
• Immerse yourself in the icy realm of the Antarctic, with an optional kayaking excursion.
ITINERARY IN BRIEF
Day 1: Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina.
Day 2: Embarkation Day.
Day 3: At Sea.
Days 4 & 5: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas).
Days 6 & 7: At Sea.
Days 8- 9- 10 & 11: South Georgia.
Days 12 & 13: At Sea.
Days 14- 15-16 & 17: South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula.
Days 18 & 19: Crossing the Drake Passage.
Day 20: Disembarkation in Ushuaia.
NOTE: All itineraries are for guidance only. Programs may vary depending on local ice, weather, and wildlife conditions. The on-board expedition leader will determine the final itinerary. Flexibility is paramount for expedition cruises.
Contact us for more details.
-
ARRIVE IN USHUAIA, ARGENTINA.
Your gateway for this expedition is Ushuaia, Argentina. Nestled within the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, Ushuaia has a small-town feel yet boasts many shops, museums, cafés and restaurants that you can enjoy before your voyage. If you’re feeling adventurous, the nearby national park and Martial Glacier offer plenty of outdoor activities, such as hiking.
-
EMBARKATION DAY.
As you embark, the anticipation grows. Trade your land legs for sea legs, meet and greet your fellow travelers and get acquainted with your ship. Since every Antarctic adventure presents new opportunities and experiences, embarkation day is just as exciting for your Expedition Team as it is for you. On board to ensure your comfort and safety, your team will also help make your wildlife dreams come true.
-
AT SEA.
Your days at sea are filled with presentations and lectures led by your Expedition Team, who will prepare you for the wildlife that will greet you upon your arrival. In between presentations, spend time chatting with your shipmates over a drink at the bar, or enjoy the fresh air and views on the outer decks.
-
FALKLAND ISLANDS (ISLAS MALVINAS).
Upon your arrival in the Falklands (Malvinas), your camera will get its first real workout capturing the abundant wildlife and rugged feel of this sub-Antarctic region. The archipelago contains two main islands, East Falkland and West Falkland, which you will explore during daily Zodiac excursions and landings.
Stanley, also known as Port Stanley, is often a favored landing site, as the town offers a unique British outpost feel, complete with eclectic charm. You’ll be free to explore, grab a pint at the local pub or visit numerous churches and museums.
-
FALKLAND ISLANDS (ISLAS MALVINAS).
In terms of wildlife, the archipelago is home to Magellanic, gentoo and southern rockhopper penguins. If you’re lucky, you may even spot king penguins here as well! You can expect to see black-browed albatross, plus two endemic bird species—the flightless Falkland steamer duck and possibly the elusive Cobb’s wren.
Your team of lecturers and specialists will be sure to educate you on the local flora and fauna, making the most out of your time in the Falklands.
-
AT SEA.
Sailing southeast to South Georgia, you’ll officially enter Antarctic waters once you cross the Antarctic Convergence, an invisible biological boundary encircling the continent. This meeting of oceans, where the cold Antarctic waters mix and mingle with the warmer waters of the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, helps create the abundance of krill that attracts whales and seals to this part of the world.
-
AT SEA.
Your Expedition Team will notify you when you cross this invisible yet important line, and also look out for the seabirds and marine life that frequent the area.
-
SOUTH GEORGIA.
This remote, mountainous island was a popular stop for many historic Antarctic expeditions and was once a haven for hunting whales and seals. Today, island wildlife populations are rebounding, but you’ll still see remnants of old whaling stations and other abandoned outposts.
-
SOUTH GEORGIA.
One significant and historic site is the grave of the great explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. You can visit his grave at the settlement of Grytviken, which is also home to an old whaling station, plus a museum, gift shop, church and small research station.
-
SOUTH GEORGIA.
Although South Georgia’s history is an important attraction to the island, its incredible densities of wildlife make it truly memorable. Each landing you make on South Georgia, often referred to as the Galapagos of the Poles, will open your eyes to the wondrous lives of new, enthralling creatures.
-
SOUTH GEORGIA.
One day you may see rookeries with hundreds of thousands of pairs of king penguins waddling on a beach, and the next, you may visit another beach blanketed with thousands of fur or elephant seals. The grasses, mountains and beaches of South Georgia all play an important role in the breeding and survival of different species on the island. This fragile and interwoven relationship is something your Expedition Team will explain to you during your time here.
-
AT SEA.
Say goodbye to the king penguins, as your next destination is Antarctica! Your days at sea are filled with presentations, lectures and workshops led by your Expedition Team, who will prepare you for the wildlife that will greet you upon your arrival.
-
AT SEA.
If conditions allow, we may attempt landfall on the South Orkney Islands, our first official stop in Antarctica.
-
SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS AND ANTARCTIC PENINSULA.
The most common reaction upon reaching the White Continent is a sense of reverence and awe. The experience is beyond words, since few places are as untouched and enduring as Antarctica.
-
SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS AND ANTARCTIC PENINSULA.
You will discover that Antarctica is a land of extremes. At one moment you’ll be overcome with a feeling of complete isolation and silence, and at the next moment you’ll be inspired by nature as a calving glacier crashes into brilliant blue sea or a penguin waddles by to inspect your footwear.
-
SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS AND ANTARCTIC PENINSULA.
Your Expedition Team will take care of you at each excursion, whether you are Zodiac cruising, visiting a historical site or consorting with penguin colonies. Chinstrap, Adélie and gentoo penguins are found here, along with Weddell, fur, crabeater and leopard seals. During Zodiac cruises, keep an eye out for Antarctic whales such as minkes, which may give you a chance for an intimate experience with these majestic animals. Each day and each excursion will present a new collection of creatures to entertain you and keep your camera busy.
-
SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS AND ANTARCTIC PENINSULA.
As exciting as the Zodiac excursions and landings are, perhaps you’ll treat yourself to an extra-special Antarctic experience by partaking in an optional paddling excursion (at an extra cost) or cast reason aside and jump into Antarctic waters for the polar plunge!
-
CROSSING THE DRAKE PASSAGE.
After more than two weeks of endless wildlife encounters, your journey home begins. Crossing the Drake is your unofficial rite of passage, completing your Antarctic adventure.
-
CROSSING THE DRAKE PASSAGE.
Enjoy your final moments celebrating with your fellow shipmates. The busy, populated world awaits your return, so savor the silence of the sea as long as you can.
-
DISEMBARKATION IN USHUAIA.
After breakfast aboard the ship, it is time to part ways and say goodbye to your Expedition Team. Airport transfers will be provided for those departing on the first homeward flights. Other guests will be transferred to town.
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Staff and Crew 87.
- Guests 128.
- Length 101.1 meters.
- Breadth (Beam) 16.2 meters.
- Draft 4.5 meters.
- Propulsion Diesel Twin Engines – 5,400 horsepower.
- Ice Class 1A.
- Cruising Speed 12 knots, in open water.
- Registration Bahamas.
- Lifeboats 4 partially-enclosed.
- Year Built 1975.
- Year Refurbished 2017.
- Voltage 220V, European plugs.
- Gross Tonnage 4614 tons.
- Zodiacs 14 (Mark V type).
- Stabilizers 2 x Sperry Gyrofin (1998).
- Engine Rolls Royce Diesel Twin Engines, 6 cylinder, 5400 horsepower.
SHIP AMENITIES:
- Chef-prepared meals (all meals and daily snack included).
- One dining room with unreserved seating.
- Bar staffed by a professional bartender.
- Polar Boutique.
- Multi-purpose lounge and presentation room.
- Exercise Room.
- Ship-to-shore satellite communications with email, and wireless, Internet access.
- Polar Library with a large collection of polar books.
COMMON AREAS ABOARD OCEAN ADVENTURER
A theater-style lounge accommodates everyone on board and serves as the main briefing and lecture hall with presentations, films and slideshows for education and enjoyment. Seating here is varied to offer booths, comfortable swivel chairs and stools at the bar. Enjoy a library with books and games, as well as a small onboard gym and staffed medical clinic. Shop for souvenirs in the Polar Boutique or spend time on the observation decks to view wildlife and enjoy the open ocean. Be sure to take advantage of the multi-leveled viewing on the bow when the captain opens up this sometimes-off-limits space. An open bridge policy allows you to sail with a captain’s-eye view and see the operations of the captain and his crew; a few binoculars are available to use in this space for spotting wildlife and landing sites. Ship-to-shore satellite communications with email and wireless Internet access are available for purchase. Free intranet is available to access daily schedules and expedition staff bios on board.
DINNING ABOARD OCEAN ADVENTURER
Ocean Adventurer’s window-lined dining room has unreserved seating so you can sit with and make new friends throughout the voyage. Tables can accommodate groups of four up to eight. The staff and crew, numbering in the eighties for a high crew-to-passenger ratio, provide gracious hospitality throughout each voyage. There is a 24-hour beverage station in the lounge as well as two bars, one adjacent to the dining room and one in the lounge. If weather allows, a barbecue buffet can be served alfresco on the Captain’s Deck for a unique polar dining experience.
ACTIVITES ABOARD OCEAN ADVENTURER
An onboard fleet of Zodiac landing crafts allow all passengers easy exploration and landings anywhere nature or curiosity dictates, accompanied by destination experts hand-chosen for their intimate knowledge of each locale. Kayaks are carried aboard, with special guides present as well for this optional (added-cost) adventure activity. Snowshoes are available on select departures when needed. Walking sticks are provided for shore landings to assist travelers in navigating rocky, uneven polar terrain. And for the more adventurous, a polar plunge is offered when conditions permit.
CABINS DETAILS:
Triple
A Triple Cabin has two lower berths and one upper berth, private facilities, and a porthole with exterior views. Please note that porthole covers may be closed during sea days or during inclement weather as a safety precaution.
Lower Deck Twin
A Lower Deck Twin cabin has two lower berths, private facilities, and a porthole with exterior views. Please note that porthole covers may be closed during sea days or during inclement weather as a safety precaution.
Main Deck Twin Window
A Main Deck Twin Window cabin has two lower berths, private facilities, and two windows with exterior views.
Superior
A Superior cabin has two lower berths, private facilities, and windows with exterior views. Note: this cabin has either corner or parallel bed configuration.
Deluxe
A Deluxe Cabin has two lower berths, private facilities, and windows with exterior views.
Suite
A Suite has a double bed, windows with exterior views, private facilities. Cabin 403 has a bathtub; other Suites have showers.
Owner’s Suite
An Owner’s Suite has a double bed and private sitting room. One features a large panoramic window facing aft, and the other two suites face port and starboard.
DECKPLAN
INCLUDED
- Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping.
- All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board.
- Beer and wine during dinner.
- All shore landings per the daily program.
- Leadership throughout the voyage by experienced expedition leaders.
- All Zodiac transfers and cruising per the daily program.
- Formal and informal presentations by expedition team and special guests as scheduled.
- A photographic journal documenting the expedition.
- Waterproof expedition boots on loan for shore landings.
- Coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock.
- A hairdryer and bathrobes in every cabin.
- Comprehensive onboard (2020-21 season) materials, including a map and an informative Antarctic Reader.
- All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program.
- All luggage handling aboard the ship.
- Group transfer in Ushuaia from airport to pre-expedition hotel on day 1.
- One night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Ushuaia, with breakfast.
- Group transfer from hotel to ship on embarkation day.
- Group transfer upon disembarkation in Ushuaia from ship to local airport, and/or to luggage storage facility in the 2020-21 season.
For itineraries beginning and ending in Ushuaia:
- Group transfer in Ushuaia from the airport to the pre-expedition hotel on day 1.
- One night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Ushuaia, with breakfast.
- Group transfer from the hotel to the ship on embarkation day.
- Group transfer upon disembarkation in Ushuaia from the ship to the local airport.
EXCLUSIONS
- International airfare.
- Passport and visa expenses.
- Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above.
- Meals ashore unless otherwise specified.
- Baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance (strongly recommended).
- Excess-baggage fees on international flights.
- Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, and any other gear not mentioned above.
- Laundry, bar, massage services, and other personal charges unless specified.
- Phone and internet charges.
- Additional overnight accommodation.
- Optional adventure activities.
- Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew.
- Arrival and departure transfers, except where explicitly stated.
NOTES:
- This trip is also available onboard the Ocean Adventurer. Contact us for more details.
- Voyages are subject to ice and weather conditions.
- The itineraries described for expedition voyages illustrate possible experiences only and cannot be guaranteed.
