This amazing journey takes us to one of the world's most awe inspiring destinations. With visits along the way through the South Shetland Islands we arrive on the mainland, on the Antarctic Peninsula and are dazzled by perhaps the most dramatic scenery to be found
anywhere on earth.
Sailing aboard our well-appointed expedition vessel, we see Antarctic nature in all its glory. These areas boast an extraordinary abundance of wildlife, including five seal species and massive penguin rookeries of gentoo, Adelies and chinstraps as well as a profusion of seabirds from albatross to skuas. A wildlife highlight may well be watching a variety of magnificent whale species in close proximity as they crest the surface of the waves.
On the White Continent, we also see remarkable landscapes of ice. At Paradise Harbour or Hope Bay we find many icebergs dotting the waters, including some that are colossal in size, containing natural caves shrouded in an eerie translucent light. On land, there is a sweeping ice sheet, masking mountains and filling trenches binding together an entire continent that is about the size of Africa. We'll even have the chance to camp ashore on this expanse of ice if conditions are suitable.
Even in the company of our experienced expedition crew, some of whom have travelled to Antarctica over 100 times, it still seems astonishing to think of the early explorers attempting to conquer this beautiful, yet formidable land.
Note: Weather, ice, or other conditions may necessitate changes to our itinerary and alteration to certain shore excursions.
Highlights
Amazing WildlifeAntarctic PeninsulaSouth Shetland IslandsThe Beagle ChannelUshuaiaItinerary:
Day 1 Ushuaia and the Beagle Channel.2 - 3 Cross the Drake Passage.4 - 8 The Antarctic Peninsula.9 - 10 The Drake Passage.11 Ushuaia.
Included: A. Airport arrival transfer in Ushuaia
A. Transfer on day one from our meeting point to pier and departure transfer on last day of voyage from Ushuaia pier to airport or hotel
A. Ship-board accommodation
A. Highly experienced expedition leader, crew and lecturers
A. All meals, afternoon teas most days
A. Access to public viewing areas
A. Shore excursions by zodiac boat
A. On-board lectures, videos, slide and film shows
A. On-board medical officer
A. Comprehensive pre-departure booklet and expedition manual
Not Included: A. All airfares
A. Visa and passport fees, airport departure taxes
A. Pre-cruise or post-cruise hotel accommodation
A. Laundry, postage, telephone calls, drinks, medical expenses
A. Travel insurance, emergency evacuation charges
A. Gratuities to staff and crew
Meals: 10 breakfasts,9 lunches,10 dinners
Notes: Notes: These notes should be read in conjunction with our Antarctica Pre Departure Information that is provided to you shortly after booking (or which can be requested prior to booking). A second manual, dealing with Antarctic history, geology, geography, marine and bird life will also be provided. 1. Itinerary. Please note that due to the exploratory nature of this expedition, weather, ice, wildlife or other conditions may require changes be made to the itinerary and/or cancellation of certain shore excursions. Every effort will be made to provide regular shore excursions, within the limits of safety and time constraints. These conditions will also play a role in the decision to camp ashore. If conditions are not suitable, camping will not take place. 2. Budgeting. In addition to funds for onboard expenses, it is sometimes possible to purchase souvenirs such as books, t-shirts, stamps, postcards, wind-cheaters, caps and similar items at some of the research stations in the Antarctic Peninsula area. Mail can sometimes be posted from these stations as well. $US cash is suggested. 3. Clothes. Please read our Antarctic - Pre Departure Information carefully. Though you don't need to make expensive, specialist-clothing purchases for this trip, you will need clothes that adequately protect against cold, wet conditions. (Sea spray is common onboard zodiacs). It's recommended that you have warm, waterproof clothing available for use upon arrival in Ushuaia to protect against inclement weather. 4. Onboard. The waters of the Drake Passage can be some of the roughest seas in the world - at other times they are so smooth it is referred to as the "Drake Lake"! Though our vessels, the Mariner and the Voyager are among the most stable ships in their class it is impossible to remove all motion. Unless you are certain you are impervious to the problem, you should take precautions against seasickness. Your doctor can advise you as to the best methods for avoiding this uncomfortable condition. 5. Gratuities. We suggest you allow the equivalent of $US10 a day for gratuities for the crew and expedition staff. This is usually collected just prior to the end of the cruise. The amount can be paid by Visa or Mastercard if you wish. 6. Sea kayaking. There are separate trip notes for the sea-kayaking option. Please note that this option must be booked prior to your departure from home: it cannot be booked on the ship. Some prior experience is required. 7. Safety is paramount on our voyage. Due to new International Security Regulations, you will not be able to come to the ship on your own. You will have to arrive with the rest of the group and the Representative. Full details of embarkation/disembarkation procedures will be supplied with your final documentation. Onboard you will be asked to participate in the obligatory lifeboat drill. We will also conduct important briefings on landing procedures and zodiac operations. 8. Camping. If you chose to camp on the continent, we'll provide all the required gear such as tents or bivy sacs and sleeping bags. This excursion is managed with strict environmental regulations - a portable toilet is used and absolutely everything is transported back to the ship afterwards Voyage DocumentationOnce you have booked your voyage to the Polar regions with us, you will be required to complete a Medical Information Form. This form must be completed, signed and returned to us no later than 90 days prior to departure. This can be downloaded from our website at www.peregrineadventures.com/pdfs/PolarMedicalForm.pdf
Starts/Ends: Ushuaia to Ushuaia
Trip Reference: PPEX
