Antarctic Circle
To the South Shetland Isles and Antarctic Peninsula
From Ushuaia we navigate the Beagle Channel then head south across the Drake Passage and across the turbulent waters of the Antarctic Convergence. This meeting of cold polar water flowing north and warmer equatorial water moving south pushes nutrient rich waters to the surface, attracting a variety of seabirds, whales and other species.
Reaching land at the South Shetland Islands we hope to sail into the flooded volcanic caldera of Deception Island. We continue to the peninsula and will revisit this area on our return. Ice-capped mountains, crevassed glaciers and endless white expanses herald our arrival in Antarctica. Possible landings include Paradise Harbour, Neko Harbour or Wilhelmina Bay and cruising Lemaire Channel, Errera Channel or Neumayer Channel. Scientific research stations and abandoned whaling stations will also be of interest.
Conditions permitting, we'll attempt two excursions per day to explore the rich diversity of wildlife and potential wildlife sightings include Gentoo, Adelie and Chinstrap penguins, Fur, Leopard, Weddell and Crabeater seals, Minke and Humpback whales - and possibly even Orcas.
Polar Circle Crossing
We continue southward along the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, passing colossal icebergs and countless colonies of penguins. After attempting to cross the Polar Circle at 66°33'S. We will then turn north for the first time and head back through the 'inside passage' (pending ice conditions) to continue our exploration of the Antarctic peninsula.
Tour Highlights
- Cross the Polar Circle - a true expedition a little deeper into Antarctica
- Travel on a small ship, allowing access to inhospitable areas
- Be encircled by rookeries of chinstrap, Adelie and gentoo penguins
- Be dwarfed by colossal glaciers and icebergs towering above you
- Explore on-shore - we hope to do two landings each day
Tour Essentials
- Tour Duration: 14 Days
- Tour Style: Classic
- Tour Type: Small Groups
- Tour Pace: Relaxed
- Tour Comfort: Comfortable
Included meals
Breakfast 13 Lunch 11 Dinner 12
Transport
Zodiac, MS Expedition
Accommodation
1 night Standard Hotel
12 nights Comfortable Boat
Tour Staff
Expedition Crew, Naturalist(s)
Ship Description
At a nimble 105 metres (345 ft) in length, with a capacity to hold 132 guests, M/S Expedition is an ideal vessel to ply polar waters. M/S Expedition is large enough to provide stability, speed, spacious cabins and ample public space, but small enough to manoeuvre in remote areas and get you close to the action. Ship stabilisers ensure a smooth ride in rough waters, such as the infamous Drake Passage, allowing you to enjoy more of your time at sea. A fleet of ten zodiacs allows passengers to get out and actively explore the remote shores of our destinations. M/S Expedition is a speedy vessel. A top speed of 16 knots means you'll spend less time getting from A to B, and more time to explore your surroundings.