ANTARCTICA ACTIVE
__________________
ANTARCTICA ACTIVE
ITINERARY SUMMARY
| Day | Place | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 1 - 2 | Ushuaia | Day at leisure before embarkation |
| 3 - 4 | Drake Passage | Watch for bird and marine life from the ship |
| 5 - 11 | Antarctic Peninsula | Incredible wildlife, activity-packed excursions |
| 12 - 13 | Drake Passage | Reflect on your journey as you return to Ushuaia |
| 14 | Ushuaia | Disembark |
INCLUDED ACTIVITIES
The following activities are included within the voyage cost: Paddling, camping, snowshoeing and snorkelling.
SHIPS OFFERING THIS ITINERARY
Sylvia Earle
This purpose built expedition vessel, honours the highly accomplished marine biologist, oceanographer and explorer, Sylvia Earle and is the sister ship to the revolutionary Greg Mortimer. Accommodating on average 126 guests for each voyage, those lucky enough to experience an Antarctic journey on her can be assured of comfort and luxury coinciding with exploration and adventure. Besides the same revolutionary Ulstein X BOW hull design like her sister ship the Greg Mortimer, the Sylvia Earle features a distinctive Glass Atrium Lounge at the bow of the ship with a stunning panoramic view on both port and starboard side, Lecture theatre and lounge, a swimming pool and jacuzzi where you can admire impressive scenery while watching the world go by.
Day 1 – 2 Ushuaia
Arrive in Ushuaia, renowned for its breathtaking scenery. Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world set on the shores of the Beagle Channel. Ushuaia is a major tourist centre, particularly for people cruising to Antarctica. The city offers magnificent hiking in Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego, the only coastal national park in Argentina.
After transferring to your downtown hotel, the rest of the day is at your leisure.
After breakfast on the second day, check out of your hotel. You will have time to do some more exploring of Ushuaia and surrounds and pick up some last minute items from the local stores. In the afternoon, settle into the Greg Mortimer for an early evening departure down the Beagle Channel.
Days 3 – 4 The Drake Passage
As you commence the Drake Passage crossing, make the most of your time getting comfortable with the motions of the sea. Your expedition team prepare you for our first landing with important wildlife guidelines and biosecurity procedures and start your lecture program to help you learn more about Antarctica’s history, wildlife and environment.
Your wildlife experiences begin as you enjoy watching and photographing the many seabirds, including majestic albatrosses and giant petrels following the vessel. On sea days, you can enjoy the facilities on board the vessel including the gym, sauna and jacuzzis or relax in one of the observation lounges.
Days 5 – 11 Antarctic Peninsula
It is almost impossible to describe the feeling of arriving in Antarctica. Spotting your first iceberg and taking a deep breath of some of the freshest, crispest air on earth is an experience that will stay with you forever. Over the next eight days, you will settle into the natural rhythm of life on the Antarctic Peninsula. Your experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to design your voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather and wildlife opportunities. Enjoy Zodiac cruises along spectacular ice cliffs, keeping watch for whales, seals and porpoising penguins, and paddle in quiet coves among stranded icebergs. While ashore, you can stroll along the beach or stand quietly to observe the passing wildlife. Strap on your snowshoes and hike to lookouts to photograph the magnificent scenery. With extra time for exploration, you will be shown the favourite spots across the peninsula and possible discover new future favourites along the way.
Days 12 – 13 The Drake Passage
As the Captain steers the ship north across Drake Passage there’s time to watch for seabirds, enjoy entertaining talks, discuss what you’ve seen and learned, and exchange photos and stories. Share a farewell dinner with your newfound friends.
Day 14 Ushuaia
Cruise up the Beagle Channel early this morning before slipping into to dock in Ushuaia, where your voyage concludes after breakfast. Farewell your expedition team and disembark the ship.
Extend your trip to Patagonia
To make the most of your time in South America we can tailor a holiday to Patagonia to suit your voyage dates. If you have a bit more time we can create a tailor-made itinerary to some of the highlights of South America. Take a look at some of the Patagonia sample itineraries below and contact us to begin creating your perfect holiday.
