GIANTS OF THE SOUTHERN OCEAN : WHALE VOYAGE WITH SOUTH SHETLANDS AND ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
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GIANTS OF THE SOUTHERN OCEAN : WHALE VOYAGE WITH SOUTH SHETLANDS AND ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
ITINERARY SUMMARY
| Day | Place | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Ushuaia | Embark on the Ocean Victory and greet your fellow adventurers |
| Days 2 & 3 | At Sea Crossing the Drake Passage | The Drake Passage |
| Days 5 & 6 | Antarctic Peninsula | Lemaire Channel, massive icebergs and zodiac cruise in Paradise Bay |
| Day 4 | South Shetland Islands | Antarctic experience explorers of yesteryear could only dream of |
| Days 7 & 8 | At Sea | The Drake Passage |
| Day 9 | Ushuaia | Disembark from the Ocean Victory after your incredible adventure |
SHIP OFFERING THIS ITINERARY
Ocean Victory
Ocean Victory commenced voyages November 2021 and was established as one of the most modern small ship vessels in the market.
This stylish cruise ship is ideally suited for our business model of small ship expeditions and is deployed and dedicated to varied Antarctic region voyages.
With a total of 93 comfortable staterooms for our guests, all with a view of the ocean, (and 90% with their own balcony), several restaurants, a wellness area, an Albatros Nordic Bar, an open deck dining facility, a modern lecture lounge, and other amenities, the vessel is also environmentally-friendly onboard, with an implementation of the Green Initiative Program, ensuring both absolute comfort and sustainability for our guests.
Day 1 Ushuaia
Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina – the world’s southernmost town. Explore the quaint city or local countryside. Alternatively, consider a day trip off the beaten path to the raw, natural archipelago of Tierra del Fuego. It’s a hiker’s paradise with rugged snow-capped mountains, glaciers, flower-filled meadows and boggy quagmires. In the afternoon, board your ship, Ocean Victory
The journey begins as you navigate through the calms of Beagle Channel, a strait in the Tierra del Fuego Archipelago.
Days 2 & 3 At Sea, Crossing the Drake Passage
Sailing onward, cross the famed Drake Passage – a body of water that marks the intersection of the cold Antarctic with the warmer Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Drake Passage is known for rollicking conditions and strong westerly winds, called the Roaring Fifties. While this passage may be challenging, you can rest confidently aboard your expedition vessel, which is purpose-built with stabilisers, powerful engines and a highly-qualified crew. The most spirited sailors consider Drake Passage a lifetime achievement, and you will complete the crossing twice!
In the Drake, the excitement builds as Antarctic wildlife comes into view. Weather permitting, catch your first sight of seals and penguins! The area is also well-know for its abundance of birds.
Day 4 South Shetland Islands
Over the next two days, begin the exciting Antarctic experience your ancestors only dreamed of. During these days you will explore the sub-Antarctic islands of the South Shetland chain and be marveled by the captivating landscapes you will encounter along the way.
Our Antarctic adventure begins in the South Shetland Islands. This chain of rugged rocks marks the northernmost point of Antarctica, and the most exposed to the fury of the Southern Ocean. Because of this, it is also one of the richest in terms of wildlife, with large Gentoo and Chinstrap Penguin colonies, and an abundance of large seabirds such as predatory Giant Petrels.
Days 5 & 6 Antarctic Peninsula
The following days will be spent exploring further south on the Antarctic Peninsula in the Gerlache Strait region. This region is typically icy, so our exact route will be subject to careful planning by the Expedition Leader and Captain – however we will aim to visit a range of sites which showcase the best of this staggeringly beautiful region.
Consisting of the ‘spine’ of the Antarctic Peninsula and a large number of glaciated and mountainous islands, the Gerlache Strait is what comes to mind when most people think of Antarctica. Marvel at the massive icebergs and vast glaciers on a Zodiac cruise in Paradise Bay. Be moved by penguins tenderly caring for their precious eggs, and fiercely defending their nests on Cuverville Island. Watch cataracts of ice tumble into clear blue ocean on a hike over the active glaciers of Neko Harbour. Experience the Antarctica of old at historic huts such as Damoy Point, lovingly restored and open to all.
Days 7 & 8 At Sea
We eventually depart Antarctica, and spend two days at sea on our way northwards back across the infamous Drake Passage towards the more welcoming shores of the Beagle Channel and Ushuaia, Argentina. During our time at sea, a variety of activities will be arranged on board to provide our guests with the chance to reflect on their voyage. Relax with an expertly crafted cocktail in the Nordic Bar in the company of new friends, soak up the knowledge and passion of our Expedition Team during lectures in the Shackleton Lounge, or simply enjoy the flight of the albatross which accompany us northwards.
Day 10 Ushuaia, Disembarkation
This morning, arrive back in Ushuaia for the conclusion of your tour, where you can continue your adventures or begin your journey home.
We will tailor the perfect holiday to suit your needs.
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 the Patagonia sample itineraries below and contact us to begin creating your perfect holiday.
