SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS AND ANTARCTIC PENINSULA

SHIP OFFERING THIS ITINERARY

Ocean Victory

The Ocean Victory, set for completion in 2020 has a revolutionary X-bow design for more stability and comfort along with being environmentally considerate in all aspects. A total of 93 cabins can accommodate up to 189 guests, all featuring ocean views, 90% with their own balconies. Two restaurants serve up high-quality cuisine along with a Nordic inspired bar to spend your nights enjoying the incredible Antarctic scenery passing you by. Fill in your time at sea with visits to the wellness area (with a gym and a spa), listen to lectures in the modern lecture lounge and soak up the sun (with your coat on) on the open deck dining facility. The Ocean Victory is part of a new generation of low-energy vessels with 4 diesel engines and 2 electro engines, all controlled electronically to optimise speed and fuel consumption.

Day 1 Ushuaia

Days 2-3 At Sea – Cross 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.

Days 4-5 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.

Weather permitting, your projected landfalls include: King George Island; Deception Island, an extinct volcano with waters warm enough for a polar swim; and Half Moon Island with nesting Wilson’s storm petrels and chinstrap penguins. The itinerary and activities over the next few days depend on weather and ice conditions. The route and shore landings will be determined by the captain and expedition leader and communicated to guests through regularly scheduled briefings.

Days 6-7 Antarctic Peninsula

As the white shimmer of Antarctica looms on the horizon, the presence of wildlife multiples by tens of thousands with many species of lively penguins, inquisitive seals, nesting birds and the spray of marine mammals. Wildlife abounds along your projected route along the Antarctic Peninsula: leopard, fur and Weddell seals of Cuverville Island; humpback whales of Gerlache Strait; Paradise Bay; the dramatic Lemaire Channel’s orcas and much more.

The itinerary and activities over the next few days depend on weather and ice conditions. The route and shore landings will be determined by the captain and expedition leader and communicated to guests through regularly scheduled briefings. Please note that all the outings and landings rely on weather, sea and ice conditions being favourable both for the ship to access the areas, as for the zodiacs and kayaks to maneuver under adequate conditions, ensuring the safety of all the passengers and staff.

For this reason, during moments of harsh weather and throughout the entire trip, the Ocean Atlantic has excellent public areas such as wellness/sauna, restaurant, bar and a library for passengers to spend their spare time. The ship is staffed by experts in the field who will also share great lectures along the way, ranging from exploration history to biology, geology, ice and wildlife.

Days 8-9 Depart Antarctica – at Sea

Depart Antarctica and spend two days at sea on your way back to the calms of Beagle Channel and Ushuaia, Argentina. En-route, cross the Drake Passage and cruise past Cape Horn, a legendary maritime landmark and the southern tip of South America. During your time at sea, a variety of activities will be arranged on board which will provide the perfect opportunity to socialise with fellow travelers equally passionate for discovering the world, enjoy the lectures by your expedition team on board, visit the shop or relax at leisure with the ship’s facilities, designed to provide a comfortable, relaxing time.

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.