Rachel’s Latest Antarctic Adventure

Rachel Callus – March 2025
Antarctic Specialist

One of our specialist consultants, Rachel, has just returned from her most recent trip to Antarctica and Chile.  Rachel travelled on-board the Sylvia Earle, a purpose built, 130 guest Expedition-Luxury ship.  Here’s what Rachel had to say.

Stunning Ice Sculptures

What an amazing trip!
I’d long wondered what it would be like flying from Punta Arenas into King George Island (KGI) – it’s a truly awesome way to start an Antarctic cruise.  We had near perfect conditions in both Punta and in KGI – taking off was beautiful – landing spectacular.

The Sylvia Earle my home for 12 days – a purpose built expedition ship

Humpback whale spy-hopping

Deception Island is a dormant volcano – steam from warm blows over the beach

Leopard Seal

As it was getting closer to the end of the Antarctic season we were lucky with our whale sightings.

Minke whale.

Zodiacs look tiny against the massive glacier walls

Humpback fluke

The Sylvia Earle was purpose built for Polar Expeditions, there are several features that make life easier/more comfortable onboard:  everyone has a locker in the mud room to store boots, life jackets, and any other wet weather gear. That’s in addition to very comfortable cabins, many with balconies and two restaurants.

The sea-level loading platforms also make for very easy, and safe, access into the zodiacs (or kayaks).  Dynamic positioning also enables the ship to hold its position without an anchor, and to best protect the zodiac loading areas for safe operation.

The two Observation areas on Decks 5 & 6 are beautiful places to relax. The food excellent, the dining team are beautiful people.  The expedition team again excellent and very knowledgeable.

Gentoo and Adelie penguins Antarctic Peninsula

Whaler’s Bay Cemetery Deception Island

Sylvia Earle

Kayaking on the Peninsula

Patgonian Fjords

Chinstrap Penguin

The Sylvia Earle is a purpose built expedition ship carrying a maximum of just 130 guests.  She is the sister ship of Greg Mortimer and soon to be launched Douglas Mawson.

Each polar cruise has its own highlights and as the weather varies the schedule may change. Call 1300 784 794 or email contact@antarcticatravelcentre.com.au to talk to one of our Antarctic Experts to find the cruise that is right for you.