Key Features
• Join this expedition cruise that hopes to cross the Polar Circle
• Superb wildlife viewing opportunties on land and at sea
• Enjoy the freedom of being in the vast, ice-sculpted Antarctic wilderness
Included
11nts shared cabin on board ship; 11 breakfasts, 10 lunches & 11 dinners included.
Transport
MS Expedition.
Group Size
MS Expedition can comfortably carry up to 120 passengers with zodiacs that can take up to 16 passeng
Tour Staff
On MS Expedition a strong team of expert lecturers, specialist crew and ship staff ensure that we are looked after and well informed throughout the voyage.
To the South Shetland Isles
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.
Exploring the Antarctic Peninsula
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. Not to mention the abundance of seabirds, most notably the albatross that spend the day soaring above our wake. Enormous icebergs and the sheer walls of their glacial parents provide virtually limitless photo opportunities.
MS Expedition
At a nimble 105 metres (345 ft) in length, with a capacity to hold 120 guests, the M/S Expedition is an ideal vessel to ply polar waters. The Canadian Operator who has recently aquired this vessel will be investing $15,000,000 in refurbishment and retrofit to ensure that the ship is suited for our style of expedition travel. With a focus on top of the line safety, comfort and the unique demands of polar travel, they will be transforming the M/S Expedition into one of the world's leading polar expedition cruise ships.
The M/S Expedition is large enough to provide stability, speed, spacious cabins and ample public space. Yet she is small enough to maneuver in remote areas and get you close to the action. Ship stabilizers 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. The 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.
Cabins
Prices are based on the use of outward facing, twin-share lower-bed category 2 cabins on the lower deck. These are cosy and comfortable with a private toilet and shower, porthole or window. It may be possible to upgrade to a superior cabin or single occupancy. Prices available on request.
Comment
Travel in these extreme regions means that itineraries can and do change to take into account local weather, sea and ice conditions. Flexibility and a sense of adventure are the key to getting the most from expedition cruising.