A nBteasrtc ot ifc a
Humpback Whales, Antarctic Peninsula
Gentoo Penguins, Antarctic Peninsula
DAY 5-8 South Shetland Islands and Antarctica For the next four days we explore the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula that is famed for its majestic mountains, glaciers, imposing icebergs, ice-strewn waters and abundance of wildlife. The scenery, wildlife and serene silence of Antarctica will enchant and enthral and you will soon realise why this region has captivated the attention of explorers and travellers for centuries. Your days on the Antarctic Peninsula will form the core of your adventure. Every day will be different as we cruise by Zodiac amongst the beautifully sculpted icebergs and take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore local bays, channels and landing sites. Unpredictable weather and ice conditions mean that the itinerary will be flexible, but will make the most of wildlife sightings, as we aim to explore penguin rookeries, seal and bird colonies, whale feeding areas as well as visiting sites of historic and scientific interest and climbing to vantage points for panoramic views. There is always something new or unexpected to see, with opportunities for kayaking, snowshoeing and photography with an expert, which means that your expedition will be a unique and personal experience and unlike any other. Enjoy the antics of thousands of curious penguins as you sit on a pebbled beach, scout for whales and seals as you cruise by Zodiac, listen out for the mighty crack of a calving glacier and maybe brave a polar plunge in the icy waters! As we cruise through the Peninsula, the lecture programme continues and sightseeing is at its most spectacular off the ship’s outer decks. Enjoy the Ocean Endeavour’s newly designed health and fitness features, with facilities that include a spa, His and Hers saunas, saltwater pool and gym plus yoga sessions. (B,L,D)
DAY 9-10 Drake Passage We hope to make one final excursion or shore landing today before we leave the Antarctic Peninsula behind, and head back across the Drake Passage. This is another great opportunity to look out for wildlife from the deck of the ship, as you identify seabirds and maybe whales with the help of your Expedition Team. Gain more insight into the region by attending final lectures and presentations by the polar experts and take time to relax and reminisce about your Antarctic experiences. By the evening we hope to be back in the tranquil waters of the Beagle Channel, ensuring a restful nights sleep on board. (B,L,D) DAY 11 Disemabarkation in Ushuaia We are scheduled to arrive into Ushuaia early this morning, disembarking after a final breakfast aboard the Ocean Endeavour. Transfer to the airport for your onward flight, or maybe spend a few days in Ushuaia, giving you time to explore further, maybe hiking in Tierra del Fuego National park. (B)
DAY 1 Ushuaia Your cruise itinerary begins with an overnight stay in Ushuaia. If you arrive into Ushuaia early enough, the day is yours to explore. Avenida San Martin and the surrounding streets are where most hotels, shops, restaurants, cafes and tourist services are located. DAY 2 Embarkation This morning is free for you to explore Ushuaia, giving you time to wander the streets of this quaint port town, or discover Tierra del Fuego National Park. Transfer to the pier of Ushuaia for embarkation in the late afternoon. Set sail through the Beagle Channel that was named after the British ship the HMS Beagle. This famous channel transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America, and is rich in wildlife. Keep a look out for Magellanic penguins, rock cormorants, petrels and black-browed albatross from the deck as well as sea lion colonies. Enjoy your first taste of life at sea and a welcome dinner. The air is likely to be filled with anticipation, as your next view of land will be of Antarctica - the White Continent. (B,D) DAY 3-4 Drake Passage As we leave the Beagle Channel, prepare yourself for potentially rough seas as we enter the legendary Drake Passage. This infamous and unpredictable channel of water separates the southernmost tip of South America from the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula. As we head southwards, there is time to get to know your shipmates and get an insight into the excitement ahead with presentations from the Expedition Team on everything Antarctic. We will notice a drop in temperature as we cross the Antarctic Convergence where the polar waters flowing north meet the equatorial waters flowing south. This pushes nutrient rich waters to the surface, attracting a variety of seabirds, whales and other species. Keep your eyes peeled for albatrosses flying overhead, icebergs and maybe even breaching whales. Leaving the Antarctic Convergence in our wake, we continue south towards Antarctica, maybe making landfall by early evening. The first sighting of land always brings great excitement, and is often embraced as the true beginning of any Antarctic expedition.(B,L,D)
11 Days Ushuaia – Ushuaia
An ideal extension to add to any South America Signature tour. Fly to Ushuaia for embarkation at the southern tip of South America and conquer the famed Drake Passage to bring you to the spectacular frozen wilderness of the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula.
Ushuaia
DRAKE PASSAGE
South Shetland Islands
The Ocean Endeavour, Antarctic Peninsula
WEDDELL SEA
Why you will love this itinerary In just under two weeks you will experience the highlights of the northern Antarctic region: the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula. You will visit sections of the Antarctic Peninsula with remarkable views of the towering peaks of the Antarctic continent and a wide range of wildlife. Unforgettable activities such as Zodiac excursions, guided hikes on shore, visits to wildlife colonies, kayaking, camping and the exploration of historic huts.
Zodiacs, Antarctic Peninsula
30
31
0800 131 900 | vivaexpeditions.com
0800 131 900 | vivaexpeditions.com
Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs