SMALL SHIP EXPEDITION CRUISING
HOW DO I CHOOSE THE RIGHT SHIP FOR ME? Your choice of expedition vessel will play an essential role in your overall Antarctic experience. As genuine Antarctica specialists, we have the knowledge and experience to help you get this decision just right.
Antarctica is the ultimate journey, the most comprehensive, unforgettable and breathtaking trip you could ever take to the end of the world. As well as being the most mesmerising travel destination on the planet, it is also one of the most interactive.
DURATION You may not yet know where you want to go in Antarctica and how much you can budget for your trip but you probably will know how much time you have to travel.
COST It really depends on the duration of your cruise, size of the ship and the comfort levels you desire. Many ships offer early bird discounts, so it pays to plan ahead. ACTIVITIES Ships offer a variety of activities like kayaking, camping and photography programs. Make sure you pick a ship that offers the activities you want to take part in, and if they offer them on the departure you want.
WHAT IS EXPEDITION CRUISING? Expedition cruising offers an alternative way to explore than you would experience on a large cruise ship. These cruise ships are usually smaller in size and have Zodiacs on board so you can spend time out exploring the wilderness led by a highly trained expedition team. Expedition guests are usually more interested in exploring a place rather than going on a traditional cruise where the focus is mainly on the onboard experience. Every expedition is different, which is what makes the experience so unique and exciting! EXPERT GUIDES An Antarctic expedition is nothing without passionate and experienced guides. They play such an important part in delivering the experience and are not just experts in fields like marine biology, geology, and environmental science but are also just as excited and passionate about Antarctica as you are! Your expedition guides will interpret the wildlife you see, operate Zodiacs, assist you on landings, and interpret the wildlife you see on excursions. They’ll also lead presentations and workshops onboard to help you learn more about the Antarctic environment. If you have any questions about anything Antarctic related, your crew is there to help. Their number one priority is keeping you safe and making sure you have an unforgettable trip of a lifetime!
SHIP SIZE & PASSENGER NUMBERS When it comes to booking an Antarctic cruise, passenger numbers make a huge difference! This is due to strict governing rules on Antarctic ships by the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators, or IAATO, put in place to protect the pristine Antarctic environment. WHY UNDER 200 PASSENGERS IS BEST Ships with 200 and under passengers allow for the most opportunities to get off the ship and explore. Only 100 passengers per ship can be on shore at once, so you alternate between zodiac cruising and passengers on land allowing two excursions per day. On ships with 200-500 passengers, the crew will need to alternate passenger groups and you may only have the chance to go on land once per day or once every other day. With time limits strictly in place for shore landings, this means you’re limited in your ability to explore. Large ships with over 500 passengers are not permitted to make landings on Antarctica and have limited access due to their size.
DESTINATION If you have a particular destination, like South Georgia, in mind, check that the ship visits that location.
SHIP SIZE Ship size does matter!
Remember to book activities early as popular ones, like kayaking, can sell out!
Remember, 500+ passenger ships are not allowed to make landings in Antarctica, and have restricted access to certain areas. Imagine going all that way and not being able to get off the ship and get amongst the penguins!
COMFORT LEVELS Whether you prefer 5 star dining, the use of a private butler or....? Tell us what is important to you and we can find the right ship to suit your needs.
10
11
0800 131 900 | vivaexpeditions.com
0800 131 900 | vivaexpeditions.com
Made with FlippingBook Annual report maker