CHILE
ARGENTINA
POPULAR CRUISE LOCATIONS
FALKLAND ISLANDS
Learn more about these unique locations and why you should consider them when planning your cruise.
FALKLAND ISLANDS Set 700 km north of Antarctica, the Falklands are sparsely inhabited, dramatic and immensely fascinating. Home to five distinct species of penguins, a large colony of Albatross, an abundance of Elephant seals, Sea lions and plenty of migrating whales and dolphins, these South Atlantic islands are very much a sub- Antarctic haven. HISTORY OF THE FALKLANDS There have been French, British, Spanish and Argentine settlements during its history, and while Britain re-established its rule in 1833, the islands continue to be claimed by Argentina, which refers to them as Islas Malvinas. Argentina invaded the islands in 1982, resulting in the two-month-long undeclared Falklands War between both countries. It resulted in the surrender of all Argentine forces and the return of the islands to British administration. WHY GO: > Unique wildlife and penguin species > A dream for photography > British heritage in a rugged, windswept environment
Drake Passage
ANTARCTIC PENINSULA The Antarctic Peninsula is the largest and most prominent peninsula on the continent, extending 1,300 km between Cape Adams (Weddell Sea) and a
SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS
SOUTH GEORGIA
mainland point south of Eklund Islands. Because it is so close to mainland South America, the Antarctic Peninsula remains very popular with tourists, who are drawn by its stunning scenery and wildlife. Every day on the Antarctic peninsula brings varied landscapes—sculptural glaciers, sparkling sea ice, and dramatic mountains. Gentoo and Chinstrap penguins abound, whales are frequently seen, and fur, leopard, and Weddell seals are often sunning themselves on the ice. Guests may also visit historic huts or research stations, a powerful reminder of Antarctica’s unique history. WHY GO: > Easy access from South America > Abundant wildlife > Varied landscapes, including glaciers, icebergs, and mountain ranges
Weddell Sea
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WEDDELL SEA The Weddell Sea is known for its massive tabular icebergs. It contains the Weddell Gyre and is part of the Southern Ocean. The bay formed from the coasts of Coats Land and the Antarctic Peninsula shapes its land boundaries. The sea is fringed by numerous ice shelves, including the Filchner-Ronne Ice Shelf. The Weddell Sea is notable for its designation by scientists as having the clearest water of any sea and is home to huge colonies of Adelie penguins, plus crabeater seals, minke whales, and orcas. The region is also renowned for its Weddell seals. These remarkable animals are able to remain submerged for more than an hour and rasp through the ice using their teeth to maintain breathing holes. A visit to the Weddell Sea is a true privilege few have ever experienced and those who make the effort are rewarded with vast, unique ice formations, beautiful isolation, and ample wildlife. WHY GO: > Tabular Icebergs
SOUTH GEORGIA South Georgia is truly the penguin, seal and seabird headquarters of the far south, an island that figuratively bursts at the seams with Antarctic wildlife. WILDLIFE Over three-quarters of the fur seals living in Antarctica are found here, as well as several of the world’s largest rookeries of king penguins, South Georgia is the southern wildlife crèche everyone needs to experience. Salisbury Plain and St Andrew’s Bay are the two most popular landing sites for King penguin spotting whilst over on the other side of the island, you can see huge numbers of chinstrap, gentoos and glorious macaroni penguins. GRYTVIKEN South Georgia’s largest settlement is a former whaling station and also the last resting place of Sir Ernest Shackleton. Visiting his grave is an absolute bucket- list dream for so many visitors. WHY GO:
ANTARCTIC CIRCLE Only a handful of ships make the long journey beyond the circle into a latitude of 66° 33’ south. For travellers who choose an Antarctica Circle expedition, the knowledge of finally joining a very elite community of people who’ve ever sailed this far south brings an overwhelming feeling of accomplishment. WHY GO: > A true immersion into the remote beauty of Antarctica > Dramatic scenery, tabular icebergs, and sparkling blue icebergs > Increased opportunities to spot orcas, penguin colonies, and seals
EAST ANTARCTICA East Antarctica is one of the least visited locations on Earth, due to the huge distances involved and its isolation. Follow in the footsteps of the heroic age of Antarctic exploration. This region is home to the historic huts of Scott, Shackleton & Borchgrevink. Cruises departing from New Zealand are a great way to visit East Antarctica and usually include a visit to the beautiful Sub-Antarctic Islands. WHY GO: > Visit dramatic regions not often seen
> One of the world’s best destinations for wildlife > Follow in the footsteps of acclaimed explorer, Sir Ernest Shackleton > Experience a unique side of Antarctica
> Experience the dramatic Transantarctic Mountains > See the historic Mawson’s Huts
ANTARCTICA
> Chance of emperor penguins > More time cruising Antarctica
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0800 131 900 | vivaexpeditions.com
0800 131 900 | vivaexpeditions.com
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