From the Strait of Gibraltar to Patagonia

Transcription

1 Includes FREE Round-Trip Airfare SIGMA XI EXPEDITIONS THE SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH SOCIETY BETCHART EXPEDITIONS Inc Montebello Road, Cupertino, CA From the Strait of Gibraltar to Patagonia A Grand Voyage to West Africa, the Atlantic Islands, and South America Aboard the All-Suite, 114-Guest Corinthian II November 20 - December 22, 2007

2 Guest Lecturers BRIAN GODFREY, lecturer for the American Geographical Society, is a geographer with regional specialties in Brazil, Amazonia, and Latin America. A Professor of Geography at Vassar College for the last two decades, he is fluent in both Portuguese and Spanish and has previously visited all of the South American cities and regions on our itinerary. He has long been interested in comparative urban and regional studies, environmental sustainability, historical cartographies of Atlantic exploration, and contemporary development issues. Brian has lectured on several previous study tours, and looks forward to cruising through the historic Atlantic seaways with us this winter. DR. PATRICK HATCHER, earned his PhD in history at U.C. Berkeley, where he taught in both the History and Political Science Departments. He is currently the Kiriyama Distinguished Fellow at the University of San Francisco s Center for the Pacific Rim. Dr. Hatcher appears often on San Francisco Bay Area television as an international relations news analyst. He will be accompanying this voyage starting in Salvador for Part II of the program. The iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer overlooking Rio de Janeiro from Corcovado Mountain

3 SIGMA XI EXPEDITIONS THE SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH SOCIETY BETCHART EXPEDITIONS Inc Montebello Road, Cupertino, CA Dear AAAS and Sigma Xi Members and Friends, A Grand Voyage: exotic ports of call and memorable sites in between languorous, relaxing days at sea and fascinating conversations. You ve dreamed about that epic adventure all your life. This unique, once-in-a-lifetime itinerary aboard Corinthian II brings the dream brilliantly to life. The luxurious small ship, accommodating no more than 114 guests, provides a congenial atmosphere for friendships to grow and service with only the highest standards of refinement and comfort in mind. Tracing the Atlantic portion of Ferdinand Magellan s historic expedition around the world a route from the southern tip of Europe, along the northwestern coast of Africa, to the southern tip of South America this voyage traverses over 7,200 nautical miles, 70 degrees of latitude and seven nations. Share this extraordinary experience, covering myriad cultures and complete with expertly arranged excursions, with like-minded travelers while relaxing in the elegance of our small ship. Explore first the legendarily enchanting Marrakech and Tenerife, before traveling to the edge of the Sahara to meet with traditional Berber villagers and enjoy a folkloric performance in desert tents. Continue on to the rarely visited Cape Verde Islands, with its remarkable fusion of Portuguese and West African traditions. Then cross the Atlantic to discover the fantastic, festive, multicultural marvel that is Brazil s northeastern coast. In the 16th- and 17th-century colonial cities of Recife, Olinda, Salvador, and Porto Seguro, discover Dutch, Portuguese, Native American, and West African influences blended together in a wonderful assemblage of old town squares, pastel mansions, and musical street life. Before sailing away from Brazil, indulge in two days in the Cidade Maravilhosa itself, Rio de Janeiro. Finally, following an exploration of intriguing Uruguay, encounter the blustery and remote British territories of the Falkland Islands, where a fantastic assortment of seabird life can be found, from Steamer Ducks to Rockhopper Penguins. You are welcome to register for the full transatlantic voyage, or you may sign up for either Part One or Part Two. Our ship, the all-suite Corinthian II, is one of the most exquisite small ships available. Its spacious, wood-paneled suites, superb cuisine, and stately public areas are perfect for this cruise, creating a climate ideal for gathering fellow travelers together in happy, spirited company. Take advantage of this incredible itinerary, and live your dreams. But remember: unlike large ocean liners, Corinthian II only has 57 suites, so make your reservation soon for your choice of accommodations. Phone Carol Larsen, (800) , for reservations and information. Sincerely, Margaret M. Betchart President, Betchart Expeditions Inc. For AAAS Travels and Sigma Xi Expeditions Our Grand Voyage, from November 20 - December 22, 2007, stretches across the Atlantic Ocean with visits to three continents and seven countries. Or, opt to travel on one of the two shorter segments of our journey: Part I: Nov Dec. 7, 2007 (Malaga to Salvador) Part II: Dec. 4-22, 2007 (Salvador to Ushuaia) Back Cover: The Falkland Islands, its shores sculpted with artistic flourish by the waves of the South Atlantic

4 Itinerary Tuesday, November 20, 2007 USA Fly from the U.S. to Malaga, Spain. Wednesday, November 21 MALAGA, SPAIN EMBARK Arrive in Malaga and transfer to the pier to embark on Corinthian II. (D) Thursday, November 22 Corinthian II crosses the Strait of Gibraltar en route to North Africa. This evening, enjoy a festive Thanksgiving dinner aboard ship. (B, L, D) Friday, November 23 SAFI MARRAKECH SAFI, MOROCCO Arrive in Safi for an excursion to Marrakech. Set among gardens and palm groves, Marrakech is one of Morocco s four Imperial Capitals. Our tour includes the 12th-century Koutoubia Minaret; the Bahia Palace; the Ben Youssef Medressa (or school); the Jewish quarter, which in the 16th century functioned almost as a separate town; and Djemma el-fna, the city s central square at the heart of the Medina. (B, L, D) Saturday, November 24 Corinthian II journeys west toward the Canary Islands. (B, L, D) Sunday, November 25 TENERIFE, CANARY ISLANDS, SPAIN Call at Santa Cruz, the capital of Tenerife, the largest island and one of the most The vivid Pelourinho district, the old historic center of Salvador beautiful in the Canaries. Travel to the historic towns of La Laguna and La Orotava, with their fine old mansions. Alternatively, visit the Canadas del Teide National Park and its enormous volcanic crater. (B, L, D) Monday, November 26 Enjoy lectures and the amenities aboard the ship as Corinthian II cruises south towards Nouadhibou. (B, L, D) Tuesday, November 27 NOUADHIBOU, MAURITANIA Situated on a peninsula shared between Mauritania and Morocco, the fishing port of Nouadhibou is Mauritania s lifeline to the sea. From here, travel to the edge of the Sahara to see a traditional Berber folkloric performance in desert tents. (B, L, D) Wednesday, November 28 Corinthian II sails towards Sao Vicente. (B, L, D) Thursday, November 29 SAO VICENTE, CAPE VERDE ISLANDS Call at Sao Vicente in the Cape Verde Islands, an archipelago of 14 arid, volcanic islands 400 miles off the coast of West Africa. Discovered in 1460 by Portuguese explorers, this tiny nation is populated by descendants of African and European settlers who have developed their own distinctive artistic traditions. Spend the morning enjoying the town of St. Vicente or the island s striking mountain scenery, and relax on its beautiful beaches. (B, L, D) Friday, November 30 Monday, December 3 Attend lectures and enjoy the amenities of Corinthian II. (B, L, D)

5 Tuesday, December 4 RECIFE OLINDA RECIFE, BRAZIL Call at the port of Recife, founded by the Dutch in Tour the town s principal monuments, including the Convent of St. Francis, with beautiful Portuguese tiles, and the adjoining Golden Chapel, a fine example of Brazilian baroque architecture. Continue to Olinda, the old capital of Pernambuco, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After touring Olinda s historic landmarks, return to Recife to reboard Corinthian II. (B, L, D) *(For those traveling on Part II, fly from the U.S. on Dec. 4. Arrive in Salvador on Dec. 5 with a night at the Pestana Bahia Hotel. Embark Corinthian II on Dec. 6.) Wednesday, December 5 Corinthian II traces the Brazilian coastline. (B, L, D) Thursday, December 6 SALVADOR Founded by the Portuguese in 1549 on the magnificent Bahia de Todos os Santos and Brazil s capital for over 200 years Salvador remains one of the country s highlights. The city s historic district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, contains some of the most important colonial architecture in the Americas. Spend the morning on a walking tour of the old Pelourinho district, a maze of streets and elegant squares lined with pastel mansions, imposing churches, artists workshops, and antique shops. This afternoon, visit the Museum of Bahian Art, housed in a mansion formerly owned by the Goes Calmon family, and see its exhibits of colonial arts and works of modern Bahian artists. (B, L, D) *(For those traveling on Part I only, fly from Salvador on Dec. 6. Arrive in the U.S. on Dec. 7.) Friday, December 7 PORTO SEGURO As the ship approaches Porto Seguro, keep an eye out for humpback whales, which breed in the waters off the mainland. Later, arrive in Porto Seguro, a lively beach town just south of where Portuguese seafarers first landed in Visit Cidade Alta, one of the oldest settlements in Brazil, where a fort and several churches dating from the 16th century still stand. Also enjoy time at leisure to relax on one of the area s excellent beaches. (B, L, D) Saturday, December 8 Corinthian II sails south. (B, L, D) Sunday, December 9 & Monday, December 10 RIO DE JANEIRO Beautifully situated between lush mountains and the sea, Rio the Cidade Maravilhosa ( Marvelous City ) is undoubtedly one of the world s most impressive metropolises. Take the cable car to the top of Sugarloaf peak, where breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding bay await you at the summit. Then board the funicular for a ride up Corcovado peak, crowned by the famous statue of Christ the Redeemer, which overlooks Rio and the sea. The ride leads through the beautiful Parque Nacional de Tijuca, a lush tropical forest with numerous species of flowers, trees, and birds. (B, L, D) Tuesday, December 11 & Wednesday, December 12 Relax aboard Corinthian II as it sails the South American coast. (B, L, D) Thursday, December 13 PUNTA DEL ESTE, URUGUAY In Punta del Este, one of South America s most famous resorts, visit the Ralli Museum, which houses contemporary Latin American art. See the colonial buildings in nearby Maldonado. Alternatively, take a boat ride around Isla de los Lobos, one of the largest non-migratory seal colonies in the world (weather permitting). (B, L, D) Friday, December 14 MONTEVIDEO Call at Montevideo, Uruguay s capital, a city of surprising diversity considering its small population. A tour of the city concentrates on the historic port town, a rich combination of Art Deco, Italian, and colonial Spanish architecture. (B, L, D) Saturday, December 15 Monday, December 17 Enjoy the elegance and languor of sea cruising. (B, L, D) Tuesday, December 18 CARCASS ISLAND & WESTPOINT ISLAND, FALKLAND ISLANDS Explore Carcass Island, where Magellanic Penguins nest in the tall tussock grass and cormorants, upland geese, and steamer ducks are common along the shore. At Westpoint Island walk across the moors to visit a busy rookery of elegant Black-browed Albatross and raucous Rockhopper Penguins. (B, L, D) Wednesday, December 19 STANLEY, FALKLAND ISLANDS Call today at Stanley, the capital of the Falkland Islands. Located 350 miles east of South America, these remote, isolated islands are the habitat of an extraordinary concentration of wildlife. (B, L, D) Thursday, December 20 Corinthian II sails for Ushuaia. (B, L, D) Friday, December 21 USHUAIA, ARGENTINA DISEMBARK Arrive in Ushuaia, situated on the Beagle Channel in Argentina s remote Patagonia region, with the steep mountains of Tierra del Fuego as a backdrop. Disembark Corinthian II and transfer to the airport for the flight to the U.S. via Buenos Aires. (B) Saturday, December 22 USA A street bazaar in Marrakech, Morocco

6 Program Inclusions Airfare from New York to Malaga, returning from Ushuaia to Miami (Grand Voyage); from New York to Malaga, returning from Salvador to Miami (Part I); or from Miami to Salvador returning from Ushuaia to Miami (Part II) 30-night cruise aboard the all-suite, 114-guest Corinthian II Welcome and farewell cocktail receptions aboard ship Corinthian II The ideal combination of cruise ship grandeur and small-ship intimacy One-night stay in Salvador at the Pestana Bahia Hotel (Part II only) All meals aboard ship, including house wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner Complete program of tours and excursions as described Educational program of lectures and discussions by accompanying guest lecturers Professional Travel Dynamics International tour staff Complete pre-departure materials Baggage handling and transfers abroad on the designated program departure and arrival dates Port dues and embarkation taxes Gratuities to porters, guides, and drivers NOT INCLUDED: Airfare not mentioned above; visa and passport fees; luggage, cancellation, and accident insurance; meals, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages other than those specified above; personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, faxes, and service; and gratuities to shipboard personnel Spacious Suites The deluxe Corinthian II is an all-suite mega-yacht accommodating no more than 114 guests. Originally built in Italy in 1992, Corinthian II was refurbished and redecorated in 2005 specifically to create an atmosphere of effortless elegance and easy conviviality. All 57 outside-facing suites are a minimum of 225 square feet, appointed in rich wood tones, and feature beds that can be configured as two twin-size beds or one queen-size bed, a sitting area, satellite TV/DVD, mini-refrigerator, safe and a marble-appointed bathroom with fine toiletries. Guests staying in the spacious Penthouse Suites and Veranda Suites (400 and 300 square feet, respectively) will also enjoy a private balcony, private butler service, complimentary bottle of champagne on arrival and other exclusive in-suite amenities. Fine Dining Superb Continental cuisine is created by Corinthian II s European chefs and served either in the stately restaurant or al fresco on the wide sun deck, which is specially equipped for outdoor dining service. Select regional wines are complimentary with lunch and dinner. Fresh ingredients are chosen locally at many ports of call. All meals are served at one unassigned seating; varied seating arrangements assure comfort for all. Corinthian II s widely praised service equals that of the finest restaurants. Effortless Elegance Each Day and Night Returning from excursions, enjoy complimentary refreshments, afternoon tea and all-day coffee in The Club, a comfortable space for relaxation with panoramic windows. Before or after dinner, savor a cocktail while the ship s pianist plays arrangements ranging from jazz to classical to contemporary. Corinthian II also features a library, Internet center, beauty salon, gym, elevator serving all decks and a wraparound sun deck with Jacuzzi. The 75 European officers and crew ensure an atmosphere akin to a private club for the length of your voyage. Library

7 The Club Category B Suite DECK PLAN Beauty Salon Sun Deck Gym Jacuzzi Relaxing on Corinthian II s Sun Deck per person, AIR, CRUISE AND LAND RATES double occupancy All accommodations aboard Corinthian II are suites. They face outside, affording sea views, and several have balconies with sliding doors. All suites include a bedroom with beds that can be configured as two twin-size beds or one queen-size bed, sitting area, ample closet space, mini-refrigerator, satellite TV/DVD, marble-appointed bathroom with shower, and other amenities. Category Description Part I Part II Grand Voyage Sun Deck Outdoor Café Bridge E Deluxe suites on Magellan Deck with portholes and sitting area. 225 sq. ft. Suites $5,995 $5,995 $8,995 D Deluxe suites on Columbus Deck with window and sitting area. 225 sq. ft. Suites $6,495 $6,495 $9, Library The Club C Deluxe suites on Magellan Deck with portholes and sitting area. 235 sq. ft. Suites $6,995 $6,995 $9, B Deluxe suites on Columbus Deck with window and sitting area. 235 sq. ft. Suites $7,695 $7,695 $10,695 Lounge Reception A Deluxe suites on Marco Polo Deck with window and sitting area. 235 sq. ft. Suites $8,395 $8,395 $11,395 Restaurant Hospital MAIN SPECIFICATIONS Length: 297 feet Beam: 50 feet Draft: 12 feet Gross Tonnage: 4,200 Flag: Malta Suites: 57 SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: A limited number of cabins have been designated for single travelers in Categories D - A at a supplement of $995 (Part I or Part II) or $1,495 (Grand Voyage) to the per person, double occupancy rates. Singles in Categories AA - PHS are available at double the per person, double occupancy rates. AA VS PHS Deluxe suites on Marco Polo Deck with forward and side windows and sitting area. 285 sq. ft. Suites Deluxe Veranda Suites on Erickson Deck with private balcony and sitting area. 300 sq. ft. Suites Deluxe Penthouse Suites on Explorer Deck with private balcony and sitting area. 400 sq. ft. Suites $8,995 $10,495 $10,995 $8,995 $10,495 $10,995 $11,995 $13,495 $13,995 VS & PHS suites are provided with private butler service and other exclusive amenities. AIRFARE: Airfare from New York to Malaga and returning from Ushuaia to Miami (Grand Voyage) is included in the cost of the program. (Or, on Part I, from New York to Malaga and returning from Salvador to Miami, or, on Part II, from Miami to Salvador and returning from Ushuaia to Miami). Airfare other than the group flights mentioned above is not included in the cost of the program.

8 General Information Payment Schedule: A deposit of $1,000 per person is required to reserve your space on the tour. Final payment is due 90 days prior to departure and is payable only by check. Cancellations & Refunds: All cancellations of confirmed reservations are subject to a $300 per person administrative fee. Additionally, passengers are subject to any cancellation fees assessed by the purveyors of services, including airlines or hotels used in the itinerary. Cancellations received days prior to departure will be assessed a penalty equal to 50% of the total program cost per person. Cancellations received within 60 days or less of departure are subject to 100% cancellation penalties. Requests for cancellations must be made in writing. No refunds will be made for any part of this program in which you choose not to participate. Service fees may apply to deviations and are non-refundable. Insurance: We strongly recommend the purchase of trip cancellation insurance, which is available for coverage of expenses in conjunction with cancellation due to illness or accident. Baggage insurance is also recommended. Itinerary: The itinerary, accommodations, and arrangements are subject to change at the discretion of Travel Dynamics International. Responsibility: Please read carefully the following terms and conditions, which constitute the sole, legally enforceable agreements between the passenger and Travel Dynamics International, Betchart Expeditions Inc., the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), and Sigma Xi. The passenger is also advised to review his/her separate ticket passage contract with the vessel s owner/operator, which will constitute the sole, legally enforceable terms of carriage for this tour and is available on request from Travel Dynamics International. Travel Dynamics International, Betchart Expeditions Inc., AAAS, and Sigma Xi act solely as agents for the passenger with respect to all transportation, hotel and other tour arrangements. In that capacity, we exercise all reasonable care possible to ensure the passenger s safety and satisfaction, but, we neither assume nor bear any responsibility or liability for any injury, death, damage, loss, accident, delay or irregularity arising in connection with the services of any ship, airplane, train, automobile, motor coach, carriage or other conveyance, or the actions of any third-party, involved in carrying the passenger or in affecting these tours. We are not responsible for damages, additional expenses, or any other losses due to cancellation, delay or other changes in air or other services, sickness, weather, strike, war, civil disturbances, acts or threats of terrorism, travel warnings or bans, termination or suspension of war risks or other carrier insurance, quarantine, acts of God or other causes beyond our control. All such losses must be borne by the passenger, and tour rates provide for arrangements only for the time stated. In the event of cancellation, delay or rescheduling mandated by any of the aforesaid causes beyond our control, the passenger shall have the option of accepting in lieu of the original tour such rescheduled tour or other substituted tour(s) as may be offered by us, or else, receiving a refund of as much of such advance tour expenditures as we are able to recover on the passenger s behalf from carriers, third-party tour vendors, etc., but, we shall not have any obligation or liability to the passenger beyond the foregoing. We reserve the right to make alterations to the tour s itinerary and to substitute hotels or ships if this is required. We reserve the right to cancel, delay, or reschedule any tour prior to departure, and, so long as this is not due to any of the aforesaid causes beyond our control, the passenger shall be entitled to a full refund of all monies paid to that point if he/she so desires. No refund shall be made for any unused portion of any tour. By forwarding their deposit(s), the passenger certifies that he/she and/or their dependents, minors or others covered thereby do not have any mental, physical or other condition of disability that could create a hazard for them or other passengers. We reserve the right to decline to accept or to decline to retain any person as a member of any tour should such person s health, condition or actions adversely affect or threaten the welfare or safety of other passengers or impede the tour. Baggage or valuables brought on the tour shall be transported, handled or stored at the passenger s risk entirely, and, we shall bear no liability or responsibility for any damage or other loss thereto. Resolution of any disputes arising hereunder shall be affected exclusively in the state or federal courts presiding in the City of New York, pursuant to applicable New York law. Rates: Tour costs are based upon current airfares, tariffs, and currency values. While we do everything possible to maintain the listed prices, they are subject to change. Ship s Registry: Malta CST # TDI; CST # BEI Registration Enclosed is my check or credit card no. for $ ($1,000 per person) as a deposit to hold place(s) on From the Strait of Gibraltar to Patagonia. I understand that final payment is due ninety (90) days prior to departure. Credit card may be used only for initial deposit. Please make check payable to and mail with this registration form to: Betchart Expeditions Inc. Trust Account Montebello Road, Cupertino, CA AmEx Discover Visa MasterCard No. Exp. 3- or 4-Digit Security Code Please select your preferred voyage: Grand Voyage: Nov Dec. 22, 2007 (7433A) Part I only: Nov Dec. 7, 2007 (7433B) Part II only: Dec. 4-22, 2007 (7433C) Please select cabin category in order of preference: PHS VS AA A B C D E Twin Beds Single Occupancy Double Bed Share (cannot be guaranteed) MEMBERSHIP: Sigma Xi AAAS MR./MRS./MS. FIRST LAST AGE MR./MRS./MS. FIRST LAST AGE ADDRESS CITY/STATE/ZIP TELEPHONE (DAY) BTEX 7433 #1011 (EVENING) Each participant must sign below: I/We have read the General Information section and agree to its terms. An Honest Discussion About Fuel Costs In the uncertain, often volatile oil market of late, it is difficult if not impossible to predict fuel costs over the long term, and, more specifically, at the time of operation of this voyage. Our prices are based upon the prevailing fuel rates at the time of brochure printing (usually nine months before departure). While we will do everything possible to maintain our prices, if the fuel rates increase significantly, it may be necessary to institute a fuel surcharge. If one is necessary, the total surcharge for your voyage will not exceed $180 per person. Thank you for your understanding. SIGNATURE SIGNATURE DATE DATE

9 SIGMA XI EXPEDITIONS THE SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH SOCIETY BETCHART EXPEDITIONS Inc Montebello Road, Cupertino, CA PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Staten Island, NY Permit No. 169 Marrakech, Morocco For reservations or information, please contact Carol Larsen at (800) or via at BTEX 7433 From the Strait of Gibraltar to Patagonia: A Grand Voyage to West Africa, the Atlantic Islands, and South America Aboard the All-Suite, 114-Guest Corinthian II November 20 - December 22, 2007