+44 (0)20 8741 7390 A once in a lifetime adventure in every sense of the word, this ultimate Antarctic voyage introduces you to a land of beauty and grandeur on a truly unimaginable scale. Spending 13 full days exploring one of the world s last great wildernesses, you ll journey into the pristine landscapes of the Southern Ocean with the aim of crossing the Antarctic Circle. Beginning in the port city of Ushuaia, you ll venture through the Beagle Channel and across the open waters of the Drake Passage, travelling in the company of seasoned experts as you head towards the remote islands of South Shetland. Daily zodiac excursions around the Antarctica Peninsula provide an opportunity to look for thriving colonies of roosting penguins, seals and whales, whilst a series of onboard lectures provide a fascinating and informative addition to the journey. Travelling into the Antarctic Peninsula, where Weddell seals, orcas and leopard seals sharing the oceans with incredible tabular icebergs, the ship will continue south to cross the Antarctic Circle, where few have ventured. Journeying back across the Drake Passage, the voyage then ends back in Ushuaia. CRUISE INCLUDES: 13 nights aboard the Expedition cruise ship 13 breakfasts, 12 lunches and 13 dinners Accompanied by an experienced English speaking local guide All inclusive program in the Antarctic (including lectures, zodiac excursions, hot drinks and water) Your own parka jacket to keep Departure: Set departures December to March *Please note the prices shown are per person and based a quadruple cabin *Please note itinerary is weather dependent
ITINERARY DAY 1: USHUAIA Arrive in Ushuaia today and be transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the world's most southerly city. DAY 2: USHUAIA - DRAKE PASSAGE Enjoy a free morning in Ushuaia where you can explore the town or the surrounding countryside. Embarkation on the Expedition begins in the afternoon at the port in Ushuaia, after which you'll depart the southernmost tip of the South American continent and sail through the Beagle Channel. Running through the Tierra del Fuego Archipelago, the channel forms part of the border between Chile and neighbouring Argentina and this evening's sailing takes you south, towards the open waters of Drake Passage and the vast Southern Ocean. (B,D) DAY 3: CONTINUE CRUISING THE DRAKE PASSAGE Over the next two days you'll negotiate the infamous body of water that lies between Cape Horn and the South Shetland Islands. Named in honour of the 16th century English sailor, Sir Francis Drake, the crossing is often a good place to spot whales, dolphins and seabirds, including the giant petrels and albatross which follow in the ship's wake. (B,L,D) DAY 4: CONTINUE CRUISING THE DRAKE PASSAGE There will be daily lectures on board from resident polar experts and keep an eye out for the first sightings of icebergs. (B,L,D) DAY 5: SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS/ANTARCTIC PENINSULA Over the coming days you'll discover some of the most unique wildlife and experience some of the most inspiring scenery on the planet, as you head for the vast white wilderness of Antarctica. Attempting two shore landings a day, there will be opportunities to encounter Gentoo, chinstrap and Adélie penguin rookeries, see Weddell and leopard seals and hopefully come across orcas and humpbacks in the cold Antarctic waters. During the voyage you'll also have a chance to learn about the peninsula's remarkable history. (B,L,D)
DAY 6: CONTINUE EXPLORING THE ANTARCTIC PENINSULA A further day to encounter the unique wildlife and spectacular landscapes of the Great White Continent. (B,L,D) DAY 7: ANTARCTIC PENINSULA - ANTARCTIC CIRCLE Depending on weather conditions, the ship will continue southward along the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula. Passing colossal icebergs and countless colonies of penguins, the goal is to cross the Antarctic Polar Circle. Few travelers have ventured this far south, but the fully equipped ice-strengthened vessel will push on if sea conditions are favourable. (B,L,D) DAY 8: CONTINUE EXPLORING THE ANTARCTIC CIRCLE A further day to attempt to cross the Antarctic Circle. (B,L,D) DAY 9: ANTARCTIC CIRCLE - ANTARCTIC PENINSULA The journey north will bring you back across the open waters of the Antarctic Peninsula, presenting the perfect time to reflect on the highlights of this incredible voyage with your crew and fellow passengers. (B,L,D) DAY 10: CONTINUE CRUISING THE ANTARCTIC PENINSULA A further day to encounter the unique wildlife and spectacular landscapes of the Great White Continent as you continue north. (B,L,D) DAY 11: ANTARCTIC PENINSULA - DRAKE PASSAGE Keep an eye out from the observation deck for some last-minute whale sightings as you head back towards the port of Ushuaia and back over the Drake Passage. (B,L,D)
DAY 12: CONTINUE CRUISING THE DRAKE PASSAGE Continue north on your journey back to Ushuaia. (B,L,D) DAY 13: CONTINUE CRUISING THE DRAKE PASSAGE Continue north on your journey back to Ushuaia. (B,L,D) DAY 14: USHUAIA Disembark in Ushuaia early this morning, where your journey ends. Wild Frontiers can arrange departure transfers and further travel in Argentina. (B)
ACCOMMODATION USHUAIA EXPEDITION The Expedition provides an intimate small-ship cruising experience. Completely refurbished in 2009, she boasts spacious cabins, each featuring ocean-facing windows or portholes and private en-suite facilities. Large common areas and observation decks provide panoramic views of the distinctive landscapes of some of the world's most remote regions. The Expedition's spacious confines can hold up to 134 passengers. Many expedition cruise operators offer you a choice of space, comfort or expertise; the Expedition delivers all three at a price few can top. With a focus on safety, comfort and the unique demands of polar travel, the crew of the Expedition is committed to the ship s continued safe operation. Wild Frontiers Adventure Travel Ltd Tel +44 (0)20 8741 7390 Email info@wildfrontierstravel.com Website wildfrontierstravel.com