- Ship
- 6 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 6 Dinners
Awaken today and the magnificent snowy peaks of continental Antarctica are laid out before you. Even your experienced expedition staff, some with more than 100 journeys south, take a moment to pause and reflect on this incredible sight. Take a deep breath – you have arrived. This is Antarctica.
The waterways of the Antarctic Peninsula are home to deep bays, pristine coves and inlets, and numerous small islands.The Gerlache coastline features heavily glaciated mountains permanently covered in ice and snow. Rocky outcrops, known as ‘nunataks’, are home to gentoo, Adelie, and chinstrap penguin rookeries and the waters are rich in marine life. Encounter seals, including the powerful leopard seal, usually found hauled out on an ice floe. Curious humpback whales and the smaller minke whales are present much of the time as they feed on the vast schools of krill. Sightings of orca are not uncommon.
The activity program is in full swing and you get to choose how your adventure unfolds. Every day an exciting range of activities is offered, including guided hikes on shore (both short and long), visits to wildlife colonies with expert naturalist guides, as well as Zodiac cruising. The historic huts and science stations located along the peninsula provide a fascinating glimpse into the past and the present. Zodiac cruising among the ice, searching for seals and whales, is a memorable activity.
Meanwhile, the sea kayakers may range several miles from the ship experiencing Antarctica from an entirely different perspective. The resident photography guide is on hand to help you with your camera handling and image composition. Maybe what you really want to do is sit on a rock, watching the penguins come and go from the water. Make yourself comfortable and enjoy the show.
Planned excursions along the Antarctic Peninsula may include Cierva Cove or Mikklesen Harbour, Danco Island, the Melchior Islands, and Fournier Bay - or a cruise through the Errera Channel to visit the gentoo penguin rookeries at Cuverville Island. Wilhelmina Bay is another favorite location and one where playful humpback whales are frequently encountered. Nearby Paradise Harbour is a particular highlight and offers an excellent hiking route to a viewpoint providing expansive views.
Andvord Bay and Neko Harbour provide yet another continental landing opportunity.
It is somewhere along this stretch of coastline that you plan a night on shore, camping in Antarctica. All the right gear and equipment and an expert team to make it happen are provided - all you need is an adventurous spirit! Camping always depends on the weather and is never guaranteed on any voyage. If the weather is good and site characteristics suit the requirements, rest assured, you can go for it. Camping is included and you can decide to participate while onboard. There is no need to pre-book.