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Enjoying the scenery from the bow

The Whalers Route

Example 19 Day Cruise aboard Polar Pioneer
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Whale breaching near the zodiacMirrored reflection on our kayak excursionBe prepared for curious wildlife!  An inquisitive leopard seal inspects a Zodiac-load of expeditionersTaking in the view of the Antarctic mountains from the deck of Polar PioneerEnjoying the scenery from the bow
Activity Level: Relaxed
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Embark in Ushuaia

Embark in the late afternoon to a warm welcome aboard the Polar Pioneer before setting sail along the Beagle Channel.

Day 2: At Sea

Your Drake Passage crossing offers excellent bird-watching from the outer decks or the warmth of the bridge. Learn about Antarctica from your expert naturalist’s informative talks, and about safety and environmental guidelines from your expedition staff. Have time to meet fellow travellers, chat, read and prepare for the days ahead.

Day 3: South Shetland Islands

If the Drake Passage is kind, you should make your first landing today. Keen eyes watch for icebergs, while sightings of penguins, fur seals and king cormorants announce your approach to the South Shetlands Islands.

Day 4-6: Antarctica Exploration

Awaken to the thrill of Antarctica, where you will plan to visit busy penguin rookeries, historic sites and make a continental landing.

Day 7: Elephant Island

Approaching the steep slopes of Elephant Island, home to 22 of Shackleton’s men for four months, hope for a clear view of the spot where the men wintered beneath their upturn boats. With luck go ashore to pay tribute to these hardy souls.

Day 8: South Orkney Islands

Following in Shackleton’s wake, cross the Scotia Sea detouring to the remote, mountainous South Orkney Islands. Zodiac cruise through a maze of icebergs to land at a beach bedecked with penguins, seals, and lichen-encrusted boulders.

Day 9: At Sea

Time to reflect on all you’ve seen and learned, and to prepare for the next phase of your journey as you continue across the Scotia Sea.

Day 10-13: South Georgia

Have ample time to explore the network of harbours along South Georgia’s spectacular northern coast, visiting wildlife havens that include the world’s largest king penguin rookeries and majestic albatross nests. Kayakers revel in paddling the coastline’s nooks and crannies, accompanied by playful seals. In Stromness and Grytviken harbors, 3000-meter peaks form dramatic backdrops to the remains of whaling stations. Kelp-strewn beaches are cluttered with basking elephant seals, feisty fur seals and a plethora of penguins.

Day 14-16: Across the Scotia Sea

Keeping watch for the kelp-skirted Shag Rocks, cross the Scotia Sea, entertained by your expert naturalist and historian.

Day 17-19: Port Stanley, Falkland Islands

Dawn greets you in the very British capital of Stanley, Falkland Islands. Explore the historic and wildlife laden shores of the Falklands before continuing onto Punta Arenas in Chile to embark your homeward flight.

Ship/Hotel

Polar Pioneer

Enjoy a drink at the bar.
Polar Pioneer's dining room.
Polar Pioneer's bar and lounge.

Dates & Prices

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Polar Pioneer's Public Twin Cabin.
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Twin Shared
Twin Shared Cabins have two lower bunks, a desk, small washbasin, ample storage and hanging space and portholes. Showers and toilets are very close by and are shared with other Main Deck cabins.

Notes

Please note that all of Polar Pioneer itineraries are at the mercy of weather conditions and not all landings are guaranteed. These itineraries are flexible and will change voyage to voyage, allowing the best chance to make the most of surprising wildlife displays and unexpected opportunities.

- Rates represent costs per person, double or triple occupancy. Request the Twin or Triple Share Program where you are matched with a cabin mate of the same gender. Even if a cabin mate is not found for you, no single supplement will be charged.

- Single costs are 1.7 times the twin rate

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