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Expedition
Ushuaia to Ushuaia
Overview
A massive rookery of penguins shuffles across a frozen shore; a pod of whales glides through frigid waters; dramatic landscapes float off in the distance – welcome to Antarctica. Join us on a voyage of discovery to our planet’s last frontier – a mysterious and virtually pristine paradise. Our ice-strengthened expedition ship is ideally suited to cruising this icy wilderness, and her expert staff are on hand to ensure you’ll fully appreciate all the majesty you encounter. Sail the Drake Passage past the South Shetland Islands, then really explore the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula. Prepare yourself for an adventure like no other – more like a private expedition than a traditional cruise.
Departures
Cruise Itinerary
Arrive in Ushuaia at any time. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the world's most southerly city. Arrival transfer is included. There will be a welcome desk in the lobby of the start hotel that will provide more specific information on the MS Expedition.
Enjoy a free morning in Ushuaia. Do any last minute shopping, explore the town or the surrounding countryside. Embarkation on the MS Expedition begins in the afternoon at the port in Ushuaia. Enjoy the evening sailing through the Beagle Channel. Expedition travel can be full of surprises! While it is our intention of adhere to the itinerary described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. On the first day onboard, the Expedition Leader will give an expedition overview outlining what the specific plans are for the trip.
The adventure begins with a 800km (497 mi) crossing of the passage named in honour of 16th-century English sea captain and privateer Sir Francis Drake. The ship is at home in this part of the Southern Ocean. Enjoy daily lectures from the expedition team and keep an eye out for sightings of icebergs, whales, and albatross following in the Expedition's wake. The M/S Expedition is at home in this part of the Southern Ocean, known for the unimpeded never ending fetch of the winds that encircle the Antarctic. As the Expedition crosses the passage there will be time to become acquainted with the ship and frequent the common areas that include the lounge, dining hall, library and lecture hall where we meet our guides, ship’s crew and expedition staff. Begin lectures and information sessions to learn the extraordinary human and natural history of the Antarctic region.
Encounter some of the region's unique wildlife and awe-inspiring scenery while setting foot on the Antarctic continent. Attempt two shore landings per day (weather permitting) and encounter gentoo, chinstrap, and Adélie penguin rookeries; Weddell, crabeater, and leopard seals; and orca, humpback, and minke whales in the cold Antarctic waters. This is what we've all been waiting for - a chance to step foot on the Great White Continent! Over the next four days the Expedition will navigate southwards making stops in the South Shetland Islands then through the Bransfield Strait and to the Antarctic Peninsula. Our goal is to attempt two excursions per day while navigating through the area but our itinerary and daily schedule will be based on the local weather and ice conditions. The peninsula also has a remarkable human history; during the voyage, learn about some of the most important and dramatic expeditions to this remote corner of the world.
With a close eye on weather conditions, set off southward along the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula. Passing colossal icebergs and countless colonies of penguins, push on with the goal in mind - crossing the Antarctic Polar Circle. Few travelers have ventured this far south, but with our fully equipped ice-strengthened vessel and favourable sea conditions, the Expedition can access many remote locations other ships just can't reach. Expedition travel can be full of surprises! While it is our intention of adhere to the itinerary described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations
Turn north for the first time to continue exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands. Continue our exploration of the peninsula and the then into the South Shetland while moving North again. Keeping a close eye out for wildlife there might be opportunities to do some whale watching or even go for a polar plunge in the Southern waters.
Leave Antarctica and head north across the Drake Passage. In between bird watching and whale watching and enjoying some final lectures by the expedition staff, this is a chance to relax and review the adventures of the past week before returning to Ushuaia. Remember, the best way to experience the wildlife of the Drake Passage is to be on deck keeping a look out for Albatross, Prions and Whales!
Begin your journey to your home port of Ushuaia. Review the highlights of your Antarctic experience with our lecturers and staff, and keep your eyes open on the observation deck for some last-minute whale sightings.
Disembark the G Expedition after breakfast.
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable.
Expedition
Vessel Type: Expedition Length: 105 metres Passenger Capacity: 140 Built: refurbished 2009 Not only will the G Expedition steer you closer to some of our planet’s most amazing places, our professional and highly-skilled team of on-board experts offer keen insight, unique perspectives, and hands-on attention not found in a guidebook. Make your next tour a voyage you’ll remember the rest of your life. Return home a different person than when you left. Cabins Private en suite bathrooms Bathrooms in all cabins feature washbasins, toilets and showers. (Category 5 cabins feature state-of-the-art full-body misting showers.) Ocean views All cabins are outside-facing with ocean views that frame some of the most remarkable and remote landscapes on Earth, and every cabin has its own porthole or window. Spacious living quarters All suites are 30m sq (320 sq ft) and all cabins are 15m sq (160 ft). All cabins come equipped with wardrobes, drawers, nightstands, and writing desks to make you feel as at-home as possible. Daily cabin service Our friendly crew will make your beds, fluff your pillows and tidy up your cabin while you’re out, ensuring you return to a warm, inviting room each night. Amenities The G Expedition has multiple large public areas to enjoy during sea crossings and in between land excursions. Amenities include: All cabins with private en suite and outside view - The Penguin Library - Medical clinic and english speaking doctor - The Gear Shop - Polar Bear Pub - The Lounge - Albatross Dining Room, serving international cuisine and large enough to accommodate all passengers in one sitting - Large aft deck with barbecue facilities - Forward deck viewing platforms - Fitness centre/sauna - Large fleet of Zodiacs with 4-stroke engines Crew & Staff Experts in everything from geology to marine biology and polar history, the members of our team are always eager to share their infectious passion for the plants, animals, and people you’ll encounter. Add in professional hotel staff and a seasoned crew, and you’ll be more than comfortable during your adventure on the water. 10:1 passenger-to-expert ratio More on-hand experts means deeper access and greater understanding of the planet’s most amazing places. Our experts’ lectures, Q&A sessions, and personal reflection deliver a personalized and intimate perspective on these faraway shores.
Highlights
• Spend seven full days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula • Go farther south than most have ever gone • Spend time on deck searching for whales and watching soaring albatross • Get up close and personal with a variety of penguin species • Discover the intricacies of the Antarctic region through our on board lecture program
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