Antarctica & Sub Antarctic Islands Odyssey

This expedition odyssey takes us first to the Antarctic where fledgling penguins begin to assert their independence and all wildlife prepares for the coming winter. This is an extremely good time of year for whale sightings. From the west coast of the Antarctic Peninsula we head for the little visited South Orkney Islands and then on to South Georgia and the Falklands. It is an amazing voyage of history, stunning scenery, magnificent ice and fascinating wildlife.

Itinerary:

DAY 1: Argentina
In bustling Ushuaia, embark M/V Polar Star to set off along the Beagle Channel.

DAYS 2 – 3: At Sea
During these days at sea relax, attend lectures and spot wildlife from the bridge or deck.

DAY 4: South Shetland Islands
Their volcanic origin provide black sands in contrast to the whiteness elsewhere. We plan landings at Half Moon Bay and Whalers Bay on Deception Island to look for penguin rookeries, seal haul out sites and countless seabirds.

DAYS 5 – 6: Antarctica
Explore the peninsula area including part of the Weddell Sea to Zodiac cruise in the icy fjords and land at sites of historic and natural history interest. Penguins species to be seen include Gentoo, Chinstrap and Adelie and other species may also be found as well as seals and seabirds. Landing sites may include Paulet Island, Brown Bluff, Devil’s Island and Snow Hill Island.

DAYS 7 – 8: At Sea
During these two days at sea, we continue our lecture series and also hope for a landing at the remote South Orkney Island, home to Weddell, Fur and Elephant seals as well as an important scientific research base.

DAY 9: At Sea
This short respite at sea is a time to relax, reflect, watch for marine life and attend lectures.

DAYS 10 – 13: South Georgia
The experience can seem a bit unreal – walking amongst thousands of King penguins set against a dramatic snowy and mountainous backdrop. There is a multitude of other wildlife including other penguin species, seals, seabirds and whales. Planned landings include Prion Island, Cooper Bay, Fortuna, Stromness, Salisbury Plain and Grytviken where Sir Ernest Shackleton is buried.

DAYS 14 – 15: At Sea
Education continues while at sea and the sensation of remoteness and peace is poignant, feeling never alone on the vast ocean as seabirds wheel overhead.

DAYS 16 – 17: Falkland Islands
There are plans to land at New Island and West Point after a port call to Stanley to complete the overview of the history and wildlife of these remote yet populated islands.

DAY 18: At Sea
This final time at sea is just long enough for everyone to recap and gather thoughts and memories.

DAY 19: Argentina
The voyage concludes in Ushuaia with disembarkation after breakfast.

What's Included:

Cruise only; accommodation onboard; meals, coffee, tea and juice throughout duration of cruise, onboard gratuities; complimentary rubber boot rental program and complimentary PSE Maritime Expedition Outer Shell (jacket custom designed for the layering concept); onboard lectures and activities; port charges and all excursions unless specifically stated.

What's Not Included:

Air transport and transport to and from M/V Polar Star; visa, passport, vaccination charges and airport departure taxes; pre and post cruise activities; hotels and meals not included in the ship cruise itinerary, emergency evacuation charges; and personal expenses including laundry, postage, personal clothing requirements, medical expenses, personal travel insurance and items of a personal nature such as bar charges (alcohol, bottled water, sodas), communication costs (phone, fax, email) and shop purchases.

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All rates are per person, double occupancy. Port charges, Government taxes and fees are additional. Limited availability and based on minimum fares for select departure dates. Other dates may be higher. These rates are for new, individual bookings only. Not responsible for last minute changes of price or itinerary by cruise line, or any errors or omissions in the content of this site. Some restrictions and cancellation penalties may apply.