akademik vavilov deep antarctica circle cruise

Antarctica - Deep South (extended Antarctic Circle)

  • Overview
    This special journey takes you further south than at any other time in the seaso! By flying to King George Island in Antarctica at the start of the voyage, we save two days on the ocean crossing. The time we save by flying south, allows for a more substantial exploration below the Antarctic Circle. Here we witness stunning landscapes, sizable Adelie penguin rookeries and large flat-topped tabular icebergs that drift north from the Bellingshausen Sea. We always anticipate exciting ice navigation when we push this far south.
    Duration: 12 days
    Passengers: 96 passengers
    Embarkation Point: Punta Arenas, Chile
    Disembarkation Point: Ushuaia, Argentina
    Physical rating: Soft Adventure
    Fly/Cruise: Mandatory extra flight
    Single Supplement: 1.5x - 2.0x twin rate or share options
  • Itinerary
    • Day 1 - Punta Arenas; Embarkation Day

      Our journey commences in Punta Arenas, located in southern Chile, where we board our two-hour flight across the Drake Passage to Antarctica. Upon arrival at the King George Island in Antarctica, we embark our ship via Zodiac inflatable crafts.

    • Day 2/6 - Antarctic Peninsula

      Overnight we have navigated across the Bransfield Strait and awake to the towering peaks of the Antarctic continent.

      For the next five days we have a varied itinerary pushing southwards with much to see and do. We will be opportunistic, making shore landings in locations navigating to our ultimate objective below the Antarctic Circle. Planned visits might include Port Charcot, several locations in the Fish and Argentine Island archipelagos which allow for zodiac cruising and potential shore landings, a hike on Winter Island to explore the old British Antarctic Suvey Hut- Wordie House, Petermann Island, and a cruise through Lemaire Channel if ice allows. Along the way we hope to make a visit at Pleneau Island.

    • Day 7/9 - Antarctic Circle

      Given optimal ice conditions, we aim to sail south of the Antarctic Circle. A favored landing site here is Detaille Island, home to an abandoned British science hute, providing a glimpse into the harsh life of early Antarctic scientists and researchers. We are at the mercy of prevailing ice conditions navigating even further south.

      Years of experience tell us that late February gives us our best chance of reaching Marguerite Bay. We may take the ‘shortcut’ through a narrow channel known as 'the Gullet' if the passage is ice-free. Otherwise, we could navigate around the outside of Adelaide Island - which will take more time, yet bring us to the same destination.

    • Day 10/11 - Drake Passage

      We leave this magical place and chart a course north back to South America, heading again across the Antarctic Convergence. If weather conditions allow, we hope to make a rounding of Cape Horn.

      This fabled stretch of water is home to legendary tales of exploration and early navigation. It’s a fitting place to reflect on a wonderful expedition. We celebrate the conclusion of our Polar expedition with a special dinner.

    • Day 12 - Ushuaia; Disembarkation

      In the early morning, we arrive into Ushuaia, Argentina. It is time to say farewell to your crew and fellow travellers. Guests will be transported to their hotels or to the airport for return flights home. It will be possible to connect to flights through to Buenos Aires or other destinations in South America. Otherwise enjoy a night in town or venture further afield to explore the highlights of Patagonia.

    Please consider that our voyages are expeditionary in nature. This means, that there are no concrete itineraries, your Captain and Expedition Leader will utilise their vast experience to chart the best course for your expedition depending on the climatic and environmental conditions. Mentioned highlights and wildlife cannot be guaranteed.

  • Highlights & Activities

    Kayaking

    Gear up with the best kayaking gear in the industry, to experience one of the best paddling in the world for intimate experiences.

    USD$ 795 per person

    Camping

    All gear is provided for you to spend a night sleeping on the ice

    Included

    Photography

    Photographer in residence provides presentations, critiques, informal instruction and assists on Zodiacs and shore landing to help you get the best shots!

    Included

    Cross the Antarctic Circle

    The moment you step foot into the circle, you’ll have a deep sense of wonder knowing you’ve just trodden where few have gone before. When you’re this far south, nature bares its secrets.

    Lemaire Channel – get your camera ready!

    In a continent of stunning views, Lemaire Channel has been called the Kodak Gap. Locked between the rocky vertical cliffs of Booth Island and the continent this one kilometer wide passage is one of the most photographed attractions of Antarctica. You will be glad your camera is digital.

    Antarctica's Babies

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    Fly/Cruise voyage

    Our Fly/Cruise programs an excellent choice to navigate the Drake Passage quickly. This expedition comprises of 1 or 2 charter flights across the Drake Passage, so you need not worry about crossing the passage by sea. These expeditions are great options and often allow for an increased amount of time around the continent.

  • Inclusions

    Expedition Gear Package

    A complementary expedition package is provided on a loan basis, upon boarding. Your package will include;

    - Windproof / waterproof expedition jacket and bib pants
    - Waterproof backpack
    - Comfortable insulated rubber boots
    - Water resistant binoculars
    - Trekking poles

    Photographer & Digital Media Lab

    On board photographer will provide polar photography advice and assist in the multimedia room where you can download images to Lightroom, Adobe, Photoshop and card readers are available for use on MAC and PC computers

    Polar Camping

    Overnight Camping including high quality equipment is provide free of charge. Camping can be affected by itinerary and weather conditions.

    Charter Flights

    This expedition includes charters flight to arrive at or depart from your voyage. Charter flights are provided as per stated in your itinerary document

    Inclusions / Exclusions

    Included in your Expedition

    - All on board educational presentations
    - All meals onboard
    - Fitness & Yoga
    - Hiking & guided walks
    - Zodiac and shore excursions
    - Photography advice from experienced professionals
    - Extensive pre-departure information package
    - Hot beverages

    Not included in your Expedition

    - Gratuities
    - Trip interruption / cancellation insurance
    - Travel medical insurance including medical repatriation (mandatory)
    - Medical expenses - fees / prescriptions / medications
    - Postage / telephone calls / email
    - Personal laundry
    - Spa treatments
    - Soft drink and alcoholic beverages
    - Personal expenses
    - Pre & post cruise transfers and hotel
    - Airport taxes
    - Visa and passport fees
    - International & internal airfares
  • Map
    Screen shot 2017 07 04 at 5.30.49 pm
  • Gallery
  • Vessel

    AKADEMIK VAVILOV

    Akademik Sergey Vavilov is the near identical sister-ship to Akademik Ioffe. Built in Rauma (Finland) these Baltic Class 1A (Canadian Type B) ice strengthened ships are the leaders in their class. They are the pride of the polar fleet featuring first class amenities catering to the demands of today’s most discerning guests. A separate lounge and bar with panoramic views, as well as a library provide ideal places to sit and relax or catch up on some reading. A selection of movies and documentaries can also be watched in the lounge. The sumptuous meals prepared for you by our culinary team are enjoyed in our dining room, which can host all passengers in a single seating and will keep you feeling healthy and strong for the myriad of activities offered throughout the voyage. Other facilities include the theatre style presentation room, gift-shop, fitness room, massage room, hot water spa, sauna and plunge pool. There’s also a dedicated expedition ‘mud-room’ where you prepare for your off-ship excursions.

    Features & Facilities
    • Superior accommodation
    • 360 degree observation decks
    • Lounge & Bar with panoramic views
    • Theatre style presentation room
    • Wellness Centre; Gym
    • Massage services
    • Hot water spa
    • Sauna
    • Plunge Pool
    • Expedition mud room
    • Digital photography lab
    • Internet/Wifi
    Key Facts
    Luxury star rating: 3
    Guests #: 96
    Crew #: 65
    Ice Class: 1A
    Speed: 14
    Refurbished:
    Technical Specs
    Year built: 1988
    Length: 117m
    Width: 18
    Draft:
    Tonnage: 6230
    Registry: Russia
    Elec Outlets: 220V / 2 Round Pin
Check Voyage Dates, Pricing and Availability
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Ready to book your expedition?

We understand that the trip of a lifetime takes planning, so we make the financial commitments easy to manage.

  • Confirm your booking today with just USD$ 1,000 per passenger.
  • Pay your 25% deposit 5 day later.
  • Final payment due 120 days prior to departure.

Triple

20 Feb 2018 - 03 Mar 2018
Triple berth cabin with shared facilities
USD$ 11,495pp
USD$ 11,495pp

Twin Semi-Private

20 Feb 2018 - 03 Mar 2018
Twin cabin with semi-private facilities
USD$ 13,695pp
USD$ 13,695pp

Twin Private

20 Feb 2018 - 03 Mar 2018
Twin cabin with private facilities
USD$ 15,295pp
USD$ 15,295pp

Superior Twin

20 Feb 2018 - 03 Mar 2018
Twin cabin with private facilities
USD$ 16,195pp
USD$ 16,195pp

Shackleton Suite

20 Feb 2018 - 03 Mar 2018
Double cabin with private facilities
USD$ 17,895pp
USD$ 17,895pp

One Ocean Suite

20 Feb 2018 - 03 Mar 2018
Suite with double bed, private facilities and a host of luxuries
USD$ 19,495pp
USD$ 19,495pp