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 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.
Gear up with the best kayaking gear in the industry, to experience one of the best paddling in the world for intimate experiences.
All gear is provided for you to spend a night sleeping on the ice
Photographer in residence provides presentations, critiques, informal instruction and assists on Zodiacs and shore landing to help you get the best shots!
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.
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.
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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.
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
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
Overnight Camping including high quality equipment is provide free of charge. Camping can be affected by itinerary and weather conditions.
This expedition includes charters flight to arrive at or depart from your voyage. Charter flights are provided as per stated in your itinerary document
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.
Luxury star rating: | 3 |
Guests #: | 96 |
Crew #: | 65 |
Ice Class: | 1A |
Speed: | 14 |
Refurbished: |
Year built: | 1988 |
Length: | 117m |
Width: | 18 |
Draft: | |
Tonnage: | 6230 |
Registry: | Russia |
Elec Outlets: | 220V / 2 Round Pin |
We understand that the trip of a lifetime takes planning, so we make the financial commitments easy to manage.