Emblematic Antarctica | L'Austral | IExpedition

Emblematic Antarctica

  • Overview

    If there is one place on the globe that fires the imagination of travellers and arouses in them an instant thirst for adventure, it is the immaculate and faraway lands of the White Continent. Inhabited by a surprising endemic fauna, the Antarctic will welcome you during an 11-day expedition cruise.

    Expedition Highlights

    • An expedition cruise to discover the Antarctic Peninsula and its most beautiful secrets surrounded by stunning natural scenery.

    • Outings and shore visits in zodiac inflatables with a team of experienced naturalist guides.

    • Explore the magic of Antarctica with a sea kayak adventure. Led by experienced, State-Certified kayak guides, you will skim the water’s surface amid the ice. 

    • Hiking opportunity.

    • Visiting research stations and former whaling stations if conditions allow it

    • Lectures and information sessions hosted by our naturalist-guides, covering wildlife, history, geopolitics, the great explorers, climate, environmental protection and educational discovery in the respect of environment.

    • Landscapes: a multitude of drifting icebergs, ice floes, imposing glaciers and tall, snow-covered mountains.

    • Wildlife: humpback whales, gentoo penguins, Adélie penguins, chinstrap penguins, leopard seals, crabeater seals, Weddell seals and numerous seabirds.

    • For your comfort, your cruise package includes an overnight in Buenos Aires the day before embarkation and the flights to/from Ushuaia.

    Duration: 12 days
    Passengers: 200 passengers
    Embarkation Point: Ushuaia, Argentina
    Disembarkation Point: Ushuaia, Argentina
    Physical rating: Soft Adventure
    Fly/Cruise: Mandatory extra flight
    Single Supplement: 2.0x twin rate or share options
  • Itinerary
    • Day 1 - Ushuaia

      Capital of Argentina's Tierra del Fuego province, Ushuaia is considered the gateway to the White Continent and the South Pole. Nicknamed “El fin del mundo” by the Argentinian people, this city at the end of the world nestles in the shelter of mountains surrounded by fertile plains that the wildlife seem to have chosen as the ultimate sanctuary. With its exceptional site, where the Andes plunge straight into the sea, Ushuaia is one of the most fascinating places on earth, its very name evocative of journeys to the unlikely and the inaccessible…

    • Day 2/3 - Crossing the Drake Passage

      Use your days spent in the Drake Passage to familiarise yourself with your ship and deepen your knowledge of the Antarctic. The Expedition Leader will first present the IAATO rules of conduct that must be observed during landings in the region and will explain everything you need to know about the zodiac outings. Lectures about the history and wildlife of the Antarctic will be an opportunity for you to learn more about this magical region, where every cruise is a unique experience. You will experience exceptional sailing moments on board and join the naturalist-guides on your ship’s exterior decks to look out for albatrosses, cape petrels, and other seabirds flying over the Drake Passage.

    • Day 4/8 - Antarctic Peninsula

      Succumb to the magic of a place unlike any other. To this day, the mythical Antarctic Peninsula still holds real fascination and promises its visitors unforgettable moments. Throughout your adventure in this icy realm, you will find yourself in the heart of a spectacular decor in subtle shades of blue and white, surrounded by exceptional wildlife. Penguins, humpback whales, seals and giant petrels are at home here, as are elephant seals, fur seals, Antarctic minke whales, and orcas. Depending on which sites you will be lucky enough to visit, you may get the chance to observe them and share with them the beauty of these extreme parts.

      Each day, based on ice conditions, the Captain and the Expedition Leader will suggest Zodiac® outings or landings to discover the infinite riches of the Antarctic Peninsula. Glaciers, ice floe, tabletop icebergs, mountain peaks that plunge straight into the sea, volcanic beaches, research stations, enchanting bays, and vestiges of the whaling industry: these are the faces of the Antarctic that will likely reveal themselves to you, in a hushed and surreal atmosphere. You will sail in the wake of Jean-Baptiste Charcot, Adrien de Gerlache and Sir Ernest Shackleton, great Antarctic explorers who, from the 19th century, set out to conquer these remote and uninhabited lands.

    • Day 9/10 - Crossing the Drake Passage

      If there is one place, one sea, one waterway dreaded by tourists, researchers and hardened seafarers alike, it is undoubtedly Drake Passage. Situated at the latitude of the infamous Furious Fifties winds, between Cape Horn and the South Shetland Islands, it is the shortest route to Antarctica. Seasoned navigators will tell you that you must earn your visit to the White Continent! As the Antarctic convergence zone where cold currents rising up from the South Pole meet warmer equatorial water masses, Drake Passage harbours a very diverse marine fauna. Don't forget to look to the sky to catch a glimpse of elegant albatross and Cape petrels, playfully floating about in the wind around your ship.

    • Day 11 - Ushuaia

      Capital of Argentina's Tierra del Fuego province, Ushuaia is considered the gateway to the White Continent and the South Pole. Nicknamed “El fin del mundo” by the Argentinian people, this city at the end of the world nestles in the shelter of mountains surrounded by fertile plains that the wildlife seem to have chosen as the ultimate sanctuary. With its exceptional site, where the Andes plunge straight into the sea, Ushuaia is one of the most fascinating places on earth, its very name evocative of journeys to the unlikely and the inaccessible.

    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.

  • Adventure Activities

    Kayak Discovery

    Get as up close to the natural environment as possible with an excursion aboard a two-person sea kayak, during one 2-hour session. Guided by a state-registered polar navigation specialist, you'll discover and explore breathtakingly scenic polar landscapes and scenery. All the necessary equipment will be provided for you on board.

    Please note:

    • One 2-hour session. Price per participant: 350 €
    • Number of participants restricted to 20 per trip.
    • This activity must be pre-booked in advance at least 7 days before the start of your cruise. Bookings made after this deadline will only be confirmed once onboard and are dependent on availability.
    • PONANT provides each participant with a sea kayak (Prijon Excursion EVO - two-person kayak for two participants), a dry suit (Sandyline - specially designed for PONANT), a life jacket, hand protection, kayak sea socks, spray skirt, carbon paddle (TNP Wolferine) and a waterproof bag.
    • Depending on opportunities/availabilities during your cruise, additional Kayak tours can be booked only onboard.
    • Kayak excursions are subject to weather and ice conditions on the day.
    • You will be accompanied by state-certified kayakers each time you go out in a kayak.
    • We require you to be in a good state of general physical health and to have a good sense of balance.

    Included
  • Inclusions
    Inclusions / Exclusions

    Included in your Expedition

    - Early check-in available from late morning.
    - Meals as mentioned in the programme and beverage package.
    - Transfers as mentioned in the programme.
    - A shuttle for your way towards your hotel, the day before embarkation.
    - Hospitality desk at the hotel in Buenos Aires.
    - Return flight Buenos Aires/Ushuaia/Buenos Aires selected by PONANT, in economy class.
    - Services of local guides, in Ushuaia.
    - 1-night accommodation in a 4* hotel the night before embarkation.

    Not included in your Expedition

    - Other meals and services not mentioned in the programme.
    - Personal expenses.
    - Tips for the local guide.
  • Map
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  • Gallery
  • Vessel

    L'AUSTRAL

    This superb mega-yacht with 132 cabins is the result of the expertise of the Italian Fincantieri shipyard and French sophistication, as interpreted by designer Jean-Philippe Nuel. L'Austral remains faithful to our philosophy - to create a unique atmosphere, a subtle blend of luxury, intimacy, and well-being. A sleek silhouette softened by elegantly smooth contours and large, arched windows opening up to the sea and the light: so many features come together to give L’Austral her distinctive shape. Precious materials, discreet elegance and a perfect balance between chic and casual, combine to make you feel as if you are on your own private yacht. A design blending tradition and innovation, where a nautical mood has been subtly recreated. A welcoming atmosphere of relaxed sophistication revolves around shades of grey, taupe, white and ivory enlivened by touches of cinnamon, caramel, and tan.. So many personal touches create the spirit of a “private yacht.” You will encounter unique itineraries, calls inaccessible to large ships, chic and elegant yacht-like ambiance, refined and personalized service as well as gastronomic cuisine.

    Features & Facilities
    • Luxury accommodation
    • Open air bar
    • Sun deck
    • Pool
    • Internet
    • Library
    • Panoramic Lounge
    • Panoramic Deck
    • Live entertainment
    Key Facts
    Luxury star rating: 5
    Guests #: 200
    Crew #: 136
    Ice Class: 1C
    Speed: 16
    Refurbished:
    Technical Specs
    Year built:
    Length: 142m
    Width: 18
    Draft:
    Tonnage: 10944
    Registry: France
    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.
Superior Stateroom  L'Austral

Superior Stateroom

08 Feb 2025 - 19 Feb 2025
• One king-size bed or two single beds (180 x 200 cm) • A bathroom with shower • A window (except for stateroom 300: a round porthole only)
USD$ 14,760pp
USD$ 14,760pp
Deluxe Stateroom L'Austral

Deluxe Stateroom

08 Feb 2025 - 19 Feb 2025
• One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) • A bathroom with shower • A private 4 m² balcony • A window and panoramic glazed swing door
USD$ 15,712pp
USD$ 15,712pp
Prestige Deck  L'Austral

Prestige Deck 4

08 Feb 2025 - 19 Feb 2025
• One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) • A bathroom with shower • A private 4 m² balcony • A panoramic sliding bay window
USD$ 16,395pp
USD$ 16,395pp
Prestige Deck  L'Austral

Prestige Deck 5

08 Feb 2025 - 19 Feb 2025
• One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) • A bathroom with shower • A private 4 m² balcony • A panoramic sliding bay window
USD$ 16,680pp
USD$ 16,680pp
Prestige Deck  L'Austral

Prestige Deck 6

08 Feb 2025 - 19 Feb 2025
• One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) • A bathroom with shower • A private 4 m² balcony • A panoramic sliding bay window
USD$ 17,085pp
USD$ 17,085pp
Deluxe Suite  L'Austral

Deluxe Suite

08 Feb 2025 - 19 Feb 2025
• Priority boarding • Champagne and fruit basket upon arrival • Butler service • An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and a basket of fruit every day • One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) and TV • An armchair and a sofa (167 x 70 cm) • A bathroom with shower • A private 5 m² balcony • A panoramic sliding bay window
USD$ 23,910pp
USD$ 23,910pp
Prestige Deck Suite L'Austral

Prestige Deck 5 Suite

08 Feb 2025 - 19 Feb 2025
• Champagne and fruit basket upon arrival • An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day • A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) • A lounge with convertible sofa to a king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm), armchairs, second TV, and sliding courtesy door • Two bathrooms with shower • A private 8 m² balcony • Two panoramic sliding bay windows
USD$ 24,862pp
USD$ 24,862pp
Prestige Deck Suite L'Austral

Prestige Deck 6 Suite

08 Feb 2025 - 19 Feb 2025
• Champagne and fruit basket upon arrival • An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day • A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) • A lounge with convertible sofa to a king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm), armchairs, second TV, and sliding courtesy door • Two bathrooms with shower • A private 8 m² balcony • Two panoramic sliding bay windows
USD$ 26,085pp
USD$ 26,085pp