Antarctic adventures are best enjoyed midsummer, when near-midnight sun powers an explosion of life along the shore and brightens the thought of camping out, early alpine climbing starts or extended kayaking trips. Penguin highways are busy with traffic as parents hurry to fatten chicks and waterways are alive with whales and seals. We visit historic sites and step onto the most spectacular continent on Earth.
Our Spirit of Antarctica voyages, allows us to enjoy the Beagle Channel from Argentina and Chile. The first departure (EAP27) departs from Ushuaia, Argentina and returns to Puerto Williams, Chile, whilst the second (ANP104) departs from Puerto Williams and returns to Ushuaia. Voyage cost includes the flight either from or to Punta Arenas, and a tour of Puerto Williams on arrival.
Prices quoted are per person in US$, based on twin-share. Single occupancy is 1.7 times the twin share price. No single travel fees apply if you are willing to share your cabin (triple & twin cabins only). Fuel surcharge may apply in the event of significant fuel price increases. Prices valid from July 2013. No refund for unused services.
Day 1: Enjoy Ushuaia before boarding Polar Pioneer at 4 p.m. with time to settle in before our evening departure. Excitement lifts as we set sail down the Beagle Channel, keeping watch for magellenic penguins, dolphins and albatross.
Day 2 – 3: Our Drake Passage crossing offers cape petrels darting about the ship, black-browed and wandering albatross soaring, and Wilson’s storm petrels flitting above the sea. Learn about Antarctica from our expert naturalist’s informative talks, and about safety and environmental guidelines from expedition team as we prepare for adventures ahead.
Day 4 – 9: An overnight passage along Gerlache Strait delivers us to the stunning Antarctic Peninsula, an ethereal wonderland of vast proportions. Aboard Zodiacs, we explore penguin rookeries, historic sites and scientific stations and cruise near exquisite icebergs. Our kayakers glide into secluded bays, while climbers ascend pristine peaks.
Stepping ashore on the continent itself creates an everlasting memory. Bubble-netting humpbacks demand a wake-up call, even at midnight! A curious leopard seal cruising amongst spectacular icebergs may mean postponing lunch.
We make the most of every day and a fair bit of each night as well. If the weather allows, we’ll have a sleep-out on the ice – a must for any Antarctic explorer!
Day 10 – 11: As the Captain steers the ship north across Drake Passage, our minds and souls revel in rich Antarctic experiences. There’s time to watch for seabirds, enjoy entertaining talks, discuss what we’ve seen and learned, exchange photos and stories. With luck, we may make a ceremonial rounding of Cape Horn before sharing a farewell dinner.
Day 12: A dawn cruise along the Beagle Channel ends in Puerto Williams. Disembark after breakfast for a tour of the town and stunning surrounds, before your flight to Punta Arenas.