Welcome to Antarctica! Seeing the 7th continent for the first time is unlike anything you would have experienced before. Feel the fresh, crisp air on your face and hear the snow crunch under your boot when you first step foot on land. Each new encounter will fill you will awe. Witness wildlife in their natural habitat, with no fear of humans. Antarctica is truly land of peace.
Your expert Captain and crew will navigate some of the most beautiful waterways which may include traversing the stunning 11-kilometre-long Lemaire Channel where steep cliffs hem in the iceberg-filled passage just 700 metres wide at its narrowest point. There may be the chance to visit a working scientific base and discuss life in these harsh conditions with the staff. Enjoy the chance to visit areas alive with wildlife such as penguins, seals, and whales. You can also explore the remnants of a derelict whaling station and a vacant British base or climb to the rim of a volcanic crater. If conditions are favourable, there may be the opportunity to cross the Antarctic Circle at latitude 66°33' South.
Due to the extraordinary nature of the region, a host of choices are open and dependent on the ice and weather conditions. Your experienced Discovery Team Leaders, who have made countless journeys to Antarctica, will use their expertise to design your voyage from day to day, making the most of 18–20 hours of daylight. Discovery: Partake in daily Scenic Discovery excursions. Cruise on the Zodiacs around ice formations, step onto islands to view vast penguin rookeries and seals. Kayak and stand-up paddle board around icebergs and hear the ice cracking and whales feeding below. (B/L/D)
Located within the Juan Fernandez Archipelago, the volcanic wonderland of Robinson Crusoe Island will enchant you just as it did Daniel Defoe, who immortilised the island in his famous book, published in 1719. True to its description in the story, the island is a captivating lost paradise where you will swim in crystal-clear waters and discover its diverse and rich array of flora represented by more than 130 endemic species, including the spectacular Juan Fernández Firecrown and the tiny Juan Fernandez Tit-tyrant.
Freechoice: Visit the historical landmarks of San Juan Bautista Village, the only settlement on the island. See the Patriotic Caves, the Santa Barbara Fort, and the remains of Acorazado Dresden, a German battleship sunk to avoid capture in 1915, or enjoy a unique food tour featuring traditional dishes like lobster and golden crab. Alternatively, hear the legends of pirates and treasure as you walk through critically endangered temperate sub-tropical woodlands in the World Heritage Biosphere Reserve.
Discovery: Hike to Centinela hill, walking through an endemic forest lined with Chilean myrtle, cinnamon trees and naranjillos, or kayak with our discovery team. Snorkel with fur seals and curious sea lions and explore beautiful underwater volcanic cliffs and caves. (B/L/D)
Regions