Antarctic Explorer Fly-Sail: Greg Mortimer

Antarctic Peninsula

This sail one-way, fly one-way itinerary features the best of Antarctica and allows time for more exploration, with only one crossing of the Drake Passage. Get up close with iridescent icebergs, vast colonies of Adelie and gentoo penguins, as well as islands that are alive with leopard seals busy with courtship, bustling penguins and maybe feeding whales! Optional Kayaking activity

Skip one Drake Passage crossing
Enjoy the very latest in expedition cruising on board the new ship Greg Mortimer
Gorgeous long summer days on the peninsula
Zodiac cruise in search of feeding whales
Experience kayaking in Antarctica option* Surcharge applies
Tour scientific research stations and historic huts

Stewart's Take

Experience expedition travel with the newest and state-of-the-art Antarctic ship

Overview

This sail one-way, fly one-way itinerary features the best of Antarctica and allows time for more exploration, with only one crossing of the Drake Passage. Get up close with iridescent icebergs, vast colonies of Adelie and gentoo penguins, as well as islands that are alive with leopard seals busy with courtship, bustling penguins and maybe feeding whales! Optional Kayaking activity.

Days 1-2 – Punta Arenas* to King George Island Arrive in Punta Arenas and transfer to your downtown hotel to check in. The rest of the day is at your leisure before a group briefing about tomorrow's flight. The next day we transfer to Punta Arenas airport for our charter flight to King George Island. Please remember that we are flying to in very remote areas and flight schedules are dependent on weather, both in Punta Arenas & King George Island. *Please note - Some voyages operate in reverse - contact us for details Days 3-8 – Antarctic Peninsula The Antarctic Peninsula's western flanks offer long days and relatively ice-free waters. We visit historic huts and Zodiac cruise through narrow straits and majestic icebergs, and if we're lucky, whale watch from the bow of the ship. A few landing points we hope to visit include Half Moon Bay, Lemaire Channel, Hydrurga Rocks and more. Expeditions onboard the Polar Pioneer will also venture into Weddell Sea if weather and ice conditions permit. We hope to visit the large Adelie and gentoo penguin colonies of Brown Bluff or Paulet Island, and fossil-rich Seymour Island. We may hike to spectacular vantage points on Beak or Devil Islands; large tabular icebergs and volcanic scenery create long lasting memories. Wherever we go, wildlife, Heroic Age relics and haunting landscapes await. Days 9-10 – Drake Passage Relax and reminisce as we cross the Drake Passage, bound for South America. Our expedition team recap all the incredible things we've witnessed, or perhaps you'll find a quiet moment place to review the hundreds of photos taken. Days 11/12 – Ushuaia* We slip up the Beagle Channel and pull into Ushuaia, where you'll say goodbye to new friends and begin any onward travel. *Please note - Some voyages operate in reverse - contact us for details

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Expedition Vessel: Greg Mortimer/Sylvia Earle

These two state-of-the-art sister ships 104-metre ship are purpose-built expedition vessels accommodating an average of 132 passengers per voyage. They operate with a combination of low energy consumption, high fuel-efficiency and a streamlined design. With the revolutionary ULSTEIN X-BOW® to cross oceans more comfortably, expansive observation decks, inviting communal areas and unsurpassed environmental credentials, these ships offer the perfect base camp for adventures at the outer limits of human exploration. Not only can they contend with the most adverse weather conditions, added creature comforts make for a more enjoyable journey out on the open ocean. Zodiac loading platforms and activities platform allows for faster disembarkation from the ship – to get out on your adventure quicker, whether by zodiac or by kayak. You will find indoor lounge areas with floor-to ceiling windows and panoramic views, and multiple open decks with expansive 270-360 degree views. There is no shortage of spaces to take in the majesty of the incredible world outside! On all expeditions you will meet naturalists and local specialists, who offer presentations on their area of expertise to deepen your understanding of the region you’re visiting. Join the team in the lecture theatre for presentations covering topics as broad as history and culture, biology and climate change, but they have one thing in common: they all aim to engage, educate and entertain. From the European Arctic to the depths of Antarctica, and other far-flung destinations in-between, she will make your journey a breeze!

For full information about this vessel click here:

Included

Arrival transfer to hotel. One night pre- or post-voyage accommodation (breakfast included)
Transfer to airport and charter flight to or from King George Island
Fully-serviced accommodation in your chosen stateroom
Daily shore excursions, guided walks, Zodiac cruises
An experienced team of destination specialists and activity leaders
An informative and entertaining lecture program by our team of experts
Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner including house wines, beers and soft drinks, afternoon tea and snacks
Captain's Welcome and Farewell drinks including four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic beverages
Pre-dinner drinks including canapes and bar snacks
Complimentary 3-in-1 polar jacket
Complimentary use of gumboots
Complimentary use of fitness centre
Complimentary access to on board expedition doctor and medical clinic
Personalised photo book (post voyage)
Entry fees to historic or tourist sites
Port, pilotage charges and landing fees

Excluded

International or domestic flights to or within South America, unless specified
Transfers not mentioned in the itinerary
Airport arrival or departure taxes
Passport, visa, reciprocity and vaccination charges
Travel insurance or emergency evacuation charges
Hotels and meals not included in itinerary
Optional excursions not included in the itinerary
Optional activity surcharges
All items of a personal nature including but not limited to: alcoholic beverages and soft drinks (outside of dinner service), laundry services, personal clothing, medical expenses, gratuities, and email or phone charges.

Prices and Share Policy 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. Fuel surcharge may apply in the event of significant fuel price increases. No refund for unused services. Deposits Reservations require a deposit of $2500 per person at the time you receive a booking confirmation from Expeditions Online. A payment link will be sent to you and this may be paid by major credit card. Bookings within 90 days of departure require full payment. Final Payments Balances are due 90 days prior to departure. You will be invoiced at the appropriate time. Balance payments can be made by bank transfer or on request by major credit card, subject to a 2% surcharge. Cancellations All requests for cancellation must be received in writing to Expeditions Online. Cancellations made before 90 days of voyage departure are subject to a non-refundable deposit of $2500, however your deposit may be transferred towards a different voyage on board Polar Pioneer at a fee of $500. Transfers are subject to availability and are only valid on voyages that depart within 12 months from date of transfer. You must pay the difference between the original booked price and the price of any transferred booking including the new deposit amount. If cancellation occurs less than 90 days prior to departure, you will be required to pay for the full cost of the trip. We strongly recommend that you obtain adequate trip cancellation insurance. Booking Terms Please read carefully the General Booking Conditions for Expeditions Online. This voyage is operated by Aurora Expeditions and you additionally travel under their terms and conditions as the operator as well as of the Shipping Company/transport carrier. Details will be forwarded to you at the time of booking along with a separate Booking Form.