Fascination Antarctica – Glaciers, Penguins & Floating Icebergs | PLANCIUS
Antarctica – a place steeped in myth, legend, and pristine nature. For centuries, this icy continent has attracted adventurers and explorers who brave the extreme conditions to experience the captivating beauty of this remote region. On our 10-day expedition cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the Antarctic Peninsula in depth and experience its breathtaking landscapes, including gigantic icebergs, rugged mountain ranges, and unique wildlife, up close.
A comfortable yet adventurous journey awaits you aboard the modern expedition ships Ocean Victory and Ocean Albatros, specially designed for polar voyages. Thanks to their ice-strengthened hulls and stabilizing X-Bow technology, these ships ensure a safe and pleasant crossing of the notorious Drake Passage. Accompanied by an experienced expedition team who will provide you with fascinating lectures and guided excursions offering profound insights into the world of Antarctica, you will have the unique opportunity to experience the pristine wilderness up close.
During the expedition, you can expect exciting Zodiac excursions among majestic glaciers, encounters with penguins, seals, and whales, as well as impressive landings at historically significant sites. Let yourself be captivated by the immeasurable vastness of Antarctica and experience a journey you will remember forever.
In conclusion, this expedition cruise to Antarctica offers a unique opportunity to discover one of the last untouched places on Earth. The combination of adventure and comfort aboard the modern expedition ship OCEAN VICTORY makes this journey an unforgettable experience. With stabilizing technologies for a more comfortable crossing, a world-class expedition team, and a variety of shore excursions and Zodiac cruises, you will experience Antarctica in all its splendor. Let yourself be enchanted by the magic of this icy continent!
The OCEAN VICTORY is a modern, Infinity-class expedition ship specifically designed for voyages to polar and remote regions. Its innovative X-Bow design ensures an exceptionally smooth ride, even in rough waters. The ship accommodates up to 174 passengers and is staffed by a crew of experienced expedition leaders, naturalists, and service personnel who will ensure an unforgettable travel experience.
The OCEAN VICTORY combines comfort with state-of-the-art technology and sustainable travel. Outstanding amenities include:
The OCEAN VICTORY accommodates a maximum of 174 passengers in a total of 93 cabins. The ship offers various cabin categories designed for comfort and functionality on expedition cruises:
All cabins are modernly equipped and offer a private bathroom, storage space and a pleasant atmosphere for expedition travel.
Departure with Lufthansa from Germany, Switzerland or Austria via Frankfurt/Main to Buenos Aires.
Arrival at Buenos Aires International Airport. Airport reception and organized transfer to the hotel. While you wait to check in, we will take you on a guided city tour of Buenos Aires. Overnight stay at a hotel in the city center of Buenos Aires.
Organized transfer from the hotel to Buenos Aires airport. Connecting flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia with Aerolineas Argentinas. Upon arrival at Ushuaia airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Overnight stay in Ushuaia.
After breakfast, we will pick you up from your hotel, and you will drop off your luggage for the cruise at the shipping company in Ushuaia. A private, organized tour will then take you to Tierra del Fuego National Park, where you can enjoy the stunning scenery on easy walks. In the afternoon, we will return you to the port of Ushuaia. After boarding, you will receive a safety briefing as we sail through the picturesque Beagle Channel. Keep an eye out for dolphins and whales as we head towards the Drake Passage.
Over the next two days, we will cross the legendary Drake Passage. Our expedition ships are specially built for these waters and offer you a comfortable crossing. During the passage, our expedition team will prepare you for the upcoming adventure with fascinating lectures. You will also have the opportunity to look out for seabirds and whales on the outer decks. On the third day, we will cross the Antarctic Convergence – the natural boundary where cold Antarctic waters meet warmer ocean currents. This is a particularly biologically productive area where numerous marine species can be observed.
Over the next few days, we will make several landings and Zodiac excursions to experience the breathtaking landscape and wildlife of Antarctica up close. Depending on weather and ice conditions, we will visit several spectacular locations:
Deception Island: This active volcanic island is one of the few places in Antarctica where you can bathe in the warm waters of a geothermally heated lagoon. The rugged landscape and abandoned whaling stations give the island a mystical atmosphere.
Half Moon Island: This small island is known for its large colony of chinstrap penguins. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, it offers one of the most picturesque settings in Antarctica.
Paradise Bay: One of the most beautiful places on the Antarctic Peninsula. Here we take Zodiac trips among enormous glaciers and impressive icebergs. With a bit of luck, we’ll spot whales searching for food in the icy waters.
Neko Harbour: One of the few places where you have the opportunity to actually stand on the Antarctic mainland. Here you can hike across impressive glacial landscapes and enjoy the pristine nature.
Lemaire Channel: This narrow passage is lined with steep mountain walls and gigantic icebergs. Under favorable conditions, we will sail through this spectacular waterway and experience Antarctica at its most breathtaking.
Every evening, our expedition team gives a preview of the next day and reports on the day’s experiences.
After unforgettable days in Antarctica, we set course back north and cross the Drake Passage once more. During the return journey, you will have time to reflect on your experiences, attend lectures, or simply relax on board. On the last evening, the captain will host a celebratory farewell cocktail party.
After breakfast, we reach the port of Ushuaia, where our unforgettable journey comes to an end. With countless memories and spectacular photos in tow, you bid farewell to the crew and your fellow travelers.
Our expedition concludes in Ushuaia. After breakfast, you will disembark the expedition ship and an organized transfer will take you to Ushuaia Airport. From there, you will fly to Buenos Aires. Upon arrival at Buenos Aires Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Overnight stay at a hotel in downtown Buenos Aires.
Free time in Buenos Aires in the morning. In the early afternoon, organized transfer to the airport and return flight with Lufthansa.
Arrival in Frankfurt/Main and, if necessary, onward flight to your home airport.
NOTE: This itinerary is for guidance only. The program may vary depending on ice conditions, weather, and wildlife viewing. Landings are subject to the availability of sites, permits, and environmental considerations in accordance with IAATO regulations. Official schedules and landing sites are finalized with IAATO prior to the start of the season, but the expedition leader determines the final itinerary. Flexibility is paramount on expedition cruises. Our ship’s average speed is 10.5 knots.
We are obliged to point out that this trip is generally not suitable for people with reduced mobility. Please contact us to discuss your specific situation
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