Antarctic Explorer 2010/2011 (12 Days)

This Peregrine journey takes us to one of the world’s most awe-inspiring destinations. After making shore visits on our way through the South Shetland Islands we arrive at the Antarctic Peninsula, on the continent of Antarctica, to be immediately dazzled by perhaps the most dramatic scenery to be found anywhere on earth. Sailing aboard our well-appointed expedition vessel, we witness Antarctic nature in all its glory. These areas boast an extraordinary abundance of wildlife, including five species of seals and massive rookeries of gentoo, Adélie and chinstrap penguins as well as a profusion of seabirds ranging from albatross to skuas. Another wildlife highlight may well be observing a variety of magnificent whales in close proximity as they crest the surface of the waves.

On the 'White Continent', we also see remarkable landscapes of ice. At Paradise Harbour or Hope Bay we find many icebergs dotting the waters, including some that are colossal in size, containing natural caves that are shrouded in eerie translucent light. On land there is a sweeping ice sheet, masking mountains, filling trenches and binding together an entire continent that is about the size of Africa. We even have the chance to camp ashore on the ice, if conditions are suitable. Travelling in the company of our experienced expedition crew, some of whom have travelled to Antarctica over 100 times, it still seems astonishing as we reflect on the exploits of the early explorers as they attempted to conquer this beautiful and yet formidable land.

Note: Weather, ice and other mitigating factors may result in changes to our itinerary and alteration to certain shore excursions.