The Antarctic Peninsula is one of the most beautiful places on earth. There is an amazing variety of scenery and wildlife. This is far and away a must see destination. It is so extraordinary you'll want to return again and again. This is trip leader Anthony's 9th trip to the icy continent.
Antarctica is said to be the coldest, driest and windiest place on earth, but this immense wilderness is also a fabulous and virtually pristine paradise chock-full of wildlife with an incomparable scenery of mountains, snow and ice. It is a privilege to visit this awe-inspiring continent and to experience the special magic that has lured explorers, adventurers and scientists for more than two centuries and – most recently – world travelers.
Day 1, Ushuaia
We’ve eliminated the anxiety of missed connections and flight delays by providing a two-night hotel stay at the beautiful Arakur Resort & Spa. Most flights arrive in Ushuaia in the late afternoon or early evening. Bring your bathing suite, lounge in the spa, or take a bath, and then get over your jet lag with good night’s sleep. You’ll have a full day on day two to relax at the resort or explore town, before embarkation on day three.
Day 2, Ushuaia
Today is all yours: explore some of the sights that Ushuaia has to offer, from museums to Argentinean leather markets, or continue relaxing at the lovely Arakur. Our optional evening briefing is a great opportunity for you to ask questions and meet some of your fellow travelers. All guests need to arrive at the hotel not later than the evening of day two.
Day 3, Embarkation
This morning, we’re free to explore Ushuaia or unwind at the resort until our mid-afternoon transfer to the ship. On board, we’ll be greeted by our Expedition Team and the Ship’s Officers. A concise safety and orientation briefing will be followed by the Captain’s welcome dinner. After dinner, we’ll relax and take in the scenery on our early evening sail through the Beagle Channel, past Magellanic Penguin, Rock Cormorant, and Sea Lion colonies.
Day 4-5, Drake Passage
As we make our way ever closer to the white continent, numerous Polar Experts will prepare us with presentations on everything Antarctic, from wildlife to history. Eventually, we’ll cross the Antarctic Convergence where we’ll notice a distinct drop in temperature as we enter the waters of the Antarctic Ocean.
Those interested in Citizen Science can take part in Sea Bird sighting surveys, or help collect salinity samples and weather data along the way. We’re likely to witness some spectacular sights, from icebergs to an array of seabirds and whale species.
Day 6-7, South Shetland Islands
In the waterways of the Antarctic Peninsula, we will hope to make as much time as possible to explore by inflatable Zodiac boats and marvel up close at nature’s glory. Our Expedition Leader and Captain will create a flexible itinerary based on weather, ice, and opportunity. We will aim for the most scenic bays and channels of the Peninsula with stops at penguin rookeries, seal wallows, bird colonies and whale feeding areas, as well as sites of historic and scientific interest.
Our first sight of land will likely be that of the South Shetland Islands. These highly volcanic islands offer amazing abundance and beauty. We may visit Half Moon Island nestled inside Livingston’s eastern shore, or conditions permitting visit historic Deception Island. Being further north, sub-Antractic species are more commonly found here, including Chinstrap penguins and Southern Elephant seals.
Day 8-10, Antarctica
As we head south across the Bransfield Strait, we enter the Trinity Coast and Gerlache Strait. Here we may explore picturesque Neko Harbor, sheltered Paradise Harbor, the Humpback Whale favored Wilhelmina Bay, the striking Lemaire Channel, the wildlife-filled Penola Channel, or the majestic Neumayer Channel. We may stop at an active scientific base such as Poland’s Arctowksi or Ukraine’s Vernadskiy as well as a historic base such as U.K.’s Port Lockroy or Wordie House.
Adelie, Chinstrap and Gentoo Penguins abound, and Weddell, Crabeater and Elephant Seals are often found hauled out to rest along with predatory Leopard Seals and the assertive Antarctic Fur Seal. Minke and Humpback whales are frequent visitors in the late season and Orca sightings are also common.
Day 11-12, Drake Passage
As we leave this magical place and make our way north, heading again across the Antarctic Convergence and the Drake Passage, we will continue our presentation series and wildlife spotting.
Sailing back to Ushuaia through the Beagle Channel, we celebrate the conclusion of our expedition with a special slideshow.
Day 13, Ushuaia disembarkation
Morning disembarkation lets you catch a flight to Buenos Aires or stay in Ushuaia for more sights and adventure.
Our Ship, Island Sky
Island Sky boasts spacious, well-appointed suites, stylish common areas, and redundant core technology that allows her to operate smoothly, even under the most challenging of conditions.
Impeccable Small Ship Amenities
SERVICES
- World-Class Cuisine
- Complimentary Wine or Beer with Dinner
- Live Entertainment
- Complimentary Coffee/Tea station
- Voyage Photo Coach
- On-board MD and Facilities
- Dedicated Passenger Service Manager
- Complimentary Pre-voyage hotel night
- Complimentary Expedition Jacket
FACILITIES
- Elevator serving all passenger decks
- 100 minutes of WIFI Internet for your personal device
- Free Internet on computers in the Library
- Panoramic Top Deck Observation Platform
- Bar/Lounge with Live Entertainment
- Lounge with Audiovisual Facilities
- DVD Movie Library
WORLD-CLASS CUISINE
Great expeditions require great food! Our team of world-class chefs offer breakfast, lunch and dinner menus that change daily. They have boat-loads of creativity, so you are sure to experience a variety of remarkable cuisine throughout your voyage.
Island Sky Accommodations
Island Sky Deck Plan
All Suites Feature
- Exterior views
- Your choice of queen or two twin beds
- Sitting area with sofa and/or side chairs
- Flat Screen TV with DVD/CD player
- Telephone
- En-suite temperature controls
- Mini-Bar
- Marble-appointed bathroom with fine toiletries
- Hair dryer
- 225 sq. ft. or more
Owner’s, Penthouse & Veranda Suites include all Standard Features Plus
- En suite Champagne & Chocolates on arrival
- Complimentary mini-bar (beer, wine & soft drinks)
- En suite Nespresso machine
Please Note: Veranda, Penthouse & Owner’s Suites include a private balcony.
Promenade & Deluxe Suites include all Standard Features Plus
- En suite Champagne & Chocolates on arrival
- Complimentary mini-bar (beer, wine & soft drinks)
- En suite Nespresso machine available on request
Accommodations Gallery
Owners Suites
Penthouse Suites
Veranda Suites
Deluxe Suites
Promenade Suites
Window & Triple Suites
Porthole Suites
Pricing
Prices based on double or triple occupancy and per person.
| Cabin |
Price |
|
Triple
|
$9,995
|
|
Porthole
|
$13,595
|
|
Window
|
$15,495
|
|
Promenade
|
$16,995
|
|
Deluxe
|
$17,295
|
|
Veranda
|
$17,795
|
|
Penthouse
|
$19,595
|
|
Owner’s
|
$21,795
|
FRIENDS & FAMILY
Have three people in your party? Each suite has a sofa, which converts to a bed suitable for persons up to 5’10” in height. Rates vary by category, please inquire.
ADVENTURE OPTIONS
KAYAKING
Available on this Voyage: $895
All equipment provided.
Please sign up at time of booking.
Adventure Option space is limited.
OVERNIGHT SNOW CAMPING
Available on this Voyage: $250
All equipment provided.
Please sign up at time of booking.
Adventure Option space is limited.
Important Details
The dates & prices, for all of the itineraries listed above, include a pre-embarkation hotel night at the port of embarkation. Trip lengths include the day you arrive and the day on which you disembark. Prices quoted are per-person based on double/triple occupancy. For complete details on program inclusions and conditions please enquire.
Please note
The third berth in a triple suite is suitable for passengers up to 5’10” in height.
A limited number of twin suites may be sold for single occupancy at 1.7 times the twin rate.