Antarctic expedition: in the world of whales, penguins and seals

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Antarctica and explore the breathtaking landscapes of Elephant Island, the Weddell Sea and the Arctic Circle. This expedition offers a unique opportunity to observe the abundant wildlife and impressive ice formations, making it a perfect adventure for nature enthusiasts. The itinerary includes iconic landing sites and activities that immerse you in the beauty of the Antarctic region. With a focus on flexibility, the voyage adapts to weather and environmental conditions, offering you many unforgettable experiences with the utmost safety. Enjoy the comfort of the m/v Plancius, a ship renowned for its reliability and service. This voyage promises a mix of adventure and education, led by an experienced expedition team and naturalists.

Antarctic expedition: in the world of whales, penguins and seals: the itinerary

Day 1: The end of the world, start of your journey
Your journey starts in Ushuaia, Argentina, the gateway to Antarctica. You are welcome to arrive a few days earlier and explore this lively city in Patagonia, enjoy a walk through the surrounding forests or take a trip to the untouched Tierra del Fuego. This island is a true hiker's paradise with rugged snow-capped mountains, glaciers, flowering meadows and moorlands. The tour begins in the afternoon: board the ship waiting for you in the harbor. From there you set off to sail through the picturesque Beagle Channel. Enjoy the views of the imposing mountains as you look forward to the adventures ahead.

Day 2 - 3: The path of the early explorers - Drake Passage
Over the next two days, you will cross the Drake Passage, where you will encounter the harsh elements of nature. Keep an eye out for fin whales that animate the waters around the ship. You will immerse yourself in the lives of polar explorers and gain exciting insights into the marine ecosystem while enjoying the crashing waves and cool breeze.
After crossing the Antarctic Convergence, which is the natural border to the Arctic, you will experience the transition to the cold waters of the Antarctic. Here, not only the marine life changes, but also the bird life. The expedition team will introduce you to the different bird species that you can observe during your crossing, including wandering albatrosses, gray-headed albatrosses, Cape petrels, storm petrels and many more. Keep your camera ready while you enjoy the impressive views that await you.

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Day 4: From Point Wild to the Weddell Sea
Today you will arrive early at the famous Point Wild on Elephant Island, where Shackleton's crew first went ashore after the loss of their ship Endurance. Even though this place is quite inhospitable, the headland is very popular, and if conditions permit, you can take part in various activities there. Experience the rugged beauty of this region and learn more about the remarkable history of the first explorers as you explore the surrounding area before making your way to the Weddell Sea.

Day 5: The Weddell Sea and Devil's Island
Today you will travel to the relatively unvisited Weddell Sea, where you can enjoy activities in the Erebus and Terrorgolf if conditions are good. You can also visit places like Beak Island and Devil Island, where you can see the unique landscape and impressive pack ice that the Weddell Sea is known for. Look out for seals and other sea creatures as you experience the untouched nature of this remote region and enjoy the silence of Antarctica to the full.

Day 6: Exploring the most remote regions
Further exploration of the Erebus and Terrorgulf region will provide new opportunities for activities and landings when conditions permit. You can visit Vega Island and experience the most remote places in the Antarctic wilderness. Let yourself be enchanted by the beauty of the rugged, snow-covered landscape, enjoy the untouched nature and the diversity of wildlife.

Day 7: Whale hunting in the Strait of Orléans
Today you will sail along the west side of the Antarctic Peninsula and reach the Strait of Orléans. Here, with a little luck, you may see orcas and humpback whales as you sail towards Mikklesen Harbor for your afternoon activities. Observe the whales in their natural habitat and enjoy the majestic beauty of these impressive sea creatures as they pass you by.

Day 8: Harbor monuments and island wildlife
After passing through the Lemaire Channel, you will reach the Port Charcot area, where there is a cairn built by the French Antarctic expedition in 1903 - 05. In the afternoon, continue your journey to Petermann Island, where you can observe a wide variety of birds. Embark on a Zodiac cruise between the icebergs, where leopard seals and crabeater seals like to hang out. You can also encounter minke whales, humpback whales and gentoo penguins up close.

Day 9 - 10: The historic station of Detaille Island
Today you will reach Crystal Sound, where you can marvel at the beautiful ice formations and wildlife of the region before landing on Detaille Island. The former British research station is now a historical monument on this remote island. Explore the remains of this historic site and learn more about the explorations of the past in this harsh but beautiful environment.

Day 11: Amazing Argentine Islands
Next, you'll reach the Yalour Islands, a small archipelago consisting mainly of isolated rocks and a main island that offers you a rewarding landing. Yalour is home to Adélie penguins and some of the southernmost gentoo penguins in the world. Discover the fascinating wildlife and characteristic plants, such as small patches of beard and crustose lichen, vast expanses of moss and Antarctic hairgrass, as you explore the island's fascinating landscape.

Day 12: Farewell to Antarctica
On the Melchior Islands, you bid farewell to Antarctica and undertake some final activities before heading back to the Drake Passage. Enjoy the last impressions of this impressive region and take in the beauty and tranquillity of Antarctica one last time.

Day 13 - 14: Familiar seas, familiar friends
Your return journey is anything but lonely. As you cross the Drake Passage, you will once again be accompanied by a multitude of seabirds that you already know from your journey south. Take time to collect and review all the experiences of the last few days while you let your gaze wander over the vast ocean.

Day 15: There and back again
Every adventure, no matter how great, must come to an end at some point. It is now time to disembark in Ushuaia, with numerous memories that will accompany you wherever your next journey takes you. A shared transfer will take you from the port to Ushuaia airport, from where you can start your journey home or continue your trip privately.
 

Included services Antarctic expedition: in the world of whales, penguins and seals

 
- Voyage on board the specified ship, as indicated in the itinerary
- All meals during the voyage on board the ship, including snacks, coffee and tea
- All land excursions and activities during the voyage including Zodiac cruises
- Lectures and guidance by an experienced international expedition team
- Free use of rubber boots and snowshoes
- Luggage transfer to the ship on the day of embarkation in Ushuaia
- Group transfer from the ship to the airport in Ushuaia (directly after disembarkation)
- All other taxes and port fees during the program
- Comprehensive information material before departure
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