Chart your course for the secluded, icy waters of the Weddell Sea during your personalized Antarctica tour that will reveal the fascinating shores of sheltered landscapes that are populated with captivating wildlife. Legend of historic expeditions will pass around the ship during your venture through the infamous Southern Ocean as images of the emperor, rockhopper, and Gentoo penguins overtake the diverse scenery. Thermal springs provide a surprising warmth to the frigid waters as from tabular...
Customizable Itinerary
Day 1
Punta Arenas – Welcome to Chile and the Capital of Southern Patagonia
Punta Arenas is the metropolis of Southern Patagonia and connects travelers from around the world with the region that stretches to the edges of the Strait of Magellan in the west and the jagged peaks of the Andes Mountains to the east. Ships of all shapes and sizes travel through the waters to reach the bustling port with a view of the colorful homes that line the streets of the city. The wealth brought from the old Wool Boom brings a sense of grandeur at the heart of Plaza Munoz Gamero.
Your private transfer will greet you at Presidente Carlos Ibanez del Campo International Airport and escort you to your gorgeous hotel at your leisure to enjoy the unique marvels of the Patagonian city, which features the Museo Regional de Magallanes. The opulent mansion contains a gallery dedicated to the wealth acquired through sheep farming in the late 19th century, and the preserved interior reflects the historical significance of the region during its settlement through the expression of French-nouveau furnishings, intricate wooden inlaid floors, and elegant Chinese earthenware.
What's Included:
Day 2
King George Island – Arrive in Punta Arenas, Chile and Fly to Antarctica
Day 3
South Shetland Islands – Discover the South Shetland Archipelago
Day 4
Antarctic Peninsula – Traverse the Gerlache Strait and Scenic Coastline
Day 5
Antarctic Peninsula – Search for Wildlife Colonies and Island Landscapes
Day 6
Antarctica Sound – Venture around the Antarctic Icecap to the Weddell Sea
Day 7
Weddell Sea – Enjoy a Day of Adventure with your Choice of Excursion
Day 8
Weddell Sea – Explore Paulet and Snow Hill Islands at your Leisure
Day 9
Elephant Island – Learn Legends and Wander the Shores of Elephant Island
Day 10
At Sea – Sail to the Falkland Islands with a View of Stunning Seabirds
Day 11
At Sea – Relax in Luxury and Look for Whales en route to the Falkland Islands
Day 12
Port Stanley – Explore West Point and Saunders in the West Falklands
Day 13
Punta Arenas – Fly from Port Stanley to Punta Arenas
Day 14
Punta Arenas – Depart for Home
Trip Highlights
- Discover the frozen landscape around Snow Hill Island that protects the most northerly empire penguin colony in the Antarctic region
- Traverse the rugged landscape of West Falkland in search of rockhopper penguins, sea lions, and a colony of black-brown albatrosses
- Explore the distinctive complex of Chile’s Eduardo Frei Montalva Station on King George Island in the South Shetland Archipelago
- Learn the legendary tale of the Endurance ‘s shipwreck and rescue from Point Wild on Elephant Island
- Plunge into the steaming hot waters of the naturally heated baths of from the geothermal activity warming Deception Island
- Relish the surprisingly British ambiance of Port Stanley, capital of the Falkland Islands
- Watch for minke, orca, southern right, and humpback whales swimming through the channels separating the Antarctic Peninsula from the Islands
- Listen to unique lectures tailored to the journey for deeper insight into the history or biodiversity of Antarctica during the luxury cruise
Detailed Description
Your 14-day Antarctica cruise will maximize your vacation time exploring the Southern and Southern Atlantic oceans for an unforgettable trip to the South Shetland archipelago, Antarctica Peninsula, Weddell Sea, and the Falkland Islands. Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and explorers at heart, adventure awaits as zodiac boats will ferry you across the freezing waters to reach the shores of islands and touch the snowy continent. Penguins, whales, seals, and marine birds populate the expansive waters or nest around the ice-free beaches, and every visit to Antarctica promises a unique route, the distinctive scenery thanks to the ever-changing weather patterns and shifting landscape.
Your expedition will begin with your arrival in Punta Arenas, Chile. The city provides a perfect base for adventures in and outside of Southern Patagonia’s famous landscape. A four-hour flight will take you to King George Island, the gateway to Antarctica through the South Shetland Island. You can visit the different research stations from a selection of countries, including the large complex of Eduardo Frei Montalva. Your ship will leave from King George Island, winding through the stoic, reflective waters of the Southern Ocean. The weather will dictate how the captain will navigate the islands that you visit, from the thermal baths of Deception Island to the waddling penguins along Danco Island.
Venture through the Errera and Lemaire channels to reach Cuverville Island before rounding the Antarctica Sound to reach the Weddell Sea. Visit Esperanza Sound, sail alongside the tabular icebergs, and snowshoe around the pristine knolls of Snow Hill Island, home to the most northerly colony of emperor penguins in Antarctica. Your boat will travel next to the north and the Falkland Islands, offering a chance to traverse the windswept grasslands and rugged cliffs that are shaped by the rainy winters and Southern Atlantic Ocean. Make an excursion to the secluded northwestern shores at West Point for rockhopper penguins, and enjoy the distinctive British charms of Stanley, the capital of the Falkland Islands.
Starting Price
$18,200 per person (excluding international flights)
Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.
What's Included
- Accommodations
- In-country transportation
- Some or all activities and tours
- Expert trip planning
- 24x7 support during your trip
Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.
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