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Peregrine Travel Centre

Crossing the Circle: Southern Expedition

Crossing the Circle: Southern Expedition

From $8,495 AUD

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Description

Not only does this expedition include the most in-depth exploration of the Antarctic Peninsula, but it also offers the opportunity to venture farther south across the Antarctic Circle. As you head toward a milestone that few travelers reach, you’ll feel as if you’re in a world without borders, sailing across an endless stretch of sea dotted with ice.

Dramatic ice formations will ignite your imagination as you search the landscape for the wildlife that calls it home. Whether it’s humpback whales alongside the ship, a leopard seal diving beneath your Zodiac, penguins sliding off an iceberg into crystal waters, or a giant petrel soaring above cracking sea ice, you’ll experience a sensory overload in Antarctica like you’ve never felt before.

Trip Name
Crossing the Circle: Southern Expedition
Days
14
Overview
Vessel Type: Expedition Length: 137m Passenger Capacity: 199 Built: 1982 - refurbished 2010, 2014 & 2017 Ocean Endeavour is a comfortable, well-appointed small expedition ship expertly engineered to explore the Polar Regions. The ship has an ice-strengthened hull, Zodiacs for exploration and remote landings, and advanced navigation equipment. The newly-refurbished vessel offers a superb guest experience with an expansive choice of cabin categories, large cabins and common areas, a sundeck and observation area, plenty of deck space for polar landscape viewing, and lounges for learning and reflection. The ship’s interiors have a contemporary aesthetic that provides a bright and spacious feel throughout. Endeavour is also the only polar adventure ship in Antarctica focused on health and wellness , and offers a contemporary approach to cuisine and newly-designed health and fitness features. Facilities include a spa serviced by organic spa provider VOYA, His & Hers saunas, a salt water pool, a gym, and a juice and smoothie bar. Complimentary activities include yoga and stretching classes, an exclusive Polar Photography program, the Scientists in Residence program, and more adventure activities than any other Quark vessel. The ship also has a polar library, and a Polar Boutique for gifts and any needed gear. Features of the Ocean Endeavour   VOYA spa treatments and beauty products, Choice of 13 cabin categories, Bright, spacious cabins and common areas, Plenty of deck space for observation, Lounge with expansive views, Quiet zone for contemplation, Newly-refurbished restaurant, Contemporary dining with complimentary wine with dinner, Juice and smoothie bar, Lecture theater, Polar library, Polar boutique, Health and Wellness, Spa treatments and beauty products by spa provider VOYA - Organic Beauty From The Sea, Spa menu for face, body, hair and nails, including the exclusive Quark Explorer’s treatment, and signature VOYA hand and foot rituals, Yoga and stretching classes, His & Hers saunas, gym, and heated salt water pool Full range of adventure activities including: kayaking, camping, mountaineering, cross-country skiing, stand-up paddleboarding, Zodiac cruising, shore landings and hiking/ walking. Deck plan varies for the trips to Antarctica

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 — Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires, Argentina You may arrive in Buenos Aires at any time during Day 1 of the itinerary. Upon your arrival in Buenos Aires, you will independently transfer to the group hotel (pre-night hotel included).
Day 2 - Day 2 — Charter Flight from Buenso Aires to Ushuaia, Argentina and Embarkation
After breakfast at the hotel, the group will transfer to the airport and board our private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina.Upon arrival, you will have a little time to explore this quaint port town before heading to the pier.Embarkation will occur in the late afternoon, after which your vessel will sail down the historic Beagle Channel. This famous channel transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America. Expect an air of anticipation as you depart—the next time you’ll see land you’ll be in the world’s most southern continent!
Day 3 - Days 3 and 4 — Crossing the Drake Passage
The waters of the Drake Passage are unpredictable, so hope for clear skies and a calm ocean. You’ll have plenty of time to gaze out at the sea, get to know your fellow shipmates and chat with your Expedition Team.Time over these two days will be spent preparing for the exciting days ahead, with numerous educational and informative lectures from your Expedition Team. You’ll learn about everything from safety procedures to the history of whaling in Antarctica.
Day 4 - Days 5 to 7 — The Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands
With the Drake Passage left in our wake, we make our approach to Antarctica. Get your cameras ready as the continent’s coastline will make its first appearance, signaling the start of your adventure in the realm of the Antarctic.You’ll see plentiful icebergs floating by and be fixated on the surface of the ocean as curious whales spout and breach before your eyes. As exciting as it can be from onboard the ship, your true exploration occurs when you disembark and set foot on the great continent. There are several potential landing sites we may visit, including Neko Harbour, Orne Harbour or Paradise Harbour.Your days will be busy spotting wildlife and being mesmerized by the beauty of Antarctica. Watching penguins waddling on the beach and listening to the crackling and crumbling sounds of icebergs and glaciers will become your daily entertainment, while kayaking with whales and camping in Antarctica are a couple of optional activities available on selected voyages (at an extra cost).
Day 5 - Days 8 and 9 — The Antarctic Circle
Crossing the Antarctic Circle is an impressive achievement, as most expeditions to the Peninsula do not reach this far south, which is officially noted at 66° 33’ S. You and your shipmates will celebrate in style with a well-earned glass of champagne!Make a toast and take pride in knowing you’ve made it to a part of the world still visited by very few people.
Day 6 - Days 10 and 11 — Northbound Along the Peninsula
By now, your knowledge of Adélie, chinstrap and gentoo penguins will be matched by your ability to differentiate between a leopard, fur or Weddell seal. Terms like ‘bergy bits’ and pancake ice will seem normal too, yet there are still many tales to be told. As you head north, Zodiac excursions will continue to fill your days, while the Expedition team will continue to offer presentations, while giving you time to reflect on everything you’ve experienced.
Day 7 - Days 12 and 13 — Drake Passage to Ushuaia
As you recross the Drake, Antarctica fades away, leaving you with a collection of memories to last a lifetime. Excited conversations with your newfound friends will make the crossing fly by, regardless of weather and sea conditions. Your Expedition Team will round up its series of lectures as well, perhaps with a slideshow of the great landing sites and wildlife you’ve witnessed over the course of your voyage.
Day 8 - Day 14 — Disembark in Ushuaia, for charter flight back to Buenos Aires
After breakfast aboard the ship, it is time to part ways and say goodbye to your Expedition Team.After disembarkation, you will have a little time to explore Ushuaia before we transfer to the airport for the return group charter flight to Buenos Aires
Day 9 - Please Note:
Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy – and excitement – of expedition travel. There are no guarantees that we can achieve everything we set out to accomplish. A measure of flexibility is something all of us must bring to a voyage. There are nearly 200 recognized sites in the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetlands and the places mentioned above may be changed to others equally as interesting.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
27-02-201812-03-2018AUD$8,495Triple
27-02-201812-03-2018AUD$13,495Single Inside
27-02-201812-03-2018AUD$18,295Twin Window Plus 2
27-02-201812-03-2018AUD$18,995Junior Suite
27-02-201812-03-2018AUD$19,995Owner's Suite
27-02-201812-03-2018AUD$18,600Twin Porthole
27-02-201812-03-2018AUD$13,495Twin Porthole
27-02-201812-03-2018AUD$14,495Twin Window
27-02-201812-03-2018AUD$15,295Twin Porthole Plus 1
27-02-201812-03-2018AUD$15,295Twin Porthole Plus 2
27-02-201812-03-2018AUD$16,595Upper Deck Twin
27-02-201812-03-2018AUD$17,295Superior Twin
27-02-201812-03-2018AUD$17,595Top Deck Twin
27-02-201812-03-2018AUD$18,295Twin Window Plus 1

Inclusions

    • Be one of the few travellers to venture to 66 degrees 33.7 minutes South
    • Visit historic research stations in Marguerite Bay
    • Witness the abundant Antarctic wildlife, including penguins, seals, whales and more
    • Experience the Western Peninsula highlights and visit iconic landing sites
    • Learn about Antarctica’s geology and wildlife from onboard lecturers and specialists.

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