Antarctic Circle Quest (2017/2018
Season)
Antarctica & Argentina
Summary
The aim on this voyage is to head as far south as ice and weather
permit. After a few days exploring the 'deep south', there are
further shore excursions on the northerly route along the Antarctic
Peninsula. The ship is small enough to navigate through the
narrow Lemaire Channel, with glacial walls towering high on both
sides, leading to a jigsaw of jewel‐like islands that are home to
huge penguin rookeries, Elephant seals and countless seabirds.
There are also whales: imagine a pair of Humpbacks, at least 30
tonnes of mammal, rising imperiously against a turquoise ice‐wall
viewed from a Zodiac only metres away, and you have the
essence of the Antarctic.
18
14 DAYS
PSC
MIN AGE
LAND ONLY
TRIP CODE
At a glance
14 day ship only expedition on the
Ocean Diamond or Sea Adventurer
Maximum group size varies depending
on the ship
A choice of cabin types, all with shared
or en suite facilities
Full board whilst on the ship
Departures also available on the Ocean
Endeavour, which starts/ends in
Buenos Aires and includes flights
to/from Ushuaia (exodus.co.uk/PRE)
Optional single supplement on
application
Highlights
Visit the stunning Antarctic Peninsula
Cross the Antarctic Circle at 66º 33' S
Witness abundant Antarctic wildlife,
including penguins, seals, whales and
more
Travel on a small expedition vessel
Accompanied by extremely qualified
Expedition Staff
Antarctica & Argentina • Antarctic Circle Quest (2017/2018 Season)
Page 1
of kayaks on each ship, and you must book and pay for this option
in advance. All kayak trips are expertly guided, and are subject to
suitable locations and weather conditions. Should the kayaking
not be possible, a place on a Zodiac is always available.
Camping on Ice option
Not very many people have the opportunity to say they've
camped on the 7th Continent. This is one of the best ways to
experience Antarctica in a more intimate manner, and take your
expedition to the next level. Camping is available on most
Antarctic voyages and has a limited number of spots. All
equipment, guides and instructions are provided.
Snowshoeing
Walk atop fresh snow and visit places that are inaccessible by
foot. Snowshoeing is offered on select Antarctic voyages at the
beginning of the season. Spaces are limited and all equipment,
guides and instructions are provided.
Stand‐up Paddleboarding
Travelling Conditions
The voyages are designed to be as flexible as possible, taking
advantage of circumstances and events as they occur, as well as
passengers' wishes and particular interests wherever possible. The
atmosphere onboard is relaxed and friendly with expedition
staff, including naturalists and polar experts, on hand and the
opportunity to mingle with people from all over the world. The
ship is kept warm, clean and comfortable with a wet / mud room
in which to hang gear and store boots ready for the next
adventure.
On the Zodiac cruises you are sitting still for most of the time
with the potential for some sea spray and a cold headwind ‐ if
you are not dressed appropriately you will get cold. On the shore
excursions, the majority of landings are 'wet' which means that
the Zodiacs beach and you are helped to slide into the ankle
deep shore break before walking up onto dry land (wellington
boots are issued to all passengers). There are, of course, no
paths, so be prepared for slippery, rough terrain and sometimes
fairly deep snow. Back on board the cosy ship after each
adventure, you can have a sauna and/or a hot shower and then
relax with a tea, coffee, hot chocolate or something stronger
from the bar.
Optional activities
On some occasions, space is limited on the optional activities and
needs to be booked in advance. Please ask our Polar Sales team
for more information if you are interested in one of the options
below.
Sea kayaking option
On many of our Antarctic voyages there is the chance for some
members of the party to take regular sea kayak excursions in
place of the Zodiac excursions. There are a limited number
Combining surfing with kayaking or canoeing, stand‐up
paddleboarding will give you a very personal and unique
perspective on Antarctica. Guided by experienced staff in small
groups in good weather conditions on calm bays and harbours,
reservations for 10 paddleboarders will be taken at time of
booking. Other paddleboarding opportunities will be offered via
sign‐up, onboard ship, on a first‐come, first‐served basis.
Available for select Antarctica Voyages only.
All Polar itineraries should be treated as a guide only ‐ it is
possible that, amongst other things, the capricious nature of
wind, visibility and ice, intelligence from previous sailings,
changes in local landing regulations or the expert opinion of the
crew onboard may lead to adjustments to the route published.
The entries in bold at the end of each day indicate the meals
included.
Day 1 ‐ Start Ushuaia
You will begin your journey in Ushuaia, a small but bustling port
town at the tip of South America. This Argentine town is an ideal
gateway for you to explore the southern extent of Patagonia
while preparing for your adventure ahead. Get active in the
mountains or enjoy handcrafted chocolate at a cafe´ in town.
Day 2 ‐ Embarkation Day
The transfer to the ship takes place in the afternoon. Once on
board there is a get together for introductions to the expedition
team, to learn about the ship and its layout, talk about the
itinerary for the next 13 days and participate in the obligatory
lifeboat drill. Departure from Ushuaia is normally around 6:00
p.m, and we set sail through the Beagle Channel in the early
evening. The long days mean plenty of evening light in which
Antarctica & Argentina • Antarctic Circle Quest (2017/2018 Season)
to experience the beauty of the channel, and to perhaps enjoy
your first wildlife sightings. (Dinner)
Days 3‐4 ‐ Drake Passage
Sea conditions in the Drake Passage can vary from dead calm
(known as 'Drake Lake'), to rough and stormy (known as 'Drake
Shake'). As you cross the Drake Passage our team of experts is out
on deck to help you spot whales and identify seabirds. There is
also a programme of talks, covering the wildlife, the ice, and
polar history to prepare you for your adventure to the 'White
Continent'. The excitement intensifies as you cross the Antarctic
Convergence, where the cold waters of the Antarctic Ocean meet
the warmer waters of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. You feel
the change as the air gets cooler. Huge icebergs loom up against
the horizon in increasing numbers, and Wandering albatrosses,
petrels and other birds which thrive in this cold, remote ocean
are frequently seen. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Days 5‐11 ‐ Antarctic Peninsula and Antarctic Circle
Our itinerary for these days is necessarily flexible, and will be
decided upon by your expedition leader in consultation with the
ship's captain. It will depend on ice and weather conditions, and
may start by sailing as far south as possible, hopefully to the
Antarctic Circle, and then working our way back north along the
peninsula and finally visiting the off‐shore Shetland Islands group.
On the other hand the order may be reversed, first cruising
among the volcanic South Shetland Islands before travelling to
the waterways of the Antarctic Peninsula, and further south.
The itinerary focuses on the areas with the greatest promise of
wildlife, and frequent shore excursions are planned at perhaps
Livingston, Half Moon, Aicho or King George Islands. This area is a
favoured feeding ground for Humpback whales and, with luck,
you may see them dining on krill. Nearby, around 80,000 Adelie
penguins have established one of the largest rookeries, alongside
Gentoo and Chinstrap penguins, providing great opportunities for
photography. At crescent‐shaped Half Moon Island, a breeding
colony of Chinstrap penguins shares their territory with Fur seals
and Blue‐eyed shags; while at Livingston Island you may observe
Weddell seals, Elephant seals, skuas, Giant petrels, Antarctic
terns and rookeries of Chinstrap, Gentoo and Macaroni penguins.
Page 2
Weather permitting you may also enter the flooded caldera of
Deception Island, a recently active volcano and one of the most
perfect crater islands in the world. Steam rises from the black
sand beaches in places along its shores where the cold Antarctic
waters mix with the steaming thermal waters of the bay ‐
although this is very much dependant on the tide and the hot
water flow. You may also observe the island's large Chinstrap
penguin colony and enjoy spectacular walks to the higher points
of the crater rim.
We may visit Paradise Harbour further south or Hope Bay to the
north, both situated on the Antarctic mainland, to see some of
the most dramatic scenery the continent has to offer. Here,
there are further opportunities for spectacular photography.
Ringed with overhanging ice cliffs, the bay is filled with a wild
assortment of floating icebergs that reflect a stunning array of
the colours, including the most exquisite blues, turquoise and
indigo. On one or two occasions we may also go ashore to visit
some of the research stations maintained by several different
countries on the peninsula or offshore islands.
Back on board whilst we cruise between landing points, you will
be tempted to spend time out on deck if conditions are calm, just
watching and marvelling at the glory of the passing scenery.
Penguins are often seen 'porpoising' in the water, or resting on
ice flows, which pass by the ship, and the scenery of the Lemaire
Channel can be absolutely breathtaking. South of this channel we
hope that the seas will be clear enough to take us right down to
the Antarctic Circle; the scenery remains outstanding, and
although there's no 'marker on the sand', it's a great feeling to
know when we've reached the line. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Days 12‐13 ‐ Drake Passage
Leaving the Antarctic Peninsula behind our ship heads back across
the Antarctic Convergence and the Drake Passage. The crossing is
completed with the rounding of Cape Horn, weather permitting.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 14 ‐ Disembark Ushuaia
In the early morning we arrive back in Ushuaia where your voyage
ends. You will be transferred either to town or on to the airport
for your onward flight home. (Breakfast)
Antarctica & Argentina • Antarctic Circle Quest (2017/2018 Season)
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The Antarctic Circle Quest is offered on the Ocean Diamond and
the Sea Adventurer which are Polar Adventure Ships. Please visit
our website to access Ship Information and Deck Plans.
Polar Adventure Ships
These are small ice rated vessels well qualified for Polar waters.
Intimate adventures are always more enjoyable with like‐minded
passengers and staff, so these voyages are for people who like
flexible itineraries and plenty to keep them busy. Activities
include frequent Zodiac excursions, trekking, kayaking and many
hours on deck in areas that other ships only dream about
accessing. Food and staff are excellent and every guest benefits
from the technical advances of this superb fleet. Rest assured our
Polar Adventure Ships enable any traveller to maximize their
experience sensitively in the Poles.
Food
Typical Meals
The ships galley offers good quality service and cuisine
throughout, with excellent chefs preparing international menus
including vegetarian dishes, accompanied by a wide variety of
drinks from around the world on sale.
Breakfast: Buffet style ‐ unlimited tea and coffee, a selection of
fruit juices, hot options including bacon and eggs or omelettes, a
selection of bread and toast and jam/honey/marmalade, fruit
and cereal.
Lunch: Three course set meal or buffet, or the occasional BBQ.
Late Spring and Early Summer ‐ October & November
Dinner: Three or four courses with a starter of soup and/or
salad, a choice of mains with at least one vegetarian option and
a dessert, with tea and coffee.
The start of the season and the most adventurous time to travel.
You'll encounter truly breathtaking, exquisitely sculpted icebergs
emerging from their frozen hibernation. Many of these blue bergs
house courting, nesting and brooding penguins. In the Falklands
flowers are coming into bloom.
Transport
During the expedition, you will visit remote and isolated sites that
are accessible only by Zodiac landing craft. Designed for
expedition work, these large and heavy‐duty inflatable vessels
are extremely safe.
High Summer ‐ December, January & February
Close to the solstice you'll experience almost perpetual daylight.
These are the mildest months when the first Adelie and Gentoo
penguin chicks are hatched. It's also the time to encounter seal
pups on South Georgia. As the water warms the whale sightings
also improve.
Late Summer ‐ February & March
This is the time for some incredible encounters with whales,
especially Minkes and Humpbacks. The receding ice allows for
further exploration and penguin colonies are very active with
adults feeding their chicks.
Antarctica & Argentina • Antarctic Circle Quest (2017/2018 Season)
Page 4
and setting time‐lapse cameras, in order to research threats to
penguins and to identify protected areas for them.
14 days, normally start Ushuaia Sat, end Ushuaia Fri
http://www.exodus.co.uk/responsible‐travel/penguin‐lifelines?
Itinerary Start
Polar Bear Study
Your trip normally starts at the pier in Ushuaia on Day 1 of the
itinerary. Details of how to reach the start point are provided in
the Final Joining Instructions ‐ sent approximately two weeks
before departure.
The Polar bear's migratory patterns have long been a mystery to
conservationists. With money raised from expeditions and
donations, we have made valuable contributions to the purchase
of the expensive tracking collars ‐ critical in monitoring their
hunting and mating patterns.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will
be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do
not receive thiese at least a week before departure, or require
them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.
Albatross Campaign
Almost half a million US dollars has been raised through staff and
passengers towards the 'Get the Albatross off the Hook' campaign,
aimed at stopping the butchery of albatrosses by long‐line fishing.
Scott Polar Research Institute
The Polar Environment
We take extremely seriously our responsibility to minimise our
impact on these pristine areas.
Exodus supports the work of the Scott Polar Research Institute at
Cambridge. The Institute is the oldest international centre for
Polar Research within a university.
Exodus is an Associate Member of the International Association of
Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) and has agreed to abide by
one of the tourism world's most conscientious codes of conduct.
Our ship operators in Spitsbergen are also members of the
Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO), which
covers operations in Spitsbergen.
For full details of our Responsible Tourism Policy please visit:
Exodus support various conservation initiatives:
Passports and Visas
Penguin Lifelines
All nationalities require a full passport that must be valid beyond
the intended length of stay. It is your responsibility to have the
correct personal documents and to obtain your own visa, if one is
necessary, in accordance with the regulations of the country you
are to visit. The information offered below is to help you with
that process. We are not responsible for the actions of local
immigration and customs officials, whether at points of entry or
otherwise, and any subsequent effects.
As part of Exodus' commitment to conservation and responsible
travel, we have supported Penguin Lifelines, a conservation
project set up by the Zoological Society of London and Oxford
University to understand the impact of climate change and
fisheries on Antarctic penguins and to design a protected area
network. Penguinologist Tom Hart travels on a number of trips to
Antarctica each season, picking up feathers
www.exodus.co.uk/responsible‐travel
Antarctica & Argentina • Antarctic Circle Quest (2017/2018 Season)
Page 5
Antarctica
Group, Staff and Support
No visa required.
The Exodus group forms part of the ship's complement, enjoying
the relaxed, intimate and informal atmosphere, which breaks
into smaller groups to facilitate the frequent excursions. We offer
these cruises in conjunction with our partner Quark Expeditions,
and Exodus participants will join an international group, not all
of whom have booked through Exodus. Occasionally some of
these may be younger than 18 years old, the Exodus' stated
minimum age for this trip.
Argentina
No visa required for holders of British passport.
The Argentine government charges a reciprocity fee which applies
to Canadian and Australian citizens. The amounts are as follows:
Australians ‐ US$100 (multiple entry)
Canadians ‐ US$75 (single entry)
This fee must be paid before you enter Argentina. For full
details, and to make the payment, please visit:
https://virtual.provinciapagos.com.ar/ArgentineTaxes
Visa regulations can change without notice: please check the
current regulations in good time to obtain a visa if one is
required.
We work with many fine Expedition Leaders and Polar Experts,
bringing a diversity of interests including zoology, Polar history,
geology, ornithology and ocean sciences. The ship's operating
crew is Russian and have many years of experience in Polar
Regions and are committed to ensuring a safe and memorable
journey. Each day your cabin will be serviced by the
housekeeping crew, and your meals served by the friendly and
attentive restaurant staff. There is also a resident medical
officer.
The minimum age of clients on this trip is 18 years.
Vaccinations and Health
Travel health can often be something people forget about before
going away, but a little preparation and knowledge can go a long
way to help you stay fit and healthy while abroad.
Currency Information
There are no specific health risks on this trip.
The national currency of Argentina is the Argentinean Peso (ARS),
with an exchange rate at the time of publication of
approximately 19 to the UK£ and 15 to the US$.
Please note that travel health advice for Argentina is different
from Antarctica and can change regularly, please check the
current advice particularly if you are extending your stay there.
Exchange rates are correct at the time of publication.
The above information can change at short notice; as we are not
qualified to answer all your questions about travel health we
strongly recommend you contact your Medical Professional or a
Travel Health Clinic at least 8 weeks prior to departure for up‐to‐
date information.
Insurance ‐ are you adequately covered?
You must have adequate travel insurance, and if you are joining
a trip which goes to high altitude, you must check that you are
covered up to the maximum altitude of the trip. If you are
resident in the UK we strongly recommend Exodus travel
insurance, which is specifically designed to cover all activities on
your trip.
On board the ships all transactions are in US dollars. Dollars can
also be used in Argentina, although local currency is preferred.
At the conclusion of your voyage, you will be presented with an
account. This will include any drinks from the bar, laundry or
ship's shop purchases for which you have signed. You may pay for
this in US Dollars cash, credit card (Visa or MasterCard ONLY) or
US dollars Traveller's Cheques.
ATM availability/Credit Card Acceptance/Travellers cheques
There are ATMs in Ushuaia which dispense Argentinian currency.
Credit cards are widely accepted and can be used to settle your
account on the ship.
Extra Expenses and Spending Money
Local Time
GMT ‐ 3 hours
Electricity
on most ships is 220v 50Hz
Allow US$ 8 for the airport tax on departure from Ushuaia and
US$ 18 to depart from Buenos Aires (Please note that airport
taxes do change often and it is recommended to include a little
extra in case of this). You should also budget some dollars for
sightseeing and meals/drinks in Argentina, the amount depending
on your tastes.
Antarctica & Argentina • Antarctic Circle Quest (2017/2018 Season)
Tipping (leader and local staff)
The appropriate amount to tip the staff and crew is a personal
matter but it is customary to provide an end‐of‐cruise gratuity (as
a rough guide approximately US$13‐15 per day per passenger
would be appreciated)
Page 6
Small medical kit containing prescription medicines and over‐the‐
counter medication for basic ailments such as stomach upsets,
allergies, headaches and seasickness
Snow poles or trekking poles
Baggage and Baggage Allowance
At time of writing the standard weight limit for hold baggage on
the recommended international carrier for this trip is 20kg. We
recommend packing only one piece of checked baggage.
Essential Equipment and Clothing
Boots ‐ Rubber boots are essential for a Polar Expedition, but to
eliminate these from your packing list we will loan you a pair for
the duration of the voyage.
Parkas ‐ We recommend one with a wind and waterproof shell ‐ a
complimentary Quark Expeditions parka will be provided.
+Trousers ‐ Waterproof trousers or salopeltes are essential for
Zodiac travel as well as activities on shore.
Gloves ‐ To keep your hands warm and dry, pack a minimum of
two pairs of gloves: a pair of thin polypropylene gloves to be
worn underneath warm outer gloves.
Hat and Scarf ‐ Pack a warm, woollen hat or cap that covers your
ears, as well as a scarf, neck gaiter or other face protection.
Socks ‐ For maximum warmth, we suggest that you wear two pairs
of socks to wear inside the rubber boots.
Outer Clothing ‐ Pack woollen or fleece jumpers and tops, plus
several turtlenecks for layering.
Underclothing ‐ Pack silk or polypropylene underwear since it will
keep you warm without adding bulk.
Knapsack or Backpack ‐ To keep your hands free for shooting
photographs, bring a water resistant or waterproof knapsack or
backpack.
Shoes ‐ Non‐slip shoes for walking around the vessel.
As advice about luggage allowances for both hand and hold
luggage is subject to change, we suggest you check the airline's
website for the latest information prior to your departure.
Don't forget to visit the Community area on our website. You can
view the range of Exodus videos and podcasts, read trip write‐ups
which have featured in the national media and take advantage
of some special deals on travel gear and equipment.
In the Community Travel Forum you'll find the Departure Lounge
where you can discuss your trip with fellow travellers before you
depart. When you get back from your holiday remember to
upload your images to the relevant trip page on our website. This
helps other people see what our holidays are really like and you'll
be entered automatically into our monthly photo competition.
To make full use of the Community you'll need to join My Exodus.
It's free, registration is simple and easy, so what are you waiting
for?
http://www.exodus.co.uk/community
Optional items
Swimsuit
Sunglasses
Binoculars
Camera, extra batteries, film or memory cards
Protective sunscreen
Electric converter with adapter plug set, 220V/110V
In booking this trip you should be confident in your ability to
participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you
have any doubt about your suitability you should call the Exodus
office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
Antarctica & Argentina • Antarctic Circle Quest (2017/2018 Season)
Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different
capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone's ability to
safely partake in an activity, or their impact on other people's
enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in
some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that
activity.
Although rarely enforced, by booking this trip you agree to
section 16 of our Booking Conditions which clearly states that our
leaders have the authority to do this. In these circumstances we
will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered
alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided
for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional
costs incurred.
Exodus operates a 24 hour duty office for emergencies, which
can be contacted on 0044 (0)1582 640 045.
Every time that you travel abroad you should take the time to
read the warnings in the essential information in the brochure or
at www.exodus.co.uk/about‐exodus/essential‐information?
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers, and
details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you
approximately 2 to 3 weeks prior to departure. If you do not
receive these at least a week before departure, or require them
earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Page 7
1. Check availability
Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
2. Secure your place
You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for
between three and seven days.
3. Complete your booking and payment
When you're ready to book, go to www.exodus.co.uk for online
booking, book over the phone or you can complete a booking
form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all
major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque. Book
with confidence: Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour
operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number
2582 issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association
(IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators
(FTO) and ABTA ‐ The Travel Association. This means you can
book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all monies paid to
us for your trip are fully protected.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where
differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current
brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and
website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; in
order to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where
necessary. Occasionally, as stated in our brochure, it may not be
possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a
variety of reasons ‐ climatic, political, physical or other. In these
circumstances we will make the best possible alternative
arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
As fuel prices, airport taxes and exchange rates fluctuate, and
airlines manage their rates to match demand, it is proving harder
than ever to guarantee our Flight Inclusive prices. Although we
endeavour to keep our website as accurate as possible, daily
fluctuations mean that our Flight Inclusive price may be out of
date. For accurate prices we recommend that you contact one of
our Travel Experts, or your Travel Agent.
The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) Travel Advice
Service advises British tourists on the potential dangers they
might experience when travelling overseas. We liaise closely with
them and adhere to their travel advice. For up‐to‐date advice on
all countries, please visit www.gov.uk/foreign‐travel‐advice.
Should there be any change to advice prior to or during travel,
we may have to cancel or curtail a tour at short notice, or re‐
route an itinerary part way through.
Prices and exchange rates were correct at the time of
publication. The most up‐to‐date prices can be found on the
Exodus website.
© Exodus Travels Ltd. ATOL 2582/FTO
Edition No. KT 1 2017