Antarctic
& Arctic
explore antarctica
trip highligh­­­ts
Wonder at spectacular iceberg sculptures and calving glaciers
Walk on the continent of Antarctica
Encounter local penguins including gentoo,
chinstrap and Adelie penguins
Catch sight of seals – elephant, Antarctic
fur, Weddell, leopard and crabeater
Watch for whales – humpback, Minke, orca, pilot, and beaked
Spot soaring seabirds including – Antarctic tern,
cape petrels, wandering albatrosses, southern
fulmars, southern giant petrels, skuas, black‑browed
albatrosses, Wilson’s storm‑petrels and many more
Trip Duration12 days
Trip Code: SDN
GradeDiscovery and Cruising
ActivitiesCruising, Wildlife Viewing
Summary1 night hotel, 10 nights aboard the Silver Explorer
welcome to
World Expeditions
Thank you for enquiring about our Explore Antarctica voyage. It’s
one of an ensemble of small group voyages to the Polar Regions
of Antarctica and the high Arctic, offered by World Expeditions. It’s
one of an ensemble of small group voyages to the Polar Regions
of Antarctica and the high Arctic, offered by World Expeditions.
Travelling to such delicate eco‑systems requires a responsible
approach from the outset and choosing to travel on an ice
strengthened ship that carries no more than 132 passengers is the
ideal way to minimize your impact. Small group voyages also help
to maximize your time on shore and create a more personal and
interactive mood while on the ship. Our zodiacs transfer us from ship
to shore each day while the sea‑kayaking option is available on many
of our voyages and ideal for those seeking more activity during their
Polar experience. If you prefer to stay on the boat, then the Captains
Bridge, library, film room, bar and other onboard facilities will always
keep you occupied, in between informative lectures from experienced
naturalists and polar guides. We hope you will join us for a life
changing experience!
1 – © 2017 World Expeditions Travel Group - Rachel Imber 5/3/2017 11:10:21 AM
why travel with World Expeditions?
We offer unique, small‑group expedition cruises that allow you to
enjoy the natural wildlife and scenery of some of the world’s most
spectacular and pristine shorelines. The size, capacity and capability
of our ice‑strengthened vessels have proven to be a successful
formula for many years. Most importantly, our adventures have always
sought to safeguard the ecosystems we explore and contribute to
the sustainability of travel in the regions we experience. You will be
accompanied by a crew whose knowledge and passion for the Antarctic
will add a unique dimension to your trip.
Weddell Sea
explore antarctica
Cruise the stunning Antarctic Peninsula enjoying spectacular
icebergs, calving glaciers and abundant wildlife
Antarctic
Peninsula
South Orkney
Islands
Adelaide Is
Anta
rctic
Elephant Is
South Shetland
Islands
Dr
ak
Circle
e
Passage
Falkland
Islands
Ushuaia
South America
trip cost
Joining Ushuaia Adventurer Class:USD$10950
All prices are per person
options & supplements
Explorer Class:
USD$11550
View Suite:
USD$12550
Vista Suite:
USD$13150
Veranda Suite:
USD$15350
Single travellers are required to pay a single cabin
supplement when joining this adventure. The
single supplement will differ depending on the
cabin type you prefer, ask us for pricing details.
For competitive airfares and stopover ideas
to join this adventure, contact our expert staff
today to receive a detailed quote.
the trip
Setting sail from Ushuaia this expedition, aboard the luxurious Silver Explorer, allows ample
time to experience the majestic beauty and untouched wilderness of the Antarctic Peninsula.
Crossing the fabled Drake Passage we make our way south through the iceberg strewn
waters of the peninsula. Abundant sea birds, seals and whales accompany us as they make
the migration south for the summer. Life onboard the ship is relaxed and days are spent taking
walks on the icy continent, along with zodiac cruising which allows the best opportunities to
get up close and personal with the local wildlife. Our trip is made all the more special by the
expertise imparted by our experienced naturalists and guides, whose first hand knowledge of
the region is unsurpassed.
at a glance
DAY 1JOIN USHUAIA, OVERNIGHT HOTEL
DAY 2IN USHUAIA, AFTERNOON EMBARK SHIP
DAYS 3-4CROSSING THE DRAKE PASSAGE
DAYS 5-9ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
DAYS 10-11RECROSS THE DRAKE PASSAGE
DAY 12DISEMBARK USHUAIA AND FLY TO BUENOS AIRES WHERE TRIP CONCLUDES
additional deposits required
A deposit of 30% of the per person cabin cost is required to confirm your berth. This deposit
is non‑refundable and we recommend you take out travel insurance at the time of booking.
what’s included
All meals onboard the ship
All beverages while onboard including alcoholic drinks
Comfortable stateroom/suite accommodation on cruise
Complimentary parka
Specialist expedition staff
All shore excursions from the ship including the use of Zodiacs
Lectures, videos, slide and film shows and guide services
Use of the onboard fitness centre (general equipment)
Medical services (there is a resident medical officer and medical centre on board)
Port taxes and port charges imposed by government authorities
Pre‑departure information
1 night hotel accommodation in Ushuaia based on twinshare
detailed itinerary
DAY 1Join Ushuaia, overnight hotel
On arrival in Ushuaia make your own way to the group hotel for overnight accommodation on a twin
share basis.
meals: NIL
DAY 2In Ushuaia, afternoon embark ship
In the afternoon we will embark the Silver Explorer and bid farewell to Tierra del Fuego, the ‘Land
at the End of the World’. Meet some of your fellow explorers as you become acquainted with the
luxurious amenities found on board. This evening, after settling in and setting sail, you will be
introduced to your Expedition Team.
meals: D
2 – © 2017 World Expeditions Travel Group - Rachel Imber 5/3/2017 11:10:21 AM
explore antarctica
Cruise the stunning Antarctic Peninsula enjoying spectacular
icebergs, calving glaciers and abundant wildlife
trip dates
2017
07Dec - 18Dec 1
important notes
1 - Prices are not available for single
travellers, please ask us for details.
fast facts
Countries Visited:
Antarctica
Visas:
Please check visa requirements with
your reservations consultant*
Vaccinations:
Please consult a travel vaccination
specialist for up to date information
DAYS 3-4Crossing the Drake Passage
Known for it’s tumultuous seas, the Drake Passage gets it reputation from its proximity to the
Antarctic Convergence. A natural boundary, where cold polar water meets warmer equatorial water,
the convergence results in nutrient rich waters that often attract large numbers of whales and
seabirds. Our first few days are spent enjoying time on deck, photographing the magnificent scenery
and getting comfortable on the elegant Silver Explorer. Get to know your expedition team, attend
wildlife, geography and history discussions hosted by our expert naturalists and guest lecturers that
will prepare you for the exciting adventures that lie ahead. Weather conditions permitting, you may
also visit the Bridge and meet the Captain and officers.
meals: B,L,D
DAYS 5-9Antarctic Peninsula
While sailing to Antarctica, every turn can reveal a new and breathtaking adventure. As the pack ice
becomes thicker, it’s apparent to everyone that we are moving closer into Antarctica’s vast white
wilderness. Remote and otherworldly, Antarctica is irresistible for its spectacular iceberg sculptures
and calving glaciers, and for the possibility of up-close encounters with marine mammals. Watch for
seals sunbathing on slow-moving ice floes and for humpback, Minke, and orca whales to surface
from below the frigid waters. Each day we will attempt Zodiac departures, and, if conditions permit,
Singles:
Single travellers must pay a single
supplement on this trip.
Brochure Reference:
Polar
*Ask our staff for more information.
3 – © 2017 World Expeditions Travel Group - Rachel Imber 5/3/2017 11:10:21 AM
explore antarctica
Cruise the stunning Antarctic Peninsula enjoying spectacular
icebergs, calving glaciers and abundant wildlife
responsible travel
The environments we travel through are
fragile. It is our responsibility as visitors to
minimise the impact of our presence. World
Expeditions were the proud recipients of
the inaugural Australian National Travel
Industry’s Environmental Achievement award
for our Responsible Travel Guidebook. This
detailed guide to responsible and sustainable
travel is provided to all World Expeditions
clients before they travel. Please ask your
consultant if you have not received your copy
of our award winning book. Alternatively,
you may like to download a copy from our
website www.worldexpeditions.com
trip grading
Discovery and Cruising
Although there is no commitment to
extended walking on this journey we
nonetheless want to keep the ‘accent on
the active’. We therefore advise that any
physical training you complete before
undertaking the trip will be to good effect.
adventure travel
By its very nature adventure travel involves
an element of the unexpected. In remote
and developing countries do not expect
standards you are used to at home. Remote
areas are sometimes unpredictable and
itineraries may be altered. To get the most
out of your adventure it is important that
you are flexible, positive and eager to
take on all the challenges that arise. If you
are uncertain about your suitability for
this trip we recommend that you speak
with your consultant or travel agent.
we will cruise amidst colourful icebergs or step ashore to visit a variety of penguin rookeries and
perhaps scientific research stations on complimentary excursions led by our team of natural history
experts.
A flexible itinerary allows us to take advantage of favourable sea and weather conditions. In the true
spirit of expedition cruising, each day the Expedition Leader and Captain will determine our best
course depending on weather, ice conditions and wildlife we may encounter. Here are some of the
places we may visit:
Aitcho Islands, South Shetland Islands (just off the Antarctic Peninsula at the entrance to the English
Strait)
• As you step off the Zodiac to explore the island, it’s very likely you’ll be greeted by the locals…
penguins! Penguin species here include gentoos and chinstraps. Other annual seabirds include the
Southern giant petrels.
• While heading back to the ship, you may have company as a leopard seal or southern elephant
seal follows alongside your group’s Zodiac.
Brown Bluff, Tabarin Peninsula (a 2,200-foot bluff on the Antarctic continent)
• Brown Bluff is an ice-capped, 745-metre-high, flat-topped mountain with a prominent cliff of
reddish-brown volcanic rock.
• Adelie and gentoo penguins, kelp gulls, and pintado petrels use this as a breeding area.
• Birds such as the all-white snow petrel and skuas may be seen from a distance.
• As you explore the area, a Weddell seal may be seen basking in the sunlight.
• Wait long enough and you might see the Adelie penguins standing along the rocks, finally making
their way into the surf.
Cuverville Island, Errera Channel
• The island was discovered by Gerlache’s Belgian Antarctic expedition of 1897–99, and was
named for a vice admiral in the French navy.
• Large, bare rock areas provide nesting sites for gentoo penguins.
• Snow petrels and pintado petrels also may be seen whilst Wilson’s storm-petrels nest in the
higher scree of the island.
• During Zodiac tours, hauled-out Weddell and Antarctic fur seals may be seen.
Paradise Bay (on the Antarctic peninsula)
• The bay is well named for its spectacular scenery of mountains, glaciers and icebergs.
• From the ship, observe Argentina’s Base Brown, one of many Antarctic research stations.
• Here, you will actually set foot on the continent of Antarctica.
• View the wildlife from sea level while cruising in your Zodiac with one of our experienced
Expedition Team members. There’s a good chance you’ll come across a crabeater seal relaxing on a
nearby ice floe, or if you’re very lucky, your Zodiac driver may locate a pod of Minke whales.
Paulet Island
• As you arrive, you may well be amazed by the sight of Adelie penguins covering the entire island.
The island is home to 80-90 thousand Adelies that come here to breed.
• On a nearby hill, view a massive colony of blue eyed shags.
• Kelp gulls and snowy sheathbills are amongst the birds that breed on Paulet Island, and Wilson’s
storm-petrels are regularly seen.
• Listen as your Expedition Team guide tells of Otto Nordenskjold and his party that over-wintered
on the island in 1912. Remnants of their hut still remain.
• If time permits, take a Zodiac cruise to view impossibly blue icebergs, Crater Lake and the Adelie
penguins making themselves at home on the ice floes.
4 – © 2017 World Expeditions Travel Group - Rachel Imber 5/3/2017 11:10:21 AM
explore antarctica
Cruise the stunning Antarctic Peninsula enjoying spectacular
icebergs, calving glaciers and abundant wildlife
important note
These trip notes represent the most
current information for this itinerary, and
may supersede any information in the
current brochure, including but not limited
to the itinerary and price. The itinerary
should be seen as a guide only. This
itinerary may change at any time due to
inclement weather, forces of nature and
other circumstances beyond our control.
Petermann Island, Wilhelm Archipelago
• The island is named for German geographer August Petermann and was first discovered by a
German expedition in 1873-74.
• Our onboard Geologist will take the opportunity to point out various geological features such as
the many basaltic dikes along the shoreline, and the more granite composition of the small summit,
where rock surfaces show glacial polish and some glacial grooving.
• During our landing, we will be able to observe rookeries of Adelie penguins, gentoo penguins and
blue-eyed shags.
Pleneau Island, Wilhelm Archipelago
• Pleneau Island lies at the south end of the Lemaire Channel, and was first explored during
Charcot’s 1903–05 French Antarctic Expedition. The island was named for the expedition’s
photographer, Paul Pleneau.
• Amongst the common breeding birds are Gentoo Penguins, kelp gulls and south polar skuas.
• See the gentoo penguins during a landing and southern elephant seals that are often hauled-out
in wallows.
• Enjoy spectacular glacial and ice scenery.
Port Foster, Whalers Bay (Deception Island)
• Deception Island is home to a collapsed volcano and an excellent example of a caldera where
it is believed that the volcano’s summit collapsed with one section sinking far enough to allow the
sea to flood the interior. We plan to sail inside this breached wall through a narrow entrance called
Neptune’s Bellows.
• Our resident geologist will take the opportunity to explain the unique volcanic features of the area
while our historian will introduce you to the whaling history of Deception Island.
• Still visible on the island are the boilers used to make whale oil in the early 1900s.
Port Lockroy, Goudier Island
• The British built a listening station here during WWII, which was then used as a research station
in the 1950s, and since 1962 as a museum and gift shop.
• Snowy sheathbills and gentoo penguins roam outside the museum.
• Perhaps sight a whale or two on your Zodiac cruise.
meals: B,L,D
DAYS 10-11Recross the Drake Passage
Navigating our return through the Drake Passage, we will watch for seabirds and wildlife we may
have missed on the first trip. Take this opportunity to attend additional presentations offered by the
expedition team lecturers and to swap photos with new friends as we travel towards Ushuaia.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 12Disembark Ushuaia and fly to Buenos Aires where trip concludes
During the early morning we cruise up the Beagle Channel, before quietly slipping into dock in
Ushuaia. After breakfast we disembark the Silver Explorer and transfer to Ushuaia airport for our
return flight to Buenos Aires, where our trip concludes.
meals: B
This itinerary is subject to change with any change in Community regulations as well as Governmental changes and natural circumstances beyond our control.
5 – © 2017 World Expeditions Travel Group - Rachel Imber 5/3/2017 11:10:21 AM
explore antarctica
Cruise the stunning Antarctic Peninsula enjoying spectacular
icebergs, calving glaciers and abundant wildlife
boat cruise
The purpose‑built Silver Explorer expedition cruise ship has been designed specifically for
navigating waters in some of the world’s most remote destinations, including both of earth’s
polar regions. A strengthened hull with a Lloyd’s Register ice‑class notation (1A) for passenger
vessels enables Silver Explorer to safely push through ice floes with ease. A fleet of Zodiac
boats allows Silversea Expedition guests to visit even the most off‑the‑beaten path locations
and an expert Expedition Team provides insight and understanding to each unforgettable Silver
Explorer luxury cruise adventure.
Ship Specifications:
Crew: 117
Officers: International
Guests: 132
Length: 354’
Width: 52’
Speed: 14 Knots
Tonnage: 6,072
Silver Explorer offers a degree of luxury unmatched in expedition cruising and some of the
largest accommodations of any expedition cruise ship. Select Silver Explorer suites even have
French balconies or large private verandas.
All luxury cruise suites and staterooms feature: Butler service, refrigerator and bar setup
stocked with your preferences, down duvets, fine bed linens, firm or soft mattresses, your
choice of pillow, European bath amenities, spa robes and slippers, personalised stationery,
umbrella, flat‑screen TVs with interactive video, on‑demand movies, music and satellite news
programming. WiFi Internet access is available in all suites and staterooms (fee applies).
suggested extensions
Paine and Fitzroy Trek
Patagonia Adventure
Torres del Paine Circuit
We have a range of Patagonia options including short customised itineraries and
group departures. Ask our office for details.
We also have a range of options to Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, and more
Refer to our website, www.worldexpeditions.com for more details
climate
The climate in Antarctica is characterized by a long winter and a relatively short summer. We
visit the Peninsula during the summer (November to March) when temperatures hover between
–15 and +2 degrees Celsius during the day. Wind chill can cause this temperature to drop below
–15 degrees Celsius. The Antarctic continent is considered to be the coldest desert in the world.
Precipitation can occur during the summer on the Peninsula; however it is unlikely to persist for
longer than a few hours.
6 – © 2017 World Expeditions Travel Group - Rachel Imber 5/3/2017 11:10:21 AM
explore antarctica
Cruise the stunning Antarctic Peninsula enjoying spectacular
icebergs, calving glaciers and abundant wildlife
a typical day
Because of the exploratory nature of these voyages we do not have a set itinerary. The
final decisions on our daily program will make best use of local ice and weather conditions,
spontaneous opportunities and wildlife. These notes are designed to give you a good idea of our
intentions.
dietary requirements
Provided we are advised in advance we are able to cater for vegetarian diets and can assist
with medically recommended diets (allergies and intolerances). Please ensure you discuss
your requirements with us well in advance to determine whether we can cater on your chosen
adventure. Please note that options are likely to be limited in remote locations or alternatives
may be more expensive or unavailable. There may be times when those with special
requirements may need to provide their own food. Passengers must travel with all necessary
medications for food allergies and be capable of self‑administering these medications.
accommodation on the trip
The Silver Explorer has a range of comfortable stateroom/suite accommodation to choose from.
equipment required
A comprehensive gear list is provided in the pre‑departure information supplied on booking.
protecting the environment
Antarctica is the largest wilderness region on earth and deserves special protection. The
International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) was formed in 1991 to
promote environmentally responsible travel to the Antarctic. World Expeditions is committed
to responsible travel and true sustainability and we are proud to be an Associate Member
of IAATO. Participants on our voyages are briefed on the environmental codes of conduct &
the scientific explanations behind them to help maximize the enjoyment of their visit without
compromising the pristine environment.
non exclusive trips
Please note that this trip is not exclusive to World Expeditions clients and you will be joining a
group of 132 adventurers from around the world.
wildlife
Apart from the deep sea, Antarctica is the oldest and largest self‑contained ecosystem in the
world. The animal world is very closely linked with the sea and is consequently to be found
mainly on the periphery of the continent. With the exception of a few insects, all forms of life
capitulate in the face of the increasingly harsh climatic conditions further inland. The coastal
regions are populated by sea birds such as petrels, albatrosses, skuas and penguins as well
as marine mammals like the crabeater seal, leopard seal, Ross seal, Weddell seal, fin and right
whale, and sea lions. The Antarctic sea regions contain the greatest quantities of animal protein
on Earth.
7 – © 2017 World Expeditions Travel Group - Automated Import 6/6/2017 2:45:39 PM
explore antarctica
Cruise the stunning Antarctic Peninsula enjoying spectacular
icebergs, calving glaciers and abundant wildlife
Antarctica’s marine food chain
The most common Antarctic shrimp, krill, uses its front legs to catch microscopic unicellular
algae known as diatoms. The word krill comes from the Norwegian and means “food of the
whale”. All living creatures consume 90% of their food for their everyday activities and thus
convert only 10% into body weight, meaning that nutritional value declines exponentially as one
progresses through the food chain. The whale jumps these links in the chain by preying directly
on krill rather than on fish or sea birds. A fin whale requires about 2‑3 tonnes of krill per day to
reach an impressive length of 24 metres and a weight of up to 80 tonnes.
Antarctic birds
Penguins represent half of the Antarctic bird population, nine‑tenths of its biomass. These birds
depend on the sea for their food. They eat about 4.7 million tons of food each month, mainly
crustaceans and fish, but also squid. While penguins dominate the bird biomass, tube‑nosed
petrels constitute the majority of the breeding species. Other groups include cormorants, skuas,
gulls, and terns.
It takes a tough bird to overcome Antarctica’s notorious inclemency. One might infer from the
enormous concentrations of sea birds that do occur that the populations are invincible. They are
not. The long isolation of Antarctic birds has produced an extraordinarily innocent and docile
avifauna ‑ a quality attractive to both scientific study and tourism, but one that leaves these
highly vulnerable birds open to harm from human presence or mismanagement.
Natural factors such as storms or abnormally extensive sea ice can cause extremely high
mortality in nesting areas. But Antarctic bird species have evolved to overcome these
adversities. Human activity is another matter. On the evolutionary time scale, people and their
machines have just entered the Antarctic scene. The birds have had little time to adjust. Studies
have shown that even casual or occasional contacts with Antarctic bird colonies can adversely
affect breeding success. After visits are ended or controlled, bird populations have been
observed to return to former levels.
Today, much is known about some of these birds at breeding sites, but virtually nothing about
the longer time they spend at sea.
flora
Infertile and wasteland are two words one often hears in connection with the polar regions.
Yet over 800 species of flowering plant flourish in the Arctic, though by contrast there are only
two species of flowering plants on the Antarctic mainland since it is a long way from the next
continent, a fact which reduces the chances of new plant species becoming established. The
major part of Antarctica is also covered by eternal ice and the climate is much harsher than
in most parts of the Arctic. In the few places where plants can grow, mosses and lichens play
a bigger role than flowering plants. Some lichens even grow in the polar desert areas in the
interior of Antarctica where the conditions are truly extreme. Arctic plants have to be very small
to survive. A tall plant would be helplessly exposed to the sharp ice crystals with which the wind
would constantly batter it.
what’s not included
Flights to and from Ushuaia
Airport transfers not listed in the itinerary
Passport and vaccination charges, reciprocity fees and airport departure taxes
Accommodation and meals or other services not included in the ship cruise itinerary
Laundry, postage, personal clothing, medical expenses, travel insurance and items of
a personal nature such as bar charges, wine and phone calls
Emergency evacuation charges
Customary end of voyage tips
8 – © 2017 World Expeditions Travel Group - Automated Import 6/6/2017 2:45:39 PM
explore antarctica
Cruise the stunning Antarctic Peninsula enjoying spectacular
icebergs, calving glaciers and abundant wildlife
visas
Whilst visa’s are not required to visit Antarctica many passport holders may require visa’s for
countries they transit en‑route to the voyage. Please check with your reservations consultant or
travel agent to determine if visa’s are required for your journey.
info nights
World Expeditions invites you to attend our inspiring adventure travel information nights. These
special evenings are designed to inform and entertain and are hosted by our most experienced
and passionate adventure travellers and mountaineers. Ask our staff for a info night schedule or
register on our website ‑ www.worldexpeditions.com. Shows can fill early so it is important to
register your attendance so we know to save a seat, or two!
subscribe to our e-newsletter
To keep up to date with our new and exciting adventure opportunities, special promotions and
adventure news, subscribe to our monthly e‑newsletter! You can do this on line through our
website, www.worldexpeditions.com or contact our office.
trip availability
If this trip seems right for you then we encourage you to call us now to check availability. There
are many reasons why you may not be able to join your desired departure and limited space
on our small group departures is just one of them. Many of our adventures require us to secure
services on your behalf; such as trekking permits, train travel and visa invitation letters. The
demand is increasing each year making it difficult to join a trip last minute. To ensure we can
assist you onto your adventure of a lifetime we ask that you check your trip availability with our
team at your earliest convenience.
how to book
To book a World Expeditions trip, you will need to complete a booking form and pay a non
refundable deposit which you can do by using our online booking function for most trips, or
if you prefer, download a booking form from the website and return to us by fax, or mail your
booking form and deposit to your nearest World Expeditions office or travel agent. We can also
help you with any additional arrangements that you require, such as competitive airfares to get
you to your destination, stopovers, pre or post trip accommodation or any additional tours that
you wish to take in conjunction with the main World Expeditions trip.
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