Join us for an extended journey to the last untouched continent. Antarctica will show spectacular icebergs and calving glaciers and the possibility of up-close encounters with penguins ashore, seals sunbathing on slow-moving ice floes and humpback or minke whales surfacing close to the ship. While in Antarctica we will attempt daily Zodiac departures and we will cruise amidst colourful icebergs or step ashore to visit a variety of penguin rookeries and perhaps scientific research stations on excursions led by our team of natural history experts. Keep your eyes peeled for petrels and prions in the historic Drake Passage. Throughout the voyage, learn about the geology, wildlife and history of this spectacular area from lecture presentations offered by your knowledgeable onboard Expedition Team.
Voyage Highlights:
Antarctic Sound, Antarctica –
We will travel to see tabular icebergs in the Antarctic Sound. This body of water is named after a famous Swedish expedition ship that was the first to navigate through it. The Sound traps massive continental icebergs which rise out of the water like giant white-blue blocks. Depending on ice conditions Zodiac cruises and a landing might be possible.
Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica –
We will explore the Antarctic Peninsula from the Silver Explorer, on Zodiac cruises and landings to see seals and penguin colonies. This will be conditioned on weather and ice conditions. This promontory of land is the furthest-north extension of the Antarctic mainland.
South Shetland Islands, Antarctica –
Several landing sites and remains of whaling stations can be found in the South Shetland Islands. This grouping of islands is 75 miles north of the Antarctic Peninsula and holds several research stations run by Argentina, the US, Chile, Spain and other countries. Sites will be selected based on weather and ice conditions.
Drake Passage –
We will pass twice through the Drake Passage, a 600-mile wide expanse that marks the convergence of the Atlantic, Pacific and Southern Oceans. This is an excellent area for whale-watching and pelagic birding. Look for albatrosses and Southern Giant Petrels, as well as Cape Petrels, prions and storm-petrels.
Cultural Highlights:
• As permits are available, meet the scientists and other residents of scientific stations to get updated on their state-of-the-art Antarctic research.
Wildlife Watch List:
• Penguins (Gentoo, Chinstrap and Adelie Penguins)
• Seals (Antarctic fur seals, southern elephant seals, Weddell seals, crabeater seals and leopard seals)
• Whales (humpback whales, Minke whales, sei whales, fin whales, pilot whales, orcas)
• Birds of note: Blue-eyed Shag, Black-browed Albatross, Wandering Albatross, Southern Giant Petrel, Cape Petrel, Wilson’s Storm Petrel, Snowy Sheathbill, Antarctic Terns, Arctic Terns
Expedition highlights and wildlife listed here are possible experiences only and cannot be guaranteed. Your Expedition Leader and Captain will work together to ensure opportunities for adventure and exploration are the best possible, taking into account the prevailing weather, wildlife activity and ice conditions. Expedition Team members scheduled for this voyage are subject to change or cancellation.
GEAR UP
Not sure what to wear while onboard? Visit our shop and gear up. We've got layers to keep you dry and warm, breezy wear to keep you covered and cool, and accessories to keep everything packed up and ready to go. So, no matter the weather, you'll be better prepared for your expedition.
Our Gear Shop has an expert outfitting staff and features all the essentials:
Clothes for all types of weather, boot rentals, accessories and more »
Make sure you get all your essentials today. We offer packages or individual items, for your convenience, and recommend you place orders at least 30 days before your embarkation date.
