Antarctica Cruise

 

South to Antarctica

  •  
    Cruise
  •  
    Marine Mammals
  •  
    Bird Watching
  •  
    Day Hikes
  •  
    Multi-day Hiking
  •  
    Kayaking
  •  
    Rafting
  •  
    Caving
Start: Invercargill
Finish: Invercargill
Length: 29 days
Grade:
A (you need to be in reasonably good health)
Accom: Cabins
Price:
US$18,700
Extra Costs: Landing fees: US$750pp. (2014)
Departs: 11 Jan 2014, 8 Feb 2014 - see see departures
Highlights: The ultimate Antarctica cruise includes the Sub Antarctic Islands of New Zealand, plus Macquarie Island. Your Antarctica cruise expedition spends ten days in the Ross Sea with plenty of time ashore to soak in the scenery, the wildlife and the history.

Sometimes referred to as ‘the heart of Antarctica’, the Ross Sea region is the last great unspoiled part of the world’s oceans. To date there has only been minimal exploitation, and to enter this region of Antarctica is a privilege, with only a few hundred people able to visit each year. The East Antarctic coastline is some of the most remote in the world and is locked under ice for most of the year. The rest of the time it is buffeted by strong katabatic winds coming off the polar ice cap. Wildlife is abundant during these brief summer months and includes Adélie and Emperor penguins, South Polar Skuas, Snow Petrels, Southern Fulmars and many more species of bird. Both whales and seals abound here at this time and can be found feeding in the rich waters around the ice edge.

Sir James Clark Ross discovered the Ross Sea in 1842. Whales were hunted here in the 1920’s and more recently there has been some tooth fishing. The dynamic ecosystems that are unique to these regions are fragile and barely understood. It is a land of dramatic landscapes: photographers have attempted to capture it on film, artists to paint it, poets and writers to describe it. But to fully appreciate it, you must experience it yourself.

 
Map
click for a detailed map
I would have to consider this trip one of the highlights of my life. I have always dreamed of voyaging to the Antarctic. Your obvious enjoyment and enthusiasm for Antarctica was very infectious and I would defy anyone to not be affected by it.

John, England

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Qualmark Endorsed Visitor Service and Tourism Industry Association Member
 
Qualmark Endorsed Visitor Service Tourism Industry Association Member Department of Conservation Approved Macpac Partnership Tourism Distinction Award Winners