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All the highlights of the Falklands, South Georgia and the Antarctic peninsula as well as crossing the Antarctic Circle
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 café in town.
As the ship sets sail in the late afternoon, you will begin your Antarctic journey, passing through the Beagle Channel. Named after the famed ship on which Charles Darwin voyaged, the channel presents great photo opportunities to capture seabirds hovering overhead.
There are many activities to keep you engaged while we’re at sea. You can take advantage of the library of books available on your ship, chat with your shipmates at the bar, or spend time out on deck, admiring the sea. The Expedition Team will also conduct a series of presentations to familiarize yourself with how to prepare for Zodiac cruises and shore landings.
The Falkland archipelago contains two main islands, East and West, which we will explore by Zodiac excursions and daily landings. These rugged islands have a frontier feel to them, especially at Port Stanley—the largest settlement on the islands. It’s an interesting British outpost–type place, where you may just as easily wander into a pub as you will a church or museum.With your camera at hand, our wildlife sightings in the Falklands (Malvinas) should include at least three species of penguins and two endemic bird species—Cobb’s wren and the Falkland’s flightless Steamer duck.Your team of lecturers and specialists will be sure to educate you on the local flora and fauna so that you have the most memorable time.
Enroute to South Georgia you’ll cross the invisible biological boundary unique to Antarctica – the Antarctic Convergence. This meeting of oceans is what creates the abundance of krill and marine life that attract large cetaceans such as Humpback whales.
Evidence of the old whaling and sealing heyday is still found throughout the island. You’ll be surprised to learn that whale and seal populations were once decimated here. Today, their populations are strong, with massive rookeries to be seen.One significant and historic site that will be of interest is the grave of the great explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. Your visit to his gravesite at the Grytviken settlement, also home to an old whaling station and a research station, is a day for reflecting on what it must have been like to be one of the first explorers of this unforgiving yet beautiful environment.Although South Georgia’s history is an important attraction to the island, it is the wildlife that you and your shipmates will likely find most captivating. Often referred to as the Galapagos of the Poles, South Georgia contains an exceptional quantity of wildlife. Each landing you make on the island will open your eyes to a new wonder: one day you may see rookeries with hundreds of thousands of pairs of King penguins waddling on a beach; the next day you may visit another beach dotted with thousands of Fur or Elephant seals.The grasses, mountains and beaches of South Georgia all play an important role in the breeding and survival of different bird and animal species. The Expedition Team will be happy to share its knowledge of how these vulnerable relationships all play out on the island.
Antarctica awaits, along with its own penguin and seal species. While you’re at sea, you can enjoy quiet time or take in presentations by the Expedition Team, who will cover everything from the history and geology of Antarctica to tips on identifying different species and what makes each of them unique.
The most common reaction to arriving at the White Continent is a sense of reverence and awe. The experience is hard to put into words. You will discover that Antarctica is a land of extremes: at one moment you’ll be overcome with a feeling of complete silence and loneliness, the next you’ll be laughing at the comical antics of a curious penguin.Glacier hikes, visits to research bases and, of course, communing with seals and penguins are sure to keep you smiling each and every day. Perhaps you’ll catch sight of the fearless penguin-eater, the Leopard seal, or come eye–to–eye with a curious Minke whale while on a Zodiac. Each day and each landing will present a new collection of creatures to entertain you and keep your camera busy!
Crossing the Antarctic Circle is an impressive achievement, as most expeditions to the Peninsula do not come close to reaching this far south.With a toast to the first explorers who ventured here, you can raise a glass of champagne and take pride in knowing you’ve made it to a part of the world visited by very few people. This is raw Antarctica, home to the midnight sun, with the potential for fantastic iceberg sightings.
If you haven’t had your fill of Antarctic wildlife and icebergs by now, you’ll surely be satisfied by the time we return to the Drake Passage. You will continue to journey onto land by Zodiac twice daily as you travel north along the western Antarctic Peninsula.The Expedition Team will always be on the lookout for species of penguins, seals and whales that may have eluded you on the journey south.
After more than a dozen days of memorable wildlife encounters, your journey home begins. Crossing the Drake is your unofficial rite of passage, putting a final stamp of approval on your Antarctic adventure.
Today you’ll say goodbye to the Expedition Team and fellow travelers, disembarking in the morning to catch your homeward flights.
21 nights on the ship, 1 night in hotel in UshuaiaExpedition cruising in
comfortable conditions
All meals while on the ship included.Typical MealsThe 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.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.Vegetarians and vegans can be well catered
for on this holiday - please do inform us before departure of any special
dietary requests so that our local team can be well prepared.
21 nights on the ship, 1 night in hotel in UshuaiaExpedition cruising in
comfortable conditions
Travelling ConditionsThe 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:Paddling
Excursion:Explore the ocean from a more intimate vantage point on a
sit-on-top kayak. No experience is required to manoeuvre these very stable
kayaks, allowing you to enjoy an unforgettable experience on the water,
taking in breath-taking landscapes and wildlife. Whether it’s your first
time in a kayak or you want greater flexibility to try other Adventure
options, this shorter excursion is for you. Paddling in the Polar Regions is
highly weather-dependent and a one-time experience. Your kayak guides will
attempt to take you out on the water for 1-1.5 hours of paddling. Offered on
most voyages, spaces are limited. All equipment, guides and instructions are
provided by Quark.Sea Kayaking Option:Kayaking in Antarctica is probably one
of the most intimate and inspiring ways you can explore this incredible
region. Glide through the quiet waters and take in the beauty of Antarctica.
Paddle through astounding icebergs, watch penguins, seals and possibly whales
swim around your kayak.Kayaking in the Polar Regions is highly
weather-dependent, however we guarantee at least one outing during your
voyage. Your kayak guides will always attempt to take you out as many times
as possible throughout your voyage.Offered on most Antarctic voyages, spaces
are limited and require some kayaking experience. All equipment, guides and
instructions are provided by Quark.Polar ItinerariesAll 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.Booking
ConditionsPlease note that, as with all Polar holidays and voyages, the
booking conditions for this trip differ from our standard conditions. The
required deposit is 25% per person of your selected travel arrangements
(minimum £1000 per person or equivalent in booking currency) and the
balance of the price of your travel arrangements must be paid at least 133
days before your departure date. The deposit is non-refundable, and at 133
days before departure date, our cancellation penalties are 100% of the
holiday cost. COVID-19 Vaccination: Please note that as a condition of
travel on any of our Polar voyages, clients must be fully vaccinated against
COVID-19. Clients must provide proof of their vaccination status to Quark
staff before boarding the ship. For full terms and conditions please refer
to our Quark Book and Travel with Confidence Policy, found here:
https://www.exodus.co.uk/quark-book-and-travel-confidence If you have any
questions, please contact our specialist Polar sales team on 020 8003 9957 or
at polar@exodus.co.uk for further details.
POLAR ADVENTURE SHIPThe Epic Antarctica: Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctic Circle Crossing
voyage is offered on the Ocean Diamond which is a Polar Adventure
Ship. Please visit the Polar Fleet page for 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 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.
OCEAN DIAMOND[[{"fid":"106321","view_mode":"default","fields":{"format":"default"},"type":"media","field_deltas":{"1":{"format":"default"}},"attributes":{"class":"media-element
file-default","data-delta":"1"}}]]The Ocean Diamond is a luxurious vessel
with spacious cabins. All cabins have private bathroom facilities and
exterior views. Please feel free to enjoy the flat screen TV and DVD player
in your cabin. The Ocean Diamond is Quark Expeditions’ modern, stable
super-yacht. Carrying a maximum of 189 passengers, this outstanding vessel
features numerous adventure options plus onboard amenities for you to enjoy
such as a well-stocked polar
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file-default","data-delta":"9"}}]] Cabin Class:TRIPLE: Approximately 200
sq. ft. (19 sq. m) in size, this cabin has two twin beds and an upper bed,
and two portholes. Located on the Lower Deck, these cabins have a private
bathroom with shower. A refrigerator, TV, and DVD player are included in each
cabin. Please note that porthole covers may be closed during sea days or
during inclement weather as a safety precaution.TWIN OBSTRUCTED
VIEW: Approximately 200 sq. ft. (19 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one
double bed or two twin beds, and a picture window (the view is obstructed).
Located on the Captain’s and Upper Decks, these cabins have a private
bathroom with shower. A refrigerator, TV, and DVD player are included in each
cabin.TWIN WINDOW: Between 183 and 200 sq. ft. (17 and 19 sq. m) in size,
these cabins have one double bed or two twin beds, and a picture window.
Located on the Upper, Main and Captain’s Decks, these cabins have a private
bathroom with shower. A refrigerator, TV, and DVD player are included in each
cabin.SUITE: Approximately 400 sq. ft. (37 sq. m) in size, these suites have
one double bed or two twin beds, and two picture windows. Located on the Main
Deck, these suites have two private bathrooms, and a separate sitting area
with a sofa, chair, and small table. Two refrigerators, TVs, and DVD players
are included in each cabin.SINGLE PORTHOLE: Approximately 200 sq. ft. (19
sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double bed and two portholes. Located
on the Lower Deck, these cabins have a private bathroom with shower. A
refrigerator, TV, and DVD player are included in each cabin. Please note
that porthole covers may be closed during sea days or during inclement
weather as a safety precaution.SINGLE OBSTRUCTED VIEW: Approximately 200 sq.
ft. (19 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double bed, and a picture
window (the view is obstructed by the lifeboats). Located on the Captain’s
Deck these cabins have a private bathroom with shower. A refrigerator, TV,
and DVD player are included in each cabin.BALCONY SUITE: Approximately 325
sq. ft. (30 sq. m) in size, including the balcony, this suite has one double
bed or two twin beds, and a full-size window with a sliding glass door that
leads to a private deck with chairs. Located on the Observation Deck, this
suite has a private bathroom with shower. A refrigerator, TV, and DVD player
are included in each cabin.
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.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 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.
All meals while on the ship included.Typical MealsThe 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.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.Vegetarians and vegans can be well catered
for on this holiday - please do inform us before departure of any special
dietary requests so that our local team can be well prepared.
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.
Travelling land only: 23 days starting and ending in UshuaiaYour trip
normally starts at our hotel in Ushuaia in the afternoon 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.
Late Spring and Early Summer - October & NovemberThe 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.High Summer - December, January &
FebruaryClose 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 &
MarchThis 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.
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 – A complementary Quark parka will be provided on the
ship.Trousers – Waterproof trousers 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
photograph, bring a water resistant or waterproof knapsack or backpack.Shoes
– Non-slip shoes for walking around the vessel.
SwimsuitSunglassesBinocularsCamera, extra batteries, film or memory
cardsProtective sunscreenElectric converter with adapter plug set,
220V/110VSmall medical kit containing prescription medicines and
over-the-counter medication for basic ailments such as stomach upsets,
allergies, headaches and seasicknessSnow poles or trekking poles
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.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.
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).
Travel insuranceSingle accommodation (available on request)Visas and
vaccinations
Ved skriftlig aksept av vårt tilbud bekrefter du/dere at våre betingelser er både lest og forstått og at evt kansellerings gebyrer kan tilkomme ved en evt. avbestilling av reisen.