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The line attracts a slightly older mainstream passenger than Celebrity, and the extended cruise length rules out almost all families. Expect seasoned travelers onboard, particularly those who’ve sailed Holland America before. The best Antarctica cruise line will depend entirely on your budget and your goals. Want to spend the most time possible with boots on the ground in Antarctica? Would you be happiest doing an Alaska-style cruise with plenty of time spent in Antarctic waters while you relax comfortably on the ship soaking up the surroundings? One of the most enthralling aspects of Antarctica is the fact that it’s virtually untouched by humans.
Night Ushuaia RoundtripDetails
The bays you’ll visit during your Antarctica cruise are a startling shade of blue and remarkably clear, making for some of the most beautiful unspoiled views you’ll get anywhere on the planet. Admire towering icebergs as your ship navigates slowly through the icy waters. You’ll see icebergs in mesmerizing shapes and sizes, and colors from brilliant white to sapphire blue. We eventually depart Antarctica, and spend two days at sea on our way northwards back across the infamous Drake Passage towards the more welcoming shores of the Beagle Channel and Ushuaia, Argentina.
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This voyage departs in the first half of the brief Antarctic summer, when sea ice is at its maximum – this offers us ample opportunities to explore in the icy wilderness of the last continent. Our exact route will be subject to careful planning by the Expedition Leader and Captain – however we will aim to visit a range of sites which showcase the best of this staggeringly beautiful region. Viking Octantis is designed to carry 378 passengers, which is on the high side for Antarctica cruise ships.
The Adventure begins here!
Its icy seas, isolated icebergs and snow-driven deserts are home to wildlife that surprise and charm all who visit them. Hear the beautiful 'symphony of the ice' as you glide silently past nature's frozen works of art in a sea kayak. Designed for close-up polar exploration, there's no better way to encounter the wildlife of Antarica and to enjoy its soul-stirring scenery. Plus, anyone fearful of embarking and disembarking exploration boats can take comfort in the sheltered Hangar where passengers easily get in and out of Special Operations Boats from inside the ship, well protected by elements. And for kayaking couples, Viking makes it easy to snap wildlife photos while in hands-free two-seater kayaks powered by pedaling.
Antarctic fur seals start to arrive in their summer feeding grounds, and humpback whale numbers increase as more of these gentle giants arrive at the end of their long migration. Perhaps the ice will retreat far enough to allow us access to the unknown islands south of the Antarctic circle – where the midnight sun never sets. Just unveiled in early 2022, Viking Octantis is fast-growing Viking's first-ever expedition cruise ship, and it boasts some unusual features that make it one of the best cruise ships for exploring Antarctica.
Ships
Viking Expeditions has entered into the expedition genre with two custom-built vessels, Viking Polaris and Viking Octantis. These new vessels feature many of the amenities favored by Viking fans, such as a light airy Scandinavian design, Nordic spa and king bed staterooms and suites with spacious baths and heated floors. Long-known for its luxury ocean liners, Seabourn introduced its devotees to Seabourn Venture, its first expedition vessel in 2022 and its second, Seabourn Pursuit in 2023. These 264-passenger sister ships feature many of the amenities of Seabourn’s more traditional ships. French-speaking passengers or Francophile cruisers who love Gallic flair and cuisine will find their bliss with Ponant.
Most routes run 13 to 19 days from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, Argentina. The cruise includes time to explore Buenos Aires, a visit to Tierra del Fuego National Park and up to nine full days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula. Le Commandant Charcot is environmentally sensitive; it’s powered by liquified natural gas among several green attributes.
Antarctica Cruise Atlas Insider Expeditions - Not Quite Nigella
Antarctica Cruise Atlas Insider Expeditions.
Posted: Thu, 11 Apr 2024 07:00:00 GMT [source]
For any cruises listed, Cruise Critic does not guarantee any specific rates or prices. I've sailed on nearly all of these new vessels, in many cases in polar regions, and have been consistently amazed by just how much of an upgrade they really are. There's never been a better time to travel to Antarctica -- at least when it comes to getting there in comfort and style. Just impartial, expert advice from the leading Polar cruise agent. We'll spend some time listening to your aspirations, then discuss the kind of experience that might suit you.
On the morning of the final day of our voyage, we will arrive back at the pier of Ushuaia, Argentina. Trees, grass and a busy city may seem strange to you after the white wilderness of Antarctica! After a hearty breakfast, it is time to bid a fond farewell to the Crew and descend the gangway back to dry land with memories of the voyage of a lifetime. There is no set itinerary on this trip, which allows our staff onboard to maximize the experience for all onboard. Whilst our suggestions above are just possible routes and landings, we can be sure that this will be the ultimate Antarctic experience. Other unusual features include a full-blown science center with state-of-the-art gadgets and underwater drones for passenger use.
They're also loaded with observation areas for viewing the passing scenery. They carry kayaks, snowshoes and cross-country skis for polar exploring in addition to Zodiac boats for landings, and they have remotely operated vehicles -- just in case you want to see what's going on down below. These are often the ex-research vessels with stories to tell and expeditionary hearts. They're capable of getting almost anywhere, a perfect quality on voyages which are all about the landings, and getting you into the heart of Antarctica.
Take in the views from the alfresco Rooftop Terrace, or enjoy a peaceful moment at the pool in the adults-only Solarium. Journey to one of the most fascinating travel destinations on earth on cruises to Antarctica with Celebrity. Antarctica is a land of extremes, home to towering mountains, vast glaciers, and an abundance of wildlife.
These vessels rival a luxury hotel in their service and facilities. Akin to a super-yacht cruise ship, you'll be surrounded by grandeur whilst onboard, with some of the highest standards in the industry. Landings are still a key part of the voyage, so expect to be out and about each day. For many, exploring this vast, frozen continent is a once-in-a-lifetime dream. To cross the Drake Passage and reach the last great frontier - a place where sun glints off pristine ice and wildlife reigns supreme - is truly life-changing. At HX, we've been exploring Antarctica for over 20 years, and we do so in a sustainable style, with a world-leading science programme that actively helps the fragile ecosystems we explore.
Viking Octantis also has what may be the most stunning lecture hall ever at sea. Located at the back of the vessel, the high-tech room has sliding walls behind the spot where lecturers will stand that can open to reveal the surrounding scenery through floor-to-ceiling glass.
During our time at sea, a variety of activities will be arranged on board to provide our guests with the chance to reflect on their voyage. Marvel at the massive icebergs and vast glaciers on a Zodiac cruise in Paradise Bay. Be moved by penguins tenderly caring for their precious eggs, and fiercely defending their nests on Cuverville Island. Watch cataracts of ice tumble into clear blue ocean on a hike over the active glaciers of Neko Harbour. Experience the Antarctica of old at historic huts such as Damoy Point, lovingly restored and open to all. Feel the spray of water from the blow of a humpback whale on a Zodiac safari in Wilhelmina Bay.
A sister vessel to Viking Octantis, Viking Polaris, will debut in August 2022 and also will sail to polar regions. World Navigator is the first of five nearly identical sister vessels that Atlas Ocean Voyages will roll out by late 2024, many of which will sail regularly to Antarctica. With over 100 years of Antarctic experience between us, we can help guide you to exactly the right trip for you. This elegant and very capable 264 guest ship boasts innovative design throughout and the unique opportunity to explore Antarctica throug the use of its submarines.
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