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Cruise overview
Antarctica cruise – Springtime Expedition to the Antarctic – HX Expedition cruises
Springtime expedition to Antarctica (23 days)
23- day itinerary
Day 1: Beginning with Buenos Aires
What better way to start your Antarctic expedition than with an overnight stay in Buenos Aires: Argentina’s bustling capital city.
A city steeped in rich cultural history, intertwining both European and Latin American influences; Buenos Aires is a city with plenty to explore.
Whether you would like to indulge in the sumptuous local cuisines, practice your dance moves in the famous home-town of tango, or take in the city’s robust nightlife – the possibilities are plentiful!
If you wish to traverse the wonders of Buenos Aires in greater depth, our pre-programme packages offer the option to fully experience the beauty of the sun-kissed port city. Alternatively, why not arrive a few days earlier to see what this vibrant city has to offer?
Day 2-4: Prepare for the adventure of a lifetime
The Cruise will now set sail toward the scenic Falkland Islands, with captivating views all around you as you journey the historic islands. Take advantage of the outdoor hot-tubs and Panoramic Lounge and Bar areas as you soak up the spectacular surroundings.
You will also have plenty of opportunities to join the Expedition Team in the onboard Science Centre, participating in Citizen Science projects, engaging lectures, and much more. Their wealth of knowledge in Marine Biology, Oceanography, Antarctic survival and photography, will provide you with a strong base of expertise as you begin your expedition.
Day 5-7: The charms of island life
Here, your cruise will reach the emerald green grass, white sands and picturesque farms of the Falkland Islands.
A utopia for a wide array of bird species, the Islands are home to ducks, geese, albatross, and wrens, whilst four different species of Penguins are found here: rockhopper, the king, magellanic, and gentoo. The gentoo Penguins will often be seen in large colonies dotted around the Islands, and may be visible from the ship.
Stanley, the islands’ capital, is located on the East Falkland Island and is easily accessible by ship. Travellers will able to explore the Islands on foot due to their small size, whilst taking advantage of the enticing pubs and restaurants the islands have to offer.
Day 8-9: Adventure awaits
After your visit to the Falklands, the cruise will now spend two days journeying toward the beautiful South Georgia. The Expedition Team will take this time to prepare you for what lies ahead – the area’s wildlife, polar history, geology, glaciology, and tales about Norwegian whalers.
You’ll also be shown how to make your visit as efficient and low-impact as possible, with guests having the opportunity to take part in the Citizen Science programmes, collecting data for the purposes of Global research projects.
Day 11-13: ‘The Southern Serengeti’
Often referred to as ‘The Serengeti of the Southern Ocean’, South Georgia’s abundant wildlife makes it a must-see destination on this journey. The unique position of the Islands’ make them a breeding site for large Penguin colonies, seals, and other seabirds. The Islands’ are also an important bird area, with albatross, petrels, terns, skuas all thriving in the remote environment.
You will be spending four days exploring the stunning landscape, being continually guided by nature and responding to daily conditions to ensure you have the best possible experience. The Expedition Team will also try and take you to Grytviken, the final resting place of Antarctic explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton.
Day 13-14: Onwards to the Antarctic
Take some time to relax and reflect on your experiences at the unique Falkland and South Georgia Islands. The expedition Team will go through the IAATO environmental guidelines as you cruise toward the Antarctic, with the frozen continent being dedicated to peace, Science, and wildlife. They will talk you through the safety and sustainability rules that need to be followed, so that all passengers have the best experiences when visiting.
Day 15-19: Uncover Antarctica’s remote beauty
The first sight of Antarctica’s immense, frozen beauty will leave you speechless. Titanic icebergs float in the straits as you are greeted with the sheer majesty of this ice-covered continent. Despite the harsh conditions, nature continues to thrive. Gentoo and Chinstrap penguins court while Adelie Penguins nest. Countless seabirds patrol the skies overhead. This is a place like no other.
You will actively explore several landing sites over the next four days, with there being a total of several possible landing areas around the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands. Every day will be thrilling in different ways, no matter where you go or what you do.
The cruise may sail into flooded volcanic caldera or land in icy bays where you may see remnants of whaling paraphernalia. The experienced expedition team may also take passengers kayaking amongst the icebergs and seals, and snowshoeing to scenic viewpoints.
Antarctic seabirds such as skuas, petrels, and terns make for great viewing for bird enthusiasts. The team will also conduct onboard lectures and onshore talks surrounding the precious habitat, and how we as humans can help to conserve it.
Day 20-22: Heading back
The MS Fram will now take your North over The Drake Passage and toward Punta Arenas, as you wave goodbye to the frozen continent.
Take the opportunity to reflect on your special memories and experiences of the Falklands, South Georgia, and the Antarctic, sifting through the many stunning snapshots that you have captured with the help of the onboard photographer.
As the cruise passes the Drake Passage you will be entering the Beagle Channel, home to a mountainous landscape which plunges into the icy water. Keep a watchful eye out for Patagonian wildlife as the MS Fram continues to sail northwards.
Day 23: Punta Arenas arrival
Your expedition cruise reaches its conclusion in the Chilean city of Punta Arenas, with passengers subsequently flying back to Santiago de Chile. If you still want the adventure to continue, take advantage of Hurtigruten’s optional post-programme packages, to explore more of what the vibrant city has to offer.
What’s included
Flights
Transfer
Expedition Cruise
Onboard Activities
Landing Activities
Notes
What’s not included
Please call us free on 0800 707 6229 for pricing and availability
Useful Info
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Board Basis
Duration
Holiday Type
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