The Weddell Sea and the Antarctic Peninsula
The Weddell Sea and the Antarctic Peninsula
Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime expedition to the Weddell Sea and the Seventh Continent. Experience incredible wildlife in icy waters, breathtaking mountain landscapes and gigantic icebergs over 11 eventful days. From Ushuaia, we cross the mighty Drake Passage on our way to the South Shetland Islands, where we plan our first landing. From here we navigate to the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. We plan landings on penguin rookeries, research stations, and fascinating landmarks that will allow us to enjoy the spectacular views. Continuing east, we will cruise the Antarctic Sound with its mighty tabular icebergs and we will head towards the Weddell Sea in search of wildlife. On the way back, we plan to follow the route once taken by Ernest Shackleton as we navigate toward Elephant Island. On no other voyage can you experience so much untouched nature and diverse wildlife! When the Ocean Victory returns to Tierra del Fuego and Ushuaia, depending on the weather, we could pass near the mythical Cape Ornis - the southernmost point of South America; a famous maritime landmark.
16.12 - 26.12.2022 (English)
First day: Arrival at Ushuaia, Arrival at
Second to penultimate day: On expedition cruise... Ice, weather and wildlife observation will determine the route.
Last day: Disembarkation at Ushuaia and return home.
Arrival and embarkation in Ushuaia, Argentina - the southernmost city in the world. Explore the picturesque city or the local countryside. Alternatively, consider a day trip off the beaten track to the raw, natural archipelago of Tierra del Fuego, or a tour to the nearby Tierra del Fuego National Park. It is a hiker's paradise with rugged snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and flower-filled meadows. In the afternoon we board the ship Ocean Victory, our home for the next few days.
Our journey begins as we navigate the calm waters of the Beagle Channel, a strait in the Tierra del Fuego Archipelago.
Next, we cross the famous Drake Passage - a body of water that marks the intersection of the cold Antarctic with the warmer Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Drake Passage is known for strong westerly winds, and is also nicknamed "The Roaring Fifties." Although this passage may be challenging, you can rest confidently aboard our expedition ship, custom built with powerful stabilizers. The most experienced sailors consider crossing the Drake Passage a life's work - and soon you can check it off your "bucket list" yourself!
After crossing the Drake Passage, we will begin to explore the Antarctic islands of the South Shetland chain, marveling at captivating landscapes and encountering our first penguins. With the patented X-BOW design, Ocean Victory will provide you with a smooth ride across the Drake Passage, and due to the speed of the ship, we may make a first landing or activity in the South Shetland Islands in the afternoon of Day 3, weather permitting.
Show deck plan
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