Expedition
traveling to the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula.
This expedition offers you the ideal introduction to the Great White
Continent. Departing from and finishing in the port of Ushuaia, we
take in the most exciting sights of the South Shetland Islands and
the Antarctic Peninsula. Our program is orientated to the viewing
of wildlife and the breathtaking scenery of narrow waterways, glaciers,
icebergs and the rugged mountains. The itinerary given below is the
11 day expedition. Of course no two expeditions can be exactly the
same so the itinerary outlined here is for your guidance only: the
Captain and the Expedition Leader will assess conditions daily with
the intention of maximizing your time ashore. This means taking full
advantage of opportunities to land passengers with our zodiacs and
making best use of the light of the long summer days.
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DAY 1 USHUAIA
- ARGENTINA |
Passengers
board the "Antarctic Dream" where you will be greeted by
our Expedition Leader and staff and shown to your cabin. Our departure
is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. |
DAYS 2 to
3 DRAKE PASSAGE |
Wandering
albatrosses, storm petrels and other seabirds will escort the vessel
as you sail south across this famous passage named after Sir Francis
Drake, the 16th-century English navigator. We will continue towards
the Antarctic Convergence, a biological barrier where cold polar waters
sink beneath the warmer waters of the more temperate zone. In 1819,
the British explorer William Smith described the South Shetland Islands
as "barren and covered with snow, with seals in abundance".
Yet, mosses and lichens thrive during the short summer at the low-lying
peninsulas of these rugged islands located directly adjacent to the
Antarctic Peninsula. |
DAY 04 KING
GEORGE ISLAND |
King George
Island will give us an early taste of what the Antarctic really is.
It was discovered by the British adventurer William Smith in 1819
and is the biggest island of the South Shetlands; nearly 90% of it
is covered by the Collins glacier. Prior to departing, and if the
weather is good, we will offer passengers a short helicopter over-flight
to admire the immensity and beauty of the landscape*. If conditions
do not allow us to fly we will disembark in Potter Bay and visit the
Argentine scientific base, Jubany. Here there will be great chances
of finding marine elephants. In the afternoon we will disembark at
Aitcho Island which is in between Greenwich and Robert Islands and
is part of the South Shetlands. We should be able to see Gentoo and
Chinstrap penguins as well as Weddell Sea seals and sea elephants
before continuing with the crossing of the Bransfield and Gerlache
Straits to enter Andvord Bay where we find Neko Bay. |
DAY 5 ANTARCTIC
PENINSULA & NEKO BAY |
Besides
the magnificent scenery of mountains, snow and ice, in Antarctica
you can expect to see a wide variety of the native wildlife, including
thousands of nests of Gentoo, Chinstrap, and Adelie penguins. Other
birds to look out for are blue-eyed shags, gulls, cape petrels, skuas,
snowy sheathbills and Antarctic terns. Marine mammals that you are
likely to see include Weddell crab-eaters and leopard seals while
Orcas, humpback and mink whales may be spotted at close range. This
area is also of substantial historical interest and was extensively
explored by several expeditions during the 19th century. Passengers
should feel the same sense of excitement as the early explorers as
you keep a lookout from the Bridge or other vantage points while your
vessel threads her way through this dramatic and pristine region.
The program includes your first landing on the White Continent (Neko
Bay) and another on Port Lockroy (Gaudier Island). Neko Bay was discovered
by Adrian de Gerlache, a Belgian explorer between 1897 and 1899 and
it is called Neko after the Norwegian whale ship which operated in
this area from 1911 to 1912 and from 1923 to 1924. Port Lockroy is
close to Wiencke Island in the Antarctic Peninsula and was the principle
base of the 1944 Tabarin Operation - the scientific research included
the Antarctic's first ionosphere measurements and also the first recording
of an atmospheric whistle. |
DAY 6 PLENEAU
- PETERMANN ISLAND |
We sail
south through the narrow Lemaire Channel whose high, sheer cliffs
suggest that no passage could be found. Once through the channel,
known as one of the most beautiful places in the world, and provided
climate and ice conditions are good enough, we will be able to visit
Petermann Island which is the most southern land point of our expedition.
Here we will disembark and will be able to see the most southern colony
of Gentoo penguins which nest near our landing spot. On this island
we will also be able to see a colony of beautiful Adelei penguins,
skuas and blue-eyed shags. At Pleneau we should have the opportunity
to take our zodiacs and visit impressive ice formations. |
DAY 7 PARADISE
BAY - CUVERVILLE ISLAND |
At this
point of our program we will begin our return voyage. During the morning
and, stressing again that "if weather permits", we will
disembark or use our zodiacs in Paradise Bay. This is one of the most
striking places of the whole Antarctic Peninsula. Here glaciers tumble
into the sea; icebergs break off and are later carved into wonderful
shapes by the wind and the sea.
In the evening we will visit Cuverville Island. Beside its dramatic
scenery it is home to one of the largest colony of Gentoo penguins
and skuas. This rocky island is on the north side of the Errera Channel,
between Ronge Island and the Arctowski Peninsula. It has been noted
that reproduction of Papua penguins, giant petrels, Wilson petrels,
skuas, and shags take place on Cuverville Island. Most visitors find
the viewing of such abundant wildlife is every bit as rewarding as
the magnificent Antarctic scenery, and you will be enchanted by these
waterways. Navigating and exploring these channels is certainly one
of the highlights of a visit to the Peninsula. Unfortunately on some
trips they may be choked with icebergs and pack ice.
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DAY 8 DECEPTION
ISLAND - WHALER'S BAY - PENDULUM COVE |
We continue
sailing to Deception Island which is at the northwest side of the
Peninsula. Deception Island is the largest active volcano in the area
and one of the main sources of seismic and volcanic activity in the
Antarctic. Sailing through the narrow passage into its huge flooded
crater is a thrilling experience. Do not forget to bring your bathing
suite as swimming in this water is a unique experience. During the
morning we will try to disembark in Whaler's Bay and Pendulum Cove.
In the afternoon and depending on weather conditions we will disembark
at Hannah Point (Livingstone Island). This is one of the best places
in the Antarctic to see fauna and we should see Chinstrap and Gentoo
penguins, giant petrels, Wilson petrels, skuas and blue-eyed shags.
With luck we should also see sea elephants. |
DAYS 9 to
10 DRAKE PASSAGE |
Today,
we will leave the Antarctic and head north back across the Drake Passage.
Now is the chance to compare and revise notes and dwell on the adventures
of the past week, to take in the final lectures and to enjoy the delicious
gastronomy on board as you return to Ushuaia. |
DAY 11 USHUAIA,
ARGENTINA |
After and
early breakfast we will land at 9:00 a.m. and bid farewell to our
guests. Thus ends an incredible and unique expedition. |
**
Please note that you should regard this itinerary as a guide only;
our exact route and program varies according to the weather conditions
we encounter. Flexibility is the key to success for all expedition
of the M/V Antarctic Dream. The vagaries of conditions in the south
compel us to draw to your attention that Antarctic Shipping S.A. does
not own nor operate helicopters. Helicopter services are provided
by an external company. The flights are dependent on weather conditions
on King George Island (day 4 of the program). The flight will be approximately
10 minutes and it will have no extra cost for those passengers who
have paid full fare. Antarctic Shipping S.A. will use reasonable efforts
to provide passengers with this service but is not responsible if
the service is not fulfilled for any reason.
We highly recommend scheduling your arrival in Ushuaia with at least
one day in advance in order to avoid any flight delays. |
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November
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9 - 19 - 29
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December
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9 - 19 - 29
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January
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8 - 18 - 28
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February
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7 - 17
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2006-2007 RATES ANTARCTIC DREAM EXPEDITION
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DESKS
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Cape Horn
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Piloto Pardo
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Shackleton
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Amundsen
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Single
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US$ 14.500
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US$ 13.200
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US$ 10.300
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US$ 8.700
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Double
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US$ 9.700
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US$ 8.800
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US$ 6.900
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US$ 5.800
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- Rates in US dollars, at valid exchange rate
- Rates per person based on double cabin occupancy
- Cabin rates vary depending on deck
- Single occupancy rates carry 50% surcharge on published rates
- Rates may vary without prior notice
- 15 persons will be considered a group, one free or Tour Conductor
applicable (Antarctica Programs)
- Children under 14 not recommended
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INCLUDED :
- Accommodation in cabin of choice
- Breakfast, lunch, tea, dinner and welcome cocktail
- Use of the library.
- Use of gym and sauna.
- On board lectures and exhibits.
- Information on the region.
- Passenger's Insurance (P&I).
- Expedition in zodiac boats.
- Medical attention.
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NOT INCLUDED :
- Flights to boarding ports.
- Passports or visas.
- Taxes or boarding taxes at airport/ports.
- Transfers not specified in the program.
- Telephone calls.
- Use of the internet.
- Meals or beverages not included in the menu.
- Fines or Flight Cancellation Assistance.
- Travel or Health Insurance.
- Medical attention in clinic.
- Tips Rates.
- Rates - Procedures - Clothing.
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Procedures:
o Full rate paid before boarding
o Patagonia Program, please indicate date and mean of transport to
Punta Arenas / Ushuaia
o Antarctic Program, please indicate date and mean of transport to
Ushuaia
o Antarctic Program, we highly recommend scheduling your arrival in
Ushuaia with at least one day in advance in order to avoid any flight
delays.
o Special dietary requirements must be requested upon booking, in
writing and with all the necessary information
o Safety rules for disembarking must be abided by all passengers |
Clothing:
- We suggest you bring appropriate clothing for the region's temperatures.
o For disembarking, crew members will give passengers special
clothing which must be worn (jackets and boots)
- Casual clothing on the ship
- Thermal clothing, not synthetic is recommended.
- Sun Block
- Swimming Suit
- Comfortable walking shoe.
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ABOUT
THE SHIP: M/V Antarctic Dream (former Piloto Pardo)
Wheelhouse replica open to passengers
- 39 Double cabins - 4 Decks
- 02 Suites Cape Horn deck
- 02 Suites Piloto Pardo deck
- 19 Superior cabins Shackleton deck
- 16 Cabins Amundsen deck
- 4 Zodiacs, each one with capacity for 20 passengers.
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CABINS:
According to the deck- Only in double cabins, Queen or Twin beds.
All cabins feature:
- Private bathroom with shower or tub
- Closed TV Circuit (movies upon request)
- Music
- Individual/central heater
- Satellite and/or mobile telephone connection
- Wardrobe.
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Facilities:
Lobby o Main Dining Room (capacity for 100 passengers) o Bar o Library
o Auditorium / Projection Lounge o Heliport o Mud Room o Gym / Sauna
o Sick bay / First Aid (doctor on board)
o Boutique.
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TERMS
AND CONDITIONS OF CONTRACT:
The following deposits are required to confirm a reservation, with
final payment due 90 days (except Patagonia cruises 45 days) prior
to departure.
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Reservations
and Payment
- Antarctic 2006-2007 Antarctic Dream Expedition US$ 1,500 per
person.
- Patagonia 2006-2007 South Patagonia Expedition US$ 300 per person.
- All rates and payments are in US dollars and no other currencies
can be accepted.
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Cancellations
and refunds: All requests for cancellations must be received in
writing.
Cancellation received 90 days prior to departure will be fully refunded
less an administrative fee of US$500 per person (USD$150 Patagonia).
Within the 90 day (45 days for Patagonia) limit, all money is forfeited.
If cancellation occurs within the 90 day period (45 days for Patagonia)
and full payment has not yet been received, the full penalty will
still apply, and unpaid money is due immediately. For these and other
reasons mentioned below, you are strongly encouraged to obtain trip
cancellation insurance. Rates quoted are based on group participation
and no refunds will be made for any part of the program in which you
choose not to participate, including any helicopter flying time (if
applicable and which, at the discretion of the captain and expedition
leader, may or may not be utilized). It is understood that refunds
cannot be made to passengers who do not complete the tour for any
reason whatsoever. |
Itinerary:
The itinerary described is subject to change at the discretion of
the ship's master. This is an expedition to a remote part of the world,
and we reserve the right to change the itinerary due to weather conditions,
availability of anchorages, political conditions and other factors
beyond our control without consulting the participants. It is understood
that such decisions will be made in the best interests of all the
passengers aboard and with regard to the safety of the vessel. Participants
have no right to any refund or other considerations in the event of
these inevitable itinerary changes. Nothing in this brochure is meant
to signify the use of any specific design or model of helicopter.
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Rates:
Expedition rates are based on tariffs and exchange rates in effect
at the time prior to departure. Substantial changes in tariffs, exchange
rates and the price of fuel, services and labor sometimes increase
the cost of expedition arrangements significantly, and we reserve
the right to alter our prices accordingly.
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Responsibility:
Please read this important information carefully.
The payment of a deposit of any part or full payment for a reservation
on this expedition shall constitute consent to all the provisions
contained here in. Antarctic Shipping S.A acts as general sales agents
for the vessel and as such exercise every possible care. However,
Antarctic Shipping S.A, their subsidiaries and/or associated Agents,
shall not be held liable for property loss or damage and/or any damages
resulting from illness, personal injuries or death which may be sustained
by reason of, or while engaged in, any tour whether due to the ownership,
maintenance, use, operation or control of any aircraft, helicopter,
automobile, bicycle, boat, vehicle, hotel, common carrier or any other
conveyance used in carrying out these expedition.
We can assume no liability due to any cause whatsoever whether caused
by failure or delay or other irregularity, acts or omissions occurring
during a tour under which the means of transportation or other service
provided thereby is offered or supplied by owners, operators or public
carriers for whom Antarctic Shipping S.A. act only as agents.
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