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.
 
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.
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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Departure Dates 2006 / 2007
November
9 - 19 - 29
December
9 - 19 - 29
January
8 - 18 - 28
February
7 - 17
 
2006-2007 RATES ANTARCTIC DREAM EXPEDITION
DESKS
Cape Horn
Piloto Pardo
Shackleton
Amundsen
Single
US$ 14.500
US$ 13.200
US$ 10.300
US$ 8.700
Double
US$ 9.700
US$ 8.800
US$ 6.900
US$ 5.800
  • 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

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.

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

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.
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.
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.

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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ALTUE ACTIVE TRAVEL
Encomenderos 83, 2nd Floor, CP6760254, Santiago, CHILE
Tel: (56 2) 2321103 - (56 2) 2332964 / Fax : (56 2 ) 2336799