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ANTARCTICA DEEP SOUTH

Cruises with Peregrine Adventures

Peregrine Mariner
Saturday 12 January - Friday 25 January 2008 (14 days)

On this exciting expedition, we have the opportunity to thoroughly explore the South Shetland region and Antarctic Peninsula searching out breathtaking bays and islands, and marvelling at extraordinary natural wonders. We'll also hope to travel further into the Polar Regions than on any other Peregrine expedition, journeying as far as the Antarctic Circle at 66^o 33' south and beyond.

Aboard our well-appointed Peregrine expedition vessel, we see Antarctic nature in all its glory. The offshore South Shetland group boasts an abundance of wildlife, including five seal species and massive penguin rookeries of gentoo, Adelies and chinstraps as well as a profusion of seabirds from albatross to skuas. A wildlife highlight may well be watching a variety of magnificent whale species in close proximity as they crest the surface of the waves.

On the Peninsula, we expect to visit the superb Lemaire Channel, with its glacial walls rising high on both sides, then we'll pass through the spectacular Crystal Sound and conditions permitting we'll get far enough south to visit Marguerite Bay and even the Bellingshausen Sea.

We'll be stunned by the mainland itself made up of a remarkable sweeping ice-sheet that masks mountains and fills trenches, binding together an entire continent that is close in size to Africa. One can only marvel at the resolve of the early explorers in their quest to conquer this inhospitable land.

Now we are the explorers and it's our chance to undertake a range of exciting activities amidst some of the most dramatic scenery to be found on earth from zodiac cruises and sea kayaking to wildlife watching and hiking. If conditions are suitable, we may even have the chance to camp ashore on the expanse of continental ice. (It has become a hallmark of Peregrine's Antarctic program to offer a range of options catering to various interests. We'll break into small groups for zodiac cruising excursions, wildlife watching, sea kayaking, as well as extensive hikes on shore.) Or you may simply wish to sit for hours onshore near a penguin rookery, contemplating the remarkable commotion all around. The choice is yours.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Ushuaia
We board our Peregrine expedition vessel in Ushuaia on Tierra del Fuego, at the southern tip of South America. Setting sail in the early evening, we travel through the Beagle Channel. The long days mean we'll have plenty of evening light to take in the beauty of the channel and the wildlife in the area.

DAYS 2 & 3: DRAKE PASSAGE
We cross the Drake Passage with our team of experts stationed on deck to help us spot whales and identify seabirds. We'll also have the chance to take part in the onboard presentation series preparing us for our adventures on the “White Continent”. Talks on wildlife, ice and polar history create enormous anticipation that builds as we cross the Antarctic Convergence. Here the cold waters of the Antarctic Ocean meet the warmer waters of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. We'll notice a sharp drop in temperature at this point. Huge icebergs loom against the horizon and seabirds such as the wandering albatross and petrels are regularly in view.

DAYS 4 - 11: SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS AND ANTARTICA
Our itinerary for these days is necessarily flexible and is dependent on ice and weather conditions. Our route will be decided by our expedition leader in consultation with the ship's captain.

We may start by sailing as far south as possible, through the Lemaire Channel, to Petermann Island, Prospect Point and perhaps Fish Island, where we'll enjoy superb wildlife encounters with Adelie and Gentoo penguins, as well as spotting blue-eyed shags.

From there we'll continue south, through Crystal Sound, hoping to find clear conditions that will allow us to travel down as far as Marguerite Bay or even to the Bellingshausen Sea, where the scenery is extraordinary, and it's particularly exciting to realize we've crossed the line into this remote stretch of southern sea. It's a great feeling.

It will likely be with some sadness that we eventually turn the ship back to head north again, but there is still time to see the South Shetland Islands, where we may possibly call first at Deception Island, a recently active volcano and one of the most perfect crater islands in the world.

Weather permitting, we'll hope to enter the flooded volcanic caldera of the island, and witness steam rising in places along its shores where the cold Antarctic waters mix with the thermal waters of the bay. Here, the very adventuresome may choose to take a dip, if conditions are suitable. We may also observe the island's large chinstrap penguin colony and enjoy spectacular walks to the higher points on the crater rim.

Next we'll come to Livingston Island, where we'll observe a great variety of wildlife including Weddell and Elephant seals, skuas, Giant petrels, Antarctic terns and rookeries of Chinstrap, Gentoo and Macaroni penguins, while at crescent-shaped Half Moon Island, we'll discover a breeding colony of Chinstrap penguins that share their territory with Fur seals and Blue-eyed shags.

The final leg of this remarkable journey we see us call at Admiralty Bay, on King George Island, which is a favoured feeding ground for Humpback whales and, with luck, we may see them dining on krill.

On one or two occasions we may attempt to go ashore to visit some of the research stations maintained by various countries. On board while we cruise between landing points, we'll want to spend time on the bridge or on deck just marvelling at the glory of the passing scenery. Penguins are often seen “porpoising” in the water, or resting on ice flows. As well, we'll have the chance to bask in a magnificent twilight that precedes the short nights that last only a couple of hours.

DAYS 12 & 13: DRAKE PASSAGE
Leaving the Antarctic Peninsula (or the South Shetlands depending on our chosen route), we head back across the Antarctic Convergence and the Drake Passage. The crossing is completed with the rounding of Cape Horn. We celebrate the conclusion of our adventure and last evening together on board, at the Captain's Dinner as we make our way down the Beagle Channel.

DAY 14: USHUAIA
In the early morning, we arrive back in Ushuaia where our cruise ends. You are transferred to your hotel or to the airport for your onward flight.

THE FLEET

Ship's Notes for the Peregrine Mariner (the 'AKADEMIK IOFFE')

These notes should be read in conjunction with Peregrine's Antarctic Trip Information Guide.

The Peregrine Mariner is a modern, ice strengthened vessel that is very comfortable and ideally suited for polar exploration. There is ample space for meetings of the full group as well as smaller rooms for more intimate meetings. Slide and video projection equipment are available, as well as overhead projection. There is a separate bar, lounge, library, video room, and dining space for the full passenger complement in one seating. There is also a gymnasium, sauna and swimming pool.

Comfort

As a relatively new Scandinavian-built exploration vessel, the Peregrine Mariner is very comfortable, especially following refitting and refurbishment over the last five years. All passenger areas are thoroughly heated and air-conditioned. Cabins are tastefully and pleasantly decorated. The vessel is maintained to the highest standards and is kept immaculately clean.

As the ship was built to perform delicate and sensitive hydroacoustic work, she is also designed to run very quietly. In cabins and public spaces there is very little if any ambient noise from engines or machinery. Further, most passenger cabins (except the Main Deck cabins) are on a separate deck from the well-used public spaces and lounge areas, so noise is seldom a bother.

Stability and Safety

This vessel has external stabilizers on her hull. She also has a built-in trimming system which is operated by the flow of water ballast from tanks in either side of the ship. A series of valves causes the water to flow to the side where its presence guarantees greatest stability. Added to her modern hull design, these systems make for a very stable ship.

The Peregrine Mariner carries all current certifications required by law for ensuring passenger safety and wellbeing. All equipment and systems are inspected and tested regularly. A lifeboat briefing and drill will be conducted early in each expedition to ensure that all passengers are familiar with the location of life jackets and lifeboats, and the procedures to be followed in the highly unlikely event of an emergency.

With her two powerful engines this ship rarely suffers significant delays due to inclement weather. She has a cruising speed of 14.5 knots in still-wind/sea conditions. The ship's speed capabilities allow us added flexibility in planning our itineraries.

Bar

On the main deck to the aft of the lobby there is a separate room which is operated as a bar, with an adjacent lounge area. It is a very comfortable room with outside views and an exit to the main outer deck and has seating for about 25 people in comfortable sofas, armchairs. There are also a number of traditional bar stools surrounding a large semi-circular bar. There is a stereo with CD player in the bar area. If you are interested in where we are going, there is also a television monitor showing video of the view from the bridge at all times as well as a modern chartplotter located in the corner.

Bridge

On Deck 6 the ship's bridge is open to passengers virtually 24 hours each day. With an officer and sailor (and often the captain) on watch, you are always able to learn something. The chart and navigation room is open to everyone, as are places to view the equipment and instruments. The bridge is a fascinating part of the ship and often a great place for sightseeing and bird watching - it provides a great view!

Communications

The ship carries all required communications and navigation facilities and equipment. She has Immarsat telephone and fax equipment as well as a variety of shortwave, SSB, and VHF radio systems. She also carries fully current GMDSS (Global Marine Distress and Safety System) equipment.

Dining Room

Located on the main deck our dining room seats all passengers comfortably in one sitting. It is attractively lit and comfortably furnished. There are outside windows and it is immaculately maintained. In one corner there is a bar which is used for meal times. There is also a comfortable lounge area in this corner. Lunches and dinners are served to the table by our ship's stewards, and breakfast is served here also but is buffet style. In the dining room there is also a television monitor relaying video images of the view from the bridge at all times.

Elevator

In addition to the stairs between decks, there is one lift/elevator on the ship operating between all passenger deck levels and to the bridge level. (Please note that this does not remove the need for passengers to have a reasonable level of mobility, as ship access to and from zodiacs is by way of a staired gangway (please see Trip Information Guide).

Gift Shop

On the Main Deck there is a small kiosk and gift shop. It carries a selection of souvenir items such as postcards, hats, t-shirts, and books to bring home from a voyage. It also has a basic supply of toiletries such as sunscreen, lip balm, usually some film and some camera batteries. It is open each day.

Gynasium

There is a small gymnasium on the ship with a set of free weights, exercise bike, rowing machine, and step trainer.

Infirmary

(Please refer also to Peregrine's Antarctic Trip Information Guide.)
On Deck 5 there is a basic infirmary and crew doctor available for passengers. As the ship was designed for extended projects, she carries an impressive list of equipment and supplies. However, passengers are reminded that this facility is intended as a basic or emergency service. While the inventory of medicines and equipment is extensive, passengers should bring their own basic firstaid kit as detailed in the Trip Information Guide for any minor problems, and if using specific medications should ensure they bring a supply adequate to last the entire journey. If there is a need to consult the ship's doctor and to receive medications, etc., from the infirmary passengers will be invoiced for the cost of any items supplied.

Library

On deck five and forward, situated in a quiet part of the ship, there is a library area. With a large conference table, comfortable chairs, and sophisticated decor this serves as a great, quiet space to read from our selection of expedition reference materials, atlases, magazines, novels and the like. There are attractive wooden bookcases and quality lighting. There are also windows which overlook the bow of the ship for good sightseeing from indoors.

Just outside the library itself there is another quiet area with good lighting and very comfortable armchairs which is usually also reserved as a reading room. The library also has a slide screen and whiteboard for smaller discussions and meetings. It seats about 20.

Lounge

In the aft part of the ship and reached through the bar is the television lounge. It seats about 25 and has an exit to the main outer deck space. It also has outside views. There is a television and VCR for educational and entertainment programming as well as watching the relayed video images of the view from the bridge. There is a collection of games and puzzles, maps, and a piano. This area, along with our bar, serves as the main social area of the vessel.

Mud Room

Towards the aft section of the main deck, and not far from where you will disembark from the zodiacs, there is a "mud room" where you can change out of your wet-weather gear on returning from shore excursions and leave your waterproof rubber boots.

Presentation Room

Our presentations take place in the dining room. All passengers can be seated there at the same time and it has a PA system to ensure everyone can hear talks and announcements. It has a TV and VCR to help in programming as well as modern projection facilities and screens.

Sauna and Swimming Pool

On Deck 5 there is a small swimming pool and a sauna. A plunge pool really, the former is filled on special occasions or on request and is on the outer deck just outside the sauna. It gets a certain level of use, even in the Antarctic waters! The sauna is open each afternoon and evening and seats about six people - it is a great place to relax after your shore excursions. It also has a change room and shower room.

Top Deck

There is also a spacious open top deck; from here you can enjoy spectacular views.

'Peregrine Mariner' deckplan

Accommodation: Cabins as described above subject to availability.

Travel: Flights from regional UK airports may also be available; please enquire for details.

Leaders: Guides from Peregrine Adventures

Prices per person:

Dates 2008	Vessel	Nights	Main Deck Triple	Main Deck Double	Upper Deck	Superior	Superior Plus	Peregrine Suite	Cook Suite
12 Jan 08	Peregrine Mariner	13	£5,175	£5,825	£6,115	£7,030	£7,385	£7,795	£8,250

Sea-kayaking option on all departures - £350 per person

The prices are per person, and are fully inclusive of the cruise, meals during the voyage, shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage, lectures and leadership by expedition staff, transfers and baggage handling between the hotels, airports and ship as indicated in the itinerary, miscellaneous service taxes and port charges.

The prices exclude flights UK/Ushuaia, Argentina (allow approximately £1200 pp for flights, transfers and accommodation), travel insurance, meals ashore, optional tips to leaders and crew, drinks, and other personal expenses. passport and visa expenses (if applicable), government arrival and departure taxes, pre-cruise or post-cruise accommodation, meals ashore, supplement for single hotel accommodations, excess baggage charges and all items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar and beverage charges and telecommunication charges and optional tips to leaders and crew.

Please note that we can arrange optional extensions in, or anywhere else in Argentina. You can also opt to leave the UK a day earlier and spend a day in Buenos Aires to break the long journey south.

Notes:
1. Itinerary. Please note that due to the exploratory nature of this expedition, weather, ice, wildlife or other conditions may require changes be made to the itinerary and/or cancellation of certain shore excursions. Every effort will be made to provide regular shore excursions, within the limits of safety and time constraints. These conditions will also play a role in the decision to camp ashore. If conditions are not suitable, camping will not take place.

2. Budgeting. In addition to funds for onboard expenses, it is sometimes possible to purchase souvenirs such as books, t-shirts, stamps, postcards, wind-cheaters, caps and similar items at some of the research stations in the Antarctic Peninsula area. Mail can sometimes be posted from these stations as well. $US cash is suggested.

3. Clothes. Please read our Antarctic - Trip Information Guide booklet carefully. Though you don't need to make expensive, specialist-clothing purchases for this trip, you will need clothes that adequately protect against cold, wet conditions. (Sea spray is common onboard zodiacs). It's recommended that you have warm, waterproof clothing available for use upon arrival in Ushuaia to protect against inclement weather.

4. Onboard. The waters of the Drake Passage can be some of the roughest seas in the world - at other times they are so smooth it is referred to as the 'Drake Lake'! Though our vessels, the Peregrine Mariner and the Peregrine Voyager are among the most stable ships in their class it is impossible to remove all motion. Unless you are certain you are impervious to the problem, you should take precautions against seasickness. Your doctor can advise you as to the best methods for avoiding this uncomfortable condition.

5. Gratuities. We suggest you allow the equivalent of $US10 a day for gratuities for the crew and expedition staff. This is usually collected just prior to the end of the cruise. The amount can be paid by Visa or MasterCard if you wish.

6. Sea kayaking. There are separate trip notes for the sea-kayaking option. Please note that this option must be booked prior to your departure from home: it cannot be booked on the ship. Some prior experience is required.

7. Safety is paramount on a Peregrine voyage. Due to new International Security Regulations, you will not be able to come to the ship on your own. You will have to arrive with the rest of the group and Peregrine Representative. Full details of embarkation/disembarkation procedures will be supplied with your final documentation. Onboard you will be asked to participate in the obligatory lifeboat drill. We will also conduct important briefings on landing procedures and zodiac operations.

8. Camping: If you choose to camp on the continent, we'll provide all the required gear such as tents or bivy sacs and sleeping bags. This excursion is managed with strict environmental regulations - a portable toilet is used and absolutely everything is transported back to the ship afterwards.