This Peregrine journey takes us to one of the world's most awe inspiring destinations. With visits along the way through the South Shetland Islands we arrive on the mainland, on the Antarctic Peninsula and are dazzled by perhaps the most dramatic scenery to be found
anywhere on earth.
Sailing aboard our well-appointed Peregrine expedition vessel, we see Antarctic nature in all its glory. These areas boast an extraordinary 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 White Continent, we also see remarkable landscapes of ice. At Paradise Harbour or Hope Bay we find many icebergs dotting the waters, including some that are colossal in size, containing natural caves shrouded in an eerie translucent light. On land, there is a sweeping ice sheet, masking mountains and filling trenches binding together an entire continent that is about the size of Africa. We'll even have the chance to camp ashore on this expanse of ice if conditions are suitable.
Even in the company of our experienced expedition crew, some of whom have travelled to Antarctica over 100 times, it still seems astonishing to think of the early explorers attempting to conquer this beautiful, yet formidable land.
Note: Weather, ice, or other conditions may necessitate changes to our itinerary and alteration to certain shore excursions.
ITINERARY
| Day 1 | Board the ship. Sail the Beagle Channel
| | Days 2 - 3 | Cross the Drake Passage.
| | Days 4 - 8 | Explore the Antarctica Peninsula
| | Days 9 - 10 | Sail back through the Drake Passage.
| | Day 11 | Arrive in Ushuaia, where your voyage ends. You are transferred to your hotel, or to the airport for your onward flight.
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Day 1: Ushuaia
We board our Peregrine expedition vessel in Ushuaia, on Tierra del Fuego at the southern tip of South America. In the early evening, we set sail charting a course through the Beagle Channel.
DAYS 2 - 3: DRAKE PASSAGE
As we cross the Drake Passage, our team of experts will be out 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 will create enormous anticipation that continues to build 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 up against the horizon and seabirds such as the wandering albatross and petrels are regularly in view.
DAYS 4 - 8: SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS AND ANTARCTICA
We cruise among the volcanic South Shetland Islands and the waterways of the Antarctic Peninsula, travelling ashore as frequently as possible in inflatable 'zodiac' boats. We'll hope to make shore excursions to Livingston, Half Moon and King George Islands beginning on day 3 or day 4.
Admiralty Bay, on King George Island, is a favoured feeding ground for humpback whales and, with luck, we may see them dining on krill. At crescent-shaped Half Moon Island, we'll observe a breeding colony of chinstrap penguins that share their territory with fur seals and blue-eyed shags while at Livingston Island, we'll discover more flourishing wildlife. Here there are Weddell and elephant seals, skuas, giant petrels, Antarctic terns and rookeries of chinstrap, gentoo and macaroni penguins.
Weather permitting, we'll also hope to enter the flooded volcanic caldera of Deception Island, a recently active volcano and one of the most perfect crater islands in the world. Steam rises 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.
Our journey continues onto Paradise Harbour or Hope Bay, both situated on the mainland. Here we'll see some of the most dramatic scenery in the world. We'll observe an impressive array of icebergs in many different shapes and sizes, including those that have eroded into natural ice sculptures as well as city-block sized 'tabular' bergs which break from the thick ice shelves. If the weather is temperate, we'll have the chance to set foot on the Antarctic continent, and even, to spend a night camping out on shore if you wish. The lights of the southern sky bath the landscape in an eerie luminescence, making this camping experience truly remarkable.
The days are long, and the short nights are often preceded by a wonderful twilight. On board, we'll spend ample time on the bridge or on deck simply marveling at the glory of the passing scenery.
DAYS 9 - 10: DRAKE PASSAGE
We leave the Antarctic Peninsula, heading 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 11: USHUAIA
In the early morning you arrive back in Ushuaia where your cruise ends. You are transferred to your hotel, or to the airport for your onward flight.
In the early morning, we'll arrive back in Ushuaia where our cruise ends. You'll be transferred to your hotel, or to the airport for your onward flight.
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.
Ship's Notes for the Peregrine Voyager (the 'AKADEMIK SERGEY VAVILOV')
These notes should be read in conjunction with Peregrine's Antarctic Trip Information Guide.
The Peregrine Voyager is a modern, ice strengthened vessel that is very comfortable and ideally suited for polar exploration. The vessel was extensively re-fitted during May of 2003 and she now features all the modern facilities and comforts to be expected in a polar exploration vessel. There is a panoramic 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. 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 and computer/data projection in our state-of-the-art presentation theatre.
Comfort
As a relatively new Scandinavian-built exploration vessel, the Peregrine Voyager is very comfortable, especially following the refitting and refurbishment in May of 2003. 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 Voyager 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.
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.
Panoramic observation lounge
On the top deck to the aft of the bridge there is a large panoramic observation lounge. It is a very comfortable room with large windows all around. This spot is tastefully furnished with an ample supply of comfortable sofas, chairs, and bar stools and has seating for about 85 people. 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 for keeping up with the navigators' efforts. There is also a great collection of games and puzzles.
A quick exit can be made to a large outer deck which is supplied with deck chairs and is a great vantage point for iceberg and wildlife spotting.
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.
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. In science days this area was known as the antenna room and really served as the heart of the ships research program with its elaborate moon pool and antennae equipment.
Presentation Room
Our presentations take place in a comfortable theatre on deck 1. At 2 levels below our main deck this in the most stable, quiet, and comfortable area of the ship. All passengers can be seated there 'theatre style' 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.
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 2007/08 |
Vessel |
Nights |
Main Deck Triple |
Main Deck Double |
Upper Deck |
Superior |
Superior Plus |
Peregrine Suite |
Cook Suite |
| 08 Dec 07 |
Peregrine Voyager |
10 |
£3,235 |
£3,970 |
£4,235 |
£5,085 |
£5,325 |
£5,735 |
£6,325 |
| 11 Dec 07 |
Peregrine Mariner |
10 |
£3,235 |
£3,970 |
£4,235 |
£5,085 |
£5,325 |
£5,735 |
£6,325 |
| 18 Dec 07 |
Peregrine Voyager |
10 |
£3,235 |
£3,970 |
£4,235 |
£5,085 |
£5,325 |
£5,735 |
£6,325 |
| 02 Jan 08 |
Peregrine Mariner |
10 |
£4,265 |
£4,735 |
£5,090 |
£5,705 |
£6,150 |
£6,590 |
£7,150 |
| 27 Jan 08 |
Peregrine Voyager |
10 |
£4,265 |
£4,735 |
£5,090 |
£5,705 |
£6,150 |
£6,590 |
£7,150 |
| 18 Feb 08 |
Peregrine Voyager |
10 |
£3,295 |
£4,150 |
£4,382 |
£5,150 |
£5,440 |
£5,852 |
£6,440 |
| 24 Feb 08 |
Peregrine Mariner |
11 |
£3,620 |
£4,560 |
£4,825 |
£5,675 |
£6,000 |
£6,440 |
£7,090 |
| 28 Feb 08 |
Peregrine Voyager |
10 |
£3,295 |
£4,150 |
£4,382 |
£5,150 |
£5,440 |
£5,852 |
£6,440 |
| 06 Mar 08 |
Peregrine Mariner |
10 |
£3,295 |
£4,150 |
£4,382 |
£5,150 |
£5,440 |
£5,852 |
£6,440 |
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, accommodation and transfers), 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. These notes should be read in conjunction with Peregrine's Antarctica - Trip Information Guide booklet that is provided to you shortly after booking (or which can be requested prior to booking). We also provide a second manual, dealing with Antarctic history, geology, geography, marine and birdlife.
2. Budgeting. In addition to funds for on-board expenses, it is sometimes possible to purchase souvenirs in the form of books, t-shirts, stamps, postcards, wind-cheaters, caps and similar items at some of the research stations in the Antarctic Peninsula area - mail can even be posted from these stations as well. $US cash is suggested.
3. Clothes: Please read our Antarctica - Trip Information Guide booklet carefully. You do not need to make expensive, specialist clothing purchases, but you must have adequate protection against the cold, and against possible wet conditions.
4. 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'! The Peregrine Mariner is one of the most stable ships in its class; however, 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 shortly prior to the end of the cruise. The amount can be paid by Visa or MasterCard if you wish.
6. 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.
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Gentoo Penguins
Peregrine Mariner/Peregrine Voyager