Countries Visited: Antarctica, Argentina
One of the most exciting voyages in the South Seas, going south of the Antarctic Circle and beyond, into waters untouched by all but the lucky few.
The aim on this voyage is to head as far south as ice and weather permit. The ice-rated ship enables us to navigate through some of the world's most breathtaking waterways - many littered with brash ice, 'growlers' and colossal, stunning icebergs. After a few days exploring the 'deep south', there are further shore excursions on the northerly route along the Antarctic Peninsula. The ship is small enough to navigate through the narrow Lemaire Channel, with glacial walls towering high on both sides, leading to a jigsaw of jewel-like islands that are home to huge penguin rookeries, elephant seals and countless seabirds. There are also whales: imagine a pair of humpbacks, at least 30 tonnes of mammal, rising imperiously against a turquoise ice-wall viewed from a Zodiac only a few metres away, and you have the essence of the Antarctic. If you can spare the extra time, the rewards of such a unique icy pilgrimage are immeasurable.
Photographic & Whale Special
Akademik Sergey Vavilov, 26 February 2011
Led by Paul Goldstein this voyage will navigate below the Antarctic Circle to icy wildernesses rarely witnessed. By this time of year the sea has warmed comparatively, attracting legions of krill which then seduce the squadrons of Humpacks, Minkes and sometimes Orcas. It is possible to see and photograph whales in many areas of the world, but seldom with lumps of cobalt blue ice the size of St Paul’s Cathedral as shimmering backdrops.
What makes this trip responsible?
Responsible Travel
We take extremely seriously our responsibility to minimise our impact on these pristine areas. Exodus is a Full Member of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) and has agreed to abide by one of the tourism world's most conscientious codes of conduct. Quark Expeditions, our ship operator, is also a member of the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO), which covers operations in Spitzbergen.
However, perhaps the single most important thing any polar travel company can do, is educate their clients to travel sensitively and compassionately. Our expedition team on each ship takes this part of their role very seriously, and looks forward to explaining how everyone can play their part.
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Images from ANTARCTIC CIRCLE QUEST
Note: Click on a thumbnail to enlarge.
Adeile penguins jumping into sea
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