Countries Visited: Antarctica, Argentina
In 2005 the existence of 4000 pairs of Emperor Penguins, the most charismatic and photogenic of all penguins, was confirmed at a previously unknown site near Snow Hill Island in the Northern Peninsula.
The Kapitan Khlebnikov is the only vessel capable of penetrating the ice-choked Weddell Sea so early in the season. The icebreaker will also visit other areas of Antarctica on this voyage but the Emperors will be the star turn. While many ships turn tail at the sight of ice, the Khlebnikov relishes it. She carves into the teeth of the sea ice, leaving shards in its wake and a satisfying exhilaration for those on the bow or bridge.
Weather conditions may still play a part in the itinerary, but after aerial reconnaissance passengers are dropped a short distance from the colony by helicopter. To watch the Emperors feed, toboggan, cajole and cuddle their young grey chicks is wildlife viewing from the top drawer, and best of all there will be extended time in the rookery. Adelies, Chinstraps and Gentoos can also be seen on other parts of the Peninsula, yet it is the Emperors, on ice, that are the major quarry. It is an overused word in travel, but this adventurous expedition is genuinely unique.
Special Guest
Peter Fretwell, Map Expert, British Antarctic Survey
In 2009 Peter Fretwell, the map expert for the British Antarctic Survey, participated in a satellite survey of Antarctica that identified the location of 38 Emperor Penguin rookeries. Ten had been unknown until the photos identified the guano-stained now where the birds congregate to raise their young. Join Peter as he experiences a much closer encounter with Emperors.
Peter will be travelling on the 25th October 2010 departure.
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 neveryone can play their part.
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Images from EMPEROR PENGUIN SAFARI
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Emperor penguins and chicks
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