Base Camp Antarctic Peninsula

Itinerary Map

The classic Antarctica voyage with an adventure twist. Explore the Antarctic Peninsula, one of the world’s most pristine and unforgettable natural environments, and participate in extra activities every day. Each day the expedition team offers a variety of activities, including kayaking, mountaineering, hiking, zodiac cruising, photography workshop, snowshoeing & camping. The ship will stay at one landing site for an extended period to allow for more in-depth exploration of the area. The trip will be highlighted by penguins, seals and whales accompanying the ship during your journey along the Antarctic coast. Your first steps on the continent will be unforgettable as you visit breathtaking sights and historic places.

In brief:

Perfect for first time visitors to Antarctica who are interested in extra activities
Witness and explore the highlights of the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands
Participate in kayaking, camping, mountaineering & more!
Learn about the environment and wildlife from onboard lecturers and specialists
Witness the abundant wildlife – penguins, seals, whales, birds

Length of Travel: 11 days

Itinerary in Brief

Day 1: Embarkation
Days 2-3: At sea
Days 4-8: Antarctic Peninsula
Days 9-10: At sea
Day 11: Ushuaia disembarkation

* Special Notes

All activities are included free of charge.

*12 day itinerary adds on more day on the Antarctic Peninsula
*This itinerary is only a guide as to where voyage will visit.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Embarkation

Embark in the afternoon after a morning exploring the world’s Southernmost city.

Days 2-3: Drake Passage

Among the wildlife spotting opportunities as we sail south are the Albatrosses, Prions, and Petrels that frequently follow the ship. The Expedition Team will be out on deck as well, looking for the Whales and Dolphins that may also be seen in the area. The team will begin presentations with informative and entertaining lectures on the wildlife, history, and geology of Antarctica. Helpful briefings on environmental regulations and expedition safety will also be held.

Days 4-8: Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands

We will sail directly to “High Antarctica”, passing the Melchior islands and the Schollaert Channel between Brabant and Anvers Island. We will sail to the Neumayer Channel, where we position our ship for the multi activity base camp. The protected waters around Wiencke Island will become our playground for all activities. In this alpine environment there are great opportunities to scout the region on foot, per zodiac and during kayak trips. Walkers will find opportunities to use snowshoes on hikes near the shore lines and the mountaineers will find their challenge by climbing hills and view points further inland, i.e. Jabet Peak (540 m). All climbs and excursions can only be conducted in good weather conditions.

We plan to stay two overnights at anchor in order to implement two camp nights and two full activity days. We will visit the British research station and the post office Port Lockroy on Goudier Island. Close to Port Lockroy we may also offer a landing on Jougla Point with Gentoo Penguins and Imperial Shags. We look out for leopard seals, crabeater seals and whales .

In good conditions and time allowing we sail through the spectacular Lemaire Channel to Booth Island, Pleneau and Petermann Island where we can find Adelie Penguins and Blue-eyed Shags. In this area there are good chances to encounter Humpback Whales, Minke Whales and Fin Whales. We choose another camp site which is suitable and close to next day’s activity.

Days 9-10: Drake Passage

The lecture series and wildlife spotting will continue on the return trip to Ushuaia and while the team will reflect on beautiful Antarctica and its fragile future.