POLAR
Worldwide
Cruises 2013
Journeys to the ends of the earth
Welcome to the World of Wild Earth Travel
Russia Far East – p14
Canadian Arctic – p10
North Pole – p12
Spitsbergen – p13
Iceland – p10
Greenland – p10
Terms & Conditions. ..... 23
Contact Details ..... 22
Cruise Calendar ..... 20
The Subantarctic Islands – p9
Mawson’s Antarctic – p8
Across the Antarctic Circle – p5
Ross Sea – p8
Antarctic Peninsula – p6 Falklands, South Georgia – p7
0800 945 3327(New Zealand)
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1800 107 715(Australia)
THE POLAR
Regions ANTARCTICA The seventh continent remains the ultimate travel destination. For those that make the journey, Antarctica lives up to all the superlatives that have been applied; it is the highest, driest, windiest and coldest continent and so much more. Around the icy shores, countless penguins, seals and whales thrive in the bountiful waters of the fabled Southern Ocean. This rich array of wildlife calls Antarctica and the Subantarctic Islands their summer home. Combined with the region’s breathtaking scenery of towering peaks, tumultuous glaciers and ice strewn waters, an expedition to the Antarctic remains one of the most exciting and memorable voyages available for the modernage adventurer. There are two traditional “gateways” to Antarctica. The main access point to the wonders of Antarctica and the Southern Ocean is Ushuaia in Argentina. From here, expedition vessels sail forth to the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and Antarctica. Whilst from New Zealand, an intrepid few follow in the footsteps of the heroic explorers to visit the Ross Sea region of Antarctica. We work with a select range of expedition vessels to find you the best possible voyage to suit your needs. Our twenty years of experience in organising expeditions to Antarctica makes us uniquely suited to assist you.
THE SUBANTARCTIC ISLANDS Often overlooked alongside the dazzling specter of Antarctica, the small islands that surround the White Continent require effort and patience to fully appreciate, but for those willing, the rewards are immense. It is on these isolated respites of land surrounded by the Southern
Ocean’s Furious Fifties – in particular South Georgia and Macquarie Island – that you will find the highest concentrations of wildlife, the greatest diversity of penguins and albatross backed by a unique and beautifully windswept tapestry. Visits to these islands can be combined with expeditions to Antarctica, or they can be explored separately on special expeditions which allow more time to fully appreciate these wonderful islands.
ARCTIC The vast region that connects the northern reaches of Asia, America and Europe has many similarities, but is also much more diverse and localised than most visitors appreciate. There are three main entry points to the Arctic and each offers benefits and unique attractions. Access to the Arctic is very much controlled by the weather and is best during summer’s icefree periods, concentrating shipping into a few short months between June and September when it is possible to reach otherwise icelocked shores. The first region of the Arctic to become accessible for expedition vessels is Spitsbergen and the North Atlantic Arctic which is thawed by warm ocean currents. There are excellent opportunities to see birds at the height of the breeding season and observe Polar Bears hunting on the polar pack ice. Later in the northern summer the ice clears in the Canadian Arctic, allowing access to the historical waters of the NW Passage and villages populated by the great traditional artists – the Inuit. At about the same time the waters of the Bering Strait clear to allow access behind the icy curtain and into the heart of Russia’s Eastern Arctic, as well as northwards to the remote scientific outposts on Wrangel Island with its Polar Bears and Walrus.
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SMALL SHIPS Big Experiences THE IMPORTANCE OF EXPERIENCE
EXPEDITION SHIPS
Wild Earth Travel was established and is operated by expedition leaders. We are not just another sales office but rather a travel company of experienced specialists in expedition and small ship cruising. This is our passion, what we know best and in turn what we recommend for our guests. After more than 20 years creating and leading expeditions aboard many of the ships found in this brochure, we have learned first-hand what works and what doesn’t; our experience makes us uniquely placed to find the voyage that best suits you.
To visit the polar regions requires a special type of ship, purpose-built to withstand the rigors of polar travel. The more isolated and ice-filled the waters travelled, the stronger the ship must be, to not only be comfortable, but also to safely reach its destination and complete the objectives of the expedition. Icebreakers and ice-strengthened ships are built with these requirements in mind and have their pros and cons. Icebreakers are the ultimate machines for travelling through the thickest ice to the most remote shores, but this ability comes at a price as they are expensive to operate. Icestrengthened ships are still capable in ice but
not as powerful as icebreakers so have their limitations, but are more economic to operate, offer higher comfort levels and are the current favorite for polar expeditions. With a myriad of classifications, codes and other details it can seem overwhelming when trying to identify which ship is best, but be rest assured that all the ships in our brochure are safe and more than capable of achieving their advertised itineraries. All of this has nothing to do with the comfort aboard the ship and we have expedition vessels that range from comfortable and practical to ultra-luxurious.
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Classic Antarctica ABOARD: Akademik Ioffe and Vavilov / L’Austral and Le Boreal / National Geographic Explorer / Plancius / Ushuaia / Ocean Nova / Silver Explorer / Ortelius / Ocean Diamond / Clipper Adventurer / Sea Spirit PRICES FROM: USD $4,490 pp DEPARTS: November 2012 – March 2013 and November 2013 – March 2014
This Antarctica travel journey is the classic itinerary to the beautiful Antarctic Peninsula. It delivers everything you want: the huge tabular icebergs, hillsides covered with Gentoo, Adelie or Chinstrap penguins, whales and abundant marine life, a passage through the famed Lemaire Channel between towering blue bergs and more. On our Antarctic cruises, the sights, sounds and emotions will stay in your mind forever. DAY 1: Ushuaia, Argentina In the afternoon board your expedition vessel and sail down the Beagle Channel DAY 2 – 3: Drake Passage Join our expert naturalists on deck to identify the seabirds that glide effortlessly around the ship and watch for Wandering Albatross. The expedition team present a comprehensive series of lectures and briefings to prepare you for your time in Antarctica. DAY 4: South Shetland Islands Arriving in the South Shetland Islands that lie just off the Antarctic coastline we get our first experience of the Antarctic world. Head ashore in swift and versatile Zodiacs to one of the many penguin colonies that dot the shoreline of the South Shetlands. Depending upon conditions we may have the opportunity to experience some of the region’s whaling history, or sail into the volcanic caldera of Deception Island
where heated water bubbles to the surface. Large colonies of Chinstrap and Gentoo Penguins line the shores of the South Shetland Islands and whales are commonly seen in the surrounding waters.
DAY 9 – 10: Drake Passage The Expedition Team enriches the voyage with continued presentations in response to the sightings and activities you have experienced as we turn northwards to cross the Drake Passage.
DAY 11: Ushuaia, Argentina DAY 5 – 8: Antarctic Peninsula Continuing southwards the mountains rise around After breakfast onboard we disembark our vessel in Ushuaia, Argentina. the ship blanketed in snow and ice and enclose us in protected waters. Adelie, Gentoo and Chinstrap penguins all inhabit this part of the CAMPING Antarctic but occupy slightly different habitats. A number of research stations are located along the coasts and if the opportunity arises, we will visit to see their work first hand. Cruising in the Zodiacs allows us to explore a world of water and ice where the ice forms a never ending variety of fantastic shapes. Seals and whales feed in the rich waters and it is possible to have great views of these marine mammals.
OPTIONS
No two expeditions to the Antarctic are ever the same. The Captain and Expedition Leader carefully plan activities to take advantage of opportunities, but remain flexible in the expedition spirit to maximize the unexpected. During the days available for exploring the Antarctic Peninsula the opportunities abound, but some of the highlights might include landing on the Antarctic Continent in Neko Harbour, the large Gentoo Penguin colony at Cuverville Island, visiting the historic research station at Port Lockroy and cruising through the spectacular Lemaire Channel to Petermann and Pleneau Islands. 4
Picture it… you are lying in your sleeping bag listening to the crackling and grumbling of glaciers, the splintering of icebergs and the soothing sounds of water and brash ice washing onto the beach. Perhaps you might even hear the blow of a whale, feeding in the bay near your campsite. You drift to sleep knowing that you are breathing pristine air and experiencing something very few have experienced before. Available on selected departures. Please enquire for details.
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Across the Antarctic Circle ABOARD: Akademik Ioffe & Vavilov / Sea Spirit / Ushuaia / Plancius PRICES FROM: USD $8,090 pp DEPARTS: 15th, 16th, 19th January; 8th, 18th 23rd February; 9th March 2013; 9th March 2014
This expedition offers you the most in-depth exploration of the Antarctic Peninsula. Extended time in the region allows you to go beyond the Antarctic Peninsula and venture south of the Antarctic Circle. You’ll enjoy more time for communing with penguins and visits to less-frequented landing sites. DAY 1: Ushuaia: Argentina You will begin your journey in Ushuaia, a small, bustling port town at the tip of South America. DAY 2: Embarkation Day The Beagle Channel sets you on your way as the ship sails in the late afternoon. The channel opens up to the vastness of the Southern Ocean, where your next land sighting will be along the Antarctic Peninsula. DAY 3 – 4: Crossing the Drake Passage Time over these two days will be spent preparing for the exciting days ahead, with numerous educational and informative lectures from your Expedition Team. You’ll learn about everything from safety procedures to the history of whaling in Antarctica. DAY 5 – 8: Exploring the Antarctic Peninsula As exciting as it can be from on board the ship, your true exploration occurs when you disembark and set foot on the great continent. There are several potential landing sites we may visit, including Neko Harbor, Petermann Island, or Pleneau Island. Your days will be
busy spotting wildlife and being mesmerised by the beauty of Antarctica. Watching penguins waddling on the beach and listening to the crackling and crumbling sounds of icebergs and glaciers will become your daily entertainment.
ADVENTURE
OPTIONS
DAY 9 – 10: The Antarctic Circle Crossing the Antarctic Circle is an impressive achievement, as most expeditions to the Peninsula do not reach 66° 33’ S. You and your shipmates will celebrate in style with a wellearned glass of champagne! DAY 11 – 12: Northbound Along the Peninsula If you haven’t had your fill of Antarctic wildlife and icebergs by now, you’ll surely be satisfied by the time we return to the Drake Passage. We’ll continue to journey onto land and out by Zodiac twice daily as we travel north along the western Peninsula. DAY 13 – 14: Drake Passage to Ushuaia Antarctica fades away and you’ll be left with a collection of memories to last a lifetime. Your Expedition Team will round up their series of lectures and presentations. DAY 15: Disembark in Ushuaia, Argentina You will disembark in the morning so that you may catch your homeward bound flights.
Imagine the swish of water as it passes your hull, or the clack of brash ice against your paddle blade. Sea kayaking in the Antarctic allows you to experience another side of this magnificent destination. Bumping through the ice, gliding across a glassy bay with the mountains and glaciers reflected in the water, or close encounters with wildlife are experiences shared by sea kayakers. Available on selected departures. Please enquire for details.
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Antarctic Peninsula A voyage to Antarctica is simply mind-blowing. We invite you to join one of our small ship expedition cruises through magical landscapes of ice. Encounter huge tabular icebergs, pristine glaciers, ice floes, jagged peaks and white expanses as far as the eye can see. The Antarctic is nature’s playground; there is nowhere else in the world quite like it. Marvel at the crowded rookeries, abuzz with penguins going about their affairs, be greeted on the beach by seals and watch out for whales including Humpback, Minke and Orca. Antarctica has a lesson for all of us and it provides an unforgettable experience where you witness up close these creatures living in a truly untamed wilderness.
Weddell Sea QUEST
EMPEROR PENGUIN VOYAGE
ABOARD: Plancius / Ushuaia / Ioffe PRICES FROM: USD $5,490 pp DEPARTS: 9th, 18th December 2012
ABOARD: Ortelius PRICES FROM: USD $11,150 pp DEPARTS: 14th, 24th November; 4th December 2012; 23rd November; 3rd December 2013
Sail into the Weddell Sea through the iceclogged Antarctic Sound. Huge tabular icebergs announce your arrival in Antarctica as we venture deep into the ice filled waters of the Erebus and Terror Gulf of the Weddell Sea, where Emperor Penguins breed. Spend time searching for these elusive and majestic masters of the Antarctic as well as visiting remote Snow Hill and Paulet Islands. In the Falkland Islands, home to the comical King Penguin, you will visit vast albatross colonies including the largest Black-browed Albatross colony in the world on Steeple Jason Island. Flight from Falkland Islands to Santiago, Chile is included in the cruise price.
DAY 1 DAY 2 – 3 DAY 4 DAY 5 DAY 6 – 8 DAY 9 DAY 10 – 11 DAY 12 – 13 DAY 14
Ushuaia, Argentina The Drake Passage Deception Island South Shetland Islands Weddell Sea Elephant Island At Sea Falkland Islands Port Stanley / Santiago, Chile
Venture into the Weddell Sea to an Emperor Penguin rookery that is situated south of Snow Hill Island. The captain of the vessel will do his utmost to position the vessel close enough to Snow Hill Island in order to enable us to offer ship-to-shore helicopter transfers. You will then be able to experience the magical thrill of seeing majestic Emperor Penguins in their rookery. If conditions are favourable there will also be the opportunity to visit the bustling Adelie Penguin colonies at Paulet and Devil Islands. This is a once in a lifetime expedition with the primary focus on giving you as much time with the Emperor Penguins as possible.
DAY 1 Ushuaia, Argentina DAY 2 – 3 Drake Passage DAY 4 Antarctic Sound DAY 5 – 6 Snow Hill Island DAY 7 Devil & Paulet Islands DAY 8 Half Moon Island DAY 9 – 10 Drake Passage DAY 11 Ushuaia 6
ANTARCTIC EXPRESS – FLY THE DRAKE ABOARD: Clipper Adventurer, Ocean Nova, PRICES FROM: USD $7,995 pp DEPARTS: Weekly December – February 2013 Skip the four days of Drake Passage crossings and optimize your Antarctica experience by flying! A short three-hour flight is all it takes to travel between Punta Arenas, Chile and King George Island. Once in Antarctica, you’ll waste no time being inundated with the sheer beauty and dramatic landscapes of the white continent. Within hours of departing Chile you will be greeted by our team of experts on the ship and be on the lookout for penguins and whales in Antarctica.
DAY 1 DAY 2 DAY 3 DAY 4 DAY 5
Punta Arenas, Chile King George Island, Antarctica South Shetland Islands Antarctic Peninsula Antarctic Peninsula
DAY 6 DAY 7
Antarctic Peninsula Punta Arenas
DAY 8
Depart for Home
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The Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica ABOARD: National Geographic Explorer / Plancius / Akademik Ioffe / Ushuaia / Ocean Nova / Silver Explorer / Akademik Vavilov PRICES FROM: USD $9,480 pp
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DEPARTS: October 2012 – February 2013 and November 2013 – March 2014
On this expedition you will see three distinct regions, each offering wonderful experiences and sights. The Falkland Islands are not only home to a resilient people with a long and fascinating history, but also some great wildlife encounters. South Georgia Island is one of the world’s premier wildlife spectacles, all who visit are enthralled by the abundance of life. Steeped in whaling lore and tales from Ernest Shackleton’s heroic exploits, the island is covered mostly in glaciers and explodes with life. Then there is Antarctica, with its tabular icebergs, abundant wildlife and a fascinating history of exploration and discovery. DAY 1: Ushuaia, Argentina In the afternoon board your expedition vessel and sail down the Beagle Channel. DAY 2: Towards the Falklands A day at sea en route to the Falkland Islands. Today is an excellent opportunity to watch for birdlife and become familiar with the vessel. DAY 3 – 4: Falkland Islands The Falkland Islands have a long and turbulent history, but today it is the wildlife that dominates. Landings at offshore islands such as
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New Island give excellent opportunities for up close views of nesting albatross and penguins. Many other species of birds can also be seen during walks ashore. A visit to the capital Stanley provides an insight into the modern Falkland Islands and its traditional culture.
DAY 14: South Shetland Islands The spectacular South Shetland Islands are home to prolific wildlife, with large colonies of Chinstrap and Gentoo Penguins. On Deception Island the steaming black sands entice the intrepid adventurer to swim in Antarctic waters.
DAY 5 – 6: The Southern Ocean Your expedition ship crosses the Antarctic Convergence, while Wandering Albatross circle the ship and a sharp watch is kept for icebergs.
DAY 15 – 16: Antarctic Peninsula Explore the Antarctic Peninsula with continental and island landings, as well as Zodiac cruises to see Gentoo, Adelie and Chinstrap Penguins. Watch for Crabeater, Weddell and Leopard Seals lounging on ice. While cruising the ice filled waters keep a close watch for Humpback and Minke Whales. Visits are planned to destinations such as Port Lockroy, Paradise Bay and Lemaire Channel along with many other landings that give you the greatest Antarctic experience possible.
DAY 7 – 10: South Georgia The splendour of South Georgia is hard to describe, as stunning mountain landscapes rise from shores crowded with thousands of King Penguins. These wild shores are also home to Elephant and Fur Seals, Light-Mantled Sooty Albatross and countless seabirds. Witness the remains of a history of whaling and walk in Shackleton’s footsteps and visit his grave in Grytviken. DAY 11 – 12: The Southern Ocean Sail towards the Antarctic, following the course taken by Shackleton and New Zealander Frank Worsley. The onboard experts prepare you for arrival in Antarctica with lectures and presentations. DAY 13: Elephant Island Your first landfall in Antarctica will be Elephant Island; it was here on Point Wild that Shackleton’s men were stranded for 135 days beneath towering ice cliffs.
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DAY 17 – 18: The Drake Passage Cruise north towards Ushuaia with ample opportunities to relive experiences and learn more from the expert lecture team. DAY 19: Ushuaia, Argentina Return early morning to Ushuaia and disembark after breakfast.
ENQUIRE now contact wild earth travel page 22
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Remote Antarctica The Ultimate Antarctic expedition - sail to the heart of the Antarctic in the footsteps of the heroic explorers and to a seldomvisited land. These expeditions have it all, from the soaring albatross and abundant wildlife of the Subantarctic Islands, to the towering icy landscapes of the Trans-Antarctic Mountains and the historic huts of Scott and Shackleton. Literally walk in the footsteps of these legendary explorers as you enter their beautifully preserved huts; see the food on the shelves and the dinner table still set. Discover the rich biodiversity of the Auckland, Campbell and Macquarie Islands, walk through a flowering sea of ‘Megaherbs’ to the nests of albatross. Navigation to the Ross Sea is limited to travel between December and February when the ice allows access to the coast. By necessity the expeditions are longer, but it is an experience you will never forget.
Mawson’s Antarctica & Commonwealth Bay
In the Wake of Scott and Shackleton
ABOARD: Orion PRICES FROM: AUD $19,365 pp DEPARTS: 20th December 2012, 7th January 2013; 3rd, 21st January 2014
ABOARD: Spirit of Enderby PRICES FROM: USD $17,000 pp DEPARTS: 8th January; 6th February 2013; 11th January; 8th February 2014
On this voyage to Antarctica and Commonwealth Bay the highlight of the trip is a visit to Cape Denison, the site of Sir Douglas Mawson’s hut from the historic 1911-1913 expedition; a time capsule from a great era of exploration. This is one of the most exclusive places on earth – more people have stood at the top of Mt Everest than have stood inside this historic hut. The voyage also takes you to Port Martin, the site of 100 grounded icebergs, allowing our guests to get up close and view these amazing sites; and Dumont d’Urville, the French base renowned for its rich local wildlife, including colonies of Adelie and Emperor penguins.
The Ross Sea region of Antarctica is one of the most remote places on the planet and one of the most fascinating places in the continent’s human history. Few people have ever visited this strange and beautiful territory; opportunities for non-scientific personnel are limited to a handful of tourist expedition ships. Visit rookeries of a million penguins, watch for whales while navigating through ice floes and spot the magnificent Wandering Albatross. This is the journey of a lifetime.
DAY 1 DAY 2 DAY 3 DAY 4 – 7 DAY 8 – 12 DAY 13 – 15 DAY 16 DAY 17 – 18 DAY 19
Invercargill, New Zealand Snares Islands Auckland Islands At Sea Commonwealth Bay Region At Sea Macquarie Island At Sea Invercargill, New Zealand
DAY 1 Invercargill, New Zealand DAY 2 Bluff DAY 3 Snares Islands DAY 4 – 5 Auckland Islands DAY 6 At Sea DAY 7 – 8 Macquarie Island DAY 9 – 12 At Sea DAY 13 – 22 Antarctica’s Ross Sea Region DAY 23 – 26 At Sea DAY 27 Campbell Island DAY 28 At Sea DAY 29 Invercargill, New Zealand 8
ANTARCTIC SEMI CIRCUMNAVIGATION ABOARD: Ortelius PRICES FROM: USD $23,990 pp DEPARTS: 16th January; 18th* February 2013; 16th January; 18th February 2014 (*Operates in Reverse) A true discovery voyage including the Antarctic Peninsula, the rarely visited Peter I Island, Roald Amundsen’s starting point to the South Pole in 1911, the huts of British explorers Ernest Shackleton and Robert Falcon Scott, McMurdo Station and the Dry Valleys as well as Macquarie Island. Welcome aboard one of the most spectacular expeditions on our planet! DAY 1 DAY 2 – 3 DAY 4 – 5 DAY 6 – 8 DAY 9 – 14 DAY 15 – 16 DAY 17 – 19 DAY 20 DAY 21 – 22 DAY 23 – 24 DAY 25 – 28 DAY 29 DAY 30 – 31 DAY 32
Ushuaia, Argentina At Sea Petermann Is & Antarctic Circle Bellinshausen Sea & Peter I Is. At Sea Ross Ice Shelf Cape Evans and Cape Royds Scott Base & McMurdo Station Terra Nova Bay Cape Hallet and Cape Adare At Sea Macquarie Island At Sea Invercargill, New Zealand
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The Subantarctic Islands These islands geographic isolation have made them unique, with remarkable flora and fauna unlike anything found elsewhere. Venture into a land that time forgot, a land with fascinating culture and history and where large areas of wilderness remain. The Subantarctic Islands are home to some of the greatest concentrations of wildlife anywhere on the planet with an amazing array of albatross, penguins and seals, including some of the world’s rarest. Walk amongst flowering ‘Megaherbs’ to see Royal Albatross on the World Heritage listed Auckland and Campbell Islands. This year there is the once in a lifetime opportunity to visit Heard Island, Australia’s remotest shore!
Galapagos of the Southern Ocean
Subantarctic Wildlife Adventure HEARD ISLAND EXPEDITION
ABOARD: Spirit of Enderby PRICES FROM: USD $5,600 pp DEPARTS: 2nd, 30th December 2013
ABOARD: Orion PRICES FROM: AUD $9,815 pp DEPARTS: 8th December 2012; 28th February 2014
The name of this expedition conveys a sense of the astounding natural biodiversity and the importance of these islands as wildlife refuges. They lie in the cool temperate Subantarctic zone and are home to some of the most abundant and diverse wildlife on the planet. These islands not only play an important role in the Southern Ocean ecosystem – they also have a rich human history. This journey takes us as far south as Macquarie Island, described as ‘one of the wonder spots of the globe’, as well as Campbell Island, the Auckland Islands and The Snares. It is a journey that will forever change your appreciation of the Southern Ocean and its wildlife. DAY 1 DAY 2 DAY 3 DAY 4 DAY 5 DAY 6 – 7 DAY 8 DAY 9 DAY 10 DAY 11
Bluff, New Zealand The Snares Auckland Islands & Enderby Island Auckland Islands & Carnley Harbour At Sea Macquarie Island At Sea Campbell Island At Sea Bluff, New Zealand
For the wildlife or landscape photographer, this expedition is very special. The vistas of southern New Zealand are unique and powerful. The wildlife you will see whilst heading south is prolific and intense. Experience spectacular cruising through pristine wilderness in the very heart of Fiordland National Park where mountains drop vertically into the deep waters of the fiords. In the Subantarctic Islands wildlife is the main focus, from the great abundance of penguins on Macquarie Island to the rare and elusive teal on Auckland and Campbell Islands.
DAY 1 DAY 2 DAY 3 DAY 4 DAY 5 DAY 6 DAY 7 DAY 8 DAY 9 – 10 DAY 11 – 12 DAY 13
Bluff, New Zealand Milford Sound Dusky & Doubtful Sounds Stewart Island Snares Island Auckland Island Campbell Island At Sea Macquarie Island At Sea Bluff, New Zealand 9
ABOARD: Spirit of Enderby PRICES FROM: USD $ 16,000 DEPARTS: 8th November 2012 This unique voyage gives you a once in a lifetime opportunity to spend at least three days at Heard Island and neighbouring McDonald Island (no landings permitted on McDonald) experiencing Australia’s only active volcano and highest mountain, Big Ben, along with a multitude of resident breeding Antarctic Fur Seal, Southern Elephant Seal and King Penguins, all previously heavily exploited and are now recovering. Gentoo, Macaroni and Rockhopper Penguins also breed here. The islands discovery and history are colourful and there is still a lot of artefacts and evidence from this period. It is a mountainous, wild and strange environment: recent satellite images show glaciers alongside lava flows.
DAY 1 DAY 2 – 10 DAY 11 – 13 DAY 14 – 24 DAY 25
Fremantle, Australia At Sea Heard Island At Sea Albany, Australia
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Canadian Arctic & Greenland Home to the iconic Northwest Passage, the fabled passage to the riches of the east, this is a land with a richness of its own. Discover a landscape with dramatic mountains, vast icecaps and active glaciers. Sail along deep fjords and walk across the seemingly endless tundra where wildflowers and autumn colours abound. Meet the Inuit people, traditional inhabitants of the north whose culture remains strong; marvel at their works of art and stories of survival in a harsh land. From Greenland to the Beaufort Sea you are immersed in the region’s history; successive waves of Inuit migration, early explorers and whalers and the grand expeditions in search of the Northwest Passage. Polar Bears roam the ice, Musk Ox graze the hillsides and we keep a keen eye out for Narwhal, Beluga and Bowhead whales.
Arctic EXPLORER
North East Greenland Explorer
Greenland and Wild Labrador
ABOARD: Clipper Adventurer PRICES FROM: USD $3,995 pp DEPARTS: 27th July 2013
ABOARD: Plancius / Ortelius / Sea Spirit PRICES FROM: USD $6,250 pp DEPARTS: 4th, 23rd, 26th August; 4th September 2012; 23rd, 25th August 2013
ABOARD: Clipper Adventurer PRICES FROM: USD $3,995 pp DEPARTS: 5th September 2013
This trip takes you to the top of the world! Travelling well beyond the Arctic Circle and into the far North, you will explore western Greenland, Devon Island and the historic route towards the North Pole. This expedition features some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Arctic; ice capped mountains, fjords and glaciers. During your time in Greenland, visit quaint and colourful communities and marvel at giant icebergs. This remains a landscape where nature reigns supreme, and you will venture only where the ice and weather conditions permit. This journey is recommended to those in search of a truly epic and remarkable experience! DAY 1 Resolute, Canada DAY 2 Prince Leopold & Beechey Island DAY 3 Pond Inlet DAY 4 Northeast Baffin Island DAY 5 Clyde River DAY 6 Isabella Bay DAY 7 Karrat Fjord DAY 8 Unmmannaq DAY 9 Ilulissat DAY 10 Itilleq DAY 11 Kangerlussuaq, Greenland
The remote shores of Northeast Greenland are some of the most seldom visited in the Arctic and also amongst the most beautiful. This expedition takes you from the historically and biologically rich waters of Svalbard, through the fjords of Greenland to Iceland. Magnificent fjords with towering peaks and fjords choked with icebergs characterize the Greenland scenery. Opportunities to see wildlife are frequent with Polar Bears, Walrus and Musk Ox all often seen in these waters. Learn about traditional Inuit culture and witness the Aurora Borealis. DAY 1 Longyearbyn, Norway DAY 2 Raudfjord, Svalbard DAY 3 – 4 At Sea DAY 5 Myggebugeten & Kaiser Franz Josef Fjord, Greenland DAY 6 Blomster Bugt DAY 7 Antarcticahaven DAY 8 Scoresby Sund & Danmark Island DAY 9 Cape Hofmann Halvo DAY 10 Scoresby Land DAY 11 Ittoqqortoormiut DAY 12 At Sea DAY 13 Akureyri/Reykjavik, Iceland 10
Discover the divine landscape and sublime natural wonders of Southwest Greenland and the wild coast of Labrador. Before crossing Davis Strait explore the Greenlandic coast including Nuuk, one of the smallest capitals in the world and the political and cultural centre of Greenland. Arriving in Canada seek out whales, Walrus and Polar Bears along the remote Baffin Island shores before heading south into Labrador – a land of towering peaks, immense fjords, autumn foliage and grand skies. Finally the warm culture of Newfoundland welcomes us to the south. DAY 1 Kangerlussuaq, Greenland DAY 2 Evighedsfjord & Kangamiut DAY 3 Nuuk DAY 4 At Sea DAY 5 Kangiqsualujjuaq (George River) DAY 6 – 8 Torngat Mountains National Park DAY 9 Itebron DAY 10 Makkovik DAY 11 Cartwright DAY 12 L’Anse aux Meadows & Conche DAY 13 Notre Dame Bay DAY 14 St John’s, Canada
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Into the Northwest Passage ABOARD: MS Clipper Adventurer PRICES FROM: USD $7,195 pp DEPARTS: 6 – 20 Aug; 20 Aug – 5 Sept 2013
Venture with us through the famed Northwest Passage! The epic quest for a northern route west to silk and spice producing Asia occupied some of the best minds of European civilization for half a millennium. Until recently the ice-choked waters of the passage provided extreme challenges to navigators; it still remains an elusive route that few have had the privilege of travelling. DAY 1: Kangerlussuaq (Sondre Stromfjord) Embark at Kangerlussuaq in Greenland for the start of our voyage. DAY 2: Sisimuit Coast The west Greenland coastline is a rich mixture of fishing communities and beautiful scenery. Here we will be making a stop to explore the Greenlandic landscape. DAY 3: Ilulissat Ilulissat translates literally into “iceberg”, and there couldn’t be a more fitting name. Our visit will include time in the colourful town and a chance to hike to an elevated viewpoint where we can observe the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Ilulissat Ice Fjord. DAY 4: Karrat Fjord In Karrat Fjord we will cruise one of Greenland’s most spectacular fjords. Here you will have some great photographic opportunities. DAY 5: Upernavik Upernavik was where people came in spring,
when the ice broke up, to trade and fish. Today it is a thriving fishing and trading community with a rich history. DAY 6: Mattimatalik (Pond Inlet) We will sail through Milne Inlet, a Narwhal breeding ground, en route to Pond Inlet. This bustling Arctic community is surrounded by one of the most beautiful landscapes in the Eastern Arctic. We have a chance to explore the town, as well as take in a cultural presentation. DAY 7: Dundas Harbour and Croker Bay, Devon Island The largest uninhabited island in the world supports significant concentrations of wildlife. At Dundas Harbour we find the lonely remains of an RCMP station dating from the 1920s. DAY 8: Beechey and Prince Leopold Islands In 1845 Sir John Franklin took his fated expedition of 129 men aboard two ships into the Wellington Channel from Beechy Island. Not a soul returned from the expedition. Prince Leopold Island is noted for its extraordinary bird cliffs that house Thick-billed Murres, Northern Fulmars, and Black-legged Kittiwakes. DAY 9: Fort Ross and Bellot Strait Fort Ross was the last trading post built by the Hudson’s Bay Company in Canada’s Arctic. Established in 1937 it was meant to bridge the eastern and western Arctic fur trading districts through the Bellot Strait. DAY 10: Pasley Bay Today we have an expedition stop at the place where the St. Roch ship sheltered, between 11
1940 and 1942. Head off on a hike to explore the landscape of the Boothia Peninsula. DAY 11: Uqsuqtuuq (Gjøa Haven) In 1903, explorer Roald Amundsen sailed through the James Ross Strait and stopped at a natural harbour on the island’s south coast. Unable to proceed due to sea ice, he spent the winters of 1903 - 1905 exploring and learning from local Inuit. DAY 12: Queen Maud Gulf The Queen Maud Gulf Migratory Bird Sanctuary contains the largest variety of geese of any nesting area in North America, including significant numbers of Ross’ Goose. DAY 13: Bathurst Inlet Before there were any permanent buildings at Bathurst Inlet, the area was home to the Kingaunmiut, the “people of Nose Mountain”. Look out for their stone tent rings, meat caches, fox traps and drying racks, as well as hunting hides. DAY 14: Coronation Gulf Today we explore Coronation Gulf, an extensive body of water that is linked to the Arctic Ocean via the Dolphin and Union Strait to the west and by the Dease Strait and Queen Maud Gulf to the east. DAY 15: Kugluktuk (Coppermine River) Our journey ends at Coppermine River to the southwest of Victoria Island on the Coronation Gulf. Kugluktuk is the western most community in Nunavut.
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European Arctic The European Arctic encompasses some of the most varied landscapes and richest cultural heritage alongside surprisingly abundant wildlife populations. At its heart lies Spitsbergen and the Svalbard archipelago; strikingly beautiful, completely raw and undeniably exciting. It is a remote and spectacular archipelago of immense glaciers, narrow fjords and abundant wildlife. This is expedition cruising at its very best. Land on beaches covered in Walrus or search for the over 3000 Polar Bears that call Svalbard home. Not to be forgotten are the spectacular Norwegian Fjords and the seldom visited White Sea coast of Russia. For the adventure of a lifetime join a supremely powerful Russian icebreaker and sail to the North Pole.
Polar Bear Quest
ACROSS THE ARCTIC CIRCLE
THE NOTH POLE
ABOARD: Quest PRICES FROM: USD $4,990 pp DEPARTS: 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th June; 7th July 2013
ABOARD: Polar Pioneer PRICES FROM: AUD $5,900 pp DEPARTS: 3rd July 2013
ABOARD: 50 Years of Victory PRICES FROM: USD $23,995 pp DEPARTS: 19th, 30th June; 14th July 2013
Our journey is a ship-based exploration of three distinct regions. In the wild islands off the Scottish coast we plan to take in Neolithic sites scarcely changed in 5000 years and ponder the mystery of huge monoliths that marked the change of seasons for the ancients. We explore the islands and fjords of Norway’s stunning coastline, before crossing the Arctic Circle and reaching the Svalbard archipelago. The largest island of Spitsbergen is still virtually an unspoilt wilderness and is a breeding home for Walrus, Polar Bear, Reindeer and millions upon millions of migratory land and sea birds.
Few places have stirred the hearts and minds of explorers more than the North Pole. It was not until 1926 that the pole was sighted for the first time and not until 1948 that anyone actually stood there. But that is precisely what we hope to do on this historic voyage – stand at 90° North. We set sail from Murmansk on board one of the world’s most powerful icebreakers, the 50 Years of Victory. Very few vessels have the power to navigate such ice conditions but we push northwards through the ice at speeds of up to 12 knots. As well as crossing the Barents Sea and reaching the North Pole we’ll explore Franz Josef Land and search for Polar Bears and Walrus.
To many people, an expedition cruise to Svalbard is a life-changing experience. The overwhelming scenery, extraordinary wildlife and unpredictable encounters with animals such as Polar Bears and Walrus are simply very special. Join this amazing journey in search of the Polar Bear as you sail along the icy shores of Svalbard on the constant look out for sightings of these creatures in their natural habitat. Immerse yourself in nature and gain a unique perspective on the wildlife of the High Arctic and the spectacular landscape that it inhabits. During the expedition we watch for Beluga Whales, Walrus, Arctic Foxes and Reindeer while making landings around the wild shores of Svalbard. This is a fantastic way to experience the wildlife and landscape of Spitsbergen and the land of the ‘midnight sun’. DAY 1 Longyearbyn, Svalbard DAY 2 – 8 Spitsbergen Visiting Barentsburg, Ny Ålesund, Northwest Svalbard, Krossfjorden, North Spitsbergen and Auk Mountain. DAY 9 Longyearbyn, Svalbard
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DAY 1 Aberdeen, Scotland DAY 2 – 3 Orkney Islands DAY 4 Shetland Islands DAY 5 At Sea DAY 6 – 9 Norwegian Coastline DAY 10 – 13 Spitsbergen DAY 14 Longyearbyn, Spitsbergen 12
DAY 1 Helsinki, Finland DAY 2 Murmansk DAY 3 The Barents Sea DAY 4 – 6 Arctic Ocean DAY 7 The North Pole DAY 8 – 10 Franz Josef Land DAY 11 – 13 Barents Sea DAY 14 Murmansk & Helsinki
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FEATURED
TRIP
Circumnavigation of Spitsbergen ABOARD: Akademik Vavilov / Sea Spirit / Plancius / Ortelius / Quest / Stockholm / NG Explorer / Silver Explorer / Polar Pioneer PRICES FROM: USD $5,800 pp DEPARTS: June to August 2013
The circumnavigation of Spitsbergen reveals the diversity of this island archipelago and takes us into the kingdom of the Polar Bear. We explore the coastline, with no open sea crossings, against a backdrop of spectacular glacier-covered peaks. We discover deep fjords in the west, mysterious, fossil-rich desert plains in the east, and best of all, seals and whales in the Arctic pack ice. This voyage offers the best chance for seeing Reindeer and Polar Bears, and features wildflower walks across sweeping tundra, trapper camps and historical remains of whaling stations.
DAY 3: Andøya & Monaco Glacier On the tundra island of Andøya many Common Eiders and Pink-footed Geese nest along with the rare King Eider. Sailing into Liefdefjorden, we will cruise near the face of the impressive Monaco Glacier. The waters of the glacier front are a favourite feeding spot for thousands of Kittiwakes and occasionally Polar Bears are seen on the glacier.
DAY 1: Arrive in Longyearbyen Before embarking there is an opportunity to stroll around this former mining town, whose parish church and polar museum are well worth visiting. In the early evening the ship will sail out of Isfjorden.
DAY 5: Laagøya & Sorg Fjord We will visit Laagøya today, a low island with a big lagoon where large herds of Walrus tend to congregate. Sabine’s Gulls also nest on the island. At Sorg Fjord we may find another herd of Walrus not far from the graves of 17th century whalers.
DAY 2: Krossfjorden & Ny Alesund In Krossfjorden, we board the Zodiacs for a cruise along the sculpted front of the 14th of July Glacier. On the green slopes near the glacier, a colourful variety of flowers bloom, while large numbers of Kittiwakes and Brünnich’s Guillemots nest on the nearby cliffs. In the afternoon we sail to Ny Ålesund, the world’s most northerly settlement; from here Amundsen and Nobile departed on their airship flights to the North Pole.
DAY 4: Phippsøya & Nordaustlandet Today we reach our northernmost point at Phippsøya, in the Seven Islands north of Nordaustlandet. Here we will be at 81 degrees north, just 540 miles from the geographic North Pole. Polar Bears inhabit this region, along with Ivory Gulls.
DAY 6: Alkefjellet & Augustabukta Today we sail into Hinlopen Strait, home to Bearded Seals, Ringed Seals, Polar Bears, and Ivory Gulls. We’ll explore the bird cliffs of Alkefjellet with thousands of Brünnich’s Guillemots. On the east side of Hinlopen Strait, we’ll attempt a landing at Augustabukta, home to Pink-footed Geese, as well as Walrus. Near Torrelneset, we will explore the world’s third largest ice cap, which meets the sea nearby. 13
DAY 7: Freemansundet & Edgeøya In Freemansundet we visit an old trapper’s hut and then take a walk across the tundra in search of Spitsbergen Reindeer and Barnacle Geese. Later we can climb to the rim of a narrow gully which is inhabited by thousands of Kitttiwakes, together with Black Guillemots and piratical Glaucous Gulls. During the breeding season, the base of the cliffs is patrolled by Arctic Foxes and Polar Bears. DAY 8: Hornsund We start the day quietly cruising the side fjords of the spectacular Hornsund area of southern Spitsbergen, enjoying the scenery of towering mountain peaks. Hornsundtind rises to 1,431m. There are also 14 magnificent glaciers in the area and very good chances of encounters with seals and Polar Bears. DAY 9: Van Keulenfjorden Today we land on Ahlstrandhalvøya at the mouth of Van Keulenfjorden. Piles of Beluga skeletons on the shores are yet another reminder of the consequences of thoughtless exploitation. Thankfully there is a good chance that we may come across a pod. DAY 10: Disembark in Longyearbyn Arrive in Longyearbyn for morning transfers to the airport and the flight to Oslo and onwards.
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Russian Far East The remote reaches of Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula and the distant Kuril Islands have fired the imagination of explorers and traders for centuries. Far to the north lie the Arctic shores of the Chukotka Peninsula, cradle of Arctic civilisation and gateway to the Arctic Ocean. This relatively unknown territory is rich in bird life, marine mammals and home to a hardy Arctic people who manage to prosper in a hostile environment, continuing a way of life that was established over thirty thousand years ago. Here mountains fall to the sea, deep valleys cut through inland plateaus and the lakes and streams bring clean, unpolluted water to the seas. This is your opportunity to explore the playground of Sea Otters, whales, puffins, Stellar’s Sea Eagles and bears. Discover a contrasting land of icy glaciers and fiery volcanoes; forgotten fragile habitats rich in wildlife, culture and history.
Across the Top of the World
In the Wake of Bering
PASSAGE TO KAMCHATKA
ABOARD: Spirit of Enderby PRICES FROM: USD $9,800 pp DEPARTS: 7th, 21st August 2013
ABOARD: Spirit of Enderby PRICES FROM: USD $7,700 pp DEPARTS: 21st June 2013
ABOARD: Caledonian Sky PRICES FROM: GBP £6,695 pp DEPARTS: 21st May 2013
This unique journey not only includes isolated Wrangel Island but also a significant portion of the Siberian coastline. Right on the border between Soviet Russia and the USA, the area was known as the Ice Curtain and today remains one of the last great undiscovered wonders of the world. Wrangel Island was untouched by glaciers during the last ice age, making it a treasure trove of Arctic biodiversity, perhaps best known for the multitude of Polar Bears that breed there.
Commander Vitus Bering sailed on the St. Gabriel from the Kamchatka River northwards as this expedition will on a voyage of discovery. This expedition is specifically designed to coincide with the peak of the summer wildlife along the vast and extremely remote coasts of Kamchatka and Chukotka. Visit the Commander Islands; once a bustling colony of seal hunters these islands are today home to millions of seabirds including the rare Red-legged Kittiwake. Further north watch for Brown Bears and enjoy the profusion of flowers on the tundra. This is a true voyage of exploration and discovery!
The remote reaches of Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula and the distant and isolated Kuril Islands have fired the imagination of explorers and traders for centuries. Join us on this remarkable voyage of unparalleled exploration along the ‘Pacific Ring of Fire’. Cruise through a pristine environment that calls to nature lovers, history buffs, photographers and the intrepid explorer within.
DAY 0 DAY 1 DAY 2 DAY 3 DAY 4 DAY 5 DAY 6 – 10 DAY 11 DAY 12 DAY 13 DAY 14 DAY 15
Nome, Alaska Anadyr, Russia Anadyrskiy Bay Ytteygran & Arakamchechen Island Cape Dezhnev / Uelen Village Kolyuchin Island Wrangel & Herald Islands North Siberian Coast Kolyuchin Inlet Big Diomede Island At Sea Anadyr, Russia/Nome, Alaska
DAY 1 Petropavlosk-Kamchatskiy, Russia DAY 2 Petropavlosk-Kamchatskiy DAY 3 Zhupanova River DAY 4 – 5 Commander Islands DAY 6 Verkhoturova Island DAY 7 Goven Peninsula DAY 8 Tintikun Lagoon DAY 9 – 10 Olyutorskiy Bay DAY 11 Bukhta Natlaia & Dezhneva DAY 12 – 13 Meinypil’gyno DAY 14 Bukhta Gavilla DAY 15 Anadyr, Russia 14
DAY 1 Niigata DAY 2 Hakodate DAY 3 Tomakomai DAY 4 Kushiro DAY 5 Yuzhno Kurilisk & Kunashin Islands DAY 6 Urup & Chirpola DAY 7 Yantuicl & Matua DAY 8 Couysski Is. & Shumshu Islands DAY 9 Atlasuva & Shumshu Islands DAY 10 Vestnik Bayo Listvenichnaya DAY 11 Petropavlovsk DAY 12 Kamenistaya Bay DAY 13 Bering Island DAY 14 Zhupanova River DAY 15 Petropavlosk
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MS Silver Explorer
MS L’Austral / Le Boreal
MS National Geographic Explorer
VESSEL TYPE
Luxury Cruise / Expedition
VESSEL TYPE
Luxury Expedition/Cruise
VESSEL TYPE
Luxury Expedition
LENGTH
108 meters
LENGTH
142 meters
LENGTH
108 meters
BEAM
15.5 meters
BEAM
18 meters
BEAM
16.5 meters
SPEED (AVERAGE)
13 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
16 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
14 knots
BUILT / REFURBISHED 1989 / 2008
BUILT / REFURBISHED 2010 & 2011
BUILT / REFURBISHED 1982 / 2008
CAPACITY
CAPACITY
CAPACITY 148 (in single & twin cabins)
132 (in twin cabins)
REGISTRY Bahamas
264 (in twin cabins, 200 in Antarctica)
REGISTRY France
REGISTRY Bahamas
Explorer Suite
La Fayette Stateroom
Category 3 cabin
Cigar Bar
Bar
Lounge 15
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MS Clipper Adventurer
MS Orion
MS SEA SPIRIT
VESSEL TYPE
Comfortable Expedition
VESSEL TYPE
Luxury Expedition
VESSEL TYPE
Luxury Expedition
LENGTH
90 meters
LENGTH
103 meters
LENGTH
90.6 meters
BEAM
16.2 meters
BEAM
14.2 meters
BEAM
15.3 meters
SPEED (AVERAGE)
12 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
13 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
12 knots
BUILT / REFURBISHED 1975 / 1998
BUILT / REFURBISHED 2001
BUILT / REFURBISHED 1992 / 2011
CAPACITY
CAPACITY
CAPACITY
118 (in twin cabins)
REGISTRY Bahamas
106 (in twin cabins)
REGISTRY Bahamas
REGISTRY Bahamas
Junior Double - Category 3 cabin
Category A Stateroom
Owners Suite
Dining Room
Library
Bridge 16
108 (in twin cabins)
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MS Plancius
MS Akademik Ioffe / VAVILOV
MS Ortelius
VESSEL TYPE Expedition
VESSEL TYPE Expedition
VESSEL TYPE Expedition
LENGTH
89 meters
LENGTH
91 meters
LENGTH
110.7 meters
BEAM
14.5 meters
BEAM
18 meters
BEAM
18.2 meters
SPEED (AVERAGE)
11 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
12 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
11 knots
BUILT / REFURBISHED 1976 / 2009
BUILT / REFURBISHED 1989 / 2007
BUILT / REFURBISHED 1989
CAPACITY
CAPACITY
CAPACITY
114 (in triple & twin cabins)
REGISTRY Netherlands
106 (in twin & triple cabins)
REGISTRY Russia
92 (in triple & twin cabins)
REGISTRY Russia
Restaurant
Observation Lounge
Superior Cabin
Twin Cabin
Private Twin Cabin
Buffet Dining
Bridge
Bar 17
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MS Quest
MS Ocean Nova
MS Ushuaia
VESSEL TYPE Expedition
VESSEL TYPE Expedition
VESSEL TYPE Expedition
LENGTH
49.6 meters
LENGTH
73 meters
LENGTH
84.7 meters
BEAM
11.1 meters
BEAM
11 meters
BEAM
15.5 meters
SPEED (AVERAGE)
12 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
11 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
12 knots
BUILT / REFURBISHED 1992 / 2004
BUILT / REFURBISHED 1992 / 2006
BUILT / REFURBISHED 1970 / 2000
CAPACITY
CAPACITY
CAPACITY
84 (in triple & twin cabins)
REGISTRY
Union of Comoros
53 (in triple & twin cabins)
84 (in twin & triple cabins)
REGISTRY Bahamas
REGISTRY Bahamas
Category F cabin
Twin Cabin
Superior Cabin
Dining Room
Observation Lounge
Dining Room 18
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MS 50 Years of Victory
MS Spirit of Enderby/POLAR PIONEER MS Via Australis / Stella Australis
VESSEL TYPE Icebreaker
VESSEL TYPE Expedition
VESSEL TYPE
Luxury Expedition
LENGTH
160 meters
LENGTH
72 meters
LENGTH
79 meters
BEAM
30 meters
BEAM
13 meters
BEAM
15 meters
SPEED (AVERAGE)
20 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
10 knots
SPEED (AVERAGE)
12 knots
BUILT / REFURBISHED 2007
BUILT / REFURBISHED 1984 / 2009
BUILT / REFURBISHED 2005
CAPACITY
CAPACITY
CAPACITY
128 (in twin cabins)
REGISTRY Russia
55 (triple & twin cabins)
REGISTRY Chile
REGISTRY Russia
510 517
521
415
420
418
425
421
426
413
411
518
505
Hospital
Bar Lounge /Library
509
Office Bridge
136 (in twin cabins)
314
315
331
327
326
322
321
332
313
337
312
310
311
309
Dining Room
Dining Room
Suite 513
Galley
Lecture Theatre Sauna
Laundry
Standard Twin Cabin
Heritage Suite
Twin Cabin
Bridge
Dining Room
Dining Room 19
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14
Russian Far East
12
19
Mediterranean Europe
Black Sea
22
26
28
30
32
35
39
North America
Central America & The Carribean
The Galapagos Islands & The Amazon
South America
Southeast Asia
South Pacific
The Kimberley & Northern Australia
Africa 42
8
Northern Europe
Spitsbergen 13
10
Canadian Arctic & Greenland
8
Ross Sea Region
9
7
Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica
The Subantarctic Islands
4
Antarctic Peninsula
CRUISE CALENDAR
POLAR
WORLDWIDE
Page #
The perfect time for cruising December November
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August
July
June
May
April
March
February
January
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Join us on the voyage of a life time. Confirm availability on your chosen small ship cruise by contacting us directly or visiting your preferred travel professional. To reserve your place, a deposit is required at the time of confirmation. The per person advance payment varies by program and will be confirmed at the time of reservation. Receipt of your initial payment indicates your acceptance of our Terms and Conditions and confirms your participation.
Put us to work for you, nobody knows small ship cruising like we do. We have spent decades sailing the seven seas and if anybody can find what you are looking for, we can! We recommend that you pass this brochure on to others to enjoy or recycle.
You can receive further information on any of the voyages in our brochure by contacting our office, or visiting our website. Online you will find full details of the voyage and cabin category pricing along with a comprehensive listing of departure dates. OR Wild Earth is proud to work with all major travel agent networks in Australia and New Zealand. In addition to your small ship cruise experience your travel agent can also provide invaluable assistance and advice on flights and other travel requirements. Please take a moment to discuss Wild Earth Travel small ship cruises with your travel agent.
STILL LOOKING FOR YOUR PERFECT VOYAGE
Further Information
RESERVING your voyage
Antarctic House 53B Montreal Street | PO Box 7218, Christchurch, 8240, New Zealand
0800 945 3327(within New Zealand) | +64 (0) 3 365 1355 1800 107 715 (within Australia) info@wildearth-travel.com | wildearth-travel.com
Agent contact details:
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terms & conditions 1. Confirmation / Deposit Upon receipt of your booking, we will endeavour to book the tours or travel services requested by you as soon as possible and will then send you a Confirmation Invoice. You must then send us a deposit of 20% of the invoiced amount within 7 days. If bookings are made within 90 days of your date of travel, full payment must be sent immediately, and certainly within 7 days of Invoice date.
fees will apply for clients not utilising any travel arrangements, or for any no-shows – ie. No refunds will be available for any unused services. In some cases, clients may be able to transfer their booking to another departure date, but this will depend on availability, the nearness of the date of travel and on the conditions of our operators & suppliers. An administration fee may be charged in such circumstances.
Notes: These deadlines may be brought forward depending on conditions of our operators or service suppliers. You must forward any medical questionnaires & contracts required by our operators & suppliers along with your deposit payment. Please also send us a completed (& signed) Wild Earth Registration Form showing your acceptance of our standard Terms and Conditions.
6. Price changes Wild Earth Travel reserves the right to increase prices up to 20 days before the date of travel due to surcharges in supplier tariffs, transportation costs, fuel prices, currency fluctuations, local government rates & taxes. If the resultant price increase is 10% or greater, the client may cancel the booking within 14 days of our written notification of the surcharge and obtain a full refund.
2. Residual Payment Full payment must be received by Wild Earth Travel for all bookings no later than ninety (90) days prior to the commencement of travel (eg. the tour start date). If full payment has not been received by these due dates, then Wild Earth Travel reserves the right to cancel all travel services for the booking in question without further notice to the client. Provided full payment is received by this time, Wild Earth Travel shall take all steps necessary to reconfirm and verify all reservations in advance of the date of travel, as may be required by our operators & service suppliers.
7. Insurance It is the responsibility of all booked clients to obtain travel insurance to cover personal injury, medical expenses, third party risk, baggage loss / damage, and the cancellation / curtailment of travel. It is also recommended that insurance coverage be extended to include medical evacuation and / or repatriation. (On some tours this is compulsory). The cost of these can be high, especially from remote locations and will in no way be the responsibility of Wild Earth Travel. When obtaining insurance from a source other than Wild Earth Travel, the Client must ensure that the insurer is aware of the type of travel to be undertaken.
3. Late & Minimum Bookings If bookings are made 15 days or less prior to the date of travel, then a Late Booking Fee of NZ$100 per file will be charged to offset administration costs. If the total invoiced amount of a client’s booking is less than NZ$300, then a Minimum Booking Fee of NZ$50 per file will be charged to offset administration costs. 4. Amendments (prior to date of travel) Within 60 days of date of travel, amendments to confirmed reservations will be handled on a request basis. An amendment fee of NZ$50 will be charged per amendment, plus any fees imposed by our operators & service suppliers. No amendments are permitted within 15 days of date of travel, or cancellation fees will apply. 5. Cancellations Cancellations must be notified in writing to Wild Earth Travel. Subsequent to cancellation, Wild Earth Travel will acknowledge to the client when all reservations have been cancelled and will refund monies to the client, less the following cancellation charges; Any cancellation received outside 120 days prior to date of travel, cancellation fee will be the deposit, plus any fees charged by our operators & service suppliers. Subsequent fees will be charged as follows; 120-91 days - 50% of invoice total; less than 90 days - 100% of invoice total. The above figures are given as a guideline. Actual cancellation fees may vary due to the level of charges passed on by our operators & suppliers, and due to irregular business conditions (eg. High Season special rates / cancellation rules). Any special conditions should be advised at time of booking. Note: Upon commencement of travel, 100% cancellation
8. Travel Documents It is the responsibility of all booked clients to be in possession of all necessary travel documents, including a valid passport, visas, health / vaccination certificates and import licences. Clients should also make themselves aware of any official travel advice regarding their destination. Wild Earth Travel will not be responsible for any loss, of travel or otherwise, due to the client’s lack of information on restrictions / prohibitions imposed by governments, airlines or any other official organisation. 9. Health It is the responsibility of all booked clients to advise Wild Earth Travel of any health impairments, medical conditions or disabilities that might affect their ability to proceed with their travel. In certain cases, clients may be required to complete a medical questionnaire for Wild Earth Travel or any of its suppliers. We reserve the right to decline any client should their health, actions or behaviour affect the operation of tours or harm the rights, welfare or enjoyment of other clients. 10. Responsibility All services advertised by Wild Earth Travel are organised by us or our appointed suppliers. Wild Earth Travel, its affiliated companies and/or associated agents shall not be held responsible for any liability of property loss or damage and/or any damages resulting from illness, personal injuries or death which may be sustained for reason of, or while engaged on any tour, whether due to the ownership, maintenance, use, operation or control of any aircraft, vehicle, vessel or otherwise or whether caused by failure or delay or by any transportation company, due to any cause whatsoever including any acts or omissions occurring during a tour under
which the means of transportation or other service provided thereby is offered or supplied by its owners, operators or public carriers for whom Wild Earth Travel acts only as an agent. Wild Earth Travel shall not be held responsible for any injury resulting to a person (whether or not resulting in death) or damage to property arising out of any act of war, insurrection, revolt or other civil uprising or other military action, Acts of God, weather or any other circumstances over which Wild Earth Travel has no control, occurring in either the country of origin, destination or through passage. The transportation companies concerned are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time the passengers are not onboard their carriers or conveyances. The passenger contract in use by the carriers concerned, when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between the transportation companies and the purchasers of these expeditions and/or passengers. If our suppliers/agents are able to exclude or limit liability by virtue of any international convention we will claim the benefit of that exclusion or limitation. 11. Data Protection Wild Earth Travel will store and use the personal data supplied by clients on their booking forms for the purposes of fulfilling the contract between us. We will never pass on your information to third parties, other than to fulfil the contract between us, without your written permission. We will also use the information to keep you informed of our services and any special deals which we think may be of interest to you. Please inform us at the time of booking if you do not wish us to use your information in such ways. 12. Successors and Assigns These terms and conditions shall inure to the benefit of and be binding upon Wild Earth Travel and the Client and their respective heirs, legal personal representatives, successors and assigns. 13. Errors and Omissions Although Wild Earth Travel has made a concerted attempt to verify the accuracy of statements made herein, it cannot be held responsible for any error, omission or unintentional misrepresentation that may appear in its brochures. 14. Claims and Complaints If dissatisfied with the travel services being provided, clients should immediately advise Wild Earth Travel or its local representative, preferably in writing. In such circumstances, we / they will do our / their utmost to rectify the matter. If an immediate solution cannot be found, clients should obtain written reports or other evidence to support their complaint and present these to the agent who booked their trip, who will then contact Wild Earth Travel. Such complaints must be made within 30 days of the end of the tour. Wild Earth Travel will not accept any liability for claims received after this period. 15. Applicable Law and Choice of Forum This agreement shall be governed by New Zealand Law. Each party hereto irrevocably submits to the exclusive jurisdiction of the New Zealand Courts in respect of any action or proceeding relating in any way to this agreement
PHOTO CREDIT – Linblad Expeditions, Noble Caledonia, Variety Cruises, Coral Princess Cruises, Heritage Expeditions, Orion Expeditions, Aaron Russ, Antapply Expeditions, Polar Quest, Travel Dynamics, Compagnie Du Ponant, Shutterstock. All Dates and Rates correct at the time of going to print.
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