2010 -12
antarctica real life experiences‌
discover
the real antarctica… Embark on a once in a lifetime journey and discover the real Antarctica. Each of our itineraries provides insight to the region and up close experiences with nature through shore excursions and lectures by our international team of experts.
where to go... The Antarctic is filled with islands, ice shelves, mountains and of course spectacular wildlife. Where to go and what to see all depends on your interests. The classic Antarctic Peninsula (10 days/9 nights) journey takes you across the Southern Ocean to a land of fantastic ice and prolific wildlife. See thousands of penguins busy in their rookeries, the magnificent albatross on the wing, seals sunbathing on ice floes and whales as they come to feed in the nutrient-rich waters. The visions will amaze you with the late-night pink skies, turquoise waters and reflecting yellows, blues and pinks – it is sensory overload. Visit natural and historic sites, research stations and cruise in the coastal waters. Each season we take the Antarctic adventure one step further on the Antarctica & Polar Circle (12 days/11 nights) expedition. Following the adventurous spirit of Captain James Cook, this journey pushes south to attempt to cross the celebrated Polar Circle (66 ° 33’S). A true Antarctic accomplishment! For those seeking a world of ice, the Antarctica & Weddell Sea (12 days/11 nights) also travels through the Antarctic Sound, known as ‘iceberg alley’. This region is usually only accessed by scientists and is the ideal place to see huge tabular icebergs. Search out the snow petrel and the elusive emperor penguin. For the ultimate Antarctic experience the Antarctica & Sub-Antarctic Islands (19 days/18 nights) expedition explores the peninsula before heading to the South Shetland, South Georgia and Falkland Islands. Delve into the history of whaling and get close to elephant seals and wild landscapes, home to some of the remotest human populations on Earth.
Cover: Photo Competition, Adelie penguins, Antarctica - Simon Pugsley
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when to go... We travel only in summer (November to March) when temperatures range from -5°C to +10°C – quite comfortable for expedition cruising. In November, the ice is at its most spectacular and it is a time of mating and nesting for penguins and other birds. It is also a time when the dominant male seals establish their harems and territory. December and January bring the longest days of the summer and is the perfect time to see penguin chicks hatching. February and March is a time of great wildlife activity with penguins molting, chicks moving through the adolescent phase and increased whale activity.
your crew... Aaron Russ Expedition Guide Marine Biologist Aaron grew up surrounded by the wildlife of the Southern Ocean, before graduating with an honours degree in Zoology. He has spent many years leading expeditions, including over 50 to Antarctica in the last 15 years.
Hannah Lawson Expedition Leader Mammologist Hannah has spent her life fascinated with animals, art and adventure. With a degree in Zoology and a masters in Natural History Illustration, she has travelled the globe drawing and learning about wildlife.
Megan Tierney Marine Biologist Megan’s background in Marine Biology and Zoology has provided her with the amazing opportunity to work with Southern elephant seals, royal penguins and Adélie penguins on the Antarctic continent itself.
Antarctic Peninsula trip code
GPMA
10 days / 9 nights ex Ushuaia ITINERARY... Day 1 Ushuaia The most southerly city in the world, Ushuaia is located on the edge of the impressive Beagle Channel, close to beautiful beech forests and the southern tip of the Andes. Days 2–3 At Sea Start the adventure by crossing the passage that bears the name of the 16th-century English explorer, Sir Francis Drake. The Polar Star is at home
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• Set sail on a classic Antarctic adventure • Cross the Drake Passage • Search out whales at the Antarctic Convergence
in the turbulent waters of the Southern Ocean where the Antarctic Convergence sees a meeting of polar and temperate waters. This mixing pushes nutrient-rich waters to the surface attracting a variety of seabirds, whales and other species. While at sea, there is plenty of time to become acquainted with the ship and take part in lecture and information sessions
• Follow in the footsteps of explorers • Step onto the frozen Antarctic peninsula
of the region. Days 4–6 Antarctica Set foot on the Great
• Explore the coastline by Zodiac
White Continent! Antarctica is a land of superlatives. It is the
• Get close to seals
to learn about the extraordinary human and natural history
coldest, windiest, driest, iciest and highest of all the major landmasses in the world. It is the continent with the longest nights and the longest days, and it is home to one of the world’s greatest concentration of wildlife. It is also one of the last true wilderness areas left on earth; largely unchanged since the early explorers and whalers first landed on its inhospitable shores less than two centuries ago. Spend three days exploring its shores on Zodiac cruises and landings at historic and wildlife sites. Keep an eye out for chinstrap, Adélie and gentoo penguins, fur, Weddell and crabeater seals, as well as minke and humpback whales. Day 7 South Shetland Islands Head north of the peninsula to the South Shetland
• Keep an eye out for many species of penguins • Learn about the region from expert lecturers • Hop between the South Shetland Islands • Search out migrating humpback whales
Top: Group on Zod Tour, Hercules Bay, Antarctica Middle: Photo Competition, Seal up close, Antarctica - Nick Jacobs Below: Briefing group, Antarctica
Refer to the last page for dates & prices… Celebrate the New Year Dec 29, 2010 – Jan 7, 2011 Celebrate the New Year in a very unique way – under the 24-hour sun of the Austral Summer. On this special departure of Antarctic Peninsula, be on the look out for penguins, seals, seabirds and whales in their natural environment. An incredible way to start your New Year.
Islands. Disembark on a number of the islands for some prime penguin spotting, whale watching and hopefully a visit to one
Celebrate Christmas Dec 19 – 29, 2010
of the science research stations. Weather permitting, stop at
This special Christmas departure of Antarctic Peninsula combines the world’s largest wilderness with historic sites, wildlife and Christmas traditions from around the world. Spending the holidays among icebergs and penguins must be the ultimate Christmas! Please note this is an 11 day / 10 night itinerary.
the collapsed volcanic cone of Deception Island for a chance to visit Whalers Bay and see the rusted remains of boilers and tanks that once processed and held the whale oil. Days 8-9 At Sea Begin the return journey to Ushuaia. Keep your eyes open on the deck for some final whale sightings. Day 10 Ushuaia The adventure ends on disembarkation in Ushuaia.
Additional information about this destination is available at intrepidtravel.com
your home away
from home… m/v polar star... The M/V Polar Star has a tough icebreaker hull allowing for freedom of movement even in polar regions. Our ship’s small size gives you the opportunity to go where many others can’t. You’ll experience remote and magical places that larger ships can only steam by. To get you even closer, our fleet of 10 sturdy, inflatable motorised boats (Zodiacs) gives access to small or shallow areas and landings. The ship is also equipped with outside deck spaces for wildlife viewing. It’s possible to move about the ship entirely outdoors, so you can follow that dolphin, whale or albatross without ever having to go inside.
life onboard... Onboard the M/V Polar Star we look after all the details, leaving you free to discover, explore, learn and enjoy the marvels of our great world. The functional and cozy atmosphere of our ship provides an ideal haven after a day of exploration. There is no need to pack and unpack, yet each day you will be in a new place where new adventures await. When possible we will organise at least two excursions a day, either on land or by Zodiacs, exploring the coastline, getting close to ice or spotting wildlife.
All cabins are outside cabins. Most cabins have large viewing windows as described below. Each cabin is equipped with wardrobes, drawers, nightstands and a writing desk. (The figure in brackets below indicates the number of cabins in each category available for passengers) K 1 – Triple/Double (5) Two lower and one upper berths. Bathroom facilities are shared with the neighbouring cabin. Approx.100 sq. ft / 9 sq. mtrs. Portholes. K 2 – Double (15) Two lower beds. Private bathroom with shower, toilet and washbasin. Approx. 115 sq. ft / 11 sq. m. Large windows. K 3 – Double (16) 2 lower beds. Private bathroom with shower, toilet and washbasin. Approx. 115 sq. ft / 11 sq. m. Large windows, one opens.
You’ll also be able to attend a series of lectures, presentations and films. This adds tremendously to the depth of your experience. Of course there is still plenty of time for leisurely meals, social time at the bar, a stroll on deck or some quiet personal time.
K 4 – Superior , dble or triple (4) Double bed, couch can be made up as bed. Private bathroom. Approx. 140 sq. ft / 13 sq. m. 2 side facing windows and 1 porthole.
The open bridge policy allows guests on the bridge in normal conditions and, with 360 ° views, it is an excellent place to watch for whales and seabirds. The panoramic observation lounge features full-height windows (starboard, aft and port) so that you can still watch for wildlife even on inclement days.
K 6 – Mini suites (7) Double bed, some in alcove, couch can be made up as bed in some. Private bathroom. Approx. 180 sq. ft / 17 sq. m. Large windows.
group size... The Polar Star can carry 100 passengers. With a fleet of 10 Zodiacs everyone can cruise to shore at once. Opposite: Life Onboard the PolarStar Left: Food on deck Right: Library
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your cabin choices...
K 7 – Suites (2) Separate sleeping area and a private bathroom. Couch in living area. Approx. 250 sq. ft / 23 sq. m. Forward and side windows.
deck layout...
onboard facilities... • • • • • • • • • • •
Panoramic observation lounge with bar Full lecture seating Open-bridge policy Excellent deck viewing Dining open seating International cuisine Spacious functional cabins Onboard shop Onboard doctor Polar Bar and library Fitness facility
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Antarctica & Sub-Antarctic Islands trip code
GPMB
19 days / 18 nights ex Ushuaia ITINERARY... Day 1 Ushuaia Board the Polar Star in the afternoon, ready to set sail that evening. Days 2-3 At Sea Sailing towards the South Shetland Islands, enjoy the onboard lecture program and join guides searching out sea birds. Day 4 South Shetland Islands Combine wildlife viewing with history lessons. See penguin rookeries, seal haul-out sites, whales and
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many seabirds. Days 5-6 Antarctica Step onto the continent or cruise the waters around the peninsula searching out wildlife and secluded landing areas by Zodiac. Day 7 At Sea Enjoy daily life onboard the Polar Star with lectures, wildlife spotting and plenty of time to relax and watch the Antarctic scenery glide by. Day 8 South Orkney Islands Weather permitting, enjoy a visit to Signy Station and look for the population of Weddell, fur and elephant seals. Day 9 At Sea Head back out to sea, towards South Georgia Island. Days 10-13 South Georgia Island This spectacular stopover offers the rare privilege of visiting colonies of king penguins,
• Enjoy lectures from Antarctic experts • Search out whales from the viewing deck • Learn about whaling in the South Shetlands • Get close to elephant seal populations
amassed in their hundreds of thousands. See hillsides covered in macaroni penguins and islands of tussock grass dotted with wandering albatross. Days 14-15 At Sea Enjoy more onboard lectures and keep an eye out for whales. Days 16-17 Falkland Islands These islands are famed for their black-browed albatross and rockhopper penguin populations. Day 18 At Sea Above: Photo Competition, Iceberg with pink sunset, Antarctica - Nick Jacobs Below: Photo Competition, Meeting the locals, Antarctica - Nick Jacobs
In the Southern Ocean, enter the realm of the great albatross. Day 19 Ushuaia Return to Ushuaia via the Beagle Channel.
• See penguins up close in South Georgia • Visit the wildlife-rich Falkland islands • Visit Shackleton’s grave at Grytviken
Antarctica & Weddell Sea trip code
GPMC
12 days / 11 nights ex Ushuaia ITINERARY... Day 1 Ushuaia The adventure begins in the frontier city of Ushuaia. Embark the Polar Star in the evening and get acquainted with fellow passengers. Days 2-3 At Sea Head south and feel the air change from the fresh grassy breezes of South America, to the sharpness of the Antarctic. While on board enjoy lectures from Antarctic experts on everything from wildlife to explorers. Wander the bridge
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and keep an eye out for humpback and minke whales on the Southern Ocean crossing. Days 4-6 Antarctica Arrive at the great white continent, ready for three days of exploration. Enjoy excursions by Zodiac along the coastline to see amazing wildlife and explore historic sites. Disembark in hidden coves and at historical sites to seek out many species of penguins, seabirds, seals and whales. Day 7 South Shetland Islands Explore the spectacular volcanic landscapes of the South Shetland Islands and get close to their prolific wildlife. Weather permitting, stop off at Deception Island and Half Moon Island and learn about the area’s whaling past. Remnants of whaling can still be seen today. Days 8-9 Weddell Sea Approached via the aptly named ‘iceberg alley’, this is a spectacular area of stunning scenery and wildlife. Off the usual Antarctic trail, this area is rarely visited and usually only seen by scientists. Days 10-11 At Sea Head north back towards Ushuaia across the Drake Passage. Day 12 Ushuaia Return to the world’s Hiking, Antarctica
southernmost city.
For trip notes, availability and more, enter the trip code at intrepidtravel.com
• Cross the magnificent Southern Ocean • Explore the volcanic South Shetlands • Cruise through ‘iceberg alley’ • Learn about the area’s whaling past • Spot whales, penguins and seals • Enjoy excursions by Zodiac • Sail through the Drake Passage
Antarctica & Polar Circle trip code
GPMD
12 days / 11 nights ex Ushuaia ITINERARY... Day 1 Ushuaia Board the Polar Star at the most southern city in the world, Ushuaia. Days 2–3 At Sea The adventure begins as the Polar Star sets sail and cruises through the Drake Passage. Passing over the rich waters of the Antarctic Convergence, where warm waters meet cool, be ready for some of the region’s best ocean sightseeing. This is an ideal place to search out wildlife including minke and
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humpback whales. Enjoy lectures from Antarctic experts and get an in-depth insight into the region. Days 4–8 Antarctica Steam south, making the most of our icebreaker ship, going where larger boats can’t and attempting the Polar Circle Crossing. Head as far south as Crystal Sound. Turn north and travel the coastal and island waters, using the Zodiac for shore landings and day trips to remote coves. Land in places such as Vernandsky base, Petermann Island, Port Lockroy and Paradise Bay. Along the way, keep an eye out for chinstrap, Adélie and gentoo penguins, various seal species including leopard seal, a multitude of seabirds and hopefully whales. Day 9 South Shetland Islands Visit these spectacular volcanic islands and search out their prolific populations of penguins, whales, seals and seabirds. Visit historic Deception Island, with geothermic heated waters and an abandoned whaling station. Days 10–11 At Sea Cross the Drake Passage and Beagle Channel on the return voyage. Day 12 Ushuaia The adventure ends upon disembarkation in Ushuaia.
• Cruise the Drake Passage • Search out minke and humpback whales • Attempt the Polar Circle crossing • Visit the South Shetland Islands • Cross the Drake Passage • Explore remote inlets by Zodiac
Minke whale, Ciervo Cove, Antarctica
Ushuaia Accommodation Package Take the hassle out of your arrival in Ushuaia with our accommodation and transfer package. Package includes: • Transfer from the airport to your hotel • 1 night’s accommodation • Transfer from the hotel to the M/V Polar Star • Return transfer from the M/V Polar Star to the hotel or airport Ask for more details at time of booking
Additional information about this destination is available at intrepidtravel.com
Booking conditions... Please note itineraries are indicative only and may change due to weather or seasonal points of interest. Polar Star Expeditions Terms and Conditions* (specifically applicable to expeditions of the M/V Polar Star) are available upon request and are automatically included with booking correspondence. In case of discrepancy between Intrepid’s Terms and Conditions and Polar Star Expeditions’ Terms and Conditions, the Polar Star Expeditions Terms and Conditions fully apply. Payment to PSE by the registered passenger via Intrepid is construed as agreement by passengers to be bound by all provisions of the Polar Star Expeditions Terms and Conditions. *For Polar Star’s full booking conditions, please visit: intrepidtravel.com/polarstarterms
Ushuaia Accommodation Package Take the hassle out of your arrival in Ushuaia with our accommodation and transfer package. Package includes: • Transfer from the airport to your hotel • 1 night’s accommodation • Transfer from the hotel to the M/V Polar Star • Return transfer from the M/V Polar Star to the hotel or airport Ask for more details at time of booking.
Early bird special Book your Antarctic adventure at least 15 months prior to departure and receive 5% off. Ask for more details at time of booking.
Travellers call: 1300 623 408
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