Antarctica Through the Lens - M/V Greg Mortimer Tour by Explore

12 daysDuration

Small Group TourUsually 8-12 participants, maximum 18 travelers

16 peopleMaximum group size

16 - 99 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Relaxed

Minimal physical effort, perfect for travelers seeking an easy-going experience.

Starts

Ushuaia, Argentina

Ends

Punta Arenas, Chile

Highlights

Witness extraordinary wildlife - including fledging penguin chicks

Photograph enormous glaciers and spectacularly shaped icebergs - in various shades of blue

Snap a shot of a tail fluke - of whales as they take a deep dive

Observe porpoising penguins and ice seals - hauled out on ice floes

Itinerary

Early Antarctic explorers returned from their voyages to the deep south with tales of a magnificent, ice-covered land teeming with life, and you'll have the opportunity to do the same AND capture it all on your camera. Experience the awe-inspiring immensity of Antarctica, reducing your time on the high seas by flying across the Drake Passage in one direction. Immerse yourself in the unimaginable beauty of the Antarctic Peninsula, where vast glaciers tumble into the sea, penguins are dwarfed by soaring peaks and humpback and minke whales feast on abundant krill. Zodiac cruise in secluded bays and quiet coves filled with brash ice, keep a close watch for the tail fluke of whales as they take a deep dive and find yourself surrounded by the world's greatest landscapes.

Witness extraordinary wildlife - including fledging penguin chicks

Photograph enormous glaciers and spectacularly shaped icebergs - in various shades of blue

Snap a shot of a tail fluke - of whales as they take a deep dive

Observe porpoising penguins and ice seals - hauled out on ice floes

day 1 - Join trip in Punta Arenas

Arrive in Punta Arenas (PUQ), where you will be met by a representative and transferred to your hotel. We ask that you arrive no later than 2pm so that you can attend the important briefing in the evening. In addition to ensuring your arrival in time for our important pre-flight briefings, if weather conditions deem it necessary, we may depart for King George Island on Day 1 instead of Day 2. Please visit the AE hospitality desk in the lobby between 2-6 pm to collect your luggage cabin tags. Our team will confirm details regarding your embarkation day, answer any questions and provide you with information about where to dine or purchase last minute items.

Overlooking the Straits of Magellan, the city sits astride one of the world's most historic trade routes. Today, Punta Arenas reflects a great blend of cultural backgrounds, from English sheep ranchers to Portuguese sailors. It remains an utterly fascinating testament to Chile's rich history. Modern day Punta Arenas is home to many popular restaurants, and bars, offering a mix of local and international fare. At 7pm this evening, meet your fellow expeditioners at a voyage briefing where we will reconfirm your transfer times for tomorrow, explain the procedures for your flight to King George Island and outline important IAATO regulations for visitors to Antarctica.

Accommodation:Hotel in Punta Arenas to be confirmed (or similar)

day 2 - Fly to King George Island and embark the M/V Greg Mortimer

This morning you will be transferred to Punta Arenas airport for your early morning charter flight to King George Island, Antarctica, the flight will take approximately one-and-a-half-hours. On arrival at King George Island, the expedition team will be on hand to greet you and provide you with gumboots for your Zodiac transfer to board the MV Greg Mortimer. You'll have time to settle into your cabin before the important ship briefings. You will be able to spend the evening getting to know your fellow expeditioners and friendly expedition team at a welcome dinner, celebrating the start of a thrilling adventure to Antarctica. Please note, King George Island is located at the northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula in the South Shetland Islands and is one of the most remote places on Earth. A clear sky with perfect visibility is required in order to take off and land safely so delays can occur.

Meals:Breakfast & Dinner