Plancius Expedition Vessel

AM: In the afternoon, we embark in Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world located at the Beagle Channel and sail through this scenic waterway for the rest of the evening.

AM: During these two days, we sail across the Drake Passage. When we cross the Antarctic Convergence, we arrive in the circum-Antarctic up welling zone. In this area, we may see Wandering Albatrosses, Grey Headed Albatrosses, Black-browed Albatrosses, Light-mantled Albatrosses, Cape Petrels, Southern Fulmars, Wilson’s Storm Petrels, Blue Petrels and Antarctic Petrels. Near the South Shetland Islands, we spot our first icebergs.

AM: During these two days, we sail across the Drake Passage. When we cross the Antarctic Convergence, we arrive in the circum-Antarctic up welling zone. In this area, we may see Wandering Albatrosses, Grey Headed Albatrosses, Black-browed Albatrosses, Light-mantled Albatrosses, Cape Petrels, Southern Fulmars, Wilson’s Storm Petrels, Blue Petrels and Antarctic Petrels. Near the South Shetland Islands, we spot our first icebergs.

AM: 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 shorelines and mountaineers will find their challenge by climbing hills and viewpoints further inland. 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 old British research station, now working museum and post office at Port Lockroy on Goudier Island. Close to Port Lockroy, we may also offer a landing on Jougla Point with Gentoo Penguins and Blue-eyed 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, Pléneau and Petermann Island where we can find Adélie Penguins and Blue-eyed Shags. In this area, there are good chances to encounter Humpback Whales and Minke Whales.

We choose another campsite which is suitable and close to next day’s activity.

At Neko Harbour, we will have the opportunity to set foot on the Antarctic Continent in a magnificent landscape of a huge glacier and enjoy the landscape during zodiac cruises, walks and kayak excursions. A small group of glacier walkers may climb up on higher grounds of the glacier. We will spend the night at Neko or near Paradise Bay with a camp erected ashore. We will leave early in the morning after breaking our last camp. We sail via Melchior Islands towards the open sea of the Drake Passage. We have again a chance of seeing many seabirds.

AM: 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 shorelines and mountaineers will find their challenge by climbing hills and viewpoints further inland. 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 old British research station, now working museum and post office at Port Lockroy on Goudier Island. Close to Port Lockroy, we may also offer a landing on Jougla Point with Gentoo Penguins and Blue-eyed 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, Pléneau and Petermann Island where we can find Adélie Penguins and Blue-eyed Shags. In this area, there are good chances to encounter Humpback Whales and Minke Whales.

We choose another campsite which is suitable and close to next day’s activity.

At Neko Harbour, we will have the opportunity to set foot on the Antarctic Continent in a magnificent landscape of a huge glacier and enjoy the landscape during zodiac cruises, walks and kayak excursions. A small group of glacier walkers may climb up on higher grounds of the glacier. We will spend the night at Neko or near Paradise Bay with a camp erected ashore. We will leave early in the morning after breaking our last camp. We sail via Melchior Islands towards the open sea of the Drake Passage. We have again a chance of seeing many seabirds.

AM: 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 shorelines and mountaineers will find their challenge by climbing hills and viewpoints further inland. 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 old British research station, now working museum and post office at Port Lockroy on Goudier Island. Close to Port Lockroy, we may also offer a landing on Jougla Point with Gentoo Penguins and Blue-eyed 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, Pléneau and Petermann Island where we can find Adélie Penguins and Blue-eyed Shags. In this area, there are good chances to encounter Humpback Whales and Minke Whales.

We choose another campsite which is suitable and close to next day’s activity.

At Neko Harbour, we will have the opportunity to set foot on the Antarctic Continent in a magnificent landscape of a huge glacier and enjoy the landscape during zodiac cruises, walks and kayak excursions. A small group of glacier walkers may climb up on higher grounds of the glacier. We will spend the night at Neko or near Paradise Bay with a camp erected ashore. We will leave early in the morning after breaking our last camp. We sail via Melchior Islands towards the open sea of the Drake Passage. We have again a chance of seeing many seabirds.

AM: 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 shorelines and mountaineers will find their challenge by climbing hills and viewpoints further inland. 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 old British research station, now working museum and post office at Port Lockroy on Goudier Island. Close to Port Lockroy, we may also offer a landing on Jougla Point with Gentoo Penguins and Blue-eyed 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, Pléneau and Petermann Island where we can find Adélie Penguins and Blue-eyed Shags. In this area, there are good chances to encounter Humpback Whales and Minke Whales.

We choose another campsite which is suitable and close to next day’s activity.

At Neko Harbour, we will have the opportunity to set foot on the Antarctic Continent in a magnificent landscape of a huge glacier and enjoy the landscape during zodiac cruises, walks and kayak excursions. A small group of glacier walkers may climb up on higher grounds of the glacier. We will spend the night at Neko or near Paradise Bay with a camp erected ashore. We will leave early in the morning after breaking our last camp. We will sail via Melchior Islands towards the open sea of the Drake Passage. We have again a chance of seeing many seabirds.

AM: 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 shorelines and mountaineers will find their challenge by climbing hills and viewpoints further inland. 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 old British research station, now working museum and post office at Port Lockroy on Goudier Island. Close to Port Lockroy, we may also offer a landing on Jougla Point with Gentoo Penguins and Blue-eyed 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, Pléneau and Petermann Island where we can find Adélie Penguins and Blue-eyed Shags. In this area, there are good chances to encounter Humpback Whales and Minke Whales.

We choose another campsite which is suitable and close to next day’s activity.

At Neko Harbour, we will have the opportunity to set foot on the Antarctic Continent in a magnificent landscape of a huge glacier and enjoy the landscape during zodiac cruises, walks and kayak excursions. A small group of glacier walkers may climb up on higher grounds of the glacier. We will spend the night at Neko or near Paradise Bay with a camp erected ashore. We will leave early in the morning after breaking our last camp. We will sail via Melchior Islands towards the open sea of the Drake Passage. We have again a chance of seeing many seabirds.

AM: 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 shorelines and mountaineers will find their challenge by climbing hills and viewpoints further inland. 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 old British research station, now working museum and post office at Port Lockroy on Goudier Island. Close to Port Lockroy, we may also offer a landing on Jougla Point with Gentoo Penguins and Blue-eyed 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, Pléneau and Petermann Island where we can find Adélie Penguins and Blue-eyed Shags. In this area, there are good chances to encounter Humpback Whales and Minke Whales.

We choose another campsite which is suitable and close to next day’s activity.

At Neko Harbour, we will have the opportunity to set foot on the Antarctic Continent in a magnificent landscape of a huge glacier and enjoy the landscape during zodiac cruises, walks and kayak excursions. A small group of glacier walkers may climb up on higher grounds of the glacier. We will spend the night at Neko or near Paradise Bay with a camp erected ashore. We will leave early in the morning after breaking our last camp. We will sail via Melchior Islands towards the open sea of the Drake Passage. We have again a chance of seeing many seabirds.

AM: On our way north, we are likely to again be followed by a great selection of seabirds while crossing the Drake Passage.

AM: On our way north, we are again followed by a great selection of seabirds while crossing the Drake Passage.

AM: We arrive in the morning in Ushuaia and disembark.

AM: In the afternoon, we embark in Ushuaia (capital of Tierra del Fuego Province, Argentina), the southernmost city in the world. We will later sail across the scenic Beagle Channel waterway for the rest of the evening.

AM: Once at sea, the ship will be followed by several bird species, including Storm petrels, shearwaters, Diving petrels and albatrosses.

AM: We plan on spending the entire day on the fascinating western side of the archipelago, in the Falkland Islands (Malvinas). Trekking along the shore of Carcass Island will give us views of Magellanic and Gentoo-Penguins, as well as close encounters with water fowl, Night herons and passerines. In addition, on Saunders Island, you will be able to observe four species of breeding penguins (Gentoo, King, Magellanic and Rockhopper), as well as Black-browed Albatrosses and King Cormorants.

AM: In Stanley, the capital of the Falklands, you can experience Falkland culture at its best, noting that it has both South American characteristics and Victorian charm. In Stanley and the surrounding area, you can observe a number of stranded clippers from a century ago. All passengers are free to wander around on their own. We recommend a visit to the local church and museum (admission fees not included).

AM: We will cross the Antarctic Convergence on our way to South Georgia, with the temperature likely to drop significantly in the time span of only a few hours as we enter Antarctic waters. Near the Convergence we will see a multitude of southern seabirds near the ship, including several species of Albatrosses, Shearwaters, Petrels, Prions and Skuas.

AM: We will cross the Antarctic Convergence on our way to South Georgia, with the temperature likely to drop significantly in the time span of only a few hours as we enter Antarctic waters. Near the Convergence we will see a multitude of southern seabirds near the ship, including several species of Albatrosses, Shearwaters, Petrels, Prions and Skuas.

AM: We will reach our first landing site in South Georgia during the afternoon of Day 7. The plan is to visit Elsehul Bay, which is home to an active breeding beach of fur seals, and then set course to Right Whale Bay, Salisbury Plain, Godthul, St. Andrews Bay, Gold Harbor, Cooper Bay and Drygalski Fjord. These sites will give you a good chance to observe a wide range of landscapes and wildlife such as Elephant seals, Fur seals, and King and Macaroni Penguins.

A highlight should be a visit to Prion Island, where you can observe the breeding of huge Wandering Albatrosses and enjoy their courtship displays. At Fortuna Bay, we can attempt to follow in the footsteps of the famous British Explorer Ernest Shackleton and hike to Stromness Bay. There and at Grytviken, we will stop at an abandoned whaling village, where seals have taken over the buildings and King Penguins now walk the streets. At Grytviken you will also have a chance to visit the Whaling History Museum and Shackleton´s grave, which is close by. In the afternoon of day 10, we will leave out from South Georgia.

AM: We will reach our first landing site in South Georgia during the afternoon of Day 7. The plan is to visit Elsehul Bay, which is home to an active breeding beach of fur seals, and then set course to Right Whale Bay, Salisbury Plain, Godthul, St. Andrews Bay, Gold Harbor, Cooper Bay and Drygalski Fjord. These sites will give you a good chance to observe a wide range of landscapes and wildlife such as Elephant seals, Fur seals, and King and Macaroni Penguins.

A highlight should be a visit to Prion Island, where you can observe the breeding of huge Wandering Albatrosses and enjoy their courtship displays. At Fortuna Bay, we can attempt to follow in the footsteps of the famous British Explorer Ernest Shackleton and hike to Stromness Bay. There and at Grytviken, we will stop at an abandoned whaling village, where seals have taken over the buildings and King Penguins now walk the streets. At Grytviken you will also have a chance to visit the Whaling History Museum and Shackleton´s grave, which is close by. In the afternoon of day 10, we will leave out from South Georgia.

AM: We will reach our first landing site in South Georgia during the afternoon of Day 7. The plan is to visit Elsehul Bay, which is home to an active breeding beach of fur seals, and then set course to Right Whale Bay, Salisbury Plain, Godthul, St. Andrews Bay, Gold Harbor, Cooper Bay and Drygalski Fjord. These sites will give you a good chance to observe a wide range of landscapes and wildlife such as Elephant seals, Fur seals, and King and Macaroni Penguins.

A highlight should be a visit to Prion Island, where you can observe the breeding of huge Wandering Albatrosses and enjoy their courtship displays. At Fortuna Bay, we can attempt to follow in the footsteps of the famous British Explorer Ernest Shackleton and hike to Stromness Bay. There and at Grytviken, we will stop at an abandoned whaling village, where seals have taken over the buildings and King Penguins now walk the streets. At Grytviken you will also have a chance to visit the Whaling History Museum and Shackleton´s grave, which is close by. In the afternoon of day 10, we will leave out from South Georgia.

AM: We will reach our first landing site in South Georgia during the afternoon of Day 7. The plan is to visit Elsehul Bay, which is home to an active breeding beach of fur seals, and then set course to Right Whale Bay, Salisbury Plain, Godthul, St. Andrews Bay, Gold Harbor, Cooper Bay and Drygalski Fjord. These sites will give you a good chance to observe a wide range of landscapes and wildlife such as Elephant seals, Fur seals, and King and Macaroni Penguins.

A highlight should be a visit to Prion Island, where you can observe the breeding of huge Wandering Albatrosses and enjoy their courtship displays. At Fortuna Bay, we can attempt to follow in the footsteps of the famous British Explorer Ernest Shackleton and hike to Stromness Bay. There and at Grytviken, we will stop at an abandoned whaling village, where seals have taken over the buildings and King Penguins now walk the streets. At Grytviken you will also have a chance to visit the Whaling History Museum and Shackleton´s grave, which is close by. In the afternoon of day 10, we will leave out from South Georgia.

AM: As we hit the high sea, the ship will once again be followed by a host of seabirds. On the way, we might encounter sea-ice on which there is a good chance of seeing high-Antarctic species like the McCormick Skua and Snow Petrel along the edges of the ice.

AM: Our plan includes a visit to an Argentinean base (Orcadas Station), located in the South Orkney Islands. The friendly personnel at the base will give us a tour of the facility and point out the wonderful views of the surrounding glaciers.

AM: At Sea, En Route to Antarctica

AM: Ice conditions permitting, we will sail through the ice-clogged Antarctic Sound into the Weddell Sea. We will pass enormous tabular icebergs as we reach the eastern side of the Antarctic Peninsula. Our plan is to visit Brown Bluff, where you may set foot on the White Continent. Depending on the sailing conditions, we may decide to extend our time in the Weddell Sea.

AM: Ice conditions permitting, we will sail through the ice-clogged Antarctic Sound into the Weddell Sea. We will pass enormous tabular icebergs as we reach the eastern side of the Antarctic Peninsula. Our plan is to visit Brown Bluff, where you may set foot on the White Continent. Depending on the sailing conditions, we may decide to extend our time in the Weddell Sea.

AM: Ice conditions permitting, we will sail through the ice-clogged Antarctic Sound into the Weddell Sea. We will pass enormous tabular icebergs as we reach the eastern side of the Antarctic Peninsula. Our plan is to visit Brown Bluff, where you may set foot on the White Continent. Depending on the sailing conditions, we may decide to extend our time in the Weddell Sea.

AM: On our way north, we will again be followed by a wide variety of seabirds as we cross the Drake Passage.

AM: On our way north, we will again be followed by a wide variety of seabirds as we cross the Drake Passage.

AM: Arrive back in in Ushuaia in the morning, we will disembark.

AM: In the afternoon, we embark in Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world located at the Beagle Channel and sail through this scenic waterway for the rest of the evening.

AM: During these two days, we sail across the Drake Passage. When we cross the Antarctic Convergence, we arrive in the circum-Antarctic up welling zone. In this area, we may see Wandering Albatrosses, Grey Headed Albatrosses, Black-browed Albatrosses, Light-mantled Albatrosses, Cape Petrels, Southern Fulmars, Wilson’s Storm Petrels, Blue Petrels and Antarctic Petrels. Near the South Shetland Islands, we spot our first icebergs.

AM: During these two days, we sail across the Drake Passage. When we cross the Antarctic Convergence, we arrive in the circum-Antarctic up welling zone. In this area, we may see Wandering Albatrosses, Grey Headed Albatrosses, Black-browed Albatrosses, Light-mantled Albatrosses, Cape Petrels, Southern Fulmars, Wilson’s Storm Petrels, Blue Petrels and Antarctic Petrels. Near the South Shetland Islands, we spot our first icebergs.

AM: We will sail directly to “High Antarctica”, passing the Melchior Islands and the Schollaert Channel between Brabant and Anvers Island. On Cuverville Island, a small precipitous island, nestled between the mountains of the Antarctic Peninsula and Rongé Island, we will find a large colony of Gentoo penguins and breeding pairs of Brown skuas. If we land on Orne Island we can observe Chinstrap penguins and possibly Weddell and Crabeater seals. In Neko Harbour, we will have the opportunity to set foot on the Antarctic Continent in a magnificent landscape of huge glacier and enjoy the landscape during zodiac cruises. When sailing to Paradise Bay, with its myriad icebergs and deep cut fjords, we will have the opportunity for zodiac cruising between the icebergs in the inner parts of the bay. Throughout this area, we have good chances to see Humpback whales and Minke whales. We sail through the spectacular Lemaire Channel to Pléneau 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. Sailing north through Gerlache Strait we arrive at the Wilhelmina Bay where we often are fortunate to see feeding Humpback whales. We may embark on a Zodiac cruise if the conditions allow ending at the wreck of Guvernøren an old whaling vessel that burned here in 1915. Around Melchior Islands amidst a beautiful landscape with icebergs, where we may encounter more whales but also Leopard seal and Crabeater seals.

AM: We will sail directly to “High Antarctica”, passing the Melchior Islands and the Schollaert Channel between Brabant and Anvers Island. On Cuverville Island, a small precipitous island, nestled between the mountains of the Antarctic Peninsula and Rongé Island, we will find a large colony of Gentoo penguins and breeding pairs of Brown skuas. If we land on Orne Island we can observe Chinstrap penguins and possibly Weddell and Crabeater seals. In Neko Harbour, we will have the opportunity to set foot on the Antarctic Continent in a magnificent landscape of huge glacier and enjoy the landscape during zodiac cruises. When sailing to Paradise Bay, with its myriad icebergs and deep cut fjords, we will have the opportunity for zodiac cruising between the icebergs in the inner parts of the bay. Throughout this area, we have good chances to see Humpback whales and Minke whales. We sail through the spectacular Lemaire Channel to Pléneau 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. Sailing north through Gerlache Strait we arrive at the Wilhelmina Bay where we often are fortunate to see feeding Humpback whales. We may embark on a Zodiac cruise if the conditions allow ending at the wreck of Guvernøren an old whaling vessel that burned here in 1915. Around Melchior Islands amidst a beautiful landscape with icebergs, where we may encounter more whales but also Leopard seal and Crabeater seals.

AM: We will sail directly to “High Antarctica”, passing the Melchior Islands and the Schollaert Channel between Brabant and Anvers Island. On Cuverville Island, a small precipitous island, nestled between the mountains of the Antarctic Peninsula and Rongé Island, we will find a large colony of Gentoo penguins and breeding pairs of Brown skuas. If we land on Orne Island we can observe Chinstrap penguins and possibly Weddell and Crabeater seals. In Neko Harbour, we will have the opportunity to set foot on the Antarctic Continent in a magnificent landscape of huge glacier and enjoy the landscape during zodiac cruises. When sailing to Paradise Bay, with its myriad icebergs and deep cut fjords, we will have the opportunity for zodiac cruising between the icebergs in the inner parts of the bay. Throughout this area, we have good chances to see Humpback whales and Minke whales. We sail through the spectacular Lemaire Channel to Pléneau 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. Sailing north through Gerlache Strait we arrive at the Wilhelmina Bay where we often are fortunate to see feeding Humpback whales. We may embark on a Zodiac cruise if the conditions allow ending at the wreck of Guvernøren an old whaling vessel that burned here in 1915. Around Melchior Islands amidst a beautiful landscape with icebergs, where we may encounter more whales but also Leopard seal and Crabeater seals.

AM: We will sail directly to “High Antarctica”, passing the Melchior Islands and the Schollaert Channel between Brabant and Anvers Island. On Cuverville Island, a small precipitous island, nestled between the mountains of the Antarctic Peninsula and Rongé Island, we will find a large colony of Gentoo penguins and breeding pairs of Brown skuas. If we land on Orne Island we can observe Chinstrap penguins and possibly Weddell and Crabeater seals. In Neko Harbour, we will have the opportunity to set foot on the Antarctic Continent in a magnificent landscape of huge glacier and enjoy the landscape during zodiac cruises. When sailing to Paradise Bay, with its myriad icebergs and deep cut fjords, we will have the opportunity for zodiac cruising between the icebergs in the inner parts of the bay. Throughout this area, we have good chances to see Humpback whales and Minke whales. We sail through the spectacular Lemaire Channel to Pléneau 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. Sailing north through Gerlache Strait we arrive at the Wilhelmina Bay where we often are fortunate to see feeding Humpback whales. We may embark on a Zodiac cruise if the conditions allow ending at the wreck of Guvernøren an old whaling vessel that burned here in 1915. Around Melchior Islands amidst a beautiful landscape with icebergs, where we may encounter more whales but also Leopard seal and Crabeater seals.

AM: On our way north we are again followed by a great selection of seabirds while crossing the Drake Passage.

AM: On our way north we are again followed by a great selection of seabirds while crossing the Drake Passage.

AM: In the afternoon, we embark new passengers in Ushuaia - the southernmost city in the world - located at the Beagle Channel and sail through this scenic waterway for the rest of the evening.

AM: During these two days, we sail across the Drake Passage. When we cross the Antarctic Convergence, we arrive in the circum-Antarctic up welling zone. In this area, we may see Wandering Albatrosses, Grey Headed Albatrosses, Black-browed Albatrosses, Light-mantled Sooty Albatrosses, Cape Petrels, Southern Fulmars, Wilson’s Storm Petrels, Blue Petrels and Antarctic Petrels.

AM: During these two days, we sail across the Drake Passage. When we cross the Antarctic Convergence, we arrive in the circum-Antarctic up welling zone. In this area, we may see Wandering Albatrosses, Grey Headed Albatrosses, Black-browed Albatrosses, Light-mantled Sooty Albatrosses, Cape Petrels, Southern Fulmars, Wilson’s Storm Petrels, Blue Petrels and Antarctic Petrels.

AM: During these two days, we sail across the Drake Passage. When we cross the Antarctic Convergence, we arrive in the circum-Antarctic up welling zone. In this area, we may see Wandering Albatrosses, Grey Headed Albatrosses, Black-browed Albatrosses, Light-mantled Sooty Albatrosses, Cape Petrels, Southern Fulmars, Wilson’s Storm Petrels, Blue Petrels and Antarctic Petrels.

AM: During these two days, we sail across the Drake Passage. When we cross the Antarctic Convergence, we arrive in the circum-Antarctic up welling zone. In this area, we may see Wandering Albatrosses, Grey Headed Albatrosses, Black-browed Albatrosses, Light-mantled Sooty Albatrosses, Cape Petrels, Southern Fulmars, Wilson’s Storm Petrels, Blue Petrels and Antarctic Petrels.

AM: We aim to visit some of the major King penguin rookeries in the World. The late season offers an outstanding chance to see the King penguins on eggs and with small chicks. The rookeries are packed at this time of year and the traffic to and from the beach is astounding. Salisbury Plain offers this scenario in mind-boggling quantity. We will see the huge King penguin colony along with Elephant seals and endless numbers of fur seal pups playing in the surf. On Prion Island in the Bay of Isles, we can see breeding Wandering Albatrosses. We will also find time to visit the old whaling settlement in Grytviken, where now the penguins walk through the streets. Grytviken is home to a small but highly informative museum and also offers a chance to visit the graves of Sir Ernest Shackleton who is buried here alongside his trusted friend and second in command Frank Wild. We will attempt to land Gold Harbour and St Andrews Bay with stunningly beautiful scenery and a wildlife density second to none. King penguins are truly Kings here!

AM: We aim to visit some of the major King penguin rookeries in the World. The late season offers an outstanding chance to see the King penguins on eggs and with small chicks. The rookeries are packed at this time of year and the traffic to and from the beach is astounding. Salisbury Plain offers this scenario in mind-boggling quantity. We will see the huge King penguin colony along with Elephant seals and endless numbers of fur seal pups playing in the surf. On Prion Island in the Bay of Isles, we can see breeding Wandering Albatrosses. We will also find time to visit the old whaling settlement in Grytviken, where now the penguins walk through the streets. Grytviken is home to a small but highly informative museum and also offers a chance to visit the graves of Sir Ernest Shackleton who is buried here alongside his trusted friend and second in command Frank Wild. We will attempt to land Gold Harbour and St Andrews Bay with stunningly beautiful scenery and a wildlife density second to none. King penguins are truly Kings here!

AM: We aim to visit some of the major King penguin rookeries in the World. The late season offers an outstanding chance to see the King penguins on eggs and with small chicks. The rookeries are packed at this time of year and the traffic to and from the beach is astounding. Salisbury Plain offers this scenario in mind-boggling quantity. We will see the huge King penguin colony along with Elephant seals and endless numbers of fur seal pups playing in the surf. On Prion Island in the Bay of Isles, we can see breeding Wandering Albatrosses. We will also find time to visit the old whaling settlement in Grytviken, where now the penguins walk through the streets. Grytviken is home to a small but highly informative museum and also offers a chance to visit the graves of Sir Ernest Shackleton who is buried here alongside his trusted friend and second in command Frank Wild. We will attempt to land Gold Harbour and St Andrews Bay with stunningly beautiful scenery and a wildlife density second to none. King penguins are truly Kings here!

AM: In the Westerlies, we often have a pleasant tailwind. On both sides of the Antarctic Convergence, we observe many species and great numbers of Antarctic and sub-Antarctic seabirds.

AM: In the Westerlies we have often have a pleasant tailwind. On both sides of the Antarctic Convergence, we observe many species and great numbers of Antarctic and sub-Antarctic seabirds.

AM: In the Westerlies we have often have a pleasant tailwind. On both sides of the Antarctic Convergence, we observe many species and great numbers of Antarctic and sub-Antarctic seabirds.

AM: In the Westerlies we have often have a pleasant tailwind. On both sides of the Antarctic Convergence, we observe many species and great numbers of Antarctic and sub-Antarctic seabirds.

AM: In the Westerlies we have often have a pleasant tailwind. On both sides of the Antarctic Convergence, we observe many species and great numbers of Antarctic and sub-Antarctic seabirds.

AM: Today we plan to approach the unique Gough Island for zodiac cruising in Quest Bay. As always weather permitting. Here we can see the Northern Rockhopper Penguins, and Sub-Antarctic Fur Seals. In previous years we managed to circumnavigate all but four miles of the 33-mile circumference of the island in the ship, saw spectacular scenery and an unprecedented abundance of wildlife. We felt very privileged to be among the few visitors who have been able to experience Gough Island and in particular, to see it at such close quarters. We hope to be lucky to repeat this unique experience with you.

AM: In the Tristan da Cunha archipelago we plan to call on the settlement at the west side of the main island. We will also try to make landings at Nightingale Island and Inaccessible Island with millions of seabirds ranging from Yellow-nosed Albatrosses to Brown Noddies. We allow one day in reserve for bad weather. Please note that we will try and approach for landings, however due to the weather conditions this is not always possible. Since we began our Atlantic Odyssey's (1998) we failed during 35% of the voyages to make landings in the Tristan da Cunha archipelago, due to adverse weather.

AM: In the Tristan da Cunha archipelago we plan to call on the settlement at the west side of the main island. We will also try to make landings at Nightingale Island and Inaccessible Island with millions of seabirds ranging from Yellow-nosed Albatrosses to Brown Noddies. We allow one day in reserve for bad weather. Please note that we will try and approach for landings, however due to the weather conditions this is not always possible. Since we began our Atlantic Odyssey's (1998) we failed during 35% of the voyages to make landings in the Tristan da Cunha archipelago, due to adverse weather.

AM: In the Tristan da Cunha archipelago we plan to call on the settlement at the west side of the main island. We will also try to make landings at Nightingale Island and Inaccessible Island with millions of seabirds ranging from Yellow-nosed Albatrosses to Brown Noddies. We allow one day in reserve for bad weather. Please note that we will try and approach for landings, however due to the weather conditions this is not always possible. Since we began our Atlantic Odyssey's (1998) we failed during 35% of the voyages to make landings in the Tristan da Cunha archipelago, due to adverse weather.

AM: We now enter sub-tropical waters with their own species of seabirds and dolphins.

AM: We now enter sub-tropical waters with their own species of seabirds and dolphins.

AM: We now enter sub-tropical waters with their own species of seabirds and dolphins.

AM: We now enter sub-tropical waters with their own species of seabirds and dolphins.

AM: St. Helena has a good anchorage and landing site at Jamestown. On this island, we will have opportunity to enjoy local culture, pleasant climate, and endemic plants and birds. We will visit Longwood House, the place where Napoleon lived and died in exile. There will be opportunities to explore the Island on your own and for snorkelling in the shallow surf where we can find a multitude of tropical and sub-tropical fish species.

AM: St. Helena has a good anchorage and landing site at Jamestown. On this island, we will have opportunity to enjoy local culture, pleasant climate, and endemic plants and birds. We will visit Longwood House, the place where Napoleon lived and died in exile. There will be opportunities to explore the Island on your own and for snorkelling in the shallow surf where we can find a multitude of tropical and sub-tropical fish species.

AM: St. Helena has a good anchorage and landing site at Jamestown. On this island, we will have opportunity to enjoy local culture, pleasant climate, and endemic plants and birds. We will visit Longwood House, the place where Napoleon lived and died in exile. There will be opportunities to explore the Island on your own and for snorkelling in the shallow surf where we can find a multitude of tropical and sub-tropical fish species.

AM: At sea along the mid-Atlantic Ridge.

AM: At sea along the mid-Atlantic Ridge.

AM: Here we encounter a dry volcanic landscape with a moist and richly vegetated top. The Sooty Tern (wide-awake) colony sometimes consists of more than 1 million breeding pairs. We will try to make a trip to the moist summit of Ascension Island and make a zodiac-cruise around Boatswain Bird Island. At Comfortless Cove near Georgetown we can offer a very comfortable swim with good snorkelling too (no snorkelling gear is supplied). We may also witness egg-laying sea turtles coming ashore at night. Some of our passengers may disembark and fly with the scheduled RAF (Royal Air Force) flight to Brize Norton in Oxfordshire, UK. Others may proceed with the voyage to the Cape Verdes. In the evening the vessel will depart from Ascension Island.

AM: Here we encounter a dry volcanic landscape with a moist and richly vegetated top. The Sooty Tern (wide-awake) colony sometimes consists of more than 1 million breeding pairs. We will try to make a trip to the moist summit of Ascension Island and make a zodiac-cruise around Boatswain Bird Island. At Comfortless Cove near Georgetown we can offer a very comfortable swim with good snorkelling too (no snorkelling gear is supplied). We may also witness egg-laying sea turtles coming ashore at night. Some of our passengers may disembark and fly with the scheduled RAF (Royal Air Force) flight to Brize Norton in Oxfordshire, UK. Others may proceed with the voyage to the Cape Verdes. In the evening the vessel will depart from Ascension Island.