Weddell Sea Voyage

Enjoy a leisurely first evening on board the cruise ship, with time to get to know the other guests, as you sail through the mountain-fringed Beagle Channel.

You’ll notice a change, not just in the climate but in the wildlife, as you journey further into the Antarctic waters. Antarctic bird species, including the Southern (Antarctic) Fulmar, Blue and Antarctic Petrel, and the Wandering Albatross, will become more visible, while in the sea you might be lucky enough to spy a fin whale!

Conditions allowing, you will land at Brown Bluff, where you can take your first steps on the Antarctic Continent.

Nevertheless, the itinerary is ruled by the forces of nature, and the ice and weather conditions will determine if it’s possible for you to access the colony. Assuming that the conditions are favourable, you will spend two days with the Emperor Penguin colony, and use the third day to visit a different area of the Weddell Sea.

As the helicopter can only accommodate 6 passengers per flight, the helicopter excursions can occupy a full day even though each individual flight will rarely exceed 15 minutes. The landing point of the helicopters will be carefully chosen so as to make sure that the Emperor Penguins are not disturbed or stressed by helicopter noise. You will land at some distance from the penguins and continue on foot, walking for approx. 45 minutes. Your rendezvous with the magnificent Emperor Penguins will be an experience to remember, and you will be able to spend much of the day with these charming creatures.

Possible locations include Devil Island, home to a large colony of Adelie Penguins and some fabulous hilltop viewpoints; Brown Bluff, renowned for its beautiful volcanic peaks; Gourdin Island, where Gentoo, Chinstrap and Adelie penguin can often be sighted; or even Esperanza Base, an Argentine research base that is active throughout the year.

A volcanic caldera (one of only two active volcanoes in the Antarctic region), Deception Island once hosted a whaling base, the remains of which can still be seen and explored today.

Setting sail from Deception Island in the afternoon, you’ll begin the long journey home via the Drake Passage.

Admire the stunning views, and the oceanic wildlife, as your cruise winds its way to its end.

A transfer from the pier to the airport on the day of disembarkation can be arranged.