“The best trip we have ever taken.” “The best trip we have ever been on.” Over and over, these are comments we receive from travelers returning from Travel Dynamics International’s cruises to Antarctica. A vast and remote wilderness at the bottom of the Earth, this frozen continent has attracted the most accomplished adventurers and scientists the world has ever known. The French explorer Jean-Baptiste Charcot described its allure as “powerful and tenacious,” and the few travelers who have been fortunate enough to visit have returned home changed by an experience so elemental that it touches their very core. It is with great pride and enthusiasm that we invite you aboard Corinthian II in Antarctica this coming winter.
Our voyage takes place during the austral summer, when the days are long and relatively mild, when seabirds are courting and massive icebergs thaw into beautiful sculptures of brilliant form and color. Each day presents a new discovery, whether we’re cruising through ice-filled channels, observing crowded penguin rookeries or viewing minkes, humpbacks, and orcas cavorting in the sparkling waters. Our ship’s maneuverability allows for in-depth discovery, while its fleet of Zodiac landing craft provides up-close viewing of the spectacular scenery. Our team of expert naturalists and lecturers ensures a rewarding educational journey.
Antarctica: Expedition to an Ethereal World itinerary:
Day 1 - USHUAIA, Argentina
Arrive in Ushuaia, located on the Beagle Channel and surrounded by the Darwin Cordillera, glaciers, and forests of southern beech. Transfer to Las Hayas Resort Hotel, beautifully situated amidst beech forests below the mountain of the Martial Glacier. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner with fellow travelers.
Day 2 - USHUAIA, TIERRA del FUEGO NATIONAL PARK, USHUAIA
Explore the Tierra del Fuego National Park. The southernmost protected region of Argentina, this splendid wilderness is celebrated for its stunning scenery. Ride to Ensenada Bay and take a short walk to view Redonda and Estorbo Islands, backed by the snow-white mountains of Chile’s Sampaio Chain. Continue to Lake Roca, the Green and Black Lagoon, and Lapataia Bay. After lunch at a local restaurant, continue to the pier to embark on Corinthian II and sail. As the ship navigates the Beagle Channel, enjoy a spectacular vista of glaciers and misted mountains.
Days 3 – 4 - AT SEA
Attend lectures by our onboard team as the ship sails through the Drake Passage. Look for Albatross, Cape Petrels, and whales that may accompany the ship on its passage. Weather permitting, we expect to make our first landing in Antarctica in the afternoon of Day 5.
Days 5 – 9 ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
Explore the pristine wilderness of the Antarctic Peninsula, a narrow finger of land that separates the ice-choked waters of the Weddell and Bellingshausen Seas, and surrounding islands. As Corinthian II sails through scenic waterways, witness a breathtaking panorama of icebergs, blue glaciers, and jagged, snow-capped mountains. Aboard the ship’s fleet of Zodiacs cruise among ice floes; explore penguin rookeries; and, if conditions permit, visit with scientists at research stations. Although the itinerary varies according to local ice and wind conditions, we plan to land at such places as Paradise Harbour, where humpback and minke whales are often sighted offshore; Petermann Island, the habitat of Gentoo and Adelie Penguins; and Deception Island, known for its volcanically-heated hot springs. Voyages through the magnificent Lemaire, Errera, Neumeyer, and other protected channels are also planned.
Days 11 & 12- AT SEA
Watch for whales and seabirds and enjoy onboard lectures and the ship’s amenities as Corinthian II sails back to Ushuaia.
Day 12 - USHUAIA
Disembark in Ushuaia and transfer to the airport for flights home.
Corinthian II
The deluxe Corinthian II is an all-suite yacht accommodating up to 114 guests. Built in 1992 and refurbished and redecorated in 2005, it has 57 suites, each with:
• Sea view
• Queen-sized bed separable into two twin-sized beds
• Sitting area
• Satellite TV, DVD/CD player
• Telephone
• Mini-refrigerator
• Marble-appointed bathroom with fine toiletries
• 225 square feet or more
• Plush terry robes and slippers
• Fresh flowers and fruit basket
• 24-hour room service
The Penthouse Suites and Veranda Suites (400 and 300 square feet, respectively) feature private balconies accessed via sliding-glass doors, as well as white glove butler service.
FINE DINING
Corinthian II’s superb Continental cuisine is created by master chefs who select fresh local ingredients at many ports of call. Meals are served either in the stately restaurant or al fresco on the umbrella-studded sun deck. Fine regional wines are complimentary with lunch and dinner, and beginning in 2008 open bar service will be available throughout the day.
BESPOKE SMALL-SHIP AMENITIES
Returning from excursions, guests enjoy complimentary refreshments, afternoon tea and all-day coffee in The Club, a gracious space for relaxation, surrounded by panoramic windows. Before or after dinner, cocktails are served to live music performed by the ship’s pianist.
Other Corinthian II features include:
• Library with Internet access
• Lounge with audiovisual facilities
• Dining room
• Wraparound sun deck with Jacuzzi
• Exercise Room
• Beauty salon
• Medical facilities with available doctor
• Elevator serving all passenger decks
• Swimming platform
Corinthian II complies with the latest international safety regulations and is outfitted with the most current navigational and communications technology as well as with retractable fin stabilizers for smooth sailing, an ice-strengthened hull, and a fleet of Zodiacs. Corinthian II’s 75 officers and crew ensure gracious personalized service and a convivial atmosphere akin to a private club.
