Antarctica, Antarctica & South Georgia
In the Wake of Shackleton with Island Sky
In today’s highly accessible world there are few places that still hold the power to enthral and enchant. Antarctica is certainly one of these. Mere words cannot do justice to the awe-inspiring spectacle of this most southern of continents, this desert of ice which is so unique and uncommon to man’s experience, that even the most dramatic of photographs pale into insignificance when one is confronted by the sheer magnitude, beauty and wonder of the landscape.
For centuries myths abounded of a southern land but early exploration was hindered by the ice. Maps dating back to the late Medieval period show a continent named Terra Australis Incognita, ‘the unknown southern land’. Captain Cook became the first person to cross the Antarctic Circle in 1773 but never sighted land. The first person to set foot on Antarctica is thought to be an American sealer, Captain John Davis in 1821. Since then it is a land that has consistently challenged and inspired men of extraordinary character to deeds requiring extreme courage. The expeditions of Scott, Amundsen, Shackleton, Ross, Byrd and many others are a shining example of honour, strength and perseverance which today still inspire us.
Our voyage begins in Ushuaia from where we will be followed by albatrosses as we sail to the Falkland Islands for our exploration of these isolated islands thriving with wildlife and a fascinating history. We continue to South Georgia where we have ample quality time ashore to explore what is one of the world’s natural wonders with a remarkable concentration of wildlife. We will land on remote beaches, alive with great numbers of fur seals, elephant seals, wandering and sooty albatrosses, Macaroni and king penguins. These beach paradises are backed by some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery in the world. Finally we sail for the peninsula where enormous tabular icebergs rise from the sea, hillsides are covered with thousands of penguins and seals bask on icebergs. On our way to the Peninsula we hope to sail past Elephant Island, the island on which Shackleton’s men endured 128 days before finally being rescued.
We have timed our expedition aboard the MS Island Sky for what is regarded as summer when whale and dolphin sightings are at their peak, penguin chicks begin to fledge and the snow algae is in bloom.
For centuries myths abounded of a southern land but early exploration was hindered by the ice. Maps dating back to the late Medieval period show a continent named Terra Australis Incognita, ‘the unknown southern land’. Captain Cook became the first person to cross the Antarctic Circle in 1773 but never sighted land. The first person to set foot on Antarctica is thought to be an American sealer, Captain John Davis in 1821. Since then it is a land that has consistently challenged and inspired men of extraordinary character to deeds requiring extreme courage. The expeditions of Scott, Amundsen, Shackleton, Ross, Byrd and many others are a shining example of honour, strength and perseverance which today still inspire us.
Our voyage begins in Ushuaia from where we will be followed by albatrosses as we sail to the Falkland Islands for our exploration of these isolated islands thriving with wildlife and a fascinating history. We continue to South Georgia where we have ample quality time ashore to explore what is one of the world’s natural wonders with a remarkable concentration of wildlife. We will land on remote beaches, alive with great numbers of fur seals, elephant seals, wandering and sooty albatrosses, Macaroni and king penguins. These beach paradises are backed by some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery in the world. Finally we sail for the peninsula where enormous tabular icebergs rise from the sea, hillsides are covered with thousands of penguins and seals bask on icebergs. On our way to the Peninsula we hope to sail past Elephant Island, the island on which Shackleton’s men endured 128 days before finally being rescued.
We have timed our expedition aboard the MS Island Sky for what is regarded as summer when whale and dolphin sightings are at their peak, penguin chicks begin to fledge and the snow algae is in bloom.
Fly by scheduled flight.
Arrive this morning and transfer to our centrally located hotel for an overnight stay. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon to either relax in the hotel or join an orientation tour of the city which will include the Plaza de Mayo, the Cathedral and the Cabildo (Old City Hall) before we continue towards the most traditional neighbourhood of Buenos Aires, San Telmo which is characterised by its old colonial houses and the cobblestoned streets. The tour will end in La Boca to look around the colourful zinc houses which used to be the refuge and home for the first immigrants and popular artists. The evening is free for independent exploration.
After breakfast in the hotel we will transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to Ushuaia. On arrival transfer to the MS Island Sky and start our adventure this evening as we cruise down the Beagle Channel.
Among the wildlife spotting opportunities as we sail south are albatrosses, prions and petrels that frequently follow the ship. Our expedition team will be out on deck looking for whales and dolphins that may also be seen in the area. During our day at sea our onboard experts will begin their presentations with informative and entertaining talks on the wildlife, history and geology of the Falkland Islands and Southern Ocean.
The Falkland Islands are isolated and windswept, a haven for wildlife. Our two days should coincide with the end of the breeding season for the many seabirds that make these islands their summer home. We hope to include stops at Grave Cove, home to the largest colony of gentoo penguins in the Falkland Islands and see the rockhopper penguin colony and black-browed albatross on West Point Island. We will use our Zodiacs to find a suitable location to land and take walks ashore for a closer look with our expedition team. We also plan to call at Port Stanley, the charming capital of the Falkland Islands, and discover some of the many historic sites on the island.
As we cruise the Scotia Sea towards South Georgia, the richness of these waters will be evident in the marine mammal life, especially the fur seals on fishing forays. We have a good chance of spotting whales such as fins and minkies whilst the birds circling our stern will be outstanding, especially the large albatrosses and numerous breeds of petrels. During our cruise we cross the Polar Front, also called the Antarctic Convergence, and officially enter Antarctic waters.
We have three days of expedition cruising in and around South Georgia, a paradise island with snow-clad mountain peaks rising 9000 feet and with 165 glaciers tumbling down towards the sea. For anyone interested in wildlife, South Georgia is a true oasis. During our time here we hope to visit Salisbury Plain where we will find enormous elephant seals which crowd the beaches alongside 60,000 breeding pairs of king penguins. The colony has had an extraordinary population increase over the last century as only 350 breeding pairs were counted at this site in 1912. In Fortuna Bay we will see nesting light mantled sooty albatrosses and hope to witness their gracious courting flights as well as the few thousand king penguins that nest here. In Gold Harbour as well as gentoo and king penguin colonies, the adolescent fur seals of the season dominate the beaches while southern giant petrels constantly patrol the site for feeding opportunities. Whilst at St Andrew’s bay we encounter the island’s largest king penguin colony as well as being home to over 6,000 southern elephant seal cows during the pupping season. Meanwhile in Grytviken we will visit the old whaling station and of course pay our respect at the grave of ‘the boss’ – Ernest Shackleton.
The waters between South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula are rich with fin whales, where in good conditions we have seen as many as a hundred in a day. If not whale-watching, look out for Antarctic petrel, Kerguelen petrel and one of the most beautiful birds of the Southern Ocean, the snow petrel. The icebergs will also become more plentiful as we sail south. If conditions permit we may land at the South Orkney Islands. Meanwhile during our lecture programme we will learn more about the wildlife and history of the region.
We have five days of exploration around the Peninsula which will include many of the best places for wildlife and magnificent scenery. Whilst we arrive with a planned itinerary the final schedule will be determined by our Captain and the Expedition Leader based on sea, weather and ice conditions. Using our Zodiacs we will make daily landings for unique close encounters with animals such as Adelie and gentoo penguins, fur seals and petrels. We hope to visit the collapsed volcanic cone of Deception Island for a chance to visit Whalers Bay, see the glaciers of Cierva Cove, the leopard seals at Pleneau Island, the stunning mountain lined Neumayer Channel and Half Moon Island with its rookery of chinstrap penguins. We also hope to sail through the breathtaking Antarctic Sound, also known as ‘iceberg alley’, where massive icebergs drift north from the continent.
Enjoy a final two leisurely days on board and reminisce with your fellow travellers about all you have seen and experienced during our expedition. Attend some lectures, look for wildlife or simply relax as we make our way across the Drakes Passage toward Ushuaia. Named after the 16th century English seaman, Sir Francis Drake, the Drake Passage separates the southernmost tip of South America from Antarctica. This is a particularly good area to spot royal albatross and blue petrel and we will also be on the lookout for whales. We will arrive on the final evening in Ushuaia and berth overnight.
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to Buenos Aires. On arrival transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay. This evening we will take in a tango show with dinner.
After breakfast in the hotel we will transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Arrive this morning.
Itineraries are subject to change.
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Magellan Deck Standard Suite
£14,495 GBP pp
All suites feature a seating area and some have private balconies. The feeling of luxury is enhanced by the wood panelling and brass, which predominates throughout the vessel conveying the atmosphere of a private yacht. The passenger accommodation is arranged over five decks and all suites have outside views. Each affords considerable comfort with en-suite bathroom featuring marble-topped vanity unit with sink and walk-in shower, a large wardrobe, dressing table with large mirror and stool and excellent storage. There is a mini-fridge, flat screen television with inbuilt DVD/ CD player and a telephone in each suite. Refillable water bottles, dressing gowns and slippers are also provided for your comfort. Other facilities include a programmable electronic safe, hairdryer, assorted Molton Brown toiletries, air-conditioning and heating. The suites on each deck have their own colour theme. Soft hues and blended tones enhance the traditional maritime style making the passenger accommodation an inviting and relaxing place to be. The comfortable beds in each suite can be configured as either double or twin.
Columbus Deck Superior Suite
£15,495 GBP pp
All suites feature a seating area and some have private balconies. The feeling of luxury is enhanced by the wood panelling and brass, which predominates throughout the vessel conveying the atmosphere of a private yacht. The passenger accommodation is arranged over five decks and all suites have outside views. Each affords considerable comfort with en-suite bathroom featuring marble-topped vanity unit with sink and walk-in shower, a large wardrobe, dressing table with large mirror and stool and excellent storage. There is a mini-fridge, flat screen television with inbuilt DVD/ CD player and a telephone in each suite. Refillable water bottles, dressing gowns and slippers are also provided for your comfort. Other facilities include a programmable electronic safe, hairdryer, assorted Molton Brown toiletries, air-conditioning and heating. The suites on each deck have their own colour theme. Soft hues and blended tones enhance the traditional maritime style making the passenger accommodation an inviting and relaxing place to be. The comfortable beds in each suite can be configured as either double or twin.
Marco Polo Deck Premium Suite
£16,495 GBP pp
All suites feature a seating area and some have private balconies, whilst those on the Marco Polo Deck feature tinted, sliding glass doors allowing greatly enhanced viewing opportunities from your suite and quick access to the deck when a pod of whales or dolphins is spotted. The feeling of luxury is enhanced by the wood panelling and brass, which predominates throughout the vessel conveying the atmosphere of a private yacht. The passenger accommodation is arranged over five decks and all suites have outside views. Each affords considerable comfort with en-suite bathroom featuring marble-topped vanity unit with sink and walk-in shower, a large wardrobe, dressing table with large mirror and stool and excellent storage. There is a mini-fridge, flat screen television with inbuilt DVD/ CD player and a telephone in each suite. Refillable water bottles, dressing gowns and slippers are also provided for your comfort. Other facilities include a programmable electronic safe, hairdryer, assorted Molton Brown toiletries, air-conditioning and heating. The suites on each deck have their own colour theme. Soft hues and blended tones enhance the traditional maritime style making the passenger accommodation an inviting and relaxing place to be. The comfortable beds in each suite can be configured as either double or twin.
Marco Polo Deck Corner Suite
£17,095 GBP pp
All suites feature a seating area and some have private balconies, whilst those on the Marco Polo Deck feature tinted, sliding glass doors allowing greatly enhanced viewing opportunities from your suite and quick access to the deck when a pod of whales or dolphins is spotted. The feeling of luxury is enhanced by the wood panelling and brass, which predominates throughout the vessel conveying the atmosphere of a private yacht. The passenger accommodation is arranged over five decks and all suites have outside views. Each affords considerable comfort with en-suite bathroom featuring marble-topped vanity unit with sink and walk-in shower, a large wardrobe, dressing table with large mirror and stool and excellent storage. There is a mini-fridge, flat screen television with inbuilt DVD/ CD player and a telephone in each suite. Refillable water bottles, dressing gowns and slippers are also provided for your comfort. Other facilities include a programmable electronic safe, hairdryer, assorted Molton Brown toiletries, air-conditioning and heating. The suites on each deck have their own colour theme. Soft hues and blended tones enhance the traditional maritime style making the passenger accommodation an inviting and relaxing place to be. The comfortable beds in each suite can be configured as either double or twin.
Magellan Deck Standard Single
£18,595 GBP pp
All suites feature a seating area and some have private balconies. The feeling of luxury is enhanced by the wood panelling and brass, which predominates throughout the vessel conveying the atmosphere of a private yacht. The passenger accommodation is arranged over five decks and all suites have outside views. Each affords considerable comfort with en-suite bathroom featuring marble-topped vanity unit with sink and walk-in shower, a large wardrobe, dressing table with large mirror and stool and excellent storage. There is a mini-fridge, flat screen television with inbuilt DVD/ CD player and a telephone in each suite. Refillable water bottles, dressing gowns and slippers are also provided for your comfort. Other facilities include a programmable electronic safe, hairdryer, assorted Molton Brown toiletries, air-conditioning and heating. The suites on each deck have their own colour theme. Soft hues and blended tones enhance the traditional maritime style making the passenger accommodation an inviting and relaxing place to be. The comfortable beds in each suite can be configured as either double or twin.
Erikson Deck Deluxe Balcony Suite
£18,895 GBP pp
All suites feature a seating area and some have private balconies. The feeling of luxury is enhanced by the wood panelling and brass, which predominates throughout the vessel conveying the atmosphere of a private yacht. The passenger accommodation is arranged over five decks and all suites have outside views. Each affords considerable comfort with en-suite bathroom featuring marble-topped vanity unit with sink and walk-in shower, a large wardrobe, dressing table with large mirror and stool and excellent storage. There is a mini-fridge, flat screen television with inbuilt DVD/ CD player and a telephone in each suite. Refillable water bottles, dressing gowns and slippers are also provided for your comfort. Other facilities include a programmable electronic safe, hairdryer, assorted Molton Brown toiletries, air-conditioning and heating. The suites on each deck have their own colour theme. Soft hues and blended tones enhance the traditional maritime style making the passenger accommodation an inviting and relaxing place to be. The comfortable beds in each suite can be configured as either double or twin.
Explorer Deck Owner's Balcony Suite
£20,095 GBP pp
All suites feature a seating area and some have private balconies. The feeling of luxury is enhanced by the wood panelling and brass, which predominates throughout the vessel conveying the atmosphere of a private yacht. The passenger accommodation is arranged over five decks and all suites have outside views. Each affords considerable comfort with en-suite bathroom featuring marble-topped vanity unit with sink and walk-in shower, a large wardrobe, dressing table with large mirror and stool and excellent storage. There is a mini-fridge, flat screen television with inbuilt DVD/ CD player and a telephone in each suite. Refillable water bottles, dressing gowns and slippers are also provided for your comfort. Other facilities include a programmable electronic safe, hairdryer, assorted Molton Brown toiletries, air-conditioning and heating. The suites on each deck have their own colour theme. Soft hues and blended tones enhance the traditional maritime style making the passenger accommodation an inviting and relaxing place to be. The comfortable beds in each suite can be configured as either double or twin.
Columbus Deck Superior Single
£20,595 GBP pp
All suites feature a seating area and some have private balconies. The feeling of luxury is enhanced by the wood panelling and brass, which predominates throughout the vessel conveying the atmosphere of a private yacht. The passenger accommodation is arranged over five decks and all suites have outside views. Each affords considerable comfort with en-suite bathroom featuring marble-topped vanity unit with sink and walk-in shower, a large wardrobe, dressing table with large mirror and stool and excellent storage. There is a mini-fridge, flat screen television with inbuilt DVD/ CD player and a telephone in each suite. Refillable water bottles, dressing gowns and slippers are also provided for your comfort. Other facilities include a programmable electronic safe, hairdryer, assorted Molton Brown toiletries, air-conditioning and heating. The suites on each deck have their own colour theme. Soft hues and blended tones enhance the traditional maritime style making the passenger accommodation an inviting and relaxing place to be. The comfortable beds in each suite can be configured as either double or twin.
Explorer Deck Island Suite
£21,595 GBP pp
All suites feature a seating area and some have private balconies. The feeling of luxury is enhanced by the wood panelling and brass, which predominates throughout the vessel conveying the atmosphere of a private yacht. The passenger accommodation is arranged over five decks and all suites have outside views. Each affords considerable comfort with en-suite bathroom featuring marble-topped vanity unit with sink and walk-in shower, a large wardrobe, dressing table with large mirror and stool and excellent storage. There is a mini-fridge, flat screen television with inbuilt DVD/ CD player and a telephone in each suite. Refillable water bottles, dressing gowns and slippers are also provided for your comfort. Other facilities include a programmable electronic safe, hairdryer, assorted Molton Brown toiletries, air-conditioning and heating. The suites on each deck have their own colour theme. Soft hues and blended tones enhance the traditional maritime style making the passenger accommodation an inviting and relaxing place to be. The comfortable beds in each suite can be configured as either double or twin.
The impressive Island Suite located on the Explorer Deck features an extra large balcony stretching the length of the suite. Additional features of this marvellous suite include complimentary minibar stocked with your preference of beverages and complimentary laundry.
Vessel Type: Luxury Small Ship
Length: 90 metres
Passenger Capacity: 116
Built / refurbished: 1992 / 2010 / 2017
Sister ship to Hebridean Sky. Island Sky and Hebridean Sky are truly sisters. Built in the same Italian Shipyard, both boast spacious, well-appointed suites, stylish common areas, and redundant core technology that allows them to operate smoothly, even under the most challenging of conditions. Both ships are all-suite, all-inclusive small expedition vessels with touches of elegance throughout. The Island Sky is scheduled for additional upgrades in 2017, including the addition of tinted sliding glass doors to all cabins on the Promenade Deck.
Services:
World-Class Cuisine
Complimentary Wine or Beer with Dinner
Live Entertainment
Complimentary Coffee/Tea station
Voyage Photographer
On-board MD and Facilities
Dedicated Passenger Service Manager
Pre-voyage hotel night
Complimentary Expedition Jacket
Facilities:
Elevator serving all passenger decks
Upgraded WIFI Internet
Library with computers
Panoramic Top Deck Observation Platform
Bar/Lounge with Live Entertainment
Lounge with Audiovisual Facilities
DVD Movie Library
Tinted sliding glass doors in all cabins on the Promenade Deck
World-Class Cuisine:
Great expeditions require great food! Our team of world-class chefs offer breakfast, lunch and dinner menus that change daily. They have boat-loads of creativity, so you are sure to experience a variety of remarkable cuisine throughout your voyage.
Accommodations:
All Suites Feature:
Exterior views
Your choice of queen-sized or two twin-sized beds
Sitting area with sofa and side chair
Flat Screen TV with DVD/CD player
Telephone
Independent temperature controls
Mini-Bar
Marble-appointed bathroom with fine toiletries
Hair dryer
220 square feet or more
Sofa can be converted to bed for third person
PLEASE NOTE - DECK PLANS CAN VARY.
Pre-cruise Iguazu Falls Extension. From (2595.00 GBP)
Before joining our group in Buenos Aires, we are offering the opportunity to visit the Iguazu Falls, often considered the most dramatic waterfalls in the world.
Inclusions
• Voyage on board in selected cabin category
• House wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board
• Expedition team
• Shore excursions as per the itinerary (Note: Some itineraries have optional excursions as per the specific exclusions)
• Gratuities
• Port Charges/ Taxes
• Transfers as per the itinerary (Note: Transfers are offered in conjunction with group flights only when booked together, both can be taken off if included in the itinerary and credited)
Exclusions
• Passport and Visa costs where applicable
• Travel insurance
• Beverages other than those listed in inclusions
• Meals when not on board the ship unless otherwise stated
• Pre and post voyage accommodation unless otherwise stated
• Optional excursions as per specific itinerary
• Any items of a personal nature
Luxury Small Ship Cruise
23 Days from
£14,495 GBP pp
Highlights
• Antarctic Sound & Brown Bluff• Salisbury Plain, South Georgia
• Elephant Island
Our Associates Include
