Orca, Antarctica

Marine Mammals of Antarctica

Marine Mammals of Antarctica

» Antarctica

» Mar 3 2019Mar 13 2019 (11 DAYS)

» EMBARKATION: Ushuaia

» DISEMBARKATION: Ushuaia

EXPEDITION IN BRIEF

  • Increased access to landing sites
  • Highest concentration of whales
  • Join world-renowned cetacean experts and observe their important fieldwork

ITINERARY OVERVIEW

  • Day 1 – Ushuaia, Argentina
  • Days 2 and 3 – Drake Passage, at sea towards Antarctica
  • Days 4 to 7 – Gerlache Strait and Antarctic Peninsula
  • Day 8 – South Shetland Islands, Antarctica
  • Days 9 and 10 – Drake Passage, return to South America
  • Day 11 – Ushuaia, Argentina

Contact Us

SHIP

Vavilov

ADVENTURE OPTIONS

Kayaking

ACTIVITIES

By March, the short Antarctic summer is drawing to a close and bays and harbours that have been ice choked since winter become free of such impediments. As a result, our access to landing sites increases significantly. Penguin chicks are almost fully-grown and are quickly shedding their downy coats in preparation to take to the sea before winter arrives.

March is also a time of great activity in and under the water and historically, we encounter a much higher concentration of whales during this period. Whales are busy feeding on the huge biomass of krill in preparation for their migrations to tropical waters far to the north. However, scientists are now discovering that some humpback whales remain in the ice-free sections of Antarctica over winter and hypothesize this may be due to the effects of climate change.

On this voyage we plan to visit several known locations along the Antarctic Peninsula that are the focus of long-term research projects by esteemed academic institutions including Oregon State University (USA) and Stanford University (USA). We are joined on the ship by several world-renowned cetacean (whale) experts and observe their important fieldwork in close proximity. They share with us unique underwater footage and scientific data and interpret the behavior, migration characteristics and feeding patterns of adult whales and their calves. Their participation on our voyage is greatly valued and provides a fascinating glimpse into world of Antarctic science.

Antarctica’s seals are also found in sizable numbers late in the season, resting and storing energy that will sustain them over the cold months ahead. For those with a passion for whales and seals – and an interest in the important science happening in Antarctica – this unique voyage should not be missed. Oh, did we mention it’s also our favourite time of the year for blistering orange and pink Antarctic sunrises and sunsets?


CABINS & PRICES

Triple Share USD 8,695
Twin-Semi Private USD 10,795
Twin Private USD 11,795
Superior USD 12,795
Shackleton Suite USD 13,995
One Ocean Suite USD 15,895

All rates per person in USD

INCLUDES

  • Extensive pre-departure information package
  • Educational presentations from experienced guides such as ornithologists, glaciologists, historians, geologists, naturalists and marine mammals experts
  • Photography advice and instructions from the resident photographer. Extended photography workshops available on select departures
  • All zodiac and landing excursions
  • Zodiac cruising, hiking, guided walks, photography workshops, fitness and yoga
  • Overnight camping, including high-quality equipment. No pre-registration required. Camping is available on select departures only and can be affected by itinerary and
  • weather conditions. Please see your full itinerary for further details
  • All meals during the voyage prepared by One Ocean Expeditions chefs
  • Welcome reception and welcome dinner
  • One Ocean Expeditions Farewell dinner hosted by the Captain
  • Daily afternoon tea with fresh snacks
  • Coffee, tea and hot chocolate available anytime
  • Access to wellness area (Finnish sauna, plunge pool filled with sea water, hot tub)
  • Natural essential oil amenities
  • Use of multimedia room to download images. Adobe Lightroom/Photoshop and card readers are available for use on MAC and PC computers
  • Windproof/waterproof jacket and bib pants on loan
  • Insulated rubber boots on loan
  • Water resistant binoculars on loan
  • Waterproof backpack on loan
  • Trekking poles available on shore
  • Services of English speaking medical officer
  • Access to ship’s infirmary
  • Transfers from/to designated meeting points to/from the ship
  • Required flights to/from the ship (only applicable on certain departures)
  • Luggage transfer to/from your cabin

EXCLUDES

  • International and national airfares
  • Visa and passport fees, airport taxes
  • Pre- or post-cruise hotel accommodation in arrival/departure cities
  • Meals and transfers in arrival/departure cities
  • Personal expenses
  • Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
  • Massages from registered therapist
  • Personal laundry charges
  • Postage, telephone calls and email set up
  • Medical expenses such as fees, prescriptions or medications
  • Travel medical insurance including medical evacuation (mandatory)
  • Trip interruption/cancellation insurance
  • Gratuities to staff and crew

OOS181900077