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Peregrine Travel Centre

Crossing the Circle: Southern Expedition to Antarctica

Crossing the Circle: Southern Expedition to Antarctica

From AUD $30,100

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Description

Setting foot on the 7th Continent is a polar achievement relatively few people experience in their lifetime. Even more rare is the incomparable milestone that’s achieved when a traveler crosses the iconic Antarctic Circle. Navigating south of 66°33′ S is—for most guests—the highlight of the 14-day itinerary Crossing the Circle: Southern Expedition, which rewards passengers daily with views of dramatic ice formations, humpback whales swimming alongside the ship, leopard seals diving beneath your Zodiac, penguins sliding off icebergs into crystal waters, or giant petrels soaring above the crackling sea. Starting in 2021, this itinerary allows you to the opportunity to experience our pioneering new vessel, Ultramarine. This purpose-built vessel is designed to extend the boundaries of polar exploration and offer an unmatched Antarctic experience, including a flightseeing tour you’ll never forget and a range of adventure options more extensive than any other ship in its class.

Trip Name
Crossing the Circle: Southern Expedition to Antarctica
Days
14
Overview
Vessel Type: Polar Expedition Length: 342 ft (104.4 m) Passenger Capacity: 138 Built: 2021 Ocean Explorer, the newest addition to our fleet, is modern, elegant and purpose-built for polar exploration. The 138-passenger vessel has been designed with the latest in expedition ship technology. One of the ship’s key features is the ULSTEIN X-BOW®, a marine engineering innovation that ensures a comfortable and smooth sailing experience thanks to the inverted bow. Located at the bow is the two-story, light-filled library, which introduces a welcome airiness to the expedition ship.   Spacious cabins feature a modern, bespoke Scandinavian design and almost all have verandas. Guests can relax and find comfort in the spacious gym, sauna with large windows, and two outdoor Jacuzzis.   Ocean Explorer features ample outdoor viewing areas and multi-height outer decks, which are ideal for long-view photography and wildlife viewing. The vessel is equipped with a fleet of 15 Zodiacs that enable guests to get off the ship quickly and safely for off-ship adventures. In addition to the well-appointed and spacious public areas, Ocean Explorer has an industry-leading mix of sustainability systems, including fuel-efficient Rolls Royce engines.  Two Story Library Light-filled interior library—at the bow of the ship— allows guests to sit and relax indoors while taking in the surrounding polar landscapes from their choice of two levels. Leading Edge Sustainability With the latest sustainability technology in polar expedition, the ship features fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce engines and the ground-breaking MAGS gasification system that converts waste into energy, eliminating the environmental impact of waste transportation. ULSTEIN X-Bow In addition to forming the double-story library, the innovative X-Bow design ensures calm, energy-efficient sailing in rough waters. High Observation Outdoor Decks Observation areas on Decks 7 and 8 allow for higher, longer-view landscape photography while contending with less sea spray. Quiet and Comfortable Spacious and luxurious cabins ensure your quiet ambience with no sound disturbance from adjoining cabins—and almost all cabins feature a balcony for outdoor viewing. Stunning Interior Design Each interior element was carefully hand-picked by designers for you to enjoy, from the dramatic two-story forward lounge, the floor-to-ceiling glass refuge in the library, to the grand fixtures and luxe furnishings throughout the ship. Main Dining Room Contemporary meets cozy in this modern dining room with its stylish lighting and contemporary art. Located on Deck 5, the Main Dining Room seats 144 guests, and features expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that open onto the spectacular polar wilderness. Private Dining Room Tasteful and intimate. This stylish, private dining room on deck 5 provides a relaxed dining experience—with views of the polar landscape—for up to 36 guests. The Latitude Bar A popular social hub on Deck 5, the beautifully-lit Latitude Bar—with its lush sofas and faux marble-topped end tables—is large enough to seat 46 and is ideal for enjoying a quiet drink on your own or hanging out with friends. Library Located on Deck 6 at the top of the gorgeous atrium staircase, this beautiful Library with floor-to-ceiling glass, accommodates up to 47 people Dry Sauna After a day of exciting off-ship adventure, guests can relax on the sauna’s traditional wood benches while gazing at the polar wilderness just outside the large sauna windows. Accommodates 15 people on Deck 7. Fitness Center Stay fit with the latest work-out equipment in the Fitness Center on Deck 7. Jacuzzis Two outdoor Jacuzzis on deck 7, at the ship’s stern, mean you can relax alfresco while soaking up the breath-taking polar views. Observation Lounge This stylish lounge at the top of the ship guarantees incredible views. Guests also frequent this spacious lookout on Deck 8 to enjoy cocktails and conversation with fellow travelers. Seats 63.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 Arrive in Buenos Aires, Argentina
You may arrive in Buenos Aires at any time during Day 1 of your itinerary. Upon arriving in this splendid city, known for its architecture and rich European heritage, you will independently transfer to your group hotel (pre-expedition hotel night included in mandatory transfer package).
Day 2 - Day 2 Fly to Ushuaia & Embark
After an early breakfast at the hotel, the group will transfer to the airport and board our private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina. Upon arrival, you will be transferred from the airport to a central downtown location to have some time on your own to explore this quaint port town before making your way to the pier. As the ship sets sail in the late afternoon, you will begin your Antarctic journey, passing through the Beagle Channel. Named after the famed ship on which Charles Darwin voyaged, the channel presents great photo opportunities of landscapes and seabirds. Eventually the channel opens up to the Southern Ocean, and onwards to Antarctica.
Day 3 - Days 3 and 4 Crossing The Drake Passage
Your days at sea are filled with presentations and lectures led by your Expedition Team, who will prepare you for the wildlife that will greet you upon your arrival. In between presentations, spend time chatting with your shipmates over a drink at the bar, or enjoy the fresh air and views on the outer decks.
Day 4 - Days 5 to 7 South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula
The most common reaction upon reaching the White Continent is a sense of reverence and awe. The experience is beyond words, since few places are as untouched and enduring as Antarctica. You will begin to appreciate why this region has long captivated the attention of explorers and travelers alike. Every visit to Antarctica, we witness something new or unexpected, which means that your expedition will be unlike any other—creating a unique, personal experience. Each day, you will take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore local bays, channels and landing sites. With wildlife always at the forefront of our minds, you will visit penguin rookeries, scout for humpback and minke whales, and search for a number of southern seal species, including the cunning leopard seal. Your Expedition Team will take care of you at each landing, whether you are exploring the Antarctic terrain, visiting a research station or consorting with penguin colonies. Chinstrap, Adélie and gentoo penguins are found here, along with five different species of seals. Zodiac cruising can offer opportunities to view some of the larger local marine mammals more intimately, such as Antarctic minke and humpback whales. Each day and each excursion will present a new collection of creatures to delight you and keep your camera busy. Your days will be busy spotting wildlife and being mesmerized by the astounding beauty of Antarctica. Listening to the crackling and crumbling of icebergs and glaciers and watching penguins waddling on the beach will become your daily entertainment, while sea kayaking, paddle excursions, or camping are optional activities available on select voyages (at an extra cost).
Day 5 - Days 8 and 9 Antarctic Circle
Crossing the Antarctic Circle is both a memorable experience and impressive achievement, as few travelers reach so far south. If conditions allow us to cross this famed line at 66°33´ S, we’ll toast the first explorers who ventured here, and you can raise a glass and take pride in knowing you’ve made it to a part of the world visited by very few people. This is raw Antarctica, home of the midnight sun, Weddell seals, and your best chances of encountering sea ice – the foundation of the Antarctic marine ecosystem.
Day 6 - Days 10 and 11 Northbound Along The Peninsula
By now, your knowledge of Adélie, chinstrap and gentoo penguins will be matched by your ability to differentiate between a leopard, fur and Weddell seal. Terms like ‘bergy bits’ and ‘pancake ice’ will become part of your vocabulary, yet there are still many tales to be told. As you head north, Zodiac excursions will fill your days, and your Expedition Team will continue looking out for species of seabirds, seals and whales that may have eluded you on your journey south.
Day 7 - Days 12 and 13 Crossing the Drake Passage
As you recross the Drake, Antarctica fades away, leaving you with a collection of memories to last a lifetime. Excited conversations with your newfound friends will make the crossing fly by, regardless of weather and sea conditions. Your Expedition Team will round up its series of presentations as well, with a slideshow of the great landing sites and wildlife you’ve witnessed over the course of your voyage. Be sure to take some time to reflect on everything you’ve experienced so far.
Day 8 - Day 14 Disembarkation in Ushuaia & Fly to Buenos Aires
You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning and disembark after breakfast. The mandatory transfer package includes a little taste of Patagonia with a Tierra del Fuego National Park tour before transferring to the airport for the return group charter flight to Buenos Aires.
Day 9 - Please Note:
Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy – and excitement – of expedition travel. There are no guarantees that we can achieve everything we set out to accomplish. A measure of flexibility is something all of us must bring to a voyage. There are nearly 200 recognized sites in the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetlands and the places mentioned above may be changed to others equally as interesting.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
06-01-202519-01-2025AUD $34,100Explorer Triple. From
06-01-202519-01-2025AUD $39,900Explorer Suite. From
06-01-202519-01-2025AUD $44,100Balcony Suite. From
06-01-202519-01-2025AUD $52,400Deluxe Balcony Suite. From
06-01-202519-01-2025AUD $53,900Terrace Suite. From
06-01-202519-01-2025AUD $56,400Solo Panorama. From
06-01-202519-01-2025AUD $58,100Penthouse Suite. From
06-01-202519-01-2025AUD $72,300Owner's Suite. From
06-01-202519-01-2025AUD $159,400Ultra Suite. From
04-02-202517-02-2025AUD $40,100Veranda Suite
04-02-202517-02-2025AUD $47,000Junior Suite
04-02-202517-02-2025AUD $47,000Studio Single
04-02-202517-02-2025AUD $50,900Studio Veranda Single
04-02-202517-02-2025AUD $64,260Veranda Stateroom
04-02-202517-02-2025AUD $109,400Penthouse Suite
04-02-202517-02-2025AUD $117,200Owners Suite
04-02-202517-02-2025AUD $36,200Deluxe Veranda Forward Stateroom
07-02-202520-02-2025AUD $30,800Explorer Triple. From
07-02-202520-02-2025AUD $40,400Balcony Suite. From
07-02-202520-02-2025AUD $49,000Terrace Suite. From
07-02-202520-02-2025AUD $50,700Solo Panorama. From
07-02-202520-02-2025AUD $53,000Penthouse Suite. From
07-02-202520-02-2025AUD $61,880Explorer Suite. From
07-02-202520-02-2025AUD $65,600Owner's Suite. From
07-02-202520-02-2025AUD $72,700Ultra Suite. From
07-02-202520-02-2025AUD $95,000Deluxe Balcony Suite. From
01-03-202514-03-2025AUD $30,100Explorer Triple. From
01-03-202514-03-2025AUD $45,900Deluxe Balcony Suite. From
01-03-202514-03-2025AUD $47,500Terrace Suite. From
01-03-202514-03-2025AUD $49,800Solo Panorama. From
01-03-202514-03-2025AUD $60,520Explorer Suite. From
01-03-202514-03-2025AUD $66,130Balcony Suite. From
01-03-202514-03-2025AUD $70,400Ultra Suite. From
01-03-202514-03-2025AUD $103,000Penthouse Suite. From
01-03-202514-03-2025AUD $126,600Owner's Suite. From
04-03-202517-03-2025AUD $33,900Veranda Stateroom
04-03-202517-03-2025AUD $36,200Veranda Suite
04-03-202517-03-2025AUD $42,400Junior Suite
04-03-202517-03-2025AUD $42,400Studio Single
04-03-202517-03-2025AUD $45,500Studio Veranda Single
04-03-202517-03-2025AUD $49,300Penthouse Suite
04-03-202517-03-2025AUD $52,400Owners Suite
04-03-202517-03-2025AUD $55,080Deluxe Veranda Forward Stateroom
06-01-202619-01-2026AUD $34,395Explorer Triple. From
06-01-202619-01-2026AUD $56,695Solo Panorama. From
06-01-202619-01-2026AUD $68,842Explorer Suite. From
06-01-202619-01-2026AUD $75,812Balcony Suite. From
06-01-202619-01-2026AUD $105,190Deluxe Balcony Suite. From
06-01-202619-01-2026AUD $161,790Terrace Suite. From
06-01-202619-01-2026AUD $117,590Penthouse Suite. From
06-01-202619-01-2026AUD $145,790Owner's Suite. From
06-01-202619-01-2026AUD $165,790Ultra Suite. From
09-02-202622-02-2026AUD $35,695Deluxe Veranda Forward Stateroom
09-02-202622-02-2026AUD $46,995Studio Single
09-02-202622-02-2026AUD $46,995Junior Suite
09-02-202622-02-2026AUD $50,795Studio Veranda Single
09-02-202622-02-2026AUD $54,495Penthouse Suite
09-02-202622-02-2026AUD $63,912Veranda Stateroom
09-02-202622-02-2026AUD $67,822Veranda Suite
09-02-202622-02-2026AUD $116,590Owners Suite
28-02-202613-03-2026AUD $31,095Explorer Triple. From
28-02-202613-03-2026AUD $47,595Deluxe Balcony Suite. From
28-02-202613-03-2026AUD $51,195Solo Panorama. From
28-02-202613-03-2026AUD $62,212Explorer Suite. From
28-02-202613-03-2026AUD $65,995Owner's Suite. From
28-02-202613-03-2026AUD $68,672Balcony Suite. From
28-02-202613-03-2026AUD $73,195Ultra Suite. From
28-02-202613-03-2026AUD $98,990Terrace Suite. From
28-02-202613-03-2026AUD $106,190Penthouse Suite. From

Inclusions

    • Flightseeing aboard Ultramarine. While polar landscapes are spectacular from the sea, they’re even more stunning from the air, a view you can enjoy while seated in one of the two twin-engine helicopters stationed on Ultramarine.
    • Hiking. Hiking in the polar regions differs from your typical trail experience. Here, in a tree-less terrain, you are the tallest figure on the landscape as you walk over spongy tundra, crusty snow or sandy beaches in remotes parts of the Arctic and Antarctica.
    • Polar Plunge. The Polar Plunge is scheduled once during each voyage. Throughout the journey, the Expedition Leader and Captain constantly monitor conditions in order to choose the optimal time and location. The Polar Plunge sometimes takes place onshore or, in many cases, from the gangway or Zodiac.
    • Zodiac Cruising. Zodiacs are used for transferring you ashore, transporting your luggage when necessary and for taking you ocean-level cruising among icebergs, whales and seabirds. During the expedition, you will visit remote and isolated sites that are accessible only by Zodiac.

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