The Southern tip of Argentina is the closest point
to the peninsula, sailing from here across the Drake Passage takes approximately
40 hours. There are a variety of different vessels that sail to Antarctica
and all offer a unique experience. The smallest boats are usually ice-strengthened ‘expedition
vessels’. These ex-naval boats have been converted for passenger
use and normally take a maximum of 50 people. Shore landings, where possible,
take place twice a day, small zodiac boats ferry you the short distance
from your expedition vessel to land and back again. Icebreakers are larger,
usually taking a small number of passengers. These are powerful vessels
that can sail to the most remote seas. More comfortable than the smaller
ice-strengthened boats, they tend to sail on longer routes where their
extra power may be required. Finally there are now also more traditional
cruise ships sailing to Antarctica. Offering a higher level of luxury,
these vessels are still relatively small and are the most comfortable
way of reaching the peninsula.
Vessels
Professor Multanovskiy and Molchanov
Sister ships that were built in
Finland in 1982-3, both vessels carry a maximum of 48 passengers. Ice-strengthened
boats, their small size allows them to access some waters that the larger
vessels cannot. With a small number of people on board landings take
less time, maximising your time on the ice. All cabins have an outside
view, although not all have private facilities. These are friendly vessels
promoting a warm and intimate atmosphere.
Kapitan Khlebnikov
An exceptionally powerful icebreaker, the Khlebnikov has navigated
more polar waters than any other vessel. Built in Finland in 1981, it is one
of only three in its class and holds a maximum of 112 passengers. Each cabin
has an outside view and private facilities. There is a library, sauna, small
exercise area and indoor pool. In addition to zodiacs the Khlebnikov also carries
helicopters for passenger excursions.
Polar Star
The Polar Star is a conventional ice-strengthened vessel that was
reconditioned in 2000. All 45 cabins have outside views and all have private
facilities. The Polar Star is accustomed to sailing in the remotest parts of
the world, expert guides will help spot and identify wildlife for you. There
is a library, bar and large observation lounge.
Antarctic Dream
Built in Holland, the Antarctic Dream was completely re-conditioned
in 2004. Taking a maximum of 78 passengers; all cabins have an outside view.
There are two observation decks, an open bridge, sauna, spa, gym and library.
The Antarctic Dream sails to and from Punta Arenas in Chile.
Explorer II
Normally carrying a maximum of 394 passengers, for Antarctic expeditions
the Explorer II limits the total of guests to 198. A quality vessel, the Explorer
II is the luxurious way of sailing to the Antarctic Peninsula. Outside there
is a sundeck and pool, the bridge can be accessed 24 hours a day. There are two
comfortable bars a gracious main dining room and a breakfast and buffet lunch
restaurant. The vessel has a 4000+ volume library, health club and spa. There
are 10 zodiac boats on hand to take you from the boat to your landing point.
Find the hidden explorer in you. The scenery in Antarctica is
unparalleled anywhere else in the world. Amazing ice sculptures
float past your boat, towering white cliffs loom above you.
The Falklands and South Georgia are remote and incredibly
wildlife rich.
