Wishlist
Across the Antarctic Circle
Venturing below the Antarctic Circle is the chance to enter a different world rarely seen. Icy cold with great expanses of packed ice and dreamlike icebergs. Thread through narrow channels in view of ice-clad mountains and open ice fields are home feeding whales and lively penguin colonies.
Awaken your soul to the wonder of Antarctica on one of Born Free's recommended journeys on Aurora Expeditions Greg Mortimer cruise. The Greg Mortimer was built in 2019 with X-BOW standard construction . This offers maximium comfort and stabilization. Whichever adventure you select you will revel in the beauty and overwhelming power of nature. There is a staggering abundance of wildlife. Cruise across ink-blue sea, travel on seas of glass, passing giant icebergs. Search for elephant seals, penguin rookeries, Humpback and Minke whales. Head out to explore in Zodiac boats and kayaks. Antarctica is one of the most memorable sites in the world.
Itinerary and stops will be made according to weather and sea conditions. A few of the exciting stops that are often included:
Paradise Harbor - A protected bay surrounded by magnificent peaks and breathtaking glaciers. Explore the area in Zodiacs. This is a haven for humpbacks, orcas and minke whales, as well as crabeater seals.
Hydrurga Rocks - Calm channels lead to a hidden interior where Weddell seals and chinstrap penguins. There are many places to simply sit and watch the rise and fall of clear green water and listen to the magic sounds and calls of the wildlife.
Lemaire Channel - If ice conditions allow, the cruise will quietly moving through the narrow channel. Cliffs tower 2300 feet straight out of the ocean on either side of the ship. The water can be so still that perfect reflections are mirrored on the surface and it is clear to see why this Channel is also known as “Kodak Alley”.
Deception Island - sail through the narrow opening of Neptune's Bellows to enter the flooded volcanic crater. The inside of the crater is an unworldly scene, virtually devoid of life. Steam rises from the shore indicating that the water is actually warm enough for swimming, for those who dare. Outside the crater, if conditions allow, we might land at Bailey Head to explore the enormous chinstrap penguin rookery that featured in David Attenborough's Life in the Freezer series. (ae)
Journey Priced From: $13,000 per person, double occupancy.
Request rate if you would like a single room.
Rates are in US dollars and will vary for various departure dates.
The ship, itinerary and departure date you select for your Antarctica expedition will determines the start and end point of your journey. Additional itineraries are available in this region.
Does not include international or intercontinental airfares.
Is this your dream trip?
Physical rating is moderate as getting in and out of the Zodiac rafts requires good balance. Being able to walk on rocks and slippery terrain will allow you to explore further afield. You can select the activities that you feel comfortable participating in. Speak with the Born Free Consultant to make sure this is the right journey to Antarctica for you. Other expeditions and ships are available.
Highlights
- Cruise on the Greg Mortimer - built in 2019 to the highest standards and featured on this itinerary. The ship holds a maximum of 130 guests. The Sylvia Earle, launched in October 2021 offers similar itineraries.
- Greg Mortimer and Sylvia Earle have Ulstein X-Bow comfort construction which splits wave's energy, lowering the impact of rising waves and enabling the ships to provide higher comfort and be more stable.
- Visit the Antarctic Circle, 66°34’ south (approx)
- View wildlife activity including sea birds, penguins, seals and whales
- Zodiac (rafts) will take you up-close to landing sites
- Explore by foot and walks with expedition leaders
- Participate in activities such as sea kayaking, snorkel and scuba dive.
- Travel through Lemaire Channel known as the very scenic "Kodak Alley"
- Lectures on wildlife, environment and history by expedition naturalists
- Visit fascinating historic sites
- Take a Polar plunge - if you dare!
- City tour of Ushuaia; Overnight in Punta Arenas
- Time saving flight from King George to Punta Arenas
- Waterproof polar expedition jacket is provided
