Emperor Penguins
Itinerary
Day 1
Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego
As your plane lands in Ushuaia, you’ll be treated to a stunning view. Ushuaia is a picturesque community nestled at the foot of the Andes, with the rugged peaks of the Five Brothers overlooking the Beagle Channel. After arrival proceed to our host hotel. The city has excellent restaurants and intriguing museums. You’ll spend the night at our host hotel, so you’ll have time to explore.
Day 2
Embarkation Day
This morning is free, however you may like to take advantage of our optional half-day tour to the nearby National Park. This is a delightful way to see the area and we’ll also include a traditional Argentine BBQ lunch. After the tour return to the hotel for your afternoon transfer to the ship. After boarding, we’ll follow the Beagle Channel into the open waters of the Drake Passage.
Day 3 - 4
Crossing the Drake Passage
Emperor Penguins will be on your mind while you cross the Drake Passage. By the time you reach the Weddell Sea, you’ll be a well-rounded expert on birds of all kinds. In addition to the biology, habitat and behavior of Emperors, our ornithologist will make presentations on the pelagic birds that accompany the ship. Our photographer-in-residence will prepare you for the special lighting conditions you will encounter during your visit to the colony.
Day 5 - 7
Cruising in the Weddell Sea
Reaching the Snow Hill colony under the best possible conditions is the goal of the expedition. The Captain and Expedition Leader consult charts, weather bulletins and satellite images to determine where to park the icebreaker for efficient helicopter flights to the colony.
In 2007, visitors saw Emperor chicks, many sitting on the feet of the adult caring for them. We hope to repeat that unique opportunity in 2008. Helicopters will be used to ferry adventurers to a landing site about 2 km or more from the colony. You’ll walk a well marked path through a sculpture garden of towering ice. Adult Emperors tobogganing to the sea to feed have the right of way!
Day 8 - 11
Discovering the White Continent
While the Emperors are our priority, we also plan to visit the Antarctic Peninsula. Our exact route will be determined by local conditions.
We plan to sail Iceberg Alley. Use your newly acquired photographic skills to snap pictures of massive tabular icebergs until your camera beeps a warning that the memory is full. While passing through Antarctic Sound, you will see more fantastic ice sculptures from pure white to deep blue. A soulful silence may engulf you, unless a glacier calves or an iceberg over turns - then suddenly, everything is noise and waves.
While visiting the Antarctic Peninsula, we hope to explore penguin colonies under construction. Adélie, Chinstrap, and Gentoo Penguins court, lay eggs and raise their young during the austral summer. Your voyage takes place at a time when these smaller penguins are selecting nesting sites and choosing partners. You’ll be hungry after each day’s activities - but only for a moment. The Hospitality Team prides itself on satisfying your hunger as well as the Expedition Team satisfies your craving for adventure.
Day 12 - 14
Drake Passage - Ushuaia
On the return to Ushuaia, you’ll be recalling the details of the voyage. These memories will stay with you, as clear and powerful as the day they were formed. The existence of the Emperor Penguin is more than a story of survival and endurance. It is the triumph of life itself. Upon arrival at Ushuaia, transfer to the airport for your outbound flight.
