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Antarctica – Secrets of the Seventh Continent
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There is nothing so unpredictable as the untamed wilderness. Every journey to Antarctica becomes its own work of art, as unique and multifaceted as a snowflake. The seventh continent may be devoid of human cities, but hidden in the white mists and snowy reaches of the abyss is a brimming wonderland of life and sound. From the almighty crack of a glacier expanding in the water, to the chatter of penguins building their families on pebbled shores, the secret life of this seemingly barren place never fails to astound and inspire. Sail into the unknown and carve out an adventure that is yours alone on this expedition to Antarctica, where the only guarantee awaiting you each morning is the promise of something utterly unforgettable.

Degree of Difficulty –    

Depart the USA en route to Buenos Aires, Argentina where you connect with your flight to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world! Transfer to your accommodations among the languid and friendly atmosphere of this Argentine city. On day 2, a representative from Quark Expeditions will be available in the lobby of the hotel all day to answer any questions you might have about your upcoming adventure, and there will be an optional pre-departure briefing in the evening. But you will be quite busy today as you explore the spectacular Tierra del Fuego National Park, to experience the drama and beauty of waterfalls, forests, mountains, and glaciers. In the afternoon, discover the sea lions, cormorants, albatrosses, skuas, petrels and seagulls on a catamaran cruise along the Beagle Channel and marvel at the beautiful scenery and the famous Lighthouse. Tonight, enjoy a welcome dinner with your fellow travelers and get ready for your adventure. LOS CAUQUENES HOTEL & SPA.

(Meals Aloft; B,D)

Prices vary by season and package. Please inquire by phone at (800) 627-1244 or email info@classicescapes.com for more information and a pricing estimate.

NOTES:
• The land program is suggested, but for groups that want to do something different, we can customize as needed.
• The cruise itinerary is indicative for a program that visits the Antarctic peninsula only. In addition, we have longer programs that include the Falklands and Georgia Islands, or for those who do not wish to cross the Drake passage, we also have a program that arrives Antarctica by air and travelers are on the boat only in the Antarctic, avoiding the 2 days each way of crossing the Drake.
• Pricing is dependent on the actual departure date and group size. We generally get group discounts that we pass on to our travelers and negotiate each group separately. Contact us for further details.
• We work with Quark Expeditions on our Antarctic offerings, but if there’s another vessel you’re interested in, let us know.

YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES:
  • Superior accommodations throughout as indicated, or similar.
  • Shipboard accommodation based on lowest category – Twin in Ocean Diamond with window; Infinity Suite in World Explorer. Upgrades are available for higher categories.
  • Flights between Buenos Aires and Iguassu Falls on the post extension.
  • Breakfast daily, all other meals as indicated in the itinerary on land; all meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board the vessel. Beer and wine during meals.
  • All shore landings, zodiac transfers and cruising per the daily program.
  • Formal and informal presentations by the Expedition Team and special guests as scheduled.
  • An official Quark Expeditions parka to keep.
  • Hairdryer and bathrobes in every cabin.
  • All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program.
  • Sightseeing via private motor coach with English speaking guide on land.
  • All applicable hotel taxes and gratuities for baggage handling.
  • All entry fees.
  • Complimentary baggage tags and passport wallet.
  • Complimentary emergency evacuation insurance.
In general, Antarctica has an exceptionally cold, dry and windy climate with very little precipitation. This is due to its high altitude and the snow-covered cap of ice (i.e. the reflectivity of the icy surface resulting in minimal heat storage). However, this is not the whole truth; expedition cruises to Antarctica never reach the interior of the continent. Passengers only travel to the coastal regions and only in summer (November-March), when conditions are much milder. Mean coastal temperatures along the Antarctic Peninsula are seldom far from the point of freezing averaging from 23°F to 56°F. Summers in this part of the continent are far warmer than winters in central U.S. and northern Canada. Changes in Antarctic weather can be rapid and dramatic. Fine sunny conditions can shift in minutes to cold gusting winds and snow flurries but proper clothing, layered for warmth will ensure an exciting and rewarding experience.