Antarctica’s Ross Sea: Majestic Ice and Wildlife
Discover the pristine beauty of the world's largest marine protected area in the luxurious comfort of a Discovery Yacht.
Duration
24 Day
Number
Starts from
Hobart
Price
from 29.595 €
1. Highlights of the Route
- Explore the majestic Ross Sea Region, home to fascinating wildlife and historic expeditions.
- Start in Hobart, Australia and end of the journey in Timaru (Christchurch) in New Zealand.
- Travel with an ice-strengthened 5-star all-inclusive Discovery Yacht in a Verandah Suite from 32 m² with butler service.
Your Trip at a Glance
Experience an unforgettable journey of discovery to the most remote and fascinating regions of the world. Your journey begins in Timaru, a charming port city in New Zealand, and takes you through the pristine beauty of Antarctica. On a luxurious Discovery Yacht ship, you will enjoy not only exceptional comfort and first-class hospitality, but also exciting expeditions to the most remote islands, historical sites, and impressive wildlife of Antarctica and Sub-Antarctica. From the majestic ice shelves of the Ross Sea to the unique Balleny Islands and the Snares, a journey awaits you that presents nature and history in their purest and most fascinating state. Discover spectacular glaciers, mighty volcanoes, and wildlife that knows no boundaries. During your days at sea on the ship, you will deepen your knowledge about this extraordinary region while enjoying the luxurious comfort of your vessel. At the end of your journey, after unforgettable experiences, you will return to Timaru and from there continue your journey to Christchurch, with memories that will last a lifetime.
Arrival Package:
We would be happy to plan an individual pre- and post-program for you or arrange your arrival and departure with international flights.
Post Itinerary Package:
We are happy to plan an individual post-program or your return journey with international flights for you.
2. The Itinerary
Day 1: Hobart, Australia
The Tasmanian capital Hobart impresses with its harbor, art galleries like MONA, and excellent restaurants. On board the Scenic Eclipse II, you are welcomed with champagne. Enjoy your Verandah Suite, meet your butler, and explore the yacht’s luxurious facilities. Then toast to the upcoming journey into the world’s last untouched frontier on the Observation Deck.
Day 2 to Day 7: At Sea
The South Atlantic marks the beginning of your journey. You meet the Polar Discovery Team, who will assist you with expert knowledge about Antarctica. Enjoy an introduction in the theater and prepare for the upcoming adventures. Excursions depend on ice and weather conditions and will be adjusted to maximize your discovery opportunities. Use the day to relax. In the Observation Lounge, you can observe seabirds and marine life. In the evening, the first icebergs appear, and you prepare for landings in Antarctica.
Day 8 to Day 12: The Ross Sea Region of Antarctica
Stay close to your veranda as you enter the Ross Sea. The ocean is home to orcas, whales, penguins, and seals. Surrounded by glacial ice and high mountains, your captain will seek the best opportunities for exploration. In the coming days on Ross Island, at Mount Erebus, you will experience the history of legendary explorers like Shackleton and Scott. Weather and ice conditions permitting, we will reach Beaufort Island, a remote volcanic island that is home to a large Adélie penguin colony. Mount Erebus, the southernmost active volcano on Earth, is a highlight of the journey. Learn more about the historic expeditions and Shackleton’s huts in the theater. If conditions allow, a helicopter flight^ over the McMurdo Dry Valleys, one of the driest and most extraordinary landscapes on Earth, awaits you.
Day 13: Cruising through the Ross Sea Ice Shelf
Experience the edge of the world as you cruise along the Ross Ice Shelf, the largest floating ice mass on Earth. With a height of up to 50 meters above sea level, this frozen bulwark is one of Antarctica’s most spectacular natural wonders. Throughout the day, your captain and Discovery Leader will seek the best opportunities for exploration – perhaps a Zodiac ride along the imposing ice cliffs or encounters with Weddell seals resting on the frozen landscape.
Day 14 to Day 15: The Ross Sea Region of Antarctica
Inexpressible Island, where six men from the Terra Nova Expedition spent a harsh winter, is a historic site that your Discovery Team brings to life. The island is also home to Adélie penguins and seals, which we can explore on Zodiac tours. The Adare Peninsula houses the largest Adélie penguin colony and was the site of the first documented landing in Antarctica in 1895. A fascinating place with breathtaking scenery and wildlife. Enjoy a drink in the Observation Lounge or choose from up to 10 excellent restaurants.
Day 16: At Sea
On sea days aboard, you have the opportunity to relax and learn more about the region as the Discovery Team holds exciting lectures on wildlife and history. Relax in the Senses Spa# with steam rooms and saunas or enjoy a coffee or cocktail in one of the eight lounges on board.
Day 17: Balleny Islands
This 160-kilometer-long chain of volcanic islands, some of which are still active, lies on the edge of the Antarctic Circle. Here you will experience one of the world’s greatest wildlife convergences. Humpback whales, fin whales, and minke whales could impress us with their jumps and tail slaps. Crabeater seals, Weddell seals, and leopard seals sunbathe between swimming rounds. Take part in a Discovery excursion or simply enjoy the view from the Observation Deck or your private veranda.
Day 18 to Day 20: At Sea
On the way to Snares Island, enjoy the views and lectures by the Discovery Team on Antarctica’s ecosystems. Keep an eye out for wandering albatrosses and whales. The Scenic Eclipse II minimizes environmental impact with sustainable technology. In the evening, enjoy a French dinner at Lumière or relax in the lounge.
Day 21: Snares Island
The Snares are remote, rugged, and heavily protected. As the closest subantarctic islands to New Zealand, they remain so pristine that they are completely uninhabited. This remarkable wildlife sanctuary consists of two main islands and the five-island Western Chain and enjoys the highest protection status.
Day 22: At Sea
On your last sea day, you can review the unforgettable experiences of the past weeks. Spend the morning organizing your photos or completing your travel journal. Enjoy a final moment of relaxation in the Senses Spa#, with an ESPA facial treatment or an alternative therapy such as an Ayurvedic massage or Japanese Shiatsu. In the evening, toast to an extraordinary journey in the Scenic Lounge Bar.
Day 23: Timaru
Timaru offers breathtaking sea views, golden beaches, and a rich history. Discover the Bay Hill Promenade, the South Canterbury Museum, and the Aigantighe Art Gallery. Take part in a Scenic Freechoice activity and experience the Kiwi charm.
Day 24: Disembarkation in Timaru and journey to Christchurch
Your journey ends in Timaru, a charming port town known for its stunning coastal landscapes and warm Kiwi hospitality. After a final luxurious breakfast, you bid farewell to your new friends and the crew, with memories that will last a lifetime. A transfer from Timaru to Christchurch follows.
- Departure From: Hobart
- End Point: Timaru
3. Services Included
Included
- Arctic cruise in the booked cabin category.
- Scientific lectures and entertainment on board.
- All Zodiac rides and landings.
- All-inclusive meals.
- All-inclusive beverages.
- All-inclusive wellness.
- Complimentary expedition parka, handed over on board.
- Free loan of rubber boots.
- Comprehensive information material before and after the trip.
Excluded
- International flights: We can book a suitable flight for you at an additional cost.
- Customary tips for staff at the end of the trip.
- Personal expenses, for example in the on-board shop.
- Massages and similar services.
- Personal travel insurance.
- Cancellation insurance.
- Luggage loading.
4. Travel Dates and Prices
Please contact us directly for the current daily prices of the trips and the prices for single occupancy or special cabins. Our polar experts will answer all your questions about the itinerary, the ship, and the cabins.
Appointments on request. Please contact us directly using the contact form.
Prices are per person, based on double occupancy per cabin or suite and subject to availability.
For solo travelers, cabins or suites may be available without a single supplement, subject to availability. Please contact us for details for solo travelers.
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