We can describe what you will experience today; however, words are not enough: 

 

• Gray stone peaks sketched with snow,

• towers of broken blue-white ice

• dramatically different wildlife below and above

 

You first pass the snow-capped Melchior Islands and Schollaert Channel, sailing between Brabant and Anvers Islands. 

 

Places you might visit include: (Naturally, favorable weather conditions determine the possible activities). 

 

• Neumayer Channel – The vessel may position itself here, launching its multiple basecamp activities from the protected waters around Wiencke Island. You can enjoy the splendors of this alpine environment at sea with Zodiac and kayaking trips, or if you’re in the mood for a walk, there are possible snowshoe hikes and soft-climb mountaineering options farther inland. 

 

• Port Lockroy – After sailing through the Neumayer Channel, you may get a chance to visit the former British research station – now a museum and post office – of Port Lockroy on Goudier Island. You may also be able to partake in activities around Jougla Point, meeting gentoo penguins and blue-eyed shags. At the nearby sites, such as Damoy Point, there may be the opportunity for snowshoeing to the old skyway; this is also one of our favorite camping sites.

 

• Pléneau & Petermann Islands – If the ice allows it, you can sail through the Lemaire Channel for Adélie penguins and blue-eyed shags. There’s also a good chance you’ll encounter humpback and minke whales here, as well as leopard seals. Kayaking, glacier walks, and more ambitious mountaineering trips are the potential activities of this location. 

 

• Neko Harbour – An epic landscape of mammoth glaciers and endless wind-carved snow, Neko Harbour offers opportunities for a Zodiac cruise and landing that afford the closest views of the surrounding alpine peaks.

 

• Paradise Bay – You can camp here like a true polar explorer, enjoying a supreme overnight Antarctic adventure.

 

• Errera Channel – Possible sites in this area include Danco Island, Cuverville Island, and the lesser-known (though equally picturesque) Orne Island and Georges Point on Rongé Island.  

 

• You pass the Melchior Islands toward the open sea on your last day of near-shore activities. Keep a sharp lookout for humpback whales in Dallmann Bay. You might also shoot for Half Moon Island, in the South Shetlands, with further chances for activities. 

 

Good to know! Weather conditions on the Drake Passage determine the exact time of departure.

 

Meals: All meals throughout the voyage aboard the ship, including snacks, coffee, and tea. Accommodation: Antarctica Expedition Cruise - External Cabin with windows.