Explore Antarctica with Lindblad Expeditions
Active, immersive expedition travel
Explore Antarctica in expedition style, aboard an authentic expedition ship is an incomparable experience and your guarantee of an in-depth encounter with all its wonders. Lindblad Expedition’s pioneering polar heritage and 50 years of experience navigating polar geographies is your assurance of safe passage in one of the wildest sectors of the planet. Lindblads veteran polar expedition team enables you to:
~ See more of the legendary landscapes and habitats
~ Encounter iconic penguins, leopard seals, and marine mammals
~ Kayak among icebergs, Zodiac cruise past resting leopard seals, and hike on the continent with the best ice team on Earth
~ Experience the seldom-seen Antarctic undersea, too––through the efforts of our undersea specialist
~ Benefit from our 175 collective years of Lindblad-National Geographic expedition experience to see and do all you came for and more
Journey to Antarctica: The White Continent
14 days with Expeditions departing in January, February, November and December 2020
From US $14,680 to US $35,330 p.p.
NG Explorer – 148 Guests | NG Orion – 102 Guests
Special Offers
FREE AIRFARE | Book select departures by December 31, 2019 for free round-trip economy group airfare between Miami and Buenos Aires (or Santiago).
FREE BAR TAB AND CREW TIPS INCLUDED | We will cover your bar tab and all tips for the crew on all National Geographic Explorer and National Geographic Orion voyages.
Have up-close, personal penguin encounters
Travel with virtually any company to Antarctica, and you will see penguins. They are the citizens of the white continent, present in astounding numbers, and endlessly fascinating. Travel with Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic, however, and you’ll travel equipped for up-close, personal encounters—with a fleet of Zodiacs and kayaks to enable you to get closer. And a team of engaging experts that enable you to spend more time enjoying penguin society, and understand more of the adaptations that enable these remarkable animals to survive their environment.
Take advantage of all the superb photo ops
You’ll have a National Geographic photographer as your traveling companion, to inspire you and provide tips in the field. And the services of a Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor, as well—to help you turn your point-and-shoot camera into an “aim and create.” You’ll find no end of subjects and the help you need to return home with your best photos ever.
Every day is active and engaging
You’ll get out on adventures every day we’re in Antarctica, sometimes twice a day—to walk or hike, kayak or Zodiac cruise among the bergs. Because National Geographic Explorer has a fleet of both Zodiacs and kayaks, the entire expedition community can embark at once on forays, no waiting around for returning parties. You’ll have a choice of activities each day, and the option to join the naturalist whose interests mirror yours. Choice also includes opting to enjoy the view from the bridge, the all-glass observation lounge, the library or the chart room. To visit the fitness center with its panoramic windows, or ease into the sauna or a massage in the wellness center.
Travel in excellent company
Journey to Antarctica under the sure guidance of an expedition leader, eight veteran naturalists, a National Geographic photographer, plus a Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor, an undersea specialist, a Global Perspectives guest speaker, a video chronicler, and a wellness specialist. Their knowledge and passion for Antarctica is the key to your once-in-a-lifetime experience.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: Fly to Buenos Aires, Argentina (Explorer) or Santiago (Orion)
Depart this evening on an overnight flight to Buenos Aires (Explorer) or Santiago (Orion).
DAY 2: Overnight Hotel in Buenos Aires (Explorer) or Santiago (Orion)
Guests traveling aboard National Geographic Explorer arrive this morning in cosmopolitan Buenos Aires, set on the Rio de la Plata, and check in to the fine Alvear Art Hotel (or similar). In the afternoon, we have a guided overview of the city, seeing its Beaux Arts palaces, grand boulevards, and the famous balcony forever associated with Eva Peron. In the early evening we gather for an informal reception and a drink at the hotel. (Day 2: L)
Guests traveling aboard National Geographic Orion arrive today in Santiago. We check in to the fine Mandarin Oriental (or similar), centrally located in Santiago, and have the morning to relax. Santiago is nearly surrounded by the Andes, which form an inspiring backdrop to our afternoon guided overview of this vibrant city. We explore the Plaza de Armas, the main square, and nearby Presidential Palace, enjoying wonderful views from the many hills that dot the city. In the early evening we gather for an informal reception and a drink at the hotel. (Day 2: L)
DAY 3: Fly to Ushuaia, Argentina/Embark Ship
Today we fly by private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina. Guests traveling aboard National Geographic Explorer will from Buenos Aires, Argentina to Ushuaia to embark the Explorer; and guests traveling aboard National Geographic Orion will fly from Santiago, Chile to Ushuaia to embark the Orion. This morning’s charter flight will bring us over Patagonia before landing in Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. If the weather is fine, you’ll have a chance to view the spectacular mountains rising out of the Beagle Channel as you enjoy lunch on a catamaran cruise. Then, you’ll embark the expedition ship and set sail, (B,L,D)
DAY 4: At Sea
We awake this morning well into our journey across the Drake Passage. Lying between Cape Horn and the Antarctic Peninsula, the Drake holds a unique place in maritime lore. Sometimes misty and gray, other times calm and clear, crossing the legendary Drake Passage is unforgettable—a milestone in any adventurer’s personal travel history. (B,L,D)
DAY 5-10: Antarctica
With nearly 24 hours of daylight, we make the most of our days, keeping a flexible schedule to take advantage of the unexpected — perhaps watching a 40-ton whale surface off the bow. We are out daily. One day, you may take a Zodiac foray amid towering bergs under a bright sun, walk along the shoreline amid a huge penguin colony, hike to a summit for a breathtaking view, or kayak along a cliff-side rookery in search of blue-eyed shags. And the next, you’ll have the thrill of watching the ship crunch through the pack ice, or step ashore to the cries of thousands of gentoo penguins. You’ll learn from our experts how to identify penguins and get photo tips from a National Geographic photographer while watching those same penguins. Back aboard, our Undersea Specialist may present video from that day’s dive — rare images taken up to 1,000 feet below the surface using our ROV. Our expert staff will craft an expedition where you will learn more, see more and experience more. (B,L,D)
DAY 11-12: At Sea
As we sail back to Ushuaia, an albatross or two may join the avian escort of seabirds that cross our bow, and our spotters will keep an eye out for marine life. There’ll be plenty of time to enjoy a wellness treatment, log some time in the gym, or catch up on the book you haven’t had a minute to read. Talks from our staff will reflect on all you have seen and learned.(B,L,D)
DAY 13-14: Disembark Ushuaia/Fly to Buenos Aires (Explorer) or Santiago (Orion)/Home
After breakfast, we disembark in Ushuaia with some time to explore before proceeding to the airport for our LAN charter flight (guests on Explorer fly Ushuaia to Buenos Aires; guests on Orion fly Ushuaia to Santiago.) Please confirm departure and arrival cities with an Expedition Specialist before booking your flights. (Day 13: B,L)
Connect with a cruise specialist and check this incredible experience off your bucket list!
Photo: Gentoo penguin (Pygoscelis papua) parent with two downy chicks on Pleneau Island, near the Antarctic Peninsula.
Copyright: Michael S. Nolan
First Glimpse Of Premium Suites Onboard Seabourn’s Expedition Ships
As the world of Expedition cruising expands it also get more and more luxurious. Seaborn Cruises announced in March the name for their first ultra-luxury Expedition ship will be the Seabourn Venture, which is scheduled to launch in June 2021, with a second yet-to-be-named sister ship slated to launch in May 2022.
We were then treated to a peek at the designs for select public spaces. Seabourn has now unveiled the premium suite images, designed by Adam D. Tihany.
The Wintergarden, Signature, and Owners Suites are masterfully designed spaces that will provide beautiful and relaxing luxury accommodations on Seabourn Venture and her soon-to-be-named sister ship along with a number of enticing amenities only available to guests who book the Premium Suites category.
To learn more about these stunning premium suites read on …
The entire all-suite collection on the two ships is defined by comfortable, thoughtfully crafted bespoke furniture, enticing tactile materials and unique details that capture timeless luxury travel in a contemporary and engaging environment designed to elevate every aspect of the Seabourn Venture experience.
Elegant design elements such as parchment texture inspired wall panels and curvilinear arches reflect bygone maritime craftsmanship. Custom bedside panels recall luxury travel from another era yet are decidedly current with toggle switches, an analog clock and a fold away reading lamp, perfect for curling up with a custom Seabourn wool blanket. Guests are drawn into the space with organic shapes, materials like wood and stone, and intricately textured fabrics. Spacious bathrooms with separate shower and bathtub feature luxurious bronze fittings. The ship’s art collection, curated to reflect that of a seasoned explorer, will extend beyond public areas into the ship’s all ocean front with private veranda suites as well.
Each suite will also have a built-in heated jacket wardrobe, where guests can grab a warm coat before heading out on a cool morning or hang their wet outdoor parkas and other gear to dry quickly once they return from adventures off the ship.
The suites feature several pieces from the custom furniture collection created for the expedition ships by Tihany’s product design arm and developed by a leading European furniture manufacturer. The collection is highlighted by crafted details such as wood frames, exposed rivet details and bronze inlays.
“Each of these stylish suites offers a warm, welcoming environment and features thoughtful design touches that create subtle memories of the experience on their own,” said Richard Meadows, president of Seabourn. “After a full day of activity, perhaps off the ship with our expedition team taking in nature’s splendor, guest suites will be the perfect place to rest or relax before the evening’s insightful recap or the next big adventure.”
Specific details on each of the Premium Suite categories revealed include:
Two-story Grand Wintergarden suite: Perfect for extended families and friends looking to share their travel experiences, the Grand Wintergarden provides the ultimate in accommodations. A brand new suite layout for Seabourn, this expansive apartment-style suite stretches over two decks and is located midship. Two suites in this category are available on Seabourn Venture, with the entry on Deck 7 opening to seamless double height views and a generous lower level living area that is large enough for entertaining with a dining table for four, separate guest bath, and pantry with wet bar stocked with a customized selection of spirits including a bottle of coveted Shackleton Blended Malt Scotch Whiskey, which is based on the spirit supplied to the 1907 British Antarctic Expedition, expertly crafted using a selection of the finest Highland Single Malt Scotch Whiskies. The lower level also features a second bedroom and bathroom with separate tub and shower.
sculptured staircase leading to the upper level takes guests to the master bedroom with a queen-sized Duxiana Axion 15 adjustable high-performance sleep system positioned to face expansive windows, allowing guests to soak in the abundant scenery and vistas beyond. The upper level also features an expansive wall of closets, along with advanced technology including a roll-up LG OLED TV that tucks away to preserve the views to the world outside. Guests will find a separate walk-in closet adjacent to the five-piece bathroom complete with a whirlpool spa tub and separate shower.
Wintergarden suite guests will also be able to enjoy wildlife and vista spotting using a Swarovski ATX Interior spotting scope. The tripod-mounted scope, with its 25-60×85 lens capability, is offered for use in-suite while onboard and provides a unique perspective to the world outside via tried-and-tested optics.
The entertainment experience in the Wintergarden suite features a high-end Bang & Olufsen Beolab 5 speaker system and Bang & Olufsen H4 Bluetooth headphones for guest use onboard.
Total space – Grand Wintergarden: 1,397 sq. ft. (130 sq. m.) including two verandas totaling 206 sq. ft. (19 sq. m.)
Wintergarden Suite: The Wintergarden Suite includes the same features as the Grand Wintergarden without the additional bedroom and full bathroom on the lower level.
Total Space – Wintergarden Suite: 1,042 sq. ft. (97 sq. m) including veranda of 128 sq. ft. (12 sq. m.)
Signature Suite: The Signature Suite is the perfect accommodation for the adventurer who prefers an indoor/outdoor lifestyle. Each of these two available suites, located on Deck 8, features a foyer entry opening to an inviting living area with a high-definition TV, dining table for four, guest bath, and pantry with wet bar, while a series of large windows wash the suite with natural light.
The separate bedroom features a queen-sized bed, makeup vanity, generous closet space, and a glass door leading to a large curved veranda that includes its own canopied whirlpool spa tub, sun loungers, sofa, and chairs. A five-piece bathroom with a separate shower and tub rounds out the suite.
Total space – Signature Suite: 1,382 sq. ft. (128 sq. m.) including veranda of 595 sq. ft. (55 sq. m.)
Owners Suite: Located on Deck 7 forward, each of the two Owners Suites on Seabourn Venture offers commanding views of the ship’s course and the world beyond. As guests enter, a large closet provides the perfect place to store gear and personal belongings. The suites embrace expedition travelers in a comfortable living area with high-definition TV, writing desk, and dining table for two, perfect for meals in-suite at any time of day. A glass door leads to a curved veranda with sun loungers and a table for four, making it an ideal place to share stories with fellow guests.
The separate bedroom with queen-sized bed has its own high-definition TV, a large window, makeup vanity, and a walk-in closet. The five-piece bathroom is designed with multiple doors that can create a half-bath, and also features a separate shower and bathtub.
Total space – Owners Suite: 1,027 sq. ft. (95 sq. m.) including veranda of 484 sq. ft. (45 sq. m.)
All Suites on Seabourn Venture and her sister ship include amenities such as a personal suite stewardess, walk-in closets, interactive entertainment, and use of Swarovski binoculars.
Premium Suite amenities include all of the above plus:
• A complimentary private car airport transfer of up to 50 miles*
• Complimentary internet service throughout your voyage
• Enhanced in-suite bar setup with additional wines or spirits for entertaining
• A welcome bouquet of fresh flowers on embarkation
• Customized display of fresh fruits
• Daily newspaper of choice delivered to guest’s suite or to the PressReader™ app
*Not applicable to upgraded occupancy
More details about public spaces and suites on the new expedition ships will continue to be revealed in the coming months. Specific details about itineraries and booking availability will be released in mid-2019.
Seabourn continues to represent the pinnacle of ultra-luxury travel with intimate ships offering key elements that set the line apart: spacious, thoughtfully appointed suites, many with verandas and all 100% ocean front; superb dining in a choice of venues; complimentary premium spirits and fine wines available on board at all times; award-winning service and a relaxed, sociable atmosphere that makes guests feel right at home on board. The ships travel the globe to many of the world’s most desirable destinations, including marquee cities, more than 170 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and lesser-known ports and hideaways.
What is an Expedition Ship?
More and more Canadians are discovering the joys of cruising, on large megaliners, on intimate river cruise ships, and even on traditional sailing vessels. And there’s another niche which is seeing growing interest, particularly among the 50+ crowd: expedition ship cruising. You could say it’s both the latest trend and the last frontier.
What’s an expedition ship? It’s a small ship (maximum around 175 passengers) dedicated to visiting some of the world’s most inaccessible places. On board, rather than a karaoke club or champagne bar, you’re more likely to find scientists and researchers whose lectures are one of the main attractions. “If their profession ends in ‘ist’ – botanist, archaeologist, marine biologist – chances are you’ll find them on an expedition ship,” says Pat Rochon, Vision Travel’s senior manager of active travel who likens the ships to floating classrooms.
Days are spent explore ashore (or afloat) hiking, kayaking, on board a zodiac or snowshoeing. Perhaps you hike through a pristine jungle or get up close and personal with a few hundred penguins.
Sample destinations include the polar regions, both north and south, the Amazon or the South Pacific.
Not surprisingly, the folks on board are not first time travellers. “You tend to find people from all over the world, North America, Europe, Asia, on board and they’re well-travelled, well-heeled, well-educated and curious people,” says Rochon, who has sailed on expedition ships in both the Arctic and Antarctic.
Once fairly primitive in their amenities, now that they are not purely research vessels the ships are now becoming more comfortable, with the addition of libraries, bars, saunas and hot tubs. “Think of it as adventure by day, comfort at night,” says Rochon.
An expedition ship will take you places no other ship can even get near to…some of the world’s most remote and pristine corners. No wonder it can be a life-changing trip.
Seabourn Reveals Stunning Public Spaces on New Expedition Ships
Seabourn Unveils First Stunning Public Spaces on new Ultra-Luxury Purpose-Built Expedition Ships
SEATTLE, April 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — Seabourn, the world’s finest ultra-luxury cruise line, has given travelers their first glimpse of select public spaces on its two new ultra-luxury purpose-built expedition ships set to launch in June 2021 and May 2022, respectively. The work of design icon Adam D. Tihany, the Expedition Lounge, Discovery Center, Landing Zone, and Atrium are masterfully designed spaces that will act as the communal hub on Seabourn Venture and another yet-to-be-named sister ship.
The Expedition Lounge, Discovery Center, and Landing Zone are new spaces for Seabourn that will be instrumental in creating a sense of awe and adventure for expedition travelers on board amidst an environment of exceptional, intuitive service. Each aims to capture the romanticism of early explorers and the thrill of discovery with thoughtful details and materials that are very tactile- very ‘elemental’ – capturing the sense of ruggedness that comes with expedition travel while maintaining pristine luxury and comfort. Tihany is also creating all indoor and outdoor guest areas on the two new ships.
“When you conjure up images of the ideal adventure trip, you would head out into the stunning wilderness for the day knowing that when you return a cozy, welcoming space filled with luxurious materials like leathers and rich woods that invites relaxation and conversation awaits you,” said Richard Meadows, Seabourn’s president. “Each of these newly designed spaces hits that note perfectly, leaving our guests wanting for nothing and giving them an inviting place to talk to fellow travelers each day about the incredible experiences they had, sharing memorable stories or viewing photos they took.”
Specific details on each of the spaces include:
Expedition Lounge: The Expedition Lounge, located on Deck 4, is the heart of the ship. A gathering place for the curious, guests are invited to relax or linger with a complimentary cocktail or glass of fine wine from the bar as they share photos and stories from the day with their fellow travelers and the onboard staff. The Expedition Lounge will be central to the Seabourn expedition operation where guests convene before and after expeditions each day.
Custom furniture designed in a variety of warm, natural materials creates an inviting, tactile atmosphere. An ode to the adventurous, the Expedition Lounge features an etched glass partition displaying a vintage map of Antarctica and vitrines showcasing intricate tools and devices of the trade. Two large touchscreens will also display a wealth of information including photos, navigational charts, weather charts, and maps.
Discovery Center: The Discovery Center, which is adjacent to the Expedition Lounge on Deck 4, acts as the teaching & academic center for natural history and cultural programming in an environment spacious enough to accommodate all guests at one time. Each day, guests will visit this venue for insightful lectures, briefings, and Seabourn Conversations enrichment programming designed to help educate them throughout their expedition experience. The world-class 26-person expedition team of wilderness experts, scientists, historians and naturalists will deliver rich, insightful lectures and discussions on a broad array of topics related to the region where guests are sailing. Inspired by the compelling landscape of some of the expedition destinations, the Discovery Center incorporates the organic shapes of topography maps against the elegant curves of the plush custom seating.
Audio-visual experiences will come to life through high-definition screens 2.5 meters high by 10 meters wide, showing a variety of programming to create a captivating experience that whets the appetite and creates excitement for each destination. Footage from daily submarine voyages will also be shown, providing an enticing look at the undersea world and the marine life that calls it home.
Landing Zone: The launch and recovery point for landings, each of the two Landing Zones – Port & Starboard, both located on Deck 3 – will be a generous 60 square meters in size, allowing guests to change and clean their gear in comfort while also providing space to store their rubber boots. The Landing Zone, commonly known as a mud room, has been designed for extreme functionality and accessibility with a durable material palette and optimum location on the ship to allow guests direct access to one of the 24 Zodiacs available for off-ship adventures. In tropical areas, the Landing Zones will also be used for snorkeling and similar activities, with storage space for fins and masks. Guests will move through the two Landing Zones in small groups distributed evenly to keep waiting time and crowding to a minimum for excursion departures. From the Landing Zones, the attentive staff will guide guests down one flight of stairs to Deck 2, where guests step directly from the ship into the Zodiacs to head off across the water or onward to a landing point ashore.
Atrium: The Atrium is a focal point on all Seabourn ships with its elegant winding staircase. On Seabourn’s expedition ships, the sky lit space will continue the wood and metal detailing present throughout the ship with details such as rhythmically placed ropework in place of more traditional spindles and a topography inspired wall treatment. Suspended at the center of the Atrium and echoed again at its base is a captivating art display emulating traditional wind measuring instruments.
More details about public spaces and suites on the new expedition ships will continue to be revealed in the coming months. Specific details about itineraries and booking availability will be released in mid-2019.
Tihany was the creative vision behind the luxury yacht inspired interiors on Seabourn Encore and Seabourn Ovation, the line’s two newest ships, which have been welcomed to the fleet to wide acclaim. He also designed interiors for The Grill by Thomas Keller restaurant on Seabourn Odyssey, Seabourn Sojourn, and Seabourn Quest.
For this latest project with Seabourn, Tihany will develop the design vision for areas including multiple expedition spaces and lounges; all categories of luxurious guest suites; multiple dining venues; Spa & Wellness with Dr. Andrew Weil; outdoor deck areas; and the innovative and popular Seabourn Square multi-purpose space. Tihany’s Product Design arm is designing a bespoke furniture collection for the expedition ships.
Seabourn continues to represent the pinnacle of ultra-luxury travel with intimate ships offering key elements that set the line apart: spacious, thoughtfully appointed suites, many with verandas and all 100% ocean front; superb dining in a choice of venues; complimentary premium spirits and fine wines available on board at all times; award-winning service and a relaxed, sociable atmosphere that makes guests feel right at home on board. The ships travel the globe to many of the world’s most desirable destinations, including marquee cities, more than 170 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and lesser-known ports and hideaways.
Seabourn Names First New Ultra-Luxury Expedition Ship
Seabourn Cruise Line has announced the name of their new ultra-luxury purpose-built expedition ship Seabourn Venture, paying tribute to the remote destinations visited by their highly successful expedition and Ventures by Seabourn™ excursion programs and the fascinating places yet to be explored in the future.
Seabourn expedition history …
Seabourn began offering expedition experiences during their first sailing to Antarctica in 2013 led by a highly qualified, world-class Expedition Team and those itineraries have been offered every season since. The success of the Antarctica program opened the door for similar optional experiences under the name Ventures by Seabourn featuring Zodiacs, kayaks, and guided hikes offered on Seabourn ships in a number of desirable destinations around the world, including Alaska, Australia & New Zealand, South America, and Northern European destinations such as Norway and Greenland.
About the new ship …
“The name Seabourn Venture is an exciting step in the process of launching even more immersive voyages designed specifically for the expedition traveler who dares to go beyond the norm in terms of destinations and experiences they seek,” said Richard Meadows, President of Seabourn. “Combined with the team of 26 experts that will bring the expedition experience to life, we are going to draw on our pedigree to deliver breathtaking experiences and I know Seabourn Venture is going to create lifetime memories for the adventurer that wants to go farther, into more remote destinations than they may have ever seen before, in true Seabourn ultra-luxury.”
Seabourn Venture is scheduled to launch in June 2021, with a second yet-to-be-named sister ship slated to launch in May 2022. Both ships will be designed and built for diverse environments to PC6 Polar Class standards and will include a plethora of modern hardware and technology that will extend the ships global deployment and capabilities. The new ships, which are being built by T. Mariotti, will be a brand new innovative design, created specifically for the ultra-luxury expedition traveler, and will include many features that have made Seabourn ships so successful. A new and exciting offering will be two custom-built submarines carried onboard, providing an unforgettable view of the world beneath the ocean’s surface. The ships will also be designed to carry a complement of kayaks and 24 Zodiacs that can accommodate all onboard guests at once, which will allow for a truly immersive experience. Each ship will feature 132 luxurious ocean-front veranda suites. More details and full-color renderings of the ship and its interior spaces will be released in the months ahead.
Specific details about itineraries and booking availability will be released in spring 2019. The first ship is currently planned to sail in the Arctic in late summer 2021, with a full summer season in Antarctica to follow.
Both expedition vessels will feature an onboard crew that will include outstanding and well-traveled Expedition Teams comprised of highly regarded wilderness experts, scientists, historians and naturalists. During each sailing, team members regularly interact with guests, providing keen insight to deliver a rich holistic travel experience. These fascinating, accomplished experts are also part of the Seabourn Conversations program, providing you with in-depth insights into the history, ecology and culture of the places you’ll visit. Their valuable insights are offered both in formal presentations on a variety of topics and in more casual conversations over meals or at leisure.
The Seabourn Expedition Difference:
• Intimate ships with a private club atmosphere
• Intuitive, personalized service provided by staff passionate about exceeding guests expectations
• Complimentary premium spirits and fine wines available on board at all times
• Welcome Champagne and complimentary in-suite bar stocked with guest preferences
• Tipping is neither required, nor expected
• Ventures by Seabourn, optional shore excursions, enhance and extend the guest experience in select destinations
• Spa & Wellness with Dr. Andrew Weil, featuring an exclusive mindful living program
• World-class dining venues are all complimentary, dine where, when and with whom you wish
• Purpose-built expedition ships, PC6 ice-strengthened hull, with advanced maneuvering technology for superior stability, safety and comfort
• World-class Expedition Team, delivering immersive experiences
• Handcrafted itineraries developed for the expedition traveler to the most coveted and familiar remote destinations in the world
• Two custom-built 6-guest submarines giving the option to extend their expedition further for greater ocean exploration
• Enhanced expedition experiences with Zodiacs, mountain and ebikes, scuba diving, snorkeling and optional kayaks
• Open bridge policy*, hosted by members of the Expedition Team providing firsthand access to the ship’s command center and officers navigating the journey
• Meticulous and purposeful adventurers’ resort at sea designed for the luxury traveler with unique attributes and spaces to enhance their experience
• All veranda, all ocean-front suites luxuriously appointed
• Committed to environmental stewardship and sustainability
Silversea’s Expedition Team trains in the Chilean Andes
Silversea’s Expedition Team trains in the Chilean Andes ahead of the Antarctica season
MONTE CARLO, MONACO, 2018-Dec-03 — /Travel PR News/ — Ahead of the Antarctica season, 12 members of Silversea’s Expedition Team spent four days at pre-season training in the Chilean Andes. Between October 29 and November 3, the team of expedition specialists undertook a number of educational activities, building on their existing skillsets and enabling them to enrich the offering for Silversea’s guests. In its 10th season of deep travel in Antarctica, the cruise line is investing heavily in the training and development of its knowledgeable Expedition Team.
The camp included four days and three nights of camping with skills-based learning and leadership development. In addition to a challenging high ropes course, snow and ice awareness workshops, route-finding and orienteering sessions, a wilderness medicine refresher, and an emergency evacuation scenario, several team-building activities were peppered throughout the programme.
With a base camp located near Chile’s breathtaking El Morado Natural Monument, the activity-rich programme was a highly challenging, high altitude, skills-driven, experiential learning and leadership building tour-de-force. After camping in the rough, practicing emergency medical scenarios, and brushing up on ice and snow skills, the team members parted ways ready to greet the wilds of Antarctica and welcome Silversea Expeditions’ guests aboard. Of the 12 Expedition Specialists who participated in the training, eight embarked Silver Explorer ahead of the Antarctica season.
“A way of enriching the cruising experience for our expedition guests in the region, the pre-Antarctica training camp was a huge success,” says Kit van Wagner, Silversea’s Director of Expedition Training and Staff Development. “This training represents Silversea’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of expedition cruising. Silversea’s industry-leading expedition team offers onboard lectures and workshops, and leads excursions in each destination. Through these types of training events, their knowledge is improved and our guests’ experiences are enhanced.”
Silversea’s Expeditions Team’s skills will be put into practice on a number of immersive voyages in Antarctica, including the following sample itineraries:
1925 – Buenos Aires to Ushuaia
Silver Cloud will begin the Antarctic season in 2019, departing the vibrant city of Buenos Aires for Ushuaia on November 24. This 16-day voyage will take guests deeper into the authentic beauty of Antarctica on a one-of-a-kind itinerary, which will see the most luxurious expedition ship afloat call at Puerto Madryn, New Island, West Point Island, Stanley, Elephant Island, Antarctic Sound, Antarctic Peninsula, South Shetland Islands, and Drake Passage. During this in-depth tour of Antarctica, guests will witness penguins and other remarkable wildlife, journey to see where Sir Ernest Shackleton and his men were stranded for four months, and cruise around vast icebergs by Zodiac craft, among other standout experiences. Fares begin from EUR 13,320 per person, based two sharing, including a 10% Early Booking Bonus.
1927 – Ushuaia to Ushuaia
Departing December 20, 2019, Silver Cloud will unlock a number of Antarctica’s highlights for guests on this 15-day roundtrip voyage from Ushuaia, offering a festive holiday season and a memorable New Year celebration in an icy wonderland. After a day at sea, guests will reach West Point Island, from which they’ll journey to Saunders Island, Stanley, Elephant Island, Antarctic Sound, the Antarctic Peninsula, the South Shetland Islands, and Drake Passage. Incorporating enriching experiences in the Antarctic Peninsula, the Falkland Islands and South Georgia, this remarkable itinerary promises an unforgettable expedition. Fares begin from EUR 14,940 per person, based two sharing, including a 10% Early Booking Bonus.
7004 – Ushuaia to Ushuaia
Aboard the intimate Silver Explorer, guests will traverse the legendary Drake Passage to explore the Antarctic Peninsula on this classic 12-day roundtrip itinerary. Departing February 21, 2020, the voyage will take guests to Antarctic Sound via Drake Passage, before calling at the Antarctic Peninsula, and the South Shetland Islands, before returning to Ushuaia via the Drake Passage. Four overnights at the Antarctic Peninsula will enable guests to take to the water on Zodiac crafts, as they journey to witness penguin rookeries, seals, whales, and rare birds; tabular icebergs; and sites of historical interest. Fares begin from EUR 12,060 per person, based two sharing.
Aboard Silversea’s expedition ships, the cruise line’s guests are able to journey into the world’s remotest destinations in ultimate luxury. As well as onboard lectures and shore excursions included as standard, guests enjoy ocean-view suites, sumptuous cuisine, and the personalized service
of a butler. Enriching the experience are such all-inclusive amenities as complimentary premium wines and spirits, specialty coffees, bottled water, juices and soft drinks served throughout the ship; an in-suite bar, stocked with guests’ preferences; a 24-hour in-suite dining service; and unlimitedcomplimentary Wi-Fi (location permitting).
Ponant’s Icebreaker now has a name
Ponant’s newest Icebreaker ship now has a name…..and pre-booking is open!
The newest addition to the PONANT fleet now has a name… That of a doctor enlisted in the army, a double Olympic medallist, a scientific adventurer and a humanitarian with a passionate interest in multicultural encounters!
And just like the explorer himself, Le Commandant Charcot – the very first hybrid icebreaker in the world, is ready to push the boundaries of Arctic and Antarctic sailing and write new chapters in the history of discovery.
Travel to the North Pole. Cross the Arctic Ocean. Explore the far northeast of Greenland… PONANT has created a futuristic voyage with Le Commandant Charcot, the first electric hybrid icebreaker cruise ship powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). Beginning in 2021, this newest member of the PONANT fleet will offer guests the chance to follow in the wake of the great polar explorers in sophisticated surroundings enhanced with luxury amenities never before seen at the very top or bottom of the globe.
A design with sustainable development at its core
Thanks to preliminary exploration, environmental impact studies and protocols developed by PONANT, Le Commandant Charcot’s itineraries are carefully chosen to be entirely safe for, and respectful of, the environment.
Above and beyond offering its passengers the adventure of a lifetime, PONANT’s aim is to raise their awareness of the vulnerability of the Polar environments and turn them into advocates and ambassadors for these regions.
Pre-booking now open
You have the opportunity to pre-book your future Polar odyssey aboard Le Commandant Charcot the first ever hybrid electric, LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) propelled icebreaker!
Crystal Endeavor’s Inaugural Season Now Open
The world’s largest, most spacious luxury expedition yacht sets sail in August 2020
Crystal Society pre-sale results in 22% of inaugural season sailings reserved
MIAMI, August 22, 2018 – The world’s most adventurous luxury travelers can now book their next great adventure with Crystal Yacht Expedition Cruises, as the line opened bookings today for Crystal Endeavor, its first luxury expedition yacht. The itineraries for Crystal Endeavor’s inaugural season sail from August of 2020 through January 2021, with voyages of 12 to 22 days traveling far off the beaten path of traditional cruise routes. Voyages rich with discovery will explore the cultural and bio-diversity of Japan and the Russian Far East; Indonesia, Borneo and the Philippines; New Zealand and Tasmania; Australia and the Great Barrier Reef; and Antarctica via the Ross Sea.
Crystal opened Crystal Endeavor’s inaugural season bookings to Crystal Society members on August 8 and reports significant interest in the expedition yacht’s voyages from that pre-sale alone, with 52 percent of the maiden voyage round-trip from Tokyo reserved; 25 percent of the Antarctica sailings reserved; and 22 percent of the overall season reserved.
“The experiences that await travelers aboard Crystal Endeavor are simply spectacular. We are seeing such tremendous anticipation and enthusiasm surrounding her first season of voyages and are thrilled to present the next step for our guests to plan their adventures,” said Carmen Roig, Crystal’s senior vice president of marketing and sales. “We are grateful to our Crystal Society members and trusted travel partners around the world for their continued enthusiasm and support, and to new-to-Crystal guests booking one of these incredible journeys – we look forward to welcoming you to the Crystal Family.”
Highlights of Crystal Endeavor’s first season run an immersive gamut from deep cultural connections to far-flung exploration of remote and rugged regions. Guests sailing on her maiden voyage round-trip from Tokyo will enjoy an inclusive overnight pre-cruise stay and are invited to participate in the naming ceremony for the yacht. On the other voyages, travelers can visit iconic natural wonders like the Great Barrier Reef and Mount Fuji; reflect on ancient heritage at Japan’s most sacred temples and shrines; trek among the treetops of Borneo’s rainforest observing the resident orangutans; and quest for penguin colonies on Antarctica’s expansive icy landscape. Zodiac quests, aerial expeditions via helicopter, epic dives into the world’s most spectacular reefs and challenging and leisurely hiking opportunities will bring the adventurous spirit of Crystal Endeavor’s journeys to life for Crystal guests.
Fares for Crystal Endeavor’s inaugural season begin at $12,749 per person. In line with Crystal’s commitment to provide the best value to travelers who book early, fares will likely increase for many sailings after the September 30, 2018 “Book Now Savings” promotion ends.
At 20,000 GRT, Crystal Endeavor will be the largest, most spacious purpose-built polar class expedition yacht, accommodating just 200 guests and boasting all the luxurious amenities and special touches for which Crystal is known. The yacht will feature generous public spaces, a full-service spa & salon, six restaurants including Nobu Matsuhisa’s Umi Uma, expedition rooms and elegant suites that contrast beautifully with the rugged adventures beyond the vessel. Crystal Endeavor’s accommodations will offer private butler service for every suite and feature luxurious touches including king-sized beds, walk-in closets; heated storage for drying parkas; spa-like bathrooms with adjustable heated floors, dual vanities, anti-fog mirrors and rain-showerheads.
Crystal Endeavor’s PC6 designation will enable her to operate in summer and autumn through medium first-year ice. The ship will feature the latest technology, including offshore dynamic positioning capabilities, offering both comfort and safety while exploring the icy waters in the Polar Regions and exotic locations across the globe. The ship will sail a series of charters and special event voyages before it begins its inaugural season in August 2020.
Silversea Launches Inspiring New Blog
Discover: Silversea Launches Inspiring New Blog To Transport Readers Into The Authentic Beauty Of The World
(Monaco — August 09, 2018) Industry-leading Silversea Cruises proudly announces the launch of a new travel blog, Discover, to inspire curious travellers to experience the most fascinating and breathtaking places on earth. Featuring in-depth stories and striking original micro-documentaries on everything from the allure of the Atacama Desert to the peculiar dance of blue-footed boobies, Discover enables travellers to journey deeper, transporting readers into the authentic beauty of the world.
Among the new content is a selection of behind-the-scenes videos from Steve McCurry’s recent travels with Silversea. The iconic photographer has visited many magnificent destinations with the cruise line, including Svalbard, Japan, West Africa, Sicily, Papua New Guinea, the Galapagos Islands, Istanbul and the Virunga Mountains of East Africa, among others.
Also on offer are feature stories on the most captivating cultures of the world; unusual landscapes and rare geographical spectacles; remarkable wildlife and the majesty of Mother Nature; lifestyle topics; and useful travel skills, including photography tips from expert travel photographers. All content, including images and videos, is originally produced for Silversea.
Discover reflects the features that enrich Silversea voyages to over 1,000 destinations in all seven of the world’s continents. Leveraging the knowledge and experience of its industry-leading Expedition Team, Silversea will provide authoritative insight on ornithology, botany, marine biology, glaciology, and various other fascinating subjects. The cruise line’s Expedition Experts will feature as sources in the blog’s stories. Once inspired, readers will be able to discover the cruises that relate to the illustrated topics to channel their reawakened sense of wonderment.
“Discover will enable readers to escape into the authentic beauty of the world, as they learn about fascinating subjects related to travel,” says Barbara Muckermann, Silversea’s Chief Marketing Officer. “With original imagery and stories from renowned travel writers, the blog’s content will transport travel enthusiasts into rare moments and unique experiences. From the peculiar dance of blue-footed boobies to a rare insight into a traditional geisha ceremony in Japan, and a number of captivating subjects in between, the articles convey Silversea’s philosophy of travelling deeper.”
Browse Discover, Silversea’s new travel blog: https://discover.silversea.com
Readers can sign-up to receive Silversea’s latest articles directly into their inbox by clicking on ‘subscribe’ in the top-right corner of Discover’s homepage.
5 reasons to travel to the Antarctic with PONANT
Discover the treasures of the land by sea on board luxurious yachts that are built on an intimate, human scale. French crew, expertise, attentive service, gastronomy: set sail in a five-star environment and enjoy a travel experience that is simultaneously authentic and sophisticated. And to experience all this while visiting the ultimate bucket list destination – the Antarctic, you truly could not ask for a more inspiring adventure.
5 reasons to travel to the Antarctic with PONANT
1) To discover extraordinary landscapes in an incredible setting: glaciers, icebergs, ice floe, mountain ranges.
2) For a unique adventure sailing in the wake of Jean-Baptiste Charcot, Adrien de Gerlache and Sir Ernest Shackleton, great explorers of these uninhabited lands.
3) Outings and shore visits in Zodiac® inflatables with a team of experienced naturalist guides.
4) For encounters with exceptional wildlife: whales, seals, penguins, fur seals, albatrosses, and other seabirds.
5) Included flights selected by PONANT from/to Buenos Aires, transfers, full board, open bar on board, all landings and conferences…