This first trip of its kind in Antarctica is modeled after successful basecamp adventure cruises in Alaska. The recently refurbished, 110-passenger motor vessel Plancius will anchor for two or three days each at diverse locations to serve as a comfortable hub that allows more time than usual for such off-vessel activities as hiking, snowshoeing, glacier walking/light mountaineering, kayaking, zodiac excursions, overnight camping at tented base camps, photography workshops and even scuba diving (extra fee).
“This trip keeps sea days as short as possible in order to spend more time ashore,” said Todd Smith, AdventureSmith Explorations’ founder. A strict “leave no trace” ethic will be the mantra for both basecamp and on-board programs. The Plancius plies the waters of the Antarctic Peninsula, a 500-mile-long mountain chain with peaks rising to over 9,000 feet, and numerous off-lying islands.
The adventure begins in Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world. While crossing the Drake Passage, varieties of albatrosses, cape pigeons, southern fulmars and petrels may be observed. Following the first sightings of icebergs, a protected island becomes the first multi-activity basecamp. In this alpine environment, there opportunities to scout the region on foot, zodiac and kayak, weather conditions permitting, and visit a British research station and post office. The cruise then follows the Lemaire Channel to Pleneau and Petermann Islands to witness Adelie penguins, blue-eyed shags and possibly humpback, Minke and fin whales.
Hikers, mountaineers and photographers (there will be photography classes included) will have the option to traverse other landscapes encompassing scientific stations with modern Antarcticans working on the White Continent and a crew at the Ukrainian Vernadsky Station. When cruising to Paradise Bay, with its myriad icebergs and deep cut fjords, zodiacs and kayaks are available. Camping, including tented and open air, is optional, as some guests may prefer to remain on board. For those braving the elements, provided gear and field equipment include tents or wind and waterproof bivouac bags (lightweight alternative to a tent system). Guests are outfitted with mattresses and polar sleeping bags.
AdventureSmith Explorations is a leader in small ship, adventure cruise vacations. Company founder Todd Smith helped pioneer the concept of wilderness cruising that combines the comforts of a small cruise ship with the adventure of sea kayaking, hiking and exploring remote wilderness areas ashore. The company matches guests with the top names in small ship cruising as well with intimate, boutique ships that may not make the radar of most travelers. For more information, call 800-728-2875, email travel@AdventureSmithExplorations.com or visit www.AdventureSmithExplorations.com.
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