Antarctic Circle Crossing - Southern Expedition

How big are the groups?

The Akademik Sergey Vavilov Carries 110 passengers. The M/S Ocean Nova carries 68 passengers. The Akademik Shokalskiy carries 48 passengers.

What is included in the tour price?

• 1 night pre-cruise hotel accommodation in Ushuaia with continental breakfast
• Voyage aboard the vessel per itinerary with shipboard accommodation
• All meals throughout the voyage
• All shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage
• Leadership by experienced expedition staff
• A program of presentations by noted naturalists and other experts
• Zodiac cruising
• The use of rubber boots for the duration of the voyage
• Comprehensive pre-departure information kit and Antarctic handbook
• Group transfers and baggage handling as per itinerary
• All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program
• Photographic album on DVD
• Daily international news bulletin
• Expecition parka for you to keep.

Travel Insurance

Medical and cancellation insurance are not included in the cost of the program, but is strongly recommended. Emergency Evacuation insurance (with a maximum benefit of $100,000) is included, however MEDICAL coverage is not. ElderTreks offers a fully comprehensive policy to insure you fully, please call for details.

Are these “educational” voyages?

All of the voyages are led by a carefully chosen team of dedicated and enthusiastic expedition staff, many of whom return to the Antarctic each season. One of the most important priorities for these Antarctic expeditions is the focus on interpretation and education. With formal lecturers, as well as informal briefings, your lecturers and expedition leader will cover all aspects of the voyage including ornithology, marine biology, geography, geology, history and the environment, as well as practical things like photography.

On board you will be fully briefed on safety issues and our environmental policy and you will also receive appropriate briefings before every landing.

What are the meals like?

The European chefs serve delicious international cuisine. The comfortable bar is stocked with a good selection of wine and spirits.

What about the weather?

In very general terms, be prepared for temperatures that range from 5°F (-15°C) to 40°F (4°C). If you are properly dressed, even sub-zero temperatures can be quite comfortable.

When is payment due?

A non-refundable deposit of $1000 USD is required to confirm a reservation with final payment due 120 days prior to departure.

Deposits can be made by credit card. Final payments can be made by check or credit card. Cancellation charges are applicable and are outlined in the “Terms and Conditions” section of our brochure.

What should I take on the trip?

Once you have made your final payment, an “Expedition Cruising-Preparing for your Antarctic Voyage” primer will be sent to you.

Can you arrange my flights?

We would be happy to take care of your air arrangements. ElderTreks offers personalized flight itineraries — not group flights. Stop over en route, come in a few days early, or extend your stay. Call us for a customized itinerary.

What if I would like more information?

If you have any further questions about the trip, please feel free to contact our office for additional information. A Trip Kit containing further details on the destination will be sent to you once you have booked the trip.

Sea kayaking option:

A fantastic way to explore the little bays, waterways and the wide expanses of Antarctica! We use 5-meter (16 ft) Prijon double sea kayaks, equipped with rudders, which are very stable, surprisingly comfortable and incredibly tough — perfect for paddling through such an icy environment. Each trip is led by two experienced and highly qualified kayak instructors and a Zodiac safety boat stays in constant communication ready to assist should the need arise.

There will be a maximum of ten kayakers per departure. Weather and ice permitting we plan to make a minimum of four kayak excursions, each paddling over several miles and typically lasting for two to three hours.

Camping option:

This will be a great opportunity to enhance your appreciation of Antarctica as a wilderness and to experience a more personal and private connection with the continent. We aim to give you a sense of independence, while still retaining our high safety standards. Two experienced staff will supervise campers throughout the night.

There will be a maximum of 10 campers allowed ashore. Weather and ice permitting we plan to offer one night of camping during each voyage. All meals will be taken onboard the vessel.