Antarctica
Antarctica, isolated from the rest of the world, and known as the White Continent. 90% of the world's ice can be found here, 4.000 meters thick, covering the landmass. In winter it is forming more sea ice off the coast - virtually doubling the size of the continent. In summer, it is a breeding ground for millions of penguins, whales and seals that, for the rest of the year, simply spend their time at sea.
We are visiting a place that has evolved through millenniums without human interference. Therefore, we follow very strict environmental guidelines and rules. We want to leave nothing but footprints and take nothing but pictures! What is so overwhelming about Antarctica is that its location makes every voyage to the continent an expedition. Even the most sophisticated technology cannot override some of the climatic challenges that are a part of this environment.
Therefore, we need to be pragmatic; we change landings, re-route and shift plans as we go along. This also means that we will take advantage of the often ideal conditions – spend hours ashore, on the water with kayaks, hiking or simply cruising amongst huge pods of whales. Weather, wind and ice conditions have a great influence on our programme and schedule.
We will try to visit several places, including Deception Island, Half Moon Island, Brown Bluff, Cuverville Island and Neko Harbour. All of these places offer untouched nature, opportunities to observe penguin colonies, seals, glaciers, icebergs and old whaling stations.