What will the weather be like ?
Austral summer weather in Antarctica will mean mostly mild temperatures, but one may expect cold, sunny days and brisk winds which may turn into stormy weather and even a few snow flurries or snow. You should be prepared for quick changes in conditions.
What should I take in terms of clothing, etc. ?
The essentials are:
- Gloves (well insulated)
- Woolen cap and a scarf
- Sunglasses with good anti UV protection
- Sunscreen with a high protection factor
- Ski pants and upper coat (waterproof)
- Sweater/Fleece jacket
- Quick drying socks to wear over polypropylene socks
- Thermal, light underwear
- Light, waterproof, warmth retaining Parka
- Swimsuit
Regular slacks/Jeans and comfortable shoes (for on board wear)
The best way to keep warm is to wear several layers, to make sure you remain warm and comfortable. Don´t forget that “casual” is the word at all times.
Sundries:
- Lip balm with good protection factor
- Personal medication (for use throughout the trip)
- Camera & film. In the case of digital cameras, we offer back-up assistanceon board.
- Batteries
- Binoculars
Do I need Travel Insurance ?
It is mandatory that each passenger have Insurance that covers emergency medical attention, including evacuation. This is essential, because our expeditions are carried out in places where up to date and advanced medical services do not exist.
Is there an Infirmary on board ?
Our ship has a small, well equipped infirmary for the attention of minor medical problems and is under the care of a licensed MD. Serious emergencies require evacuation to medical centers that are better equipped. For this it is essential to undertake a very costly air evacuation procedure. This is why we ask our passengers to have an Insurance Policy that covers this eventuality.
BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE:
The maximum weight allowed on the flights to and from Antarctica is 20 kg per passenger, including hand luggage. The excess baggage may be left in custody in Punta Arenas.
IMPORTANT NOTICE:
Every effort will be made to adhere to the planned program. However, it must be realised that with this type of adventurous travel to Antarctica, changes to the itinerary may occur due to severe and unpredictable weather. We need to emphasise the fact that weather conditions are unpredictable and that safety is always the paramount concern on any Antarctic voyage.
For this reason Antarctica XXI reserves the right to change the itinerary here described due to weather conditions or other factors beyond Antarctica XXI’s control without consulting the participants. Any change to the planned itinerary will be made exclusively and absolutely according to the judgment of the Captain of the aircraft or the vessel. It is understood that such decisions will be made in the best interests of all the passengers and with regard to the safety of the vessel and the aircraft.
A tight time-schedule connection with an Antarctic expedition is unwise. For this reason, Antarctica XXI strongly suggests that a flexible air ticket be held for your journey home, and in any case not to book a flight on the same day of the return flight from Antarctica.
In case that the flight to or from Antarctica cannot take place due to unfavorable weather conditions either at point of origin and/or destination, Antarctica XXI will apply the Contingency Plan corresponding to each trip.
Antarctica Hotspots
South Shetlands - Livingston Island
An archipelago located in the South Antarctic Ocean, and north of the great Antarctic Peninsula, as part of the highest, driest and coldest continent on the planet.
The beauty of this remote destination is created by its imposing glaciers, magnificent channels and the impressive fauna that inhabits the area. Voyaging to this far location can turn out to be an adventure that cannot be surpassed, given the scenic beauty, the spectacular white landscape and the nuances of the eternal ice.
Livingston Island is a surprising spot where you will find a great variety of species, among which your attention will be captivated by Chinstrap, Gentoo and the magnificent Macaroni penguins, with their distinctive orange/yellow crests. Elephant seals, Antarctic Giant Petrels and Snowy Sheathbill are also to be seen.
Aitcho Island
This island is located near the north entrance of the English Strait, in the South Shetland Islands, between Greenwich and Robert Islands. The main attractions here are the large colonies of Chinstrap and Gentoo Penguins that cover the area. Furthermore, it is possible to find great quantities of Antarctic Giant Petrels and some protected animals, such as the Wedell Seal.
Deception Island
An impressive volcano, still considered active and famous for its incomplete crater which is at sea level. Sailing and walking in this zone can result in a fabulous experience. One of the greatest attractions of this island is the combination of rock towers that come out of the sea. This amazing geological formation is known as "Neptune´s Bellows".
In this outstanding place, whose shape is like a horseshoe, you may have a bath in the warm coastal waters which can get close to 65° C, in contrast with the freezing surrounding waters in this corner of the world. Here you will also visit Whalers Bay, where we will see the remains of a former whailing station.
Lemaire Channel
Known for being one of the most beautiful spots in the area and this is why it is also known as the "Kodak Gap", due to the impression it produces among the tourists, making them take innumerable photographs of nature at its best. If the weather allows it and it is not blocked by the ice that is typical of this inhospitable corner of the world, you will see playful seals that rest on wandering icebergs, as well as Minke Whales that are frequently found in these cold waters.
Petermann Island
This island is endowed with a unique beauty due to its immense granite walls and the abundant snow that composes the scenery. It also has the largest and southernmost colony of Adelie and Gentoo penguins, migratory species typical of Antarctica.
On Petermann Island you will be able to see a colony of Antarctic Blue Eyed Shag, a species much appreciated for its solemn stance and singular presence. In summer, Elephant Seals come out in groups to enjoy the sun, taking it lying on their sides, over the rocks of the island.
Cuverville Island
Upon arrival, you will find yourself on a small island dominated by a great amount of lichen growth and deep moss on the rocks, the only botanical species that you can find on the surface of Antarctica. As part of the scenery you will see various birds, such as Wilson Petrel, South and Brown Skuas. In this place you will be delighted with one of the largest colonies of Gentoo penguins.
Wiencke Island - Port Lockroy
A bay that is 800 meters, located on the southwestern point of Wiencke Island. This place is particular because it was used by whalers almost one century ago. At present, it will not be strange to see Minke and Humpback Whale cruising along the coast. There is an old British scientific base which is now a museum.
Paradise Bay
From Paradise Bay you will be able to enjoy one of the most magnificent views that the Antarctic territory has to offer. Splendid scenes of glaciers and mountains are enhanced by fascinating fauna, such as Gentoo Penguins and Minke Whales.
Half Moon Island
The volcanic origin of this island gives it a very particular surface formation. On it you will find Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins, Antarctic Blue Eyed Shags and Skuas. In this area you may find the distinguished looking Wedell Seal and some Elephant Seals that occasionally visit the island
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Expedition Boat
The "Professor Multanovskiy" is modern and comfortable vessel. She was built in 1983 in Finland as an ice-strengthened vessel dedicated to polar and oceanographic research. The ship has been continuously refurbished since its conversion for passenger use and is ideally suited for expedition cruising.
The "Professor Multanovskiy" has a capacity of 52 passengers in cabins with outside window. In addition to a dining room, lounge/ bar/ library, she has an infirmary and sauna. The ship has Zodiac boats that are well suited for disembarking and wild life watching.
- 11 Twin cabins without private facilities
12 Twin cabins with private facilities
2 Superior cabins
1 Suite cabin
Flight
 The BAe 146 was manufactured in the United Kingdom by British Aerospace (which later became part of BAE Systems).
It is a high-wing aircraft with very short runaway requirements which makes it particularly suited for this kind of destinations. It is operated by Aerovías DAP,which has more than 20 years of experience of flying in Patagonia and Antarctica.
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Cabin Layout
 
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