Arriving at King George Island, marvel at your first glimpse of Antarctica. Meet your expedition leader, science, naturalist, kayak, climbing and mountain guides before exploring some of the island on foot or taking a tender to familiarise yourself with the nearby bays and wildlife. Each of our experts and guides are hugely experienced leaders in their fields and have global reputations for excellence.
Awake to the Antarctic Sound or ‘Iceberg Alley’ as it is often known, the most northerly point on the continent. Cruise through this spectacular passage to land at Brown Bluff where you will step foot on mainland Antarctica for the very first time. In the afternoon, head south towards Snow Hill Island where you will board your private helicopter to fly to the northernmost Emperor Penguin breeding colony in Antarctica for an extremely rare and exciting encounter. Alongside your resident naturalist, you will set up the beginning of a week-long collaborative research project, learning how to identify and track individual whales and penguins. The data you collect will help to identify their hunting grounds and migratory routes, contributing to important pioneering research.
Marvel at the incredible scenery as you cruise towards Trinity Island. Here you will anchor at Mikkelsen Harbour, an important anchorage for sealing and whaling vessels in the 19th and 20th century. Head ashore with your guides and spot Gentoo and Chinstrap Penguins as well as Imperial Shags. In the afternoon, venture out in the yacht’s tenders to the volcanic Spert Island for a close encounter with the amazing basalt geological formations that surround you in this vast wilderness. Back on board, look out for humpbacks and orcas playing in the icy water as you cruise to Enterprise Island.