There are many travelers all over the world who share the dream of traveling to the White Continent at the south end of the globe. This is one of the most difficult regions on Earth to explore, as the weather is always changeable. But there are wonders to see and excitement to have there, so literally hundreds of itineraries are available. This is not an inexpensive journey. But, there are many tours priced so that even the budget conscious may go.
One key is to book travel with the most experienced tour companies. Finding antarctica cruise deals is a matter of choosing a shorter itinerary, focusing on a few special spots. In this way, the money spent will bring the most enjoyment.
The shorter cruises often cost less because travelers arrive by air to a South American location and then board a smaller vessel for the trip into what is called the White Continent. The sea portion of this type of vacation includes landings to view penguin colonies, seals, whales and research stations. The ships cross the Drake Passage both south and northbound on their way to the South Shetland Islands and Antarctica.
It is customary for the best companies to provide naturalists who provide lectures and accompany travelers ashore. Some ships allow guests to visit the bridge and speak with the captain. These up close and personal visits give glimpses of this part of the world that reach far beyond iceberg sightings.
While costs for the most expensive voyages can run into the tens of thousands of dollars, shorter trips of about a week in length can be purchased for about five thousand United States dollars. Of course, this does not include the cost of getting to the vessel itself. Considering that larger boats with longer journeys are very high priced, it makes sense to explore the more intimate options.
The most common city of departure in South America is Ushuaia, Argentina. Located at the very south end of the country, this city in the Patagonia region is surrounded by majestic mountains that can be part of a side trip. Many tourists enjoy staying in town and having the local hand made chocolate at a local cafe. Once rested and ready to board, travelers can gather on their vessel for the sail out through the Beagle Channel to the open Southern Ocean. At this point, guides warn that the seas can be rough. They also say that the weather is so changeable that calm waters are what they hope for. Being prepared for either is a good idea.
To call these cruising deals expeditions is highly accurate. The guides have specific coordinates in mind that they want their passengers to experience. With the highest calibre vessels, it is possible to voyage into ice filled waters, depending on the skills of expert crewmen. Weather allowing, views of Crystal Sound and the further south Marguerite Bay are goals for many captains. Expeditions may involve hiking in snow shoes, sea kayak excursions and overnight camping on ice landings.
There are actually many wonderful ways to visit the White Continent within a reasonable budget. Starting with reliable and experienced tour operators will provide information about available options. Decide what the price range should be, and consider which points of interest are a must see. Look for companies that clearly explain the complexities of cruising in varied and inclement weather. Those who know what you might expect and say so are the ones to pick.
One key is to book travel with the most experienced tour companies. Finding antarctica cruise deals is a matter of choosing a shorter itinerary, focusing on a few special spots. In this way, the money spent will bring the most enjoyment.
The shorter cruises often cost less because travelers arrive by air to a South American location and then board a smaller vessel for the trip into what is called the White Continent. The sea portion of this type of vacation includes landings to view penguin colonies, seals, whales and research stations. The ships cross the Drake Passage both south and northbound on their way to the South Shetland Islands and Antarctica.
It is customary for the best companies to provide naturalists who provide lectures and accompany travelers ashore. Some ships allow guests to visit the bridge and speak with the captain. These up close and personal visits give glimpses of this part of the world that reach far beyond iceberg sightings.
While costs for the most expensive voyages can run into the tens of thousands of dollars, shorter trips of about a week in length can be purchased for about five thousand United States dollars. Of course, this does not include the cost of getting to the vessel itself. Considering that larger boats with longer journeys are very high priced, it makes sense to explore the more intimate options.
The most common city of departure in South America is Ushuaia, Argentina. Located at the very south end of the country, this city in the Patagonia region is surrounded by majestic mountains that can be part of a side trip. Many tourists enjoy staying in town and having the local hand made chocolate at a local cafe. Once rested and ready to board, travelers can gather on their vessel for the sail out through the Beagle Channel to the open Southern Ocean. At this point, guides warn that the seas can be rough. They also say that the weather is so changeable that calm waters are what they hope for. Being prepared for either is a good idea.
To call these cruising deals expeditions is highly accurate. The guides have specific coordinates in mind that they want their passengers to experience. With the highest calibre vessels, it is possible to voyage into ice filled waters, depending on the skills of expert crewmen. Weather allowing, views of Crystal Sound and the further south Marguerite Bay are goals for many captains. Expeditions may involve hiking in snow shoes, sea kayak excursions and overnight camping on ice landings.
There are actually many wonderful ways to visit the White Continent within a reasonable budget. Starting with reliable and experienced tour operators will provide information about available options. Decide what the price range should be, and consider which points of interest are a must see. Look for companies that clearly explain the complexities of cruising in varied and inclement weather. Those who know what you might expect and say so are the ones to pick.
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