Weddell Sea Quest
Weddell Sea Quest
Description
The Weddell Sea will always be remembered as the polar region that still echoes the ill-fated expedition of the great British polar explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton.
The 1914 expedition was a failure but it produced one of the greatest stories in the history of polar exploration. His ship, the Endurance was beset in the ice almost in sight of her destination, Vahsel Bay, and after drifting northwards, eventually sank. The crew camped out on the pack-ice and slowly made its way to Elephant Island in the South Shetland Islands and, as there was no hope of rescue, Shackleton determined to go for help.
He decided to head for South Georgia. Shackleton and five companions set out in one of the lifeboats across 1,300 km (800 miles) of the stormiest water in the world. Sixteen days later, worn out, soaked and hungry they sighted the southern coast of South Georgia. But they still had to cross the interior of the island, as the whaling stations were all situated on the northern coast. The interior of South Georgia had never been surveyed and they had to guess their route, but after a difficult march they finally found their way to the whaling station Stromness, where they did get help. However, it would take them another three attempts to get back to Elephant Island before the 22 marooned men of the Endurance were rescued. Through Shackleton’s outstanding courage and leadership his men survived.Highlights
• The open bridge policy allows you to join our officers on the bridge and learn about navigation, watch for whales, and enjoy the view.
• Apart from Gentoo and Chinstrap Penguins and other seabirds you are likely to encounter Weddell, crabeater and leopard seals as well as Minke whales and orcas at close range.
• Get up early and go out on deck to experience sunrises unlike anything you´ve ever seen.
• Enthusiastic expedition staff will share stories of the continent's vibrant exploration history.Ship: Ushuaia
Vessel Type: Expedition
Length: 84.73 metres
Passenger Capacity: 90
Built: 1970
Originally built for the United States agency NOAA (National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration), the ice-strengthened polar vessel USHUAIA is very well appointed and provides ample deck space and an open bridge policy. The full complement of inflatable landing craft ensures superb landings and wildlife viewing opportunities on the otherwise inaccessible coastline.
All cabins include ample storage space. Public areas feature a large dining room (one sitting), an open-plan observation lounge / lecture room with modern multimedia equipment, bar and a well-stocked library. There is also a changing room and a small infirmary. Our expert captain, officers and crew are highly experienced in Antarctic navigation and have a great love of nature. We provide a specialist team of international expedition leaders and lecturers, all extremely knowledgeable, enthusiastic, helpful and dedicated to the protection of the environment. Our chefs prepare excellent cuisine including many local specialties and the bar is well-stocked with carefully selected wines and spirits.
Facilities
FOUR DECKS - DINING ROOM (ONE OPEN SEATING) - OBSERVATION LOUNGE / LECTURE ROOM, BAR & LIBRARY - PANORAMA DECK - GIFT SHOP - INFIRMARY - ZODIACS
Itinerary
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
Departures
Depart: 1st January, 1970 - Return: 1st January, 1970
Enquire
Social Share
Our accreditation:
