Description
Originally an oceanographic research vessel for the Dutch Navy, the M/V Plancius has been thoroughly refitted to offer 54 comfortable cabins, all with ensuite facilities.
The nature of its cruises into the Antarctic regions will very much be focussed on exploration and education, spending as much time ashore as possible. There is a restaurant/lecture room and spacious observation lounge (with bar and library) which has picture windows that provide unparalleled opportunities to enjoy the scenery and wildlife and, when the weather is kind, there are large open deck spaces, with full walk-around on one of the decks. A highly experienced expedition team comprising an expedition leader and five lecture guides are also on board to help you make the most of your time.
Various itineraries, all starting from Ushuaia on Tierra del Fuego, are on offer which range from the classic 11-day Antarctic Peninsula cruise to 19-day itineraries that include the Falklands and South Georgia. One thing for sure is that you will encounter dramatic scenery and incredible wildlife such as whales, penguins, seabirds and seals on your Antarctic voyage.
Accommodation
54 ensuite cabins (4 triple cabins, 40 twin cabins (c. 15 sq m) and 10 twin superior cabins (c. 21 sq m)
Facilities
Lecture-cum-dining room, viewing lounge with bar and library
Activities
All excursions are included
Services
30 international crew members including 6 expedition staff (1 expedition leader and 5 lecture guides) and a doctor
When to travel
Antarctic weather is a lesson in extremes. Antarctica is the world’s coldest, windiest and driest continent. During the summer months the winds abate considerably and the weather is surprisingly comfortable, averaging between 20 and 50F. Summertime also means 18-24 hours of sunlight which allows life to flourish for a brief summer period. Long days also allow extensive exploration by small ship cruise to Antarctica. Antarctic weather allows for a short season of cruising from November to March each year.
Jan
Feb
Mar
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Nov
Dec
Best time to visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit
Not applicable
Location and directions
Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica
The starting point of your voyage to Antarctica is Ushuaia, the southern most city in South America.
How to get there
16 hour flight to Buenos Aires, followed by a 3.5 hour flight to Ushuaia where the cruise commences (it is recommended that you arrive in Ushuaia the day before departure).
