Sarpik Ittuk Cruise

Seasoned travelers who desire expedition-style cruising with the comforts of a grand hotel will appreciate sailing aboard the Sarpik Ittuk. Upgraded in 2000 and again in 2006, this ice class expedition ship features all-outside, all-private cabins and first-class amenities, including a professional galley. The newly refurbished vessel has a glass-enclosed forward observation lounge on its top deck and ample promenade deck space for wildlife viewing Passengers need not sacrifice their adventurous spirit, however, for they may choose to make a number of shore landings by way of the ship's own RIBs (rigid inflatable boats). With a captain and crew steeped in polar experience, this ship can easily navigate the remote, ice-choked waters of Antarctica smaller vessels rarely see.

Originally built in Denmark in 1992 for Greenland expeditions, the 219-foot Sarpik Ittuk accommodates 96 passengers and 34 crew. The two Greenlandic words in its name refer to the throbbing sound of its engine and the tip of a whale's tail. Classified for operation in heavy, ice-filled waters, this ice-strengthened vessel is the perfect choice for Antarctic exploration. An expedition aboard the Sarpik Ittuk invites you on a classic 11 or 12-day Antarctic journey, where you'll discover the natural wonders of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands.

Itinerary
Day 1 & 2:
Depart the frontier port of Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina. Your Expedition team welcomes passengers aboard as the Sarpik Ittuk sets sail into the scenic Beagle Channel.

Days 3-5:
Cross the famous Drake Passage, watching for Wandering Albatross and other seabirds. Cross the Antarctic Convergence. First sightings of South Shetland Islands are possible on Day 4. Go ashore in Zodiac inflatables to explore enormous penguin rookeries, Antarctic fur seals and southern elephant seals. Possible visits to scientific research bases. Sail to Deception Island, a sunken volcanic caldera, and make land at Pendulum Cove for a sumptuous dip in amazing hot thermal pools.

Days 6-8:
Reach the Antarctic Peninsula, home to vast rookeries of Gentoo, Chinstrap, and Adelie penguins. Encounters with Weddell, crabeater and leopard seals are likely, as well as orca, humpback, and minke whale sightings. Head to iceberg-strewn Paradise Bay or Neko Harbor then make landfall at Port Lockroy, where you'll discover a thriving Gentoo penguin colony and a secret British scientific station established in WWII. The station has been transformed into the most remote museum in the world, and even has a post office! Afterwards, pass through Neumayer and Lemaire Channels. If weather and ice conditions permit, visit Petermann Island, Iceberg Alley, or Paulet Island for more spectacular iceberg and wildlife sightings.

Days 9-12:
Return north across the Drake Passage watching for whales and migrating seabirds. Enjoy a final naturalist lecture and breakfast before disembarking at Ushuaia.