AR Tourism - Antarctica Cruises Overview

Lyubov Orlova Cruise

The discriminating traveler who prefers large-ship cruising and plush accommodations will find satisfaction aboard the Russian ice ship Lyubov Orlova. Exemplary international cuisine prepared by international chefs, an exercise room, library, lounge, large suites, and complimentary guest robe are just a few of the features that set this vessel apart from other Antarctic ships. At just over 367 feet, The Lyubov Orlova showcases large, open decks and a navigation bridge accessible to passengers for watching ship operations and passing wildlife. Built in former Yugoslavia in 1976 and remodeled in 2002, this ice-strengthened ship can accommodate up to 110 passengers. Its captain and 70 crewmembers are Arctic-experienced Russians, however all announcements and communications are made in English.

Embark on the Explorer's Route via the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) and South Georgia Island towards the Antarctic Peninsula, a wildlife mecca bustling with penguin rookeries, seals, dolphins, and whales. This 20-day itinerary to/from Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina follows the same route as early explorers of the Southern Ocean, including Sir Ernest Shackleton. The spacious and comfortable ship boasts passive stabilizers to ensure smooth sailing across the iceberg-laden waters surrounding Antarctica. Exciting beach landings by Zodiac allow passengers to get even closer to wildlife colonies and landmark features. Recap the shore excursions with fascinating presentations by onboard naturalists and historians.

Itinerary
Day 1 & 2:
Depart Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina in the late afternoon. Spend Day 2 at sea, steaming east towards the Falklands (Malvinas), keeping an eye out for whales and dolphins along the way.

Days 3-5:
Sight the dramatic glaciers and snowcapped peaks of the Falklands (Islas Malvinas). Explore the privately owned outer islands of the archipelago, home to countless seabirds and several species of penguin. Watch for Peale's and Commerson's dolphins riding in the waves created by shore bound Zodiacs. Onshore, explore the colorful community of Stanley, the Falklands' historic capital.

Days 6-11:
Continue south towards South Georgia, Prion Island, and Gold Harbor for southern elephant seals and King, Macaroni, and Gentoo penguins. Revel in the wide range of landscapes of South Georgia, including mountains, grasslands, glaciers, and fjords. Pay tribute to Shackleton's grave at Grytviken, a former whaling station.

Days 12-17:
Reach the South Shetlands and finally, the Antarctic Peninsula, home to thousands of seabirds, seal colonies, vast penguin rookeries, and feeding whales. Discover Deception Island, a sunken volcanic caldera, and the welcoming thermal springs of Pendulum Cove. Cross Iceberg Alley and make land at beautiful Paradise Bay or Neko Harbor. Some voyages visit Port Lockroy, an old research base that has been transformed into the world's southernmost museum/post office.

Days 18-20:
Cross the Drake Passage back to Ushuaia after a last recap and breakfast.

To speak with a representative or to make a reservation:
If you are interested in one of our vacations, please contact AR Tourism and FreeGate Tourism either via Request Information Form or any of these methods:

Write to Us:
FreeGate Tourism - USA
585 Stewart Ave - Ste 310
Garden City, NY 11530
Phone: 212-475-2406

Hours of Operation:
9am to 6pm EST
Monday to Friday

Call Us:

* Calls to the UK are made via a local exchange. Offices are located in the US. Representatives are available during our USA hours of operation.

New York, USA
(212) 475 2406

London, UK
020 8432 6158*

More Atlantic Coast Info:
For more information on the Argentine Atlantic Coast please go to the AR Tourism information site www.AllAboutAR.com:
AllAboutAR.com -> Antarctica Travel Guide