Discovery Series: Buenos Aires & Classic Antarctica Cruise (Sea Spirit)
14 Days
from
$10,608 pp*
Highlights:
Argentina
(Buenos Aires, Ushuaia)
,
Antarctica
(Antarctic Cruise)
Trip Start/End:
Buenos Aires
/
Ushuaia
Trip Schedule:
Departs on
20-Nov-2013, 02-Jan-2014, 12-Jan-2014, 04-Feb-2014
Explore Buenos Aires with your private expert guide before you embark on this premium cruise offers the perfect chance to discover the best of the Antarctic Peninsula, the southern continent’s most northern region. You’ll be delighted by penguins, seals and seabirds as they accompany you on your journey along the Antarctic coastline. Landing on the continent itself is a memorable highlight, where you’ll explore the iconic sights that make this one of the world’s most pristine, exotic and unforgettable natural environments. Daily excursions on zodiacs offer unrivaled experiences as you're taken right up to the action. Hike up polar mountains for breathtaking vantage points, or be feet away from breaching whales, or immense icebergs. The white continent awaits!
Departure Dates:
2013: Nov 22
2014: Jan 4, Jan 14, Feb 6
Overview
| Day | Activities | Hotel |
- Day 1
- Buenos Aires
| - Transfer - Private - Airport (International) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Private - Belle Epoque Palaces & Architecture of Buenos Aires (with Lunch) (4.5hrs) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
| Loi Suites Recoleta Junior Studio (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 2
- Buenos Aires
| - Private - 1/2 d San Telmo Market - Vehicle/Guide
- Tango Show & Dinner at El Querandi - Entrance/Vehicle/Private Transfers
| Loi Suites Recoleta Junior Studio (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 3
- Buenos Aires - Ushuaia
| - Transfer - Private - Airport (International) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Air - Buenos Aires - Ushuaia [Direct (3.5 hr)] - Economy
- Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
| Las Hayas Resort (B) (Standard Room) - Or Similar* []
|
- Day 4
- Ushuaia - Antarctic Cruise
| - Breakfast (included)
- Lunch (not included)
- Port - Vehicle/Driver
- Embarkation
- Dinner on Board
| Sea Spirit (10N) Main Deck Suite (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 5
- Drake Passage - Antarctic Cruise
| - Crossing the Drake Passage
- Breakfast on Board
- Lunch on Board
- Dinner on Board
| Sea Spirit (10N) Main Deck Suite (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 6
- Drake Passage - Antarctic Cruise
| - Drake Passage Briefings
- Breakfast on Board
- Lunch on Board
- Dinner on Board
| Sea Spirit (10N) Main Deck Suite (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 7
- South Shetland Islands - Antarctic Cruise
| - The Antarctic Exploration Begins
- Breakfast on Board
- Lunch on Board
- Dinner on Board
| Sea Spirit (10N) Main Deck Suite (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 8
- South Shetland Islands - Antarctic Cruise
| - The Antarctic Exploration Begins
- Breakfast on Board
- Lunch on Board
- Dinner on Board
| Sea Spirit (10N) Main Deck Suite (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 9
- South Shetland Islands - Antarctic Cruise
| - Antarctic Wildlife & Zodiac Cruising
- Breakfast on Board
- Lunch on Board
- Dinner on Board
| Sea Spirit (10N) Main Deck Suite (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 10
- Antarctic Peninsula - Antarctic Cruise
| - Penguin Rookeries and a Polar Plunge
- Breakfast on Board
- Lunch on Board
- Dinner on Board
| Sea Spirit (10N) Main Deck Suite (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 11
- Antarctic Peninsula - Antarctic Cruise
| - Silence and Echoes
- Breakfast on Board
- Lunch on Board
- Dinner on Board
| Sea Spirit (10N) Main Deck Suite (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 12
- Drake Passage - Antarctic Cruise
| - Return on the Drake Passage
- Breakfast on Board
- Lunch on Board
- Dinner on Board
| Sea Spirit (10N) Main Deck Suite (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 13
- Drake Passage - Antarctic Cruise
| - Drake Passage, en route to Ushuaia
- Breakfast on Board
- Lunch on Board
- Dinner on Board
| Sea Spirit (10N) Main Deck Suite (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 14
- Ushuaia
| - Breakfast on Board
- Disembarkation
- Airport - Vehicle/Driver
| Depart (Int`l Airport)
|
| B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, 1/2d = Half Day, Al = All Inclusive |
Trip Itinerary
Buenos Aires Obelisk
Palacio Estrougamou
Loi Suites Recoleta
Day 1: Buenos Aires
Enjoy a private airport (International) transfer with professional driver and English speaking Guide.
View some of Buenos Aires’ most beautiful public buildings built during the period 1890 and 1930, most originally constructed as homes for wealthy Buenos Aires families. The Museum of Decorative Arts was the former home to the Errazuriz-Alvear Chilean-Argentine family, decorated in eclectic style including neo-Classical, Louis XIV, Rococo and Louis XVI. Circulo Militar, designed in Paris and built in Buenos Aires for the Paz family who owned the La Prensa newspaper, is now used for public and private activities. The French Embassy was owned by the Ortiz Basualdo family until 1939 and the Brazilian Embassy by the Pereda family until 1944. The Vatican Embassy was the home of the Fernandez de Anchorenas—all wonderful examples of French influence in the city’s architecture. The Palacio San Martin—today the Foreign Affairs Ministry—belonged to the Anchorena Family, and the Palacio Estrougamou is now a condominium building. Many others are used now for business and social events, such as the Bencich and Aberg Cobo homes, among others. During the tour you will enjoy a lunch in Sorrento and you will make at least one inside visit.
Accommodation: Loi Suites Recoleta Loi Suites Recoleta is located in the most elegant area of the city, at walking distance from museums, art galleries and shopping areas, historical architecture and beautiful parks. A tropical Winter Garden with swimming pool and restaurant complete the relaxing atmosphere anyone would wish for in an upscale hotel. International cuisine is also served in La Fuente restaurant, intimate and warm.
El Querandi Tango House Show
Day 2: Buenos Aires
SanTelmo Market is known for its bohemian charm, and slightly run down historic appeal, San Telmo is the neighborhood of Arts and Antiques, Tango and timelessness. San Telmo is energy-filled, quaint and funky on any day of the week, but on Sundays it truly comes to life. Artisans, musicians, street performers, and elderly antiques vendor como from near and far to share their treasures and their talents with the publich. Start a the antiques market, which overflows in the Plaza Dorrego. From jewelry and dresses, to army helmets and tango records, you could spend hours sorting through the plethora on ancient goods. If you are not satified wih what is on offer in the Plaza, stroll down Defensa street and there are dozens of well-established and stylish Antique stores to cater to your desires.
Tonight, you will enjoy a Tango Show and dinner at El Querandi. You will be picked up from your hotel and driven to the Tango Show, on a private vehicle with driver.
Since 1867, this big old house has been established in the historic center of the City. In 1920 it was founded as a bar and then, in 1992 restored; it is now considered by the Museum of the City of Buenos Aires as a “Living Evidence of the Civic Memory” and as a “Place of Tourist Interest” by the National Tourist Secretary. Its capacity for two hundred people, seated in individual tables, combined with its wreathed columns, boisserie and deep shaped wood, creates a romantic and intimate atmosphere. There are thirteen artists on scene, including four musicians (bandoneón, piano, violin and double bass), six tango dancers, and three singers. This electric show starts at 10 pm and lasts 1 hour and 15 minutes. A la carte menu: Cold and hot starters; more than twenty varieties for the main dish. “Finca Flichman” wines, beverages and mineral water. Dessert, coffee and a final toast with champagne.
Return to your hotel will be with a private vehicle and driver.
Accommodation: Loi Suites Recoleta
Ushuaia
Las Hayas Resort Hotel
Day 3: Buenos Aires - Ushuaia
Enjoy a private airport (International) transfer with professional driver and English speaking Guide.
Fly from Buenos Aires domestic airport to Ushuaia. Note flights are subject to changes based on availability. The flight duration is approximately 3.5 hour.
Meet your driver for a private airport transfer with vehicle, English speaking guide and driver.
Accommodation: Las Hayas Resort (B) (Standard Room) - Or Similar* Tucked into an idyllic hillside above Ushuaia, Las Hayas Resort Hotel is only a 15 minute walk to the downtown area. The 93 guest rooms are large, and decorated with a flurry of colour. Enjoy a spectacular view from your room. The hotel has 2 restaurants, with Le Martial in high demand for its succulent meat cuts and fresh seafood. Take a walk into the city or check out the area's mountains, the Beagle Channel, and the forests.
Antarctic Cruise
Sea Spirit
Day 4: Ushuaia - Antarctic Cruise
You'll receive a group transfer to the port for embarkation of your expedition vessel.
Welcome aboard!
Take some time to get settled in to your cabin, and explore the length of the ship, after which you'll set sail down the historic Beagle Channel. This historic channel transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America. Expect an air of excitement as you depart - the next time you see land will be in the world’s most southern continent!
Accommodation: Sea Spirit (10N) Sail aboard the remarkably comfortable Sea Spirit and experience the polar regions in grand style with spacious suites. Carrying a maximum of 112 passengers this outstanding vessel, approved for polar waters, is equipped with rubber inflatable boats - called Zodiacs- for shore transfers and cruising. Kayaking and camping options are available on select departures. All suites have facilities en suite and exterior views. Deluxe Suites, Premium Suites and the Owner's Suite have private balconies for viewing the breathtaking landscapes of the Arctic, Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falklands (Malvinas). Cruise with all the comfort of home - king-size beds (twin beds for those who prefer them), an open bar, balconies and a hot tub.
A Welcome Friend on the Drake Passage
Day 5: Drake Passage - Antarctic Cruise
Prepare yourself for potentially rough water, but hope for a smooth sailing as the Drake is unpredictable and always changing. Spend these first days getting to know your shipmates.
Accommodation: Sea Spirit (10N)
Playful Weddell Seal
Day 6: Drake Passage - Antarctic Cruise
Your expedition team will provide safety briefings during your days at sea, and offer insights into what excitement lies ahead! Tomorrow, you'll finally see the white continent.
Accommodation: Sea Spirit (10N)
First Sight of Land
Day 7: South Shetland Islands - Antarctic Cruise
When the Antarctic Convergence is left in your wake, you will truly begin your Antarctic adventure. It is perhaps the first sight of land itself that is embraced as the true beginning of any Antarctic expedition. You can finally begin to appreciate why this region has long captivated the attention of explorers and travelers alike.You will take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore bays, channels and landing sites each day.
Accommodation: Sea Spirit (10N)
Zodiac Excursion
Day 8: South Shetland Islands - Antarctic Cruise
When the Antarctic Convergence is left in your wake, you will truly begin your Antarctic adventure. It is perhaps the first sight of land itself that is embraced as the true beginning of any Antarctic expedition. You can finally begin to appreciate why this region has long captivated the attention of explorers and travelers alike.You will take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore bays, channels and landing sites each day.
Accommodation: Sea Spirit (10N)
Breaching Humpback
Day 9: South Shetland Islands - Antarctic Cruise
With wildlife always at the forefront of the expedition, you will visit penguin rookeries, scout for Humpback and Minke Whales and search for a number of the southern seal species, including the cunning Leopard Seal.
Accommodation: Sea Spirit (10N)
Hike for a New Vantage Point
Day 10: Antarctic Peninsula - Antarctic Cruise
The majesty of the Peninsula’s mountains will enchant you as you scramble up snowy pathways to vantage points offering you 360° views of your surroundings. One of these in particular, in Orne Harbor, gives the opportunity to visit a Chinstrap Penguin colony high up on a ridge. Here you’ll have the choice between going for a mountain hike, or depending on the time of year, spend time sitting quietly on a pebbled beach to enjoy the antics of curious penguin chicks. While cruising along the Antarctic Peninsula you’ll also get the chance to take a Polar Plunge! Cheer on other travelers or strap on a harness yourself to take a dip and swim in the frigid waters of an icy Antarctic bay.
Accommodation: Sea Spirit (10N)
Close Encounters
Day 11: Antarctic Peninsula - Antarctic Cruise
Amidst the peaceful silence of Antarctica, noisy interruptions become indelible memories such as penguins squabbling over prized pebbles or the boom and crack of a calving glacier in Neko Harbor. You can make a bit of noise yourself too. Hear the echo of voices bounce off a giant glacier, glide your kayak across a quiet bay or strap on some cross-country skis or snowshoes to explore further.
Accommodation: Sea Spirit (10N)
Whalespotting
Day 12: Drake Passage - Antarctic Cruise
The journey back across the Drake Passage provides you with some final opportunities to enjoy the crisp Antarctic air. Spend time on the deck watching for seabirds and scouting for whale.
Accommodation: Sea Spirit (10N)
Fond Memories
Day 13: Drake Passage - Antarctic Cruise
Today, enjoy a few final presentations by your expedition team or simply relax and reminisce about your experiences, and what a miraculous expedition it's been.
Accommodation: Sea Spirit (10N) Day 14: Ushuaia
Arriving back in Ushuaia this morning, you'll bid farwell to your expedition team and disembark from your ship.
Join your shared transfer to the airport with your fellow cruisemates.
Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport)
Accommodations
Loi Suites Recoleta
Loi Suites Recoleta - Buenos Aires
Loi Suites Recoleta is located in the most elegant area of the city, at walking distance from museums, art galleries and shopping areas, historical architecture and beautiful parks. A tropical Winter Garden with swimming pool and restaurant complete the relaxing atmosphere anyone would wish for in an upscale hotel. International cuisine is also served in La Fuente restaurant, intimate and warm.
Las Hayas Resort (B) (Standard Room) - Or Similar*
Tucked into an idyllic hillside above Ushuaia, Las Hayas Resort Hotel is only a 15 minute walk to the downtown area. The 93 guest rooms are large, and decorated with a flurry of colour. Enjoy a spectacular view from your room. The hotel has 2 restaurants, with Le Martial in high demand for its succulent meat cuts and fresh seafood. Take a walk into the city or check out the area's mountains, the Beagle Channel, and the forests.
Sea Spirit
Sea Spirit (10N) - Antarctic Cruise
Sail aboard the remarkably comfortable Sea Spirit and experience the polar regions in grand style with spacious suites. Carrying a maximum of 112 passengers this outstanding vessel, approved for polar waters, is equipped with rubber inflatable boats - called Zodiacs- for shore transfers and cruising. Kayaking and camping options are available on select departures. All suites have facilities en suite and exterior views. Deluxe Suites, Premium Suites and the Owner's Suite have private balconies for viewing the breathtaking landscapes of the Arctic, Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falklands (Malvinas). Cruise with all the comfort of home - king-size beds (twin beds for those who prefer them), an open bar, balconies and a hot tub.
Travel Info
Travel tips of Argentina
VISA/PASSPORT
A valid passport is required for both Canadian and U.S. citizens to enter Argentina. U.S. and Canadian citizens do not need a visa for visits of up to 90 days for tourism or business. American citizens wishing to enter Brazil from Argentina are required to obtain a visa in advance from the Brazilian Embassy or consulate nearest to the traveler's place of residence. The U.S. Embassy in Buenos Aires cannot assist travelers with obtaining Brazilian visas.
Please note obtaining a visa is your responsibility. These requirements change often and therefore it is best that you check with the Embassy of Argentina for the most up to date visa information.
HEALTH
Health insurance is required. Medical facilities are poor quality and not widespread. We recommend that you see a health-care provider who specializes in Travel Medicine. The doctor or health-care provider will determine what vaccinations and medication you will need, depending on factors such as your health and immunization history, areas of the country you will be visiting, and planned activities. For more information on travel requirements, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/argentina.aspx
COUNTRY INFO
Capital: Buenos Aires.
Government: Federal and Democratic Republic. Gained independence from Spain in 1816.
Language: Spanish is the official language. English is widely spoken with some French and German.
Religion: More than 90% Roman Catholic, 2% Protestant with small Muslim and Jewish communities.
Time: GMT - 3 (GMT - 2 from third Saturday in March to first Saturday in October).
Electricity: 220 volts AC, 60Hz. Plug fittings in older buildings are of the two-pin round type, but most new buildings use the v-shaped twin with a ground. Travelers should bring a world travel adaptor.
Telephone: Country code +54.
Mobile Telephone: Roaming agreements exist with some international mobile phone companies, but phones must be tri-band. Coverage is good in most parts of the country, but may be lacking in remote and mountain areas.
Internet: Available in most towns and cities in locutorios (phone centers) and internet cafes. Many estancias and rural areas are cut off from both internet and telephone access. Internet and Wi-Fi access are increasingly found in upper range hotels.
What's Included:
- Guaranteed departure - Accommodation in the hotel/cabin mentioned, Activities, Transfers as mentioned, Meals as mentioned, All drinks on cruise included- Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services.
What's not Included:
- Tips - Laundry - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance
Trip Terms & Conditions
- Your deposit is due immediately on booking (35% of program price, minimum $1500). The balance is due 130 days prior to departure.
- Cancellations of confirmed bookings 181 days or more after booking will receive full refund minus a $1500 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 121-180 days will be subject to loss of 35% of program price. 120 days or less will be subject to loss of 100% of program price.
- We accept payment via credit card, certified check, wire transfer or money order.
- Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
- Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
- Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
- Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.kensingtontours.com/terms-and-conditions
- Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.
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