Polar Expedition 
Superior Stateroom
20% Ponant Bonus
21 m2
3
Emblematic Antarctica
Ushuaia - Ushuaia
Dates:
22/2/2023
to
5/3/2023
Other available dates
days
nights on board
Night in Buenos Aires + flight Buenos Aires/Ushuaia + visit + flight Ushuaia/Buenos Aires
Cruise in partnership with Le Cercle Polaire, as part of the Women at the Poles operation and with the exceptional presence of Laurent Mayet, president and founder of the Cercle Polaire think tank, and renowned female adventurers, including the French Laurence de La Ferrière, the Finnish Tiina Itkonen and the Australian Kate Leeming.
PONANT invites you on a polar expedition cruise to the heart of the icy realm that is the Antarctic Peninsula. Embark on an unforgettable 11-day voyage and succumb to the enchantment of the breathtaking landscapes inhabited by astonishing wildlife.
The start of your cruise will be marked by the crossing of the mythical Drake Passage, during which you will probably be escorted by several albatrosses and Cape petrels, the sentinels of these often-choppy waters.
Your ship will then reach the White Continent, realm of the unexpected. Weather and ice conditions permitting, this extreme environment where nature reigns supreme will reveal to you its most beautiful secrets through numerous discoveries.
On this uninhabited land, which wasn’t explored until the 19th century, your encounters with the wildlife will no doubt be one of the highlights of your experience. The Gentoo, Adelie and chinstrap penguins, humpback whales, seals and seabirds will provide you with cherished lifelong memories.
Each day, whether on land, aboard your ship or during a zodiac outing, you will be surrounded by a grandiose decor ranging from icebergs to ice floe and ancient glaciers.
We are privileged guests in these extreme lands where we are at the mercy of weather and ice conditions. Landings on certain sites and the observation of certain wildlife cannot be guaranteed. They vary from day to day, making each PONANT cruise a unique experience. The Captain and the Expedition Leader will make every effort to ensure that your experience is as rich as possible, while complying with the safety rules and instructions imposed by the IAATO.
Ref : UUXC45 - AU230223
Your itinerary
Cruise in partnership with Le Cercle Polaire, an association that works for the sustainable and responsible management of the polar regions, and with the exceptional presence of Laurent Mayet, president and...
View detailed itinerary
Your trip in detail
Choose your stateroom
Choose your stateroom
Superior Stateroom
(21 m2)
Fully booked
20% Ponant Bonus
Deluxe Stateroom
(18 m2)
From €9,990
20% Ponant Bonus
Prestige Deck 4
(18 m2)
From €10,930
20% Ponant Bonus
Prestige Deck 5
(18 m2)
From €11,410
20% Ponant Bonus
Prestige Deck 6
(18 m2)
From €11,970
20% Ponant Bonus
Deluxe Suite
(27 m2)
From €16,130
20% Ponant Bonus
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
(37 m2)
Fully booked
20% Ponant Bonus
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
(37 m2)
From €18,210
20% Ponant Bonus
Owner's Suite
(45 m2)
From €27,250
Complete your trip
Complete your trip
Included in your cruise
For more peace of mind, PONANT organizes your trip before or after the cruise. This package is included in the price of your cruise.
Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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L'AUSTRAL
28/6/2023 to the 12/7/2023
LE PAUL GAUGUIN
LE CHAMPLAIN
29/5/2023 to the 5/6/2023
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
11/9/2023 to the 5/10/2023
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Services provided
- 24h room service
- Inclusive Internet access Wi-Fi (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar included
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Three ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Laurence de la Ferriere
Explorer, mountaineer and speaker, after climbing several 8000 meters peaks without oxygen in Himalaya, including the southern summit of Everest (8770m), Kangchenjunga and Nanga Parbat, Laurence de la Ferrière is dedicated to polar exploration with the crossing of Greenland, Spitzbergen, Siberia, then Antarctica. Today, Laurence is the first French person to have reached the South Pole and the only woman in the world to have completely crossed the Antarctic continent alone.
2008/2010, under the aegis of the Ministry of Research and the French Overseas Ministry, she heads the French base of Dumont-d'Urville in Terre Adélie. Representing the state and the laws in the territory, guarantor and responsible for safety and scientific programs, this mission is a major turning point in her sports career.
2019/2020, as part of an educational partnership, accompanied by scientists, she leads a sailing expedition in the Antarctic Peninsula. An investigation at the heart of the scientific bases of a dozen countries, which contributes to the knowledge of the situation of the great white continent, in contact with several thousand schools. The environmental dimension becomes the focal point. Originally a mathematician and musician, she financed her expeditions by giving lectures.
Based on her experience as a polar explorer, Laurence’s stories allow her to illustrate and debate with intensity and truth around the values of our society. Officer of the Legion d’Honneur, Knight of the National Order of Merit and Gold Medal of Youth and Sport. She is the author of several books including Seule dans le vent des glaces, and Alpissima published by Robert Laffont and Antarctique, Au coeur du continent blanc published by Gallimard. Several films have been made including Alone in Antarctica and The hidden life in Antarctica.
Spoken language: French
Photo credit: © ARR
Tiina Itkonen
Tiina Itkonen has travelled regularly to Greenland to photograph the polar landscape and its people since 1995. She has traveled more than 1 500 kilometers along the west coast of Greenland by dogsled, fishing scow, sailboat, helicopter, small plane, cargo ship and oil tanker and along the way spending time in small villages and coming to know the Greenlandic people. Tiina Itkonen´s work has been exhibited at international venues including the 54th Biennale de Venezia; 17th Biennale of Sydney; Albert Kahn Musée, Paris; Anchorage Museum, Alaska, Danish National Museum of Photography, Copenhagen; Kunstmuseum Wolfsburg and Ludwig Museum, Koblenz. Her works are featured in collections including the Moderna Museet, Sweden; DZ-Bank Collection, Germany; Statoil Collection, Norway; Anchorage Museum, Alaska, Helsinki City Art Museum, Finland as well as numerous private collections throughout Europe, USA and Asia.
Languages spoken : English and Finnish
Photo Credit : ©Tiina Itkonen
Kate Leeming
Dr. Kate Leeming is an expedition cyclist who has pedalled a distance greater than twice the Earth's circumference on her major journeys. Kate’s latest challenge Breaking the Cycle South Pole will result in the first bicycle crossing of the Antarctic continent via the South Pole. In 2013 she travelled to Svalbard, Norway to test herself and the world’s first all-wheel drive fatbike (12cm wide tyres) to see whether her dream of cycling across Antarctica was realistic. In 2016, she made the first bicycle journey in Northeast Greenland, testing polar fatbike No.2. The following year, she ventured to Arctic Canada to test herself and fatbike No.3. The Breaking the Cycle education initiative aims to inspire students to lead their schools and communities in making positive change by using Kate’s journeys as a source of innovation and creativity.
Language spoken : English
Photo credit : © Phil Coates / First polar training expedition in Svalbard, 2013.
Laurent Mayet
Founding-President of the think tank le Cercle Polaire
Laurent Mayet is the co-founder of the think tank Le Cercle Polaire which focuses on developing a greater knowledge and better governance of the polar regions (political lobbying and cultural and educational actions). He is the co-director of the revue North and South Poles with Stéphane Hergueta and returns regularly to both the Arctic and the Antarctic, including the geographical Poles.
He held the positions of Special Advisor to the former Prime Minister Michel Rocard, Ambassador for Polar Affairs, and Interministerial Coordinator of the National Roadmap for the Arctic from 2009 to 2016, Special Representative on Polar Affairs (2016-2017) and Deputy Ambassador in charge of Ocean Affairs (2018) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He is currently in charge of Polar Issues at the Ministry of Education and Youth.
A Navy reservist, in September 2016, he received the Medal for Voluntary Military Service, Bronze Class, in recognition of outstanding chairmanship in the working group Alidade on the Arctic at the Navy Centre of Strategic Studies (CESM), which led to the publication of a significant report on the “opening up of the Arctic marine areas.”
An engineer and oceanographer, he holds the superior teaching degree in physical sciences in France and a postgraduate degree in the philosophy of science.
Languages spoken : french, english and spanish
Photo crédit :© lecerclepolaire
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Expedition programmes include activities such as zodiac outings and landings (sometimes with "wet landing"), moderate walks to more active hikes, all accompanied by your expedition team of naturalist guides.
Ports of call, visited sites, outings and landings will depend on weather conditions, position of ice, winds and the state of the sea. These can force a change of plans at any time. The Captain and the Expedition Leader may at any time cancel or stop any activity, or even modify the itinerary. The final itinerary will be confirmed by the Captain, who will take into account the touristic quality of the sites and above all, the safety of the passengers. His decision will be based on advice from experts and authorities.
Travelling to polar/isolated regions is an exhilarating experience in remote areas: please remember that you are far from modern hospitals with full medical facilities, thus evacuation is extremely expensive. Without adequate medical coverage, all expenses will have to be immediately paid with your personal funds. We urge you to subscribe to full coverage insurance, choose your insurance company very carefully, be extremely vigilant and ensure your insurance is fully comprehensive, especially if you are insured by your credit card. PONANT offers an insurance contract with extensive guarantees, please contact us for more information.
Clothing tips:
- A PONANT polar water-resistant parka is offered on board for all departures with an expedition programme (no children sizes, in case of consecutive cruises, only one complimentary parka).
- Half calf rubber boots with non-slip soles, which will allow you to go ashore in 20 cm of cold water, keeping your feet dry for walks and visits on steep paths. Boot rental will be offered onboard (for adults only) on Expedition cruises.
- Comfortable trousers: classic Winter trousers, warm cotton tracksuit, wool leggings
- Waterproof and windproof over-trousers – MANDATORY
- Winter trousers with waterproof over trousers are the ideal combination: water-resistance and comfort of trousers are essential
- Pullover, sweat-shirt or fleece jacket
- Woollen or thermolactyl Thermal underwear
- A warm hat, woollen ear muffs or fleece ear muffs, fleece or woollen neck warmer (avoid scarves that do not stay in place)- MANDATORY
- Wool or silk glove liners, water-resistant and supple gloves
- Thick warm socks (ideally woollen)
Accessories:
- Small waterproof backpack (to protect your camera from water).
- Binoculars (strongly recommended for wildlife viewing).
- Highly protective sunglasses.
- Walking poles (highly recommended).
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
INSULATED BASE LAYER:
- Wool or thermolactyl technical underwear
- Polar or technical jacket
- Polar sweater or sweatshirt
- Silk or wool glove liners
- Wool leggings
- Warm hiking socks
WATERPROOF OUTER LAYER:
- Waterproof over-trousers - Mandatory
- Waterproof parka - Offered on board (not available in children’s sizes)
- A warm woollen hat covering your ears
- Polar or woollen neck warmer
- Waterproof technical gloves
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen
- Lip protection balm
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
ACCESSORIES:
- Highly protective sunglasses
- Binoculars
- Walking poles
- Small waterproof backpack
- Swimsuit (for the spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
PONANT activities
Kayak Discovery
Get as up close to the natural environment as possible with an excursion aboard a two-person sea kayak, during one 2-hour session.
Guided by a state-registered polar navigation specialist, you'll discover and explore breathtakingly scenic polar landscapes and scenery.
All the necessary equipment will be provided for you on board.
How is the activity organised?
Once you’ve arrived onboard the ship, you’ll meet your guides and the rest of the people taking part in the activity. This will be an opportunity to provide a general introduction to the activity, outline the rules that need to be followed, provide the necessary equipment and separate the participants into groups based on personal preferences and/or ability level.
The day before the activity is due to take place, a new briefing session will be organised to provide you with further details about the port of call and how the excursion will be organised. We’ll then provide you with the necessary equipment, which you’ll be required to take very good care of.
On the day of the kayak activity, you’ll first get changed at the ship’s marina platform (keeping your boots and parkas with you) before then being transported to land by Zodiac® and taken to your kayaks.
Before you climb into your kayaks and set off on your adventure, your guides will provide a final safety briefing.
What requirements do you need to meet in order to go sea kayaking?
Though it’s always useful to have at least one experience of sea kayaking under your belt, due to the high quality of the equipment we provide and the experience of the guides who’ll be supervising you, we are able to take complete beginners to places normally only accessible to professional kayakers and seasoned outdoor adventurers.
Participants will be formed into groups based on ability level onboard the ship to ensure everyone is able to make smooth progress on the trip.
Sea kayaking is a physically demanding activity, for both the heart and the muscles. We require you to be in a good state of general physical health and to have a good sense of balance.
This activity is available to adults (aged 18 or over) and to children of 16 and over when accompanied by a parent.
Please note:
- One 2-hour session. Price per participant: 350 €
- Number of participants restricted to 20 per trip.
- This activity must be pre-booked in advance at least 7 days before the start of your cruise. Bookings made after this deadline will only be confirmed once onboard and are dependent on availability.
- Your vouchers will be dropped off directly in your room, during your cruise.
- Due to restrictions on the number of places available and a high level of interest from our passengers, there may be limited access to certain activities. The cost of any kayak trip cancelled by a passenger prior to departure will still remain payable in full.
- PONANT provides each participant with a sea kayak (Prijon Excursion EVO - two-person kayak for two participants), a dry suit (Sandyline - specially designed for PONANT), a life jacket, hand protection, kayak sea socks, spray skirt, carbon paddle (TNP Wolferine) and a waterproof bag.
- Depending on opportunities/availabilities during your cruise, additional Kayak tours can be booked only onboard.
- Kayak excursions are subject to weather and ice conditions on the day.
- You will be accompanied by state-certified kayakers each time you go out in a kayak.
- We require you to be in a good state of general physical health and to have a good sense of balance.
Le Cercle Polaire
Founded in 2006, the NGO, Le Cercle Polaire (LCP) is working to develop a greater knowledge and understanding of the polar regions, the Arctic and Antarctic, in addition to promoting their protection. During the last decade, LCP has played a key participatory role on national, European and international levels in the political battle for a better ecological governance of the polar regions. Since 2009, Company Ponant has been supporting LCP’s cultural and educational actions, including Women of the Poles/Femmes aux Pôles, its ongoing campaign in line with the United Nations Agenda 2030.
Women of the poles
Within the context of the United Nations Agenda 2030 which is comprised of 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SWGs), is SDG5, dedicated to Gender Equality and Empowerment of all women and girls. This SDG is defined by the international community as "a necessary condition to ensure a peaceful, sustainable and prosperous world". In recognition and support of this declaration, the NGO Le Cercle Polaire (LCP), has launched the campaign Women of the poles. Certainly, the issue is not of the same importance for women living in places such as Algeria, Iran or Afghanistan.
The campaign brings to light the achievements of polar women adventurers, explorers and photographers from around the world by presenting their first hand accounts of on journeys and expeditions which rival or surpass those of their male counterparts. Polar experiences have recently become one of the symbols among others in the battle for gender equality and of the fight against discrimination affecting women and girls. It is this aspect on which LCP and Ponant (through its initiative #PONANTwomen) choose to put special emphasis although not precluding other important aspects such as the severe beauty of polar landscapes, unique relationships with nature, pushing oneself to the limits, the experience of isotaion and of the void, disorientation and change of scenery, to name but a few.
The Women of the poles campaign led by le Cercle Polaire brings together 50 polar women adventurers, explorers or photographers from around the world presenting the singular story of each women’s accomplishment and the spirit brought to each. These first hand accounts will be published on a Facebook page, on the Cercle Polaire website page, and a digital booklet grouping the photos and the writings of the Women of the poles.
"The Polar Circle's Women at the Poles operation, in partnership with the PONANT company, brings together the signatures of 50 female polar adventurers from around the world who bear witness to their exploits and the spirit in which they carried them out. This cruise will highlight the operation, a thematic cruise Women at the Poles by PONANT in partnership with the Polar Circle, which will bring on board three renowned female adventurers, including the Frenchwoman Laurence de La Ferrière, the Australian Kate Leeming and the Finnish Tiina Itkonen, who will talk about their adventures and their unique actions in the form of conferences and exchanges with the passengers.
Laurent Mayet, president and founder of the Polar Circle think tank
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Highlights
- Cruise in partnership with Le Cercle Polaire, an association that works for the sustainable and responsible management of the polar regions, and with the exceptional presence of Laurent Mayet, president and founder of the Cercle Polaire think tank, and renowned adventurers, including France's Laurence de La Ferrière, Finland's Tiina Itkonen and Australia's Kate Leeming.
- New: explore the magic of Antarctica with a sea kayak adventure. Led by experienced, State-Certified kayak guides, you will skim the water’s surface amid the ice. Full professional equipment is provided, including tamdem kayak, carbon paddle, full-body drysuit, lifejacket, AIS beacon. For more information about your kayak tour, please go to the section "PONANT activities" and to book your kayak tour, contact your cruise advisor.
- Outings and shore visits in zodiac inflatables with a team of experienced naturalist guides.
- Lectures and information sessions hosted by our naturalist-guides, covering wildlife, history, geopolitics, the great explorers, climate, environmental protection…
- Hiking opportunity.
- Visiting research stations and former whaling stations.
- Landscapes: a multitude of drifting icebergs, ice floes, imposing glaciers and tall, snow-covered mountains.
- Wildlife: humpback whales, Gentoo penguins, Adelie penguins, chinstrap penguins, leopard seals, crabeater seals, Weddell seals and numerous sea birds.
- Educational discovery in the respect of environment.
- For your comfort, your cruise package includes an overnight in Buenos Aires the day before embarkation and the flights to/from Ushuaia (for details, see the “Included in your cruise” tab).
Ports of Call & Excursions
23 February 2023 - Ushuaia
Embarkation 23/2/2023 from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Departure 23/2/2023 at 6:00 pm
Capital of Argentina's Tierra del Fuego province, Ushuaia is considered the gateway to the White Continent and the South Pole. Nicknamed “El fin del mundo” by the Argentinian people, this city at the end of the world nestles in the shelter of mountains surrounded by fertile plains that the wildlife seem to have chosen as the ultimate sanctuary. With its exceptional site, where the Andes plunge straight into the sea, Ushuaia is one of the most fascinating places on earth, its very name evocative of journeys to the unlikely and the inaccessible…
24 February 2023 25 February 2023 - Crossing the Drake Passage
Arrival 24/2/2023
Departure 25/2/2023
Use your days spent in the Drake Passage to familiarise yourself with your ship and deepen your knowledge of the Antarctic. The Expedition Leader will first present the IAATO rules of conduct that must be observed during landings in the region and will explain everything you need to know about the zodiac outings. Lectures about the history and wildlife of the Antarctic will be an opportunity for you to learn more about this magical region, where every cruise is a unique experience. From the ship’s bridge, you will experience exceptional sailing moments before joining the naturalist-guides on your ship’s exterior decks to look out for albatrosses, cape petrels, and other seabirds flying over the Drake Passage.
26 February 2023 2 March 2023 - Antarctic Peninsula
Arrival 26/2/2023
Departure 2/3/2023
Succumb to the magic of a place unlike any other. To this day, the mythical Antarctic Peninsula still holds real fascination and promises its visitors unforgettable moments. Throughout your adventure in this icy realm, you will find yourself in the heart of a spectacular decor in subtle shades of blue and white, surrounded by exceptional wildlife. Penguins, humpback whales, seals and giant petrels are at home here, as are elephant seals, fur seals, Antarctic minke whales, and orcas. Depending on which sites you will be lucky enough to visit, you may get the chance to observe them and share with them the beauty of these extreme parts.
Each day, based on ice conditions, the Captain and the Expedition Leader will suggest zodiac outings or landings to discover the infinite riches of the Antarctic Peninsula. Glaciers, ice floe, tabletop icebergs, mountain peaks that plunge straight into the sea, volcanic beaches, research stations, enchanting bays, and vestiges of the whaling industry: these are the faces of the Antarctic that will likely reveal themselves to you, in a hushed and surreal atmosphere. You will sail in the wake of Jean-Baptiste Charcot, Adrien de Gerlache and Sir Ernest Shackleton, great Antarctic explorers who, from the 19th century, set out to conquer these remote and uninhabited lands.
3 March 2023 4 March 2023 - Crossing the Drake Passage
Arrival 3/3/2023
Departure 4/3/2023
If there is one place, one sea, one waterway dreaded by tourists, researchers and hardened seafarers alike, it is undoubtedly Drake Passage. Situated at the latitude of the infamous Furious Fifties winds, between Cape Horn and the South Shetland Islands, it is the shortest route to connect Antarctica to South America. Seasoned navigators will tell you that you must earn your visit to the White Continent! As the Antarctic convergence zone where cold currents rising up from the South Pole meet warmer equatorial water masses, Drake Passage harbours a very diverse marine fauna. Don't forget to look to the sky to catch a glimpse of elegant albatross and Cape petrels, playfully floating about in the wind around your ship.
5 March 2023 - Ushuaia
Arrival 5/3/2023 early morning
Disembarkation 5/3/2023 at 7:00 am
Capital of Argentina's Tierra del Fuego province, Ushuaia is considered the gateway to the White Continent and the South Pole. Nicknamed “El fin del mundo” by the Argentinian people, this city at the end of the world nestles in the shelter of mountains surrounded by fertile plains that the wildlife seem to have chosen as the ultimate sanctuary. With its exceptional site, where the Andes plunge straight into the sea, Ushuaia is one of the most fascinating places on earth, its very name evocative of journeys to the unlikely and the inaccessible…
L'Austral
Innovative design, sleek shape and profile, refined interior decoration, friendly, intimate atmosphere: French designers and decorators have managed to give this ship a unique style and veritable signature of its own. Combinations of fine materials, colours and tones harmoniously livened up with touches of bright colour, elegant lines, discreet and subtle refinement… everything has been designed to create a unique atmosphere onboard, a veritable personality: the chic style and naturally relaxing ambiance of a veritable private yacht.
Up to 264 Guests
132 staterooms & suites
145 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
Night in Buenos Aires + flight Buenos Aires/Ushuaia + visit + flight Ushuaia/Buenos Aires
For your serenity, PONANT has organised the following included programme for you, which starts the day prior to embarkation
The day before embarkation – Buenos Aires
Meet and greet at the hotel by our local representative. Check-in from late morning.
Lunch on your own and time at leisure in the afternoon.
Dinner.
Overnight at the hotel.
Embarkation Day – Buenos Aires/Ushuaia
An early morning breakfast will be served before leaving to the airport for you flight Buenos Aires – Ushuaia.
Transfer to the airport.
Flight Buenos Aires/Ushuaia selected by PONANT in economy class. Approximate flight duration: 3 hours, 30 min.
Meet and greet at the airport (English-speaking assistance).
Depending on your choice made when booking your cruise (options not combinable):
You will be transferred to a restaurant for lunch.
OR
When booking the cruise, guests willing to visit the Tierra del Fuego National Park will be able to sign up for an optional group excursion, with extra cost. If you decide to do so, please note that immediately upon arrival at Ushuaia airport, you will leave towards the Park where you will have lunch before starting the tour.
Created in 1960, the park which covers 63 000 hectares (155 670 acres) is located in the south west of the Tierra del Fuego Province on the Beagle Canal. One of his entries stands slightly over 6 miles from Ushuaia.
Mountainous landscapes, lagoons, bogs, and rivers draw a picturesque scenery reinforced by the southern position of the park itself. The Darwin Mountains, which represent the southern part of the Andes Mountains are mainly responsible for such landscape. The Park is only partly accessible to the public and this tour will provide you with the opportunity to discover the local flora and sub-Antarctic landscapes. If you get lucky, you may encounter beavers, dams, birds, wild orchids, etc... This is a true paradise for Nature Lovers!
Lunch will be served in a local restaurant within the Park.
(Please note that the Tierra del Fuego excursion is subject to a minimum of participants: if this number is not reached, our operator will not be able to guarantee the departure – In this case, you will be given the option to join the "Lunch in Ushuaia" programme.)
At the end of your visit, you will return to Ushuaia and the port, for embarkation on your vessel.
- Cruise on board your ship -
Disembarkation Day – Ushuaia/Buenos Aires
Disembarkation.
Meet and greet at the port (English-speaking assistance).
Transfer to the airport in time for check-in of the flight Ushuaia/Buenos Aires selected by PONANT in economy class.
Approximate flight duration: 3 hours, 30 min.
Your programme includes :
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1-night accommodation in a 4* hotel the night before embarkation.
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Early check-in available from late morning.
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Hospitality desk at the hotel in Buenos Aires.
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Return flight Buenos Aires/Ushuaia/Buenos Aires selected by PONANT, in economy class.
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Services of local guides, in Ushuaia.
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Meals as mentioned in the programme and beverage package.
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Transfers as mentioned in the programme.
For your optional Tierra del Fuego National Park excursion, your programme includes:
Please note if you choose this excursion, it is not combinable with "Lunch in Ushuaia" programme and therefore replaces it.
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The excursion by local bus and the entrance fees to the National Park
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The lunch including beverage package.
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Transfers and visit as mentioned in the programme
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The services of a local English speaking guide
Your programme does not include:
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Transfer between airport and hotel in Buenos Aires, the day before embarkation.
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Tips for the local guide.
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Personal expenses.
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Other meals and services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
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The local currency is the Argentinian Peso. You will be able to make most of your purchases in USD (in small denominations) or by credit card, accepted in most hotels, shopping centres and boutiques. You will also be able to retrieve Pesos from the ATM’s.
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Summer season in Buenos Aires: temperatures may be very hot, but often between 68 °F (20 °C) and 95 °F (35 °C).
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Summer season in Ushuaia: temperatures vary between 41 °F (5 °C) and 65 °F (15 °C)
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We recommend you wear warm clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
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Duration and order may vary.
To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Contacts of your hotel:
Madero 4*/Buenos Aires
Dique 2
Rosario Vera Peñaloza 360
C1107CLA, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Tel : (+54) 11 5776 7777
Polar Expedition
Realise your dream of adventure in the polar regions ! From your ship’s deck, aboard a Zodiac® inflatable or from land, discover the icy vastness and the fauna of Antarctica (humpback whales, seals, penguins and more) or the Arctic's fjords, glaciers and icebergs in shifting colours, not to mention the polar bears, the variety of wildlife and the special moments shared with the locals. Our team of naturalist guides share their knowledge with you during varied lectures about the fauna, the flora, the history of great explorations, geology and climatology. Thanks to its conscientiousness and to the responsible approach that is its hallmark, PONANT has been a leader and expert in cruises to these destinations for more than 20 years.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
PATAGONIA, LAND OF CONTRASTS (4 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
With this rich and varied programme, you can admire the wild nature of Patagonia in the Torres del Paine nature reserve, and finally explore the spectacular Perito Moreno glacier.
Day 1 - Buenos Aires
Meet and greet at the Ezeiza International Airport of Buenos Aires in arrival hall . Look for PONANT sign.
You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to the Hotel Alvear Art (or similar).
Check-in.
Lunch, afternoon and dinner are at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Buenos Aires/El Calafate/Puerto Natales
Breakfast.
You will be transferred to Buenos Aires airport for the flight Buenos Aires/El Calafate selected by PONANT.
After being welcomed by your local English-speaking representative.
Your will be transferred in a local restaurant for lunch, with a demonstration of the "Gaucho" life.
You will drive towards the Chilean border at Cerro Castillo (about a 3-hour drive).
After the border formalities, you will change to another bus and meet your Chilean local driver.
Finally, you will be driven to Puerto Natales (1.5-hour drive), and you will arrived at the Costaustralis hotel (or similar).
Dinner at the hotel.
Day 3 - El Calafate/Torres del Paine National Park/El Calafate
Check-out your room,
Early breakfast.
Today visit the Torres del Paine National Park, which provides wonderful views onto the Torres Massif and its jagged peaks, as well as of Grey Lake and Grey Glacier. Several short hikes enable visitors to reach the most beautiful viewing points in the park and to become acquainted with the wealth of flora and fauna found in the area.
This 227,298-hectare sanctuary was founded under the name of Lago Gray National Tourism Park on May 13, 1959, when the main activity of the area was still Livestock and tourism were relegated to a few adventurers. Just on April 30, 1970, the park adds 11,000 new hectares to its protected terrain and is baptized as it is known today: Torres del Paine National Park. The park encompasses ancient forests, glaciers, lakes, rivers and fjords, and fauna including guanacos, foxes, pumas and a diverse array of birds.
Lunch box with beverages
After your dinner, you will be transferred to El Calafate (about 2-hour drive) at the Hotel Posada Los Alamos (or similar).
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 4 - Torres del Paine National Park/El Calafate
Breakfast.
In the afternoon, you will go to the spectacular Perito Moreno glacier. This extraordinary tour will bring you to the biggest and most important highlight of the Argentine Patagonia region.
The glacier is about 50 miles (80 km) from El Calafate. During this tour, you will notice the dramatic change in landscape. While in El Calafate everything is dry, harsh and flat, at the park entrance you will see trees, mountains and green vegetation. Soon you will see the breath-taking Perito Moreno glacier, the centrepiece of the national park. Due to unusually favourable local conditions, it is one of the few advancing glaciers on the planet. The Moreno glacier merits a visit and you will be highly impressed standing only a few meters away from its 200 to 260-yard high (60 to 80 m) walls. The deep blue colours of the ice and the shape of the glacier with all its small columns are unbelievable. You will have enough time to explore this site by yourself, before returning to El Calafate.
You will be transferred to Posada Los Alamos Hotel (or similar) for the night.
Dinner at the hotel.
Day 5 - El Calafate/Ushuaia
Breakfast.
Transfer to El Calafate airport in time for flight El Calafate/Ushuaia selected by PONANT.
After being welcomed by our local English-speaking representative, you will be transferred to a local restaurant for lunch.
Enjoy some time at leisure in the city center of Ushuaia, before your transfer to the pier in time for embarkation.
Your hotels:
Hotel Alvear Art/Buenos Aires
Alvear Art Hotel is located in the heart of the city's commercial and cultural district, next to the historic Plaza San Martin. It is a few steps from theatres and art galleries.
This hotel with its urban design has elegant and contemporary rooms with luxurious marble bathrooms. The hotel also has a restaurant and a bar with a warm atmosphere and international cuisine.
Hotel Costaustralis/Puerto Natales
Hotel Costaustralis offers a panoramic view of the Patagonian Andes. With its elegant Castle style architecture and ideally located in Puerto Natales.
The rooms are elegant and comfortable and include a separate desk, bath and television. They all have a magnificent view of the mountains. Its services include a restaurant, a bar and a wine cellar ensure that its customers enjoy an authentic and luxurious stay.
Hotel Posada Los Alamos 4*/El Calafate
The Hotel Posada Los Alamos is situated in the heart of El Calafate, close to Argentino Lake. It has spa facilities, an indoor pool and free Wi-Fi in all areas. The guest rooms feature heating, as well as a mini bar and cable TV. Rooms have views over the organic garden and the mountains beyond.
Your programme includes:
- 1 night in Buenos Aires, at the Hotel Alvear Art (or similar), with early check-in on day 1 (after 11am).
- Hospitality desk on day 1, with English-speaking hostess.
- 1 night in Puerto Natales, at the Hotel Costautralis (or similar).
- 2 nights in El Calafate, at the Hotel Posada Los Alamos (or similar).
- Domestic Flights Buenos Aires/El Calafate/Ushuaia in economy class.
- Domestic flight details will be communicated when confirmed by the Airline.
- Meals and beverage package as mentioned in the programme.
- Transfers and visits mentioned in the programme.
- Entrance fees for national parks and reserves.
- Services of local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Personal expenses and other services not mentioned in the programme.
- Tips for the guide and the driver.
Please note:
- It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
- By choosing this exclusive pre-cruise stay, the boarding day schedule as described in the tab "Included in your cruise" is not compatible or cumulative with this program Patagonia, land of contrasts (4 nights).
- For more information and to purchase this trip please contact our travel advisors.
- The local currency in Argentina is the Argentine peso. You can make most of your purchases in U. S. dollars (small denominations) or by credit card, which are accepted in most hotels, malls and shops. You can also withdraw pesos from ATMs.
- The local currency in Chile is the Chilean Peso. Foreign currencies are generally not accepted. You will be able to make most of your purchases by credit card, accepted in most hotels, shopping centers and boutiques. You will also be able to retrieve Chilean Pesos from the ATM's.
- At the Argentine/Chile borders on Day 2 and 3, after border formalities, you will change bus.
- During your journey to Torres Del Paine National Park, we suggest you leave your main luggage at the hotel at El Calafate. It will be stored in a safe room and you will take it back at your return.
- Travelers are advised to check all the information with the authorities concerned prior to the departure date. We advise travelers to consult the country factsheets relating to the chosen destinations.
- The luggage allowance is maximum 23 kg.
- This program includes a visit to the Chilean side. No visa is required for border-crossing by land.
In Chile, the import of food is strictly regulated. For further information, please check with your local guide.
Contact of your hotels:
Hotel Alvear Art/Buenos Aires
Suipacha 1036
Buenos Aires, ARGENTINA
Tel: + 54 11 4808-2100
Hotel Costaustralis/Puerto Natales
Pedro Montt 262 Puerto Natales,
Chile 6160000
Tel: (+56) 61-2412000
Hotel Posada Los Alamos 4*/ El Calafate
Ing. Hector Mario Guatti 1135
El Calafate - Santa Cruz - Patagonia
Tel: (+54) (0) 29 0249 1144
Duration of the visits are given as a guide only. The order of the visits may be reversed. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : €2,790
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
DISCOVER BUENOS AIRES (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 - Buenos Aires
Meet at Buenos Aires Ezeiza International Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to the hotel Madero 4* (or similar).
A light dinner will be served at the hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Buenos Aires
Breakfast will be served at the hotel.
After breakfast, you will depart your hotel to start your panoramic city tour of Buenos Aires. The metropolis is famous for being the "Paris of South America" and the visitor will quickly figure it out by looking at its architecture. Down town and in the central neighbourhood, you will find testimonies of its glorious past.
You will visit the heart of the city, May Square (Plaza de Mayo), with the Government House (Casa Rosada) the cathedral, and the City Hall. The Cabildo is right across the street, it is the Town Hall of colonial times. The square is also known as the "Mothers of May Square" (Madres de Plaza de Mayo), with their mute protests started during the military government. During your visit, you will have lunch in a local restaurant.
Back at the hotel, you will continue the programme included in your cruise.
Your hotel:
The Hotel Madero 4*
Located in the trendy neighbourhood of Puerto Madero, the hotel offers a nice panorama on the Argentinian capital city and an easy access for long walks along the port. From the balcony of your room, enjoy the argentinian way of life and the river flows. Its spacious rooms, welness centre, restaurant and bar, ensures a luxurious, authentic and exclusive experience.
Your programme includes:
- 1 night in Buenos Aires, at the Hotel Madero (or similar).
- Meals and beverage package as mentioned in the programme.
- Transfers and visits mentioned in the programme.
- Services of local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Personal expenses.
Please note:
- The local currency in Argentina is the Argentinian Peso. Foreign currencies are generally not accepted. You will be able to make most of your purchases by credit card, accepted in most hotels, shopping centers and boutiques. You will also be able to retrieve Chilean Pesos from the ATM's.
- It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
Contact of your hotel:
Hotel Madero 4*
Dique 2,
Rosario Vera Peñaloza 360
Puerto Madero ESTE
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Telephone : (+54) 11 5776 7777
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : €260
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
STAY IN BUENOS AIRES (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 - Ushuaia/Buenos Aires
Meet and greet upon arrival of the flight Ushuaia/Buenos Aires selected by PONANT by our local representative.
You will be transferred to the Alvear Art Hotel 5*(or similar).
Lunch and afternoon at leisure.
Dinner included at the hotel.
Day 2 - Buenos Aires
Breakfast followed by check-out.
Day at leisure. Leave your luggage at the hotel and discover the city on your own.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for your flight selected by Ponant or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
Your hotel:
Alvear Art Hotel 5* (or similar)
Alvear Art Hotel is located in the heart of the city's commercial and cultural district, next to the historic Plaza San Martin. It is a few steps from theatres and art galleries.
This hotel with its urban design has elegant and contemporary rooms with luxurious marble bathrooms. The hotel also has a restaurant and a bar with a warm atmosphere and international cuisine.
Your programme includes:
-
1-night accommodation at the Alvear Art Hotel 5*(or similar), including breakfast.
-
1 dinner at the hotel including the beverage package: bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer or 1 glass of wine + 1 coffee or 1 tea.
-
Transfers mentioned in the programme.
-
Services of a local English speaking local guide.
Your programme does not include:
-
Tips for the guide and the driver - we suggest the amount of USD 1 per person per day, as per local custom.
-
Personal expenses and other services not mentioned in the programme.
-
The lunch on your arrival day
Please note:
-
The local currency is the Argentinian Peso. You will be able to make most of your purchases in USD (in small denominations) or by credit card, accepted in most hotels, shopping centres and boutiques. You will also be able to retrieve Pesos from the ATM's.
-
It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
Contact of your hotel:
Hotel Alvear Art/Buenos Aires
Suipacha 1036
Buenos Aires, ARGENTINA
Tel: + 54 11 4808-2100
Duration and order of the visits may vary.To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.Travellers are advised to check all the information with the authorities concerned prior to the departure date. CDP advises Travellers to consult the country factsheets relating to the chosen destinations. CDP specifically draws Travellers' attention to the fact that the information provided may change up until the departure date, and they are advised to consult that information up until the time of departure. CDP invites Travellers to adjust their behavior to the visited country, to exercise vigilance and to avoid carrying valuable objects during their travel.
Total : €240
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.