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The Southern Adventure | Le Lyrial

Available on 1 Nov 24 departure at the discretion of the cruise operator

Not available on Superior Staterooms or Owners Suites

Valid as of 1 Oct 24 - Deals are dynamic in nature and may withdrawn at any time

Contact us for the latest availability and pricing.

See Additional T&Cs below

16 Days
From NZD 30,034

STYLE: Small Ship Luxury Expedition Cruise

Trip Code: ACPOLSA

DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)

Start: Buenos Aires, Argentina

Finish: Buenos Aires, Argentina

SHIP: Le Lyrial

DestinationDestination

Falkland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula

DestinationDeparture Date

01/11/2024

MealsMeals

Dinner & Breakfast at Hotel, All Meals & Beverage Package Whilst On board the Ship

TransportTransport

Group transfers throughout & return flights from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia

TransportAccommodation

Hotel & Cabin on board a ship



Enquire Now
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Included SightseeingIncluded Sightseeing

Daily Antarctica Excursions in location, Zodiac Cruising, Onboard Expert Lectures & Briefings by the Experienced Expedition Team

 

NOTE: Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather & ice conditions 

OVERVIEW

Get to know the Southern Ocean like never before! Join a 15-day polar expedition voyage to the highest latitudes, from the Falkland Islands to Antarctica's pristine regions.

Your polar journey starts with an exploration of the Falkland Islands. Sei whales will accompany you as you sail through this archipelago of 200 islands. White sand beaches, craggy cliffs, windswept moors, and tall, swinging grass make up the raw beauty of the shorelines. The black-browed albatrosses hovering above, the Gentoo and King penguins, the elephant and fur seals, and the sea lions are all in their element here. Admire the scene from the boat as unending moors are broken up by the bays and coves that dot the shoreline. Eventually, you will touch down on the icy shores of Antarctica, the practically inaccessible White Continent. As it covers the icebergs, glaciers, mountains, and frozen sea all around you, white tints assume a thousand subtleties. You will be one of the select few tourists to have seen this renowned place, which served as the setting for the biggest expeditions and the scene of the most incredible exploits. You will go through a breathtaking setting drenched in polar light while on an excursion on land or at sea, in a kayak or a Zodiac dinghy. Your primary surroundings on this fantastic journey are the Adelie, Gentoo, and Chinstrap penguins, as well as the seals, whales, and seagulls that you are travelling with.

 

ITINERARY

Overnight in Buenos Aires

Your cruise package includes an overnight in Buenos Aires. You will be met at the hotel by our local representative where you will receive a quick briefing before having the rest of the day at your leisure.

Buenos Aires, Argentina’s elegant, historic and cosmopolitan capital, is known as the “Paris of the South” due to its European atmosphere with glamorous avenues lined with fashionable shops and Parisian-style restaurants and cafes. Located on the western shore of the estuary of the Río de la Plata, Buenos Aires has many fascinating neighbourhoods to explore including the colourful and lively La Boca, home to art galleries and tango shows; San Telmo with its restored mansions and antique stores and Recoleta, the city’s most exclusive area.

Flight to Ushuaia & Disembarkation

You will have an early morning breakfast before being transferred to the airport for your included flight to Ushuaia. Upon arrival in Ushuaia you will be met at the airport and then depending on your choice made when booking your cruise either transferred onto an optional excursion or to lunch then on to your vessel to begin your incredible voyage to Antarctica. (Approximate flight time, 3 hours and 30 minutes. Embarkation is scheduled for 4pm).

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…

At Sea

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Falkland Islands - New Island & Grave Cove

This island with its distinctive jagged relief is located on the western edge of the Falkland Islands and is home to a tiny village of two families. Step onto the golden sand of its flower-lined beaches, beside which an old stone house still stands, and you'll feel like you've entered a natural paradise. A narrow pathway weaves around typical Falkland moorlands. Follow it and in under 20 minutes you'll find yourself at the heart of a colony of southern rockhopper penguins, black-browed albatross and imperial shags. It's the perfect opportunity to watch the albatross swoop down from the cliffs and skim the waves that crash against the rocks on the exposed side of the island.

Make your way through the turbulent Woolly Gut strait and emerge in the stillness of Grave Cove. Located in the northern edge of the Falkland Islands, this bay owes its name to the vestiges of whalers’ graves that overlook the beach. As you step off the boat and onto the white-sand beach, you might find yourself escorted by a few hospitable Commerson's dolphins, elegantly adorned in black and white. A stroll along the grassy dunes will lead you to a vast plain of lush green grass, tended by a few sheep. On the other side of the island you'll find one of the largest gentoo penguin colonies in the area. With some luck, you'll also glimpse a sea lion scouring the waves for his next meal.

Falkland Islands - Volunteer Point & Port Stanley

A peninsula located at the far north-east of the Falkland Islands, Volunteer Point, named after the ship The Volunteer which called there in 1815, promises moving encounters in the heart of totally unspoiled nature. Due to its exceptional birdlife, the spot is identified as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA) and is, above all, renowned as the home of the island’s largest king penguin colony. These elegant birds, which are expressive and not particularly timid, will offer you moments of pure awe and the opportunity to take magnificent photos. You’ll certainly be touched by the fledglings, dressed in their thick brown plumage.

Situated at the far eastern end of the Falklands' largest island, Port Stanley, is the capital of this remote archipelago in the South Atlantic, composed of nearly 700 islands and islets. In 1764, Louis Antoine de Bougainville settled the first pioneers here and the port grew rapidly. Placed under the Spanish crown in 1767, then under British sovereignty since 1833, the town has retained some South American features fused with the Victorian style that punctuate the city, and the houses with their colourful roofs brighten the moorland landscapes with their windy and harsh climate reminiscent of the Scottish islands of Orkneys or Shetland. In front of the Cathedral, built in 1933, an arch made of whale jaw bones reminds us that Port Stanley was once a whaling port.

At Sea - Days 6 to 7

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Antarctic Peninsula - Days 8 to 13

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.

Crossing the Drake Passage - Day 14 to 15

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.

Disembarkation in Ushuaia

Today comes the end of your magnificent journey. You will disembark in Ushuaia at approximately 8AM where you will be met and transferred to the airport for your included flight back to Buenos Aires (Approximate flight time, 3 hours and 30 minutes)

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Le Lyrial

Le Lyrial

A sleek silhouette, a welcoming intimate atmosphere, discover aboard this modern ship the philosophy that has made this ship such a success: the spirit of Yacht Cruises.

Sailing under the French flag, this magnificent yacht of only 122 staterooms and Suites, with balconies, was built in April 2015. You will be enchanted by the contemporary décor inspired by the destinations the vessel visits and the blue light of the Vega star in the Lyra constellation. The result is a subtle variation around a palette of blues, ranging from the  luminous delicate grey-blue of the Polar ice to splashes of the vivid turquoise blue found in Mediterranean coves.

A refined ambiance is enhanced by the quality of the workmanship and materials: white Corian counters in the lobby contrast with the warmth of leather to recall a boat’s hull, while the central sculpture of enameled pieces takes its inspiration from the sea. In the lounge bar, the carpet picks up a tennis stripe theme symbolising a certain idea of cruising, one synonymous with French elegance and a chic seaside spirit.

The ship is well equipped for the polar regions and mixes luxury and creature comforts with the thrill of expedition. In Antarctica it will sail with a maximum of 200 guests. Your voyage includes room service and an in cabin minibar as well as an onboard afternoon tea daily and most beverages. You can relax onboard with a spa, gym, library and pool. In the evening enjoy a mix of traditional entertainment and lectures from your naturalist guides. 

Ice Class: Length: 142m (466ft)
Breadth: 18m (59 ft)Max
Draft: Cruising
Speed:
Electricity: Passenger
Capacity:
260

View Ship Details

Accommodation

We believe that appropriate accommodation should add to the authentic travel experience, as well as providing utmost enjoyment. For that reason our accommodation is scrutinised by our staff on the ground frequently, ensuring the properties adhere to our high standards. This key will help you understand the levels of accommodation available on this tour.

Standard

Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.

Superior

Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.

Deluxe

Luxurious properties with impeccable facilities and service.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES

Optional Activities vary for each itinerary. Limited spaces available. Contact your Destination Specialist for pricing & availability.

Kayaking

Experience the unforgettable thrill and serenity of kayaking in Antarctica as part of a small, expertly guided paddling group.

Learn More

Pricing per person & date

The Southern Adventure | Le Lyrial from NZD 30,034
Departing Ending Duration
01 Nov 202416 Nov 202416

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Important Information

  • Single Supplement Offer*
    No Single Supplement available on 1 Nov Departure
    Not available on Superior Staterooms & Owners Suite
    Offer is correct at the time of publishing however availability is strictly capacity controlled and only available until sold out
    This promotion may be withdrawn or varied without notice by the operator at any time 
     

    Prices from the operator are dynamic in nature. They are correct at time of publishing (1 October 2024) but are subject to change at any time until the time of booking. Please Contact us for the most current availability and up to date cabin pricing. 

    Pricing is subject to change based on currency fluctuation, selected cabin, availability at the time of booking and may be withdrawn or varied at any time without notice.
     

  • Prices are based on per person, twin share.

    Prices are correct at time of publishing but are subject to change at any time.

    Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and ice conditions.

  • INCLUSIONS

    Cabin accommodation whilst on board Le Lyrial
    1-night accommodation in a 4* hotel the night before embarkation
    Arrival Shuttle Transfer from Airport to Hotel Transfer in Buenos Aires
    Group Transfer from Hotel to Airport on Day of Embarkation
    Return flights from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia in economy class
    Group Arrival & Departure Transfers in Ushuaia
    All meals whilst on board
    Open bar (no premium brands)
    Mini bar in your stateroom (Champagne additional fee)
    All scheduled landings and excursions, conditions permitting
    Guiding and lectures by expedition team 
    Complimentary Polar expedition jacket
    Free use of rubber boots for shore excursions
    All port taxes 
    Comprehensive pre and post voyage informational material 
    Free WIFI    

     

    EXCLUSIONS

    Airfares other than specified 
    Visa and reciprocity fees (if applicable) 
    Travel Insurance
    Personal expenses such as laundry
    Gratuities for the crew (recommend US$15 per person per day)
    Optional Activities not mentioned in itinerary

  • 2 (light adventure)
  • Available upon request, contact us for more details. 

  • Departure date, fuel surcharges, cabin category, currency fluctuations, seasonality and availability.

FROM PRICE & PROMOTIONAL DETAILS

  • From Price based on 1 Nov 24 Departure - Superior Stateroom
  • Includes Booking Bonus of 25% Discount 
  • Pricing is dynamic in nature and subject to change until booking is confirmed
  • Please enquire for solo cabin pricing - single supplements may be waived or discounted on selected voyages

Please Contact Us for the latest availability, pricing and details of your preferred voyage. Chimu Adventures are Antarctica experts and we will endeavour to find you the perfect Antarctica expedition cruise to ensure you have an unforgettable adventure!

See detailed promotional T&Cs below

NOTE: Pricing is subject to change, currency fluctuation and availability at the time of booking and may be varied without notice by us or any of the operators and partners we work with. It is only confirmed and guaranteed at the time of making a booking, agreeing to our terms and conditions and paying a deposit.