The timing of this voyage maximizes opportunities to observe various whale species along the Antarctic Peninsula. After the ice recedes in October and November, the food chain begins to reestablish itself. Whales, seals and other marine mammals are drawn to these rich feeding grounds—especially for the krill. By February and March, these creatures, which have been intensely feeding, are satiated and relaxed, making them more easier to spot. In addition to the Zodiac and paddling excursions, we plan to spend a lot of time on the outer decks and other vantage points on the ship to spot—and photograph—wildlife.
We’ll spend our days in key marine mammal habitats of the Gerlache Strait and remote inner glacial bays. Over the next three days, we aim to explore whale hotspots such as Charlotte Bay, Portal Point, Graham Passage, Errera Channel, Cuverville Island, Andvord Bay, Fournier Bay and Dallmann Bay. Past whale sightings in these areas have included minke, humpback, fin, orca and the elusive, deep-diving Arnoux's beaked whale.
Antarctic Marine Mammals: The World of Whales & Seals is our only itinerary during which we’ll deploy hydrophones— underwater microphones that detect and record sound below the surface. You will have opportunities—during Zodiac cruises and paddling programs—to accompany Friedlaender Lab scientists as they deploy hydrophones to monitor and study marine mammal behavior, such as the vocalizations of whales. Four scientists will accompany guests in Zodiacs, with one hydrophone shared between two groups. Speakers will enable participants to listen for and, hopefully, hear whale sounds beneath the ocean surface. Engaging with scientists who are actively collecting and collating data that can be shared in real time on the water, and, through digital visual aids, brings marine biology to life in a way that transcends the water line. This activity is also available to World Voyager guests who join the Stand-Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) program. In addition to the citizen science programming, this itinerary will also feature the wonders of Antarctica: penguins, seals, immense glaciers, snowcapped mountains, icebergs, shore landings, and the polar plunge.