Emperor Penguin Safari

14 day tour to Snow Hill Island Rookery to see the Emperor Penguins.

As recently as 2004, Quark Expeditions confirmed the existence of 4,000 pairs of Emperor Penguins at a previously unknown site near Snow Hill Island. The Emperor Penguin safari is the only tour to visit this remote rookery at this time of year, because only an icebreaker purpose-built for breaking polar ice can penetrate the Weddell Sea this early in the season.

This 'safari' is an ideal opportunity for photographers and nature lovers to observe Emperors early in the breeding season and to take the time needed to appreciate these extraordinary creatures.The Expedition Teams' priority is to avoid adverse interference with the penguins yet allow you close enough to observe these fascinating animals.

The adventure begins in Ushuaia, Argentina. After a chance to explore Tierra del Fuego National Park, board the vessel Kapitan Khlebnikov. Sail across Drakes Passage wildlife spotting and enjoying lectures and presentations from the team of specialists. Traverse Iceberg Alley to the Weddell Sea and on to Snow Hill Island where you will walk among the Emperors. Bear in mind that itineraries may have to be modified along the way due to adverse weather conditions. You will fly by helicopter to the site, that is safely away from the Rookery. The tour aims to spend 3 or 4 days in the vicinity of the Penguins, weather permitting.

The final days are spent on the Antarctic Peninsula, visiting other penguins such as Adelie, Chinstrap and Gentoo as they return to breed on the peninsula. Further on sail to the South Shetland Islands, spotting seals, seabirds and other wildlife, and end the cruise back in Ushuaia via the Beagle Channel and Drakes Passage.

The boat is the Kapitan Khlebnikov, a Russian-Finnish "icebreaker" carrying up to 112 passengers. Not simply an ice-reinforced ship, the Kapitan Khlebnikov is a powerful polar class icebreaker, which has sailed to extremely remote corners of the globe with adventurous travellers since 1992. No other expedition vessel has navigated more polar waters. It was the first ship ever to circumnavigate Antarctica with passengers. The ship's interior provides comfortable passenger facilities with accommodation in 54 outside cabin and suites. Please contact the office for a detailed day by day itinerary and more information on the vessel.

Last Updated: Tuesday May 13 2008