Into the Ice
Extended Voyage to Antarctica

January 26 - February 6, 2005
Expedition Leader: Dave German
Expedition Vessel: Fathom Discovery

TERRA AUSTRALIS INCOGNITA, the Unknown Southern Land, lies at the bottom of the world surrounded by the Antarctic Ocean. It is a place of profound beauty, isolation, and wilderness - a world blanketed with ice at times15,000 feet thick and 60,000 years old. The protected bays and fjords of the Peninsula Region, where five-mile-long floating icebergs and churning seas of penguins, combine to stretch our standard definitions of the world.

This extended expedition enables a thorough, yet relaxed investigation of the Antarctic Peninsula’s wonders, as we attempt to reach the Circle. Our expedition ship, The small ship Fathom Discovery built specifically for the Polar Regions, carries us in comfort through the planet’s most majestic scenery. Each day we use our fleet of Zodiac boats to their full potential, for both planned and spontaneous landings and cruises. The possibilities are endless: visits to 100,000 strong penguin colonies, walks and hikes on volcanic beaches and unnamed islands, visits to tiny scientific outposts, and cruises with resident whale populations or near mazes of 6 story high icebergs. The itinerary includes Deception Island, the Lemaire Channel, Elephant Island, as well as the majestic fjords of Andvord Bay, the towering ice cliffs near Danko Island, and the tranquil waters of Paradise Bay.

Throughout the journey, our team of lecturer-guides leads an informal presentation series, engaging us with tales of history, science and adventure while providing insight into the surrounding environment. A strong historic Shackleton theme will pervade the trip. Of course, we also have culinary delights and fine wines to ensure warmth and smiles at the end of the day.

This trip features our trademark multi-tiered programs catering to a wide variety of interests and fitness levels. Whether your goal is to simply step upon the continent or hike on snowfields and up volcanoes for high point views, this trip is sure to be a once-in-a-lifetime journey - an ideal balance of relaxation and exploration, adventure and comfort, education and experience.