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Expedition to Southern Lands
Montevideo - Ushuaia
Dates:
11/12/2021
to
11/30/2021
19
days
days
18
nights on board
nights on board
Starting from*
$17,700
15% Ponant Bonus
Guest of Honour 
Polar Expedition 
Media Transfer + flight Ushuaia/Buenos Aires
In partnership with GEO.
PONANT brings you a 19-day itinerary between South America and the Antarctic Peninsula. A polar expedition cruise to discover the most beautiful sites of these southern lands.
First, you will chart a course for South Georgia, its impressive glaciers and its black-sand beaches where imposing colonies of king penguins have taken up residence.
Your ship will then make its way to the South Orkney Islands. These mountainous islands where impressive glaciers dominate the landscape are a major nesting site for chinstrap penguins and a favourite hunting spot of leopard seals.
You will then sail to 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.
Gentoo, Adelie and chinstrap penguins, humpback whales, seals and seabirds: these are some of the encounters you will most likely have the chance to experience in the Antarctic Peninsula, creating indelible 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.
After crossing the mythical Drake Passage, you will disembark in Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world.
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 : MU085 - Y121121
Your itinerary
A cruise in partnership with GEO. 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...
See detailed itinerary
Our guest of honour
Eric Meyer
Magnetic Antarctica... This is the moment to travel together to the great South, to observe this sublime and fascinating territory, which offers us the opportunity to discover - as we like to say at GEO - the world as we dream it, but also as it exists, in the face of its new challenges.
More
Our partner of honour
GEO
GEO, in partnership with PONANT, invites you for an exceptional 19-day expedition cruise to discover the southern lands. What could be better than the grandiose landscapes of the Polar Regions to access the best knowledge in terms of photography and reporting with GEO?
MoreChoose your stateroom
Choose your stateroom
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 flights and takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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*Price is per person, double occupancy, is based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of cabin to which this price applies may no longer be available.
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Transfer + flight Ushuaia/Buenos Aires
For your serenity, PONANT has selected a flight and provides the following transfer.
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 minutes.
Your programme includes:
- Inbound flight Ushuaia/Buenos Aires selected by PONANT, in economy class.
- Services of local guides in Ushuaia.
- Transfers as mentioned in the programme.
Your programme does not include:
- Tips for the local guide.
- Personal expenses.
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
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.
- Summer season in Buenos Aires: temperatures may be very hot, but often between 68 °F (20 °C) and 95 °F (35 °C).
- Summer season in Ushuaia: temperatures vary between 41 °F (5 °C) and 65 °F (15 °C)
- We recommend you wear warm clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
Programme is subject to change.
To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Services provided
- Individually-controlled airconditioning
- Stateroom layout: king-size bed, or twin beds, interconnecting sStaterooms available (Children welcome)
- Minibar
- Flat screen satellite TV
- Bose™ Bluetooth speaker
- Desk with stationery
- Safe
- Hermès® bath products
- Dressing table, bath robes, hairdryer
- Direct line telephone
- 110V American (two flat pins) / 220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- 24hr room service
- Inclusive Internet access Wifi
Choose your stateroom category
Our guests
Eric Meyer
Eric Meyer is currently the editor-in-chief of GEO, which is France’s leading travel & news magazine.
After being appointed as editor-in-chief in March 2010, he broadened the range of GEO brand, by adding GEO Histoire, GEO Extra, GEO Savoir, GEO Art, and Geo Terroirs. GEO has also been published as books and developed as an app for its users.
As a graduate of the prominent French business school ESSEC, Eric Meyer began his career with the Group Expansion as a journalist for “L’Entreprise,” a business magazine.
He joined Prisma Media in 1993 as editor-in-chief of “Management” and was later appointed editor-in-chief of various websites in the group. In 2000, he founded the magazine Newbiz (Group Tests/Express) and became its editor-in-chief.
From 2001 to 2003, he was deputy managing editor of “Le Figaro Magazine,” before launching a start-up company, Arts Magazine. In the summer of 2006, Eric Meyer was appointed deputy editor-in-chief of GEO, and associate publisher at Prisma Presse, before taking the position of editor-in chief of the Geo brand in March 2010.
Eric Meyer is also the author of three books. An essay, "Les Ressuscités," published by Flammarion in 2004, and two novels: "La porte dérobée,” published by Robert Laffont in 2007 and "Les Fils de Ramsès,” published by JC Lattès in 2010.
Languages spoken: French, English, German
Photo credit: Thierry Suzan
Olivier Touron
Olivier Touron (b. 1969, France) followed a university curriculum destining him to teach math when he decided to change course and make his passion his profession. In 1999, he joined EMI-CFD and became a freelance photojournalist.
Formerly based in the north of France near Lille, he freelances with the French and international press (Géo, Libération, L’Humanité, Le Monde, L’Express, VSD, Pèlerin, La Vie, Marianne, Marie-Claire, STERN, Financial Times, Newsweek Japan). His personal work on the Tunisian revolution, minors and justice and the Kurds, have been presented in exhibitions and books.
Olivier also leads photography workshops and teaches master’s students in Journalism at the Faculty of Humanities in Lille.
He is now based in Phoenix, Arizona, USA, where he practises his two favorite activities, photography and motorbike.
Languages spoken: French, English
Photo credit : D Alkembrecher
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Our guest of honour
Eric Meyer
Eric Meyer is currently the editor-in-chief of GEO, which is France’s leading travel & news magazine.
After being appointed as editor-in-chief in March 2010, he broadened the range of GEO brand, by adding GEO Histoire, GEO Extra, GEO Savoir, GEO Art, and Geo Terroirs. GEO has also been published as books and developed as an app for its users.
As a graduate of the prominent French business school ESSEC, Eric Meyer began his career with the Group Expansion as a journalist for “L’Entreprise,” a business magazine.
He joined Prisma Media in 1993 as editor-in-chief of “Management” and was later appointed editor-in-chief of various websites in the group. In 2000, he founded the magazine Newbiz (Group Tests/Express) and became its editor-in-chief.
From 2001 to 2003, he was deputy managing editor of “Le Figaro Magazine,” before launching a start-up company, Arts Magazine. In the summer of 2006, Eric Meyer was appointed deputy editor-in-chief of GEO, and associate publisher at Prisma Presse, before taking the position of editor-in chief of the Geo brand in March 2010.
Eric Meyer is also the author of three books. An essay, "Les Ressuscités," published by Flammarion in 2004, and two novels: "La porte dérobée,” published by Robert Laffont in 2007 and "Les Fils de Ramsès,” published by JC Lattès in 2010.
Languages spoken: French, English, German
Photo credit: Thierry Suzan
Packing Checklist
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).
Do not hesitate to visit the online PONANT store which offers a selection of equipment and accessories adapted to our destinations, at the following address: https://boutique.ponant.com
Benefits of the PONANT store:
- Advice on equipment from our experts to help you prepare for your polar expedition
- A wide range of technical equipment for polar expeditions, approved by our experts
- Two delivery options: delivery to your home or directly to your cabin on board the ship
- Duty Free shopping for cabin delivered items
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:
Depending on the itinerary and the program of your cruise, 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.
Advice
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.
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.
GEO
For nearly 40 years, GEO has taken us further. Further on journeys, in its journalism, to discover the people, lands and stories of elsewhere. GEO is the promise of discovering the world.
Its strength: journalistic savoir-faire that has been recognised for years for its quality and originality, and of course, the exceptional photographs that are testimony to the beauty and riches of the world.
Reporters and photographers travel across the globe to satisfy the curiosity of readers and to offer them a very contemporary perspective on the evolution of societies, the environment and the planet’s major geopolitical issues.
Over the many years of its existence, GEO has created a relationship of trust and proximity with its readers, thanks to its commitment, rigour and journalistic excellence. Today more than 5 million readers are enchanted each month by this reference for photography, travel and the discovery of the world.
Aboard PONANT ships, GEO brings its particular perspective and its expertise through, for example, the organisation of photo workshops, conferences, and the presence aboard ship of Éric Meyer, the editor of the magazine: a unique occasion to find out more about this world of emotions and knowledge.
GEO, in partnership with PONANT, invites you for an exceptional 19-day expedition cruise to discover the southern lands. What could be better than the grandiose landscapes of the Polar Regions to access the best knowledge in terms of photography and reporting with GEO?
GEO and PONANT invite you to a cruise in the southern lands, along one of the most spectacular areas of South America and the Antarctic Peninsula. Between the glaciers of South Georgia, you will observe the majestic colonies of king penguins. Then you will discover the South Orkney Archipelago, home to colossal leopard seals and chinstrap penguins. Next, you will travel to the White Continent, the highlight of this cruise. Finally, you will explore the unforgettable Ushuaia. The lands at the end of the world promise you an exceptional adventure and an ideal playground for the unique experience of becoming a GEO traveller-reporter. Under the direction of Eric Meyer, editor-in-chief of GEO, you will be able to produce the GEO mini-magazine of your cruise, also accompanied by Olivier Touron, professional photographer, who will share his tips with you. A very beautiful and enriching cruise souvenir!
Guest speaker(s)
Eric Meyer
Eric Meyer is currently the editor-in-chief of GEO, which is France’s leading travel & news magazine.
After being appointed as editor-in-chief in March 2010, he broadened the range of GEO brand, by adding GEO Histoire, GEO Extra, GEO Savoir, GEO Art, and Geo Terroirs. GEO has also been published as books and developed as an app for its users.
As a graduate of the prominent French business school ESSEC, Eric Meyer began his career with the Group Expansion as a journalist for “L’Entreprise,” a business magazine.
He joined Prisma Media in 1993 as editor-in-chief of “Management” and was later appointed editor-in-chief of various websites in the group. In 2000, he founded the magazine Newbiz (Group Tests/Express) and became its editor-in-chief.
From 2001 to 2003, he was deputy managing editor of “Le Figaro Magazine,” before launching a start-up company, Arts Magazine. In the summer of 2006, Eric Meyer was appointed deputy editor-in-chief of GEO, and associate publisher at Prisma Presse, before taking the position of editor-in chief of the Geo brand in March 2010.
Eric Meyer is also the author of three books. An essay, "Les Ressuscités," published by Flammarion in 2004, and two novels: "La porte dérobée,” published by Robert Laffont in 2007 and "Les Fils de Ramsès,” published by JC Lattès in 2010.
Languages spoken: French, English, German
Photo credit: Thierry Suzan
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Highlights
-
A cruise in partnership with GEO.
- 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.
- Discovery of the South Orkney Islands.
- Landscapes: alpine landscapes, lush green plains and suspended glaciers in South Georgia; drifting icebergs, ice floe, glaciers and snow-capped mountains in the Antarctic Peninsula; glaciers and snow-capped mountains in the South Orkney Islands
- Wildlife: humpback whales, Gentoo penguins, Adelie penguins, chinstrap penguins, leopard seals, crabeater seals and Weddell seals in the Antarctic Peninsula; king penguins, elephant seals, fur seals and macaroni penguins in South Georgia; leopard seals, chinstrap penguins, Adelie penguins and Gentoo penguins in the South Orkney Islands.
- Educational discovery in the respect of environment.
Ports of Call & Excursions
November 12, 2021 Montevideo
Embarkation 11/12/2021 from 16h00 to 17h00
Departure 11/12/2021 at 18h00
Perched on the far southern tip of Uruguay, Montevideo is a white city, and one of the loveliest capital cities of South America. Come and admire the beautiful historical remains dating from Spanish rule; you’ll find the most interesting within the Cuidad Vieja, formerly fortified, its old town dates from the 18th century. The best preserved are the cathedral and the former governmental palace of the Cabildo, both listed historical monuments. In the crook of a vast blue bay, the city is also blessed with beautiful beaches.
November 13, 2021 November 16, 2021 At sea
Arrival 11/13/2021
Departure 11/16/2021
During your day 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 day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, 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.
November 17, 2021 November 19, 2021 South Georgia
Arrival 11/17/2021
Departure 11/19/2021
Aboard your ship, discover South Georgia, a region formed by an underwater mountain chain that extends from the Andes to the Antarctic Peninsula. All the wildlife of the Far South can be found there: king and Gentoo penguins, elephant seals, fur seals… You might get the chance to discover the majestic glaciers of Gold Harbour and the vast plains of Fortuna Bay. If you are fortunate enough to land at Salisbury Plain, you can expect a wonderful spectacle: more than 300,000 king penguins, which you will recognise by the bright orange mark on their head and neck, have taken up residence there.
November 20, 2021 At sea
Arrival 11/20/2021
Departure 11/20/2021
During your day 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 day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, 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.
November 21, 2021 November 22, 2021 South Orkney Islands
Arrival 11/21/2021
Departure 11/22/2021
More than 85% glaciated, these remote mountainous islands are hidden in the Southern Ocean, some 600 km from the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula. The archipelago is composed of four main islands: Coronation Island, Signy Island, Powell Island and Laurie Island. Discovered in 1821 by seal hunters, they were also explored in 1823 by the British navigator James Weddell, who gave them their current name. Despite the ravages caused by whale and seal hunting, today a sizeable leopard seal population can be found there, along with chinstrap penguins and snow petrels. Laurie Island is home to an old scientific station that is still in operation.
November 23, 2021 At sea
Arrival 11/23/2021
Departure 11/23/2021
During your day 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 day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, 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.
November 24, 2021 November 27, 2021 Antarctic Peninsula
Arrival 11/24/2021
Departure 11/27/2021
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.
November 28, 2021 November 29, 2021 Crossing the Drake Passage
Arrival 11/28/2021
Departure 11/29/2021
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.
November 30, 2021 Ushuaia
Arrival 11/30/2021 early morning
Disembarkation 11/30/2021 at 07h00
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…
Le Lyrial
First introduced in 2015 and the fourth ship in the Sisterships series, Le Lyrial is the very embodiment of this new generation of intimately sized cruise ships. Its exterior and interior lines, all sober understatement and refinement, make it a yacht of a rare and innovative kind.
For the interior decoration, we took inspiration from the tones and colours of our destinations and used a palette made up of blues, from the soft, luminous grey-like tones of the polar ice to the vivid notes and turquoises of Mediterranean inlets and coves.
Until 244 Guests
122 staterooms & suites
140 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
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.
Media
Discuss and debate geopolitics, societal changes and the major challenges of the future with editors, journalists and columnists from major news outlets. On board, Paris Match, Le Figaro, L’Express or Le Point, undisputed references when it comes to quality news and information, offer in-depth analyses of the shifts occurring in our society. Partnerships with GEO and Point de Vue cater to our guests who are passionate about photography, geography and history.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
DISCOVER BUENOS AIRES AND COLONIA DEL SACRAMENTO (1 NIGHT)
(1 nuit)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Enjoy two days of contrast between Buenos Aires, a huge and fascinating city and Colonia del Sacramento, a quiet and charming port dating back to the 17th century. This journey through Spanish and Portuguese colonial culture will be a perfect prelude to your embarkation.
Day 1 - Buenos Aires
Meet and greet at the airport arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. After being welcomed by our local representative, you will be transferred to the Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta 5* (or similar).
Morning and lunch at leisure.
In the afternoon, 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. From there, the coach drives you through San Telmo (a tango district) to La Boca, with its famous colourful and picturesque houses on Caminito Street. La Boca is the oldest harbour of Buenos Aires and in the early 20th century, most Italian immigrants made here their first steps in their new homeland.
At the end of the tour you will visit the northern part of Buenos Aires. The Recoleta neighbourhood with its French style wide avenues, parks and residential houses contrasts with the “Barrio de La Boca”. Here, you will visit the unique monumental cemetery, where Evita Perón and other historical people are buried.
At the end of the day, you will attend an Argentine tango diner show.
Then you will return to your hotel for the night.
Day 2 – Colonia del Sacramento
After check-out, you will be transferred to the port of Buenos Aires to cross the Rio del Plata towards Colonia del Sacramento by ferry (approx. 60 minutes cruise time).
On your arrival, discover Colonia, founded in 1680 by the Portuguese from their Brazilian colonies. It is the oldest city in the whole country. Due to its highly strategic location on the Río de la Plata, Portuguese and Spanish competed for centuries. Today it is a city of nearly 30,000 inhabitants, its historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995.
The visit of the city will begin with its colonial part. You will discover the gateway, the ramparts of the city, the numerous cobbled streets and colonial houses like Santa Rita and San Gabriel, and the Calle de los Suspiros where many films have been shot. You will continue to Iglesia Matriz, the oldest church in Uruguay, the Plaza Mayor, very shaded and covered with vegetation, the Bastion Del Carmen and very nearby the Real de San Carlos Bullring, last bullfight took place in 1912. Do not miss the bright lighthouse that dominates this small colonial town.
After lunch, re-board your coach for the 2-hour drive to Montevideo in time for embarkation.
Your hotel:
The Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta 5*/Buenos Aires
In the sophisticated neighbourhood of Recoleta, known for its neoclassical architecture, The Brick M-Gallery Hotel by Sofitel stands out thanks to its contemporary style and imposing brick façade. The hotel offers easy access to the main tourist attractions in Buenos Aires and features elegant, spacious rooms, a pool, restaurant and bar, ensuring a luxurious, authentic and exclusive experience for our guests.
Your programme includes:
- 1-night accommodation at the Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta 5* (or similar), with early check-in on day 1 (from 11 a.m.), including breakfast.
- Meals and beverage package (mineral water + 1 soft drink or 1 beer or 1 glass of wine + 1 tea or 1 coffee) as mentioned in the programme.
- Transfers and visits as mentioned in the program.
- 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 program.
Please note:
- The local currency in Argentina is the Argentinian Peso and the Uruguayan peso in Uruguay. 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.
Contacts of your hotel:
The Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta 5*/Buenos Aires
Posadas 1232
1011 Buenos Aires, Argentina
Tel: (+54) 11 4819 1100
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 : $710
According to availability, price per passenger.
STAY IN BUENOS AIRES (1 NIGHT)
(1 nuit)
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 Hotel Sofitel Palladio MGallery 5*(or similar).
Lunch and afternoon at leisure.
Dinner included at the hotel.
Day 2 - Buenos Aires
Breakfast followed by check-out.
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:
Hotel Palladio MGallery by Sofitel 5* (or similar)
In the sophisticated neighbourhood of La Recoleta, known for its neoclassical architecture, The hotel offers easy access to the main tourist attractions in Buenos Aires. It features elegant, spacious rooms, a pool, restaurant and bar, ensuring a luxurious, authentic and exclusive experience for our guests.
Your programme includes:
- 1-night accommodation at the hotel Palladio MGallery by Sofitel 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.
Contacts of your hotel:
Hotel Palladio MGallery by Sofitel
Avenida Callao 924, Recoleta,
C1023AAP Buenos Aires, Argentine
Phone number: (+54) 11 4700 7500Duration 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 : $230
According to availability, price per passenger.
IGUAZU FALLS (4 NIGHTS)
(4 nuits)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
The Iguazu Falls are among the most beautiful falls in the world. This programme will bring you closer to this wonder of nature, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984. You will also discover Buenos Aires and its main districts.
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 Hotel Alvear Art (or similar).
Check-in and afternoon at leisure.
You will enjoy a typical early dinner in a local steakhouse restaurant in Puerto Madero. After tasting the famous grilled meat, part of the Argentine national identity, you will return to your hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Buenos Aires/Iguazu
Breakfast.
You will be transferred to Buenos Aires airport for the flight Buenos Aires/Iguazu selected by PONANT
At your arrival at Iguazu airport, you will be welcomed and transferred to a local restaurant for lunch.
Your visit of Iguazu National Park will start on the Brazilian side. It offers a panoramic view on this set of vertiginous falls, where you will realize then the size of the site. A walk of about one kilometer will take you the bottom of the falls.
A natural border between Argentina and Brazil, the Iguazu River flows into the falls in 275 waterfalls, listed as UNESCO World Heritage. The Iguazu National Park, is located in a privileged place in the middle of the rainforest, offers you a marvelous show, with a fauna and a flora of astonishing diversity.
At the end of the day, transfer to the Gran Meliá Iguazu (or similar).
Check-in.
Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Day 3 - Iguazu Falls
Breakfast.
Today your visit will proceed on with the Argentinean side of the Park. Narrow foot paths lead you through the rainforest and while you walk over bridges you discover new spectacular views of the waterfalls at each step. There are two main paths: an upper and a lower one. The upper path leads you over the edge of the falls. There you can appreciate the height up to 240 ft, and the contrast of the quiet water that turns into these spectacular rushing waterfalls under your feet. The lower path goes through the forest and reveals marvelous sights among the vegetation. You may see birds, butterflies and the famous coaties.
Lunch will be served in a restaurant.
At the end of the visit, you will head back to the Gran Meliá Iguazu for dinner.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 4 - Iguazu/Buenos Aires
Breakfast followed by morning at leisure.
Lunch in a local restaurant.
You will be transferred to Iguazu airport in connection with the domestic flight to Buenos Aires selected by PONANT.
Transfer to the Hotel Alvear Art (or similar).
Check-in. Dinner at leisure.
Day 5 -Iguazu/Buenos Aires
After breakfast, 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 neighborhoods, 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. From there, the coach drives you through San Telmo (a tango district) to La Boca, with its famous colourful and picturesque houses on Caminito Street. La Boca is the oldest harbour of Buenos Aires and in the early 20th century, most Italian immigrants made here their first steps in their new homeland. Today, it is the favourite neighbourhood for these Italian families' descendants.
At the end of the tour you will visit the northern part of Buenos Aires. The Recoleta neighbourhood with its French style wide avenues, parks and residential houses contrasts with the "Barrio de La Boca". Here, you will visit the unique monumental cemetery, where Evita Perón and other historical people are buried.
Transfer to Buenos Aires airport, in connection with the flight selected by PONANT.
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.
Gran Meliá Iguazu 5*/ Iguazu
In the heart of the Iguazu National Park, the Gran Melia Iguaçu hotel invites you to experience an authentic stay facing one of the Seven New Wonders of Nature.
With art craft made by regional artists, the hotel offers comfort, peace and tranquillity while admiring the panorama of the Iguazu Falls.
You will enjoy the Argentinian restaurant, an infinity pool and tennis courts.
Rooms with views of the Iguazu falls are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
- 2 nights in Buenos Aires, at the Hotel Alvear Art (or similar), in Standard Deluxe category room.
- 2 nights in Iguazu, at the Gran Meliá Iguazu (or similar), in Deluxe room.
- Flights Buenos Aires/Iguazu/Buenos Aires in economy class.
- Meals and beverages during meals (mineral water + 1 soft drink or 1 beer + 1 tea or 1 coffee), as mentioned in the programme.
- Transfers as per programme.
- English-speaking local guide.
- Entrance fees to both National Parks.
Your programme does not include:
- Dinner on day 4 and lunch on day 1 and lunch on day 5.
- Personal expenses, and other services not mentioned in the programme.
- Tips for the guide and the driver.
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. In Iguazu, on Brazilian side, you can also use USD small denominations.
- Please note that your main luggage will be stored at the Hotel Alvear Art (or similar) the day you will fly to the Iguazu Falls, we recommend you pack in a small carry on only what you need for the visit and the stay at the Falls, you will retrieve your main luggage upon returning to the Intercontinental when back from Iguazu Falls.
Important notes about Brazil:
- This programme includes a visit to the Brazilian side of Iguazu National Park. Should you require a visa for Brazil, we recommend you start the application early enough to obtain it on time.
- Citizens whose nationality requires a visa for Brazil and who prefer not to go through visa expense and formalities, may prefer to forego the visit to the Brazilian side. In that case, you will enjoy time at leisure at your hotel The Loi Suites Iguazu. This hotel is located in a splendid jungle setting, surrounded by forest and at the river's edge. Enjoy relaxing by the pool or go on a nature walk in the forest. Please note there will be no compensation for not taking part in the visit of the Brazilian side of the falls.
Contacts of your hotels:
Hotel Alvear Art/Buenos Aires
Suipacha 1036
Buenos Aires, ARGENTINA
Tel: + 54 11 4808-2100
Hotel Gran Meliá Iguazu
Iguazu National Park
Misiones
03370
Telephone: (+54) 37 5749 1800
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 : $2,150
According to availability, price per passenger.