Southern Oceans & Total Solar Eclipse - with Richard Polatty A ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME FALKLAND ISLANDS, SOUTH GEORGIA AND ANTARCTIC PENINSULA ...
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Southern Oceans & Total Solar Eclipse with Richard Polatty A ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME FALKLAND ISLANDS, SOUTH GEORGIA AND ANTARCTIC PENINSULA ADVENTURE NOVEMBER 21 – DECEMBER 12, 2021 +510-420-1550 | info@inca1.com 1
Eclipse-Chasing at the Bottom of the World with Richard Polatty This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to combine the chance to see a total solar eclipse with an expedition to Tierra del Fuego, the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula. The 2021 Total Solar Eclipse will be a special event in the austral summer in the early hours of December 4, 2021. The RCGS Resolute, one of the fastest and most stable expedition ships, will be positioned directly under the path of totality in the Scotia Sea between South Georgia and South Orkney Islands. Prior to the eclipse event you explore the wildlife-rich Falkland Islands and remote South Georgia, and post-eclipse you will reach the Antarctic Peninsula. Accompanying you will be superb naturalist and Antarctic researcher Richard Polatty. Our small group with Richard will be just 20 guests. You will have the full expedition and eclipse programs aboard RCGS Resolute, plus you will have the added expertise of Richard as your private leader and guide. This is an INCA-only extra and this opportunity is simply too amazing to pass up. Interest is already heavy and space is selling fast so act quickly. King Penguins of South Georgia Island. Will they be looking at the eclipse?
An Exceptional Adventure HIGHLIGHTS This epic adventure circumnavigates the Scotia Sea on an • Exclusive small group with naturalist active voyage to Tierra del Fuego, the Falkland Islands, South Richard Polatty Georgia Island, and the Antarctic Peninsula. Under the lead- • Enjoy close-up encounters with penguins, whales, seals and many ership of Richard Polatty and the expedition team, a select bird species group of INCA guests will have the opportunity to follow in • Visits to historic sites and science the footsteps of legendary explorers and chart a course to the stations epicenter of Antarctic wildlife. Step ashore on South Georgia • Learn about the environment, wild- and observe the largest King Penguin rookery on the planet, life, history and ecology from polar experts the world’s largest southern elephant seal colony, and visit the • Cruise on-board one of the most grave of Sir Ernest Shackleton. stable ships in polar waters, offering uninterrupted viewing of the Solar The voyage is timed to coincide with a Total Solar Eclipse, oc- Eclipse curing during your transit from South Georgia to the Antarctic • An exceptional itinerary, exploring all corners of the Falklands, South Peninsula. A treat for those who make this special journey to Georgia, and Antarctica the bottom of the word. 4 INCA-International Nature & Cultural Adventures | www.inca1.com
ITINERARY DAY 1 | NOV 21 After a free morning in Ushuaia, embark on RCGS Reso- lute. After settling in to your cabins, you meet the expedi- ARRIVE IN USHUAIA tion team and fellow passengers. Excitement is in the air Fly to Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city in the as you enjoy a welcome cocktail and dinner, then cast off world. Your overnight at five-star Arakur Resort and Spa for the adventure of a lifetime. will start your epic journey to Tierra del Fuego, the Falk- land Islands, South Georgia and Antarctica. Meet Richard DAY 4 | NOV 24 Polatty and your INCA travel companions. Arakur is locat- ed on a bluff inside Cerro Alarkén Nature Reserve and is AT SEA TOWARDS FALKLAND ISLANDS surrounded by stunning views of the Beagle Channel and Sailing northeast towards the Falkland Islands you’ll be native forests. Enjoy the spa, walk the trails, and soak up joined by hundreds of seabirds, including the Wandering the views. Albatross, who you’ll come to know well on this journey. Giant Petrels and smaller Cape Petrels are also constant DAY 2 | NOV 22 companions. Photographing these magnificent birds from the deck of the ship takes patience and skill and our USHUAIA photography expert will be on hand to show you the best Explore Tierra del Fuego National Park and experience the techniques. Join the ship’s Captain on the bridge and learn rich forest and wildlife of the tip of Patagonia, picnic lunch about the operations of our modern research vessel. included. The stage will be set for the transition from South America through the Falklands to Antarctica. Throughout the journey, on-board experts and Richard Po- latty present a series of talks about the environment, the DAY 3 | NOV 23 wildlife, history and locations, as well as some interesting USHUAIA AND EMBARK SHIP details about the upcoming solar eclipse. +510-420-1550 | info@inca1.com 5
DAYS 5-6 |NOV 25-26 THE FALKLAND ISLANDS The Falkland Islands are a perfect first stop as the rugged land is home to flora and fauna that form a link between Patagonia and Antarctica. The remotest portions are farms where sheep graze alongside colonies of sea birds. As many as a million penguins nest in the Falklands: Gentoo, King, Magellanic, Macaroni and Rock- hopper. Having arrived in the Falkland Islands overnight, we launch the Zodiacs for your first shore excursion. Our plan will be to explore several locations in the West Falkland archipel- ago. These remote islands are home to a proliferation of seabirds and migratory birds including the stunning Black- Browed Albatross. Your first penguin sightings will be on West Point Island with its bustling rookeries of Rockhop- pers. On Carcass Island, you’ll observe nesting Magellanic penguins as well as Oystercatchers, geese and the Striated Caracara—a bird of prey. The following morning, you’ll arrive in Stanley, the capital of the Falklands Islands and the southernmost outpost of Britain. As you wander through the charming streets of brightly painted houses, you’ll learn how this quiet harbor was once a major port in the 19th century for ships rounding the fabled Cape Horn. There are several inter- esting activities to enjoy today. Stanley has an excellent museum that outlines the historic events that took place during the conflict with Argentina in 1982. The waterfront memorial built to commemorate the lives of the British servicemen killed during the war is a sobering reminder of recent history. Stanley’s famed philatelic museum with its impressive collection of historic stamps is another inter- esting diversion. DAYS 7-8 | NOV 27-28 AT SEA TOWARDS SOUTH GEORGIA We chart a southeasterly course for South Georgia. The seabirds once again join us in the Southern Ocean. The ed- ucational presentations continue and are always popular. History is a key theme of this voyage and the epic story of Sir Ernest Shackleton and the HMS Endurance expedition is central to any trip to South Georgia. Perhaps you will pick up some valuable tips from our on-board photograph- ic guide, learning about image composition, the subtle polar light and all the basics of good camera craft. You will also learn about Polar conservation—a theme particularly close to the hearts of the expedition guides and crew. 6 INCA-International Nature & Cultural Adventures | www.inca1.com
DAYS 9-12 | NOV 29-DEC 2 SOUTH GEORGIA South Georgia has often been called the ‘Serengeti of the Southern Ocean’, and as we approach the deep bays of this rugged, rocky outcrop, you’ll begin to see why. The island is uniquely positioned—just south enough to be in the cold Antarctic waters, just north enough to be outside any winter sea ice—to be home to millions of penguins, seals and seabirds. Launching the Zodiacs, we begin our exploration of the island in the vicinity of Elsehul Bay. Large numbers of fur seals and the much larger southern elephant seals will line the dark sand beaches. Living in the tussock grass, King Penguins and their chicks may number up to a hundred thousand birds in some locations including Salisbury Plain, St Andrews Bay and Gold Harbor. The island is home to large numbers of albatross as they fill the skies above, coming and going from their nests. South Georgia is a thrilling location for history lovers and the rusting relics of the early whaling era are all around. We hope to visit several of the old stations including Leith, Husvik and Stromness. A highlight is a visit to Grytviken— the largest of the old whaling stations situated at the head of Cumberland Bay. It is here we visit the grave site of Sir Ernest Shackleton. For many, being in the presence of the great explorer +510-420-1550 | info@inca1.com 7
is a real highlight. An excellent museum at Grytviken, most eclipse paths in lower latitudes, a phenomenon only maintained by the South Georgia Heritage Trust, and the possible in polar regions. The duration of the eclipse is just restored church built by the original Norwegian whalers a under two minutes, but the memory of witnessing it in provide a fascinating glimpse into the past. such a remote corner of the planet will last a lifetime. DAY 13 | DEC 3 DAY 15 | DEC 5 AT SEA TOWARD THE ECLIPSE PATH AT SEA TOWARDS ANTARCTICA Our departure from South Georgia is carefully timed to You have a full day at sea as we sail towards the continent have you in position for the eclipse. Prevailing weather of Antarctica. Ice conditions will dictate the course. You conditions will determine our schedule in the coming can spend time on the outer decks observing the great days. The Captain will position the ship taking into con- seabirds of the Southern Ocean and throughout the day sideration the optimal viewing conditions underneath the there are interesting presentations by the expert guides. path of totality. Presentations by our expedition team and Alternatively, you may relax in the lounge with a good Richard Polatty will prepare you for the eclipse tomorrow book and a hot beverage. morning. DAYS 16-19 | DEC 6-9 DAY 14 | DEC 4 ANTARCTIC PENINSULA WITNESS THE TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE About 60 miles off the coast of the Antarctic mainland Having carefully monitored the weather over the last few is the South Shetland Island chain. Possible landing sites days, the Captain will position the ship in the very best include King George Island, Half Moon Island or Yankee location to view the eclipse. The path of totality is sched- Harbor. Weather conditions permitting, we sail the ship uled to cover our position around 5.00 a.m. so we will be into the flooded volcanic caldera of Deception Island. well bundled up as we venture onto the outer observa- There are some outstanding hikes at these locations. The tion decks. What makes this event particularly unusual old whaling station and aircraft hangar and a hot spring at is that its path is east to west, the opposite direction to Deception Island beg for further exploration. 8 INCA-International Nature & Cultural Adventures | www.inca1.com
We enter the icy waters of the Antarctic Peninsula in the enjoy an entertaining and memorable voyage recap by our vicinity of Mikkelson Harbor or Cierva Cove. Snow-covered Expedition Leader and join our photography experts in mountains soar from the dark waters. Along the shoreline the multimedia room where you can download and back in the bays and harbors of the Peninsula lives an incred- up your precious images. If weather conditions allow, we ible abundance of wildlife. Large rookeries of Chinstrap, will make a rounding of Cape Horn. This fabled stretch of Gentoo and Adelie penguins. Seals live on the ice floes, water is home to legendary tales of exploration, disasters, including the powerful leopard seal that we hope to and early navigation. It’s a fitting place to reflect on a won- encounter. Gulls, skuas and cormorants nest and feed derful and unique expedition. Approaching the entrance at many sites along the Antarctic Peninsula. Whales and to the Beagle Channel in early evening light, you will have orcas are often sighted in transits. a special dinner attended by the Captain of the ship. You explore by Zodiac boat and go ashore where a range DAY 22 | DEC 12 of exciting activities await. Locations we hope to visit in- clude Wilhelmina Bay, Orne Harbor, Cuverville Island and DISEMBARK IN USHUAIA, ARGENTINA In the early morning we arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina. It the Errera Channel. Join the photographic guide taking is the time to say farewell to your crew, expedition team, pictures of stunning icebergs. Or enjoy a hike to the top Richard Polatty, and your fellow travelers. You will be of a snowy mountain saddle with one of our adventure transported to your hotel or to the airport for your return guides. If the opportunity presents itself, visit a research flights home. It is possible to connect station or an old historic hut. The sea kayakers may range via Buenos Aires to the USA up to several miles from the ship for a truly memorable or other destinations in experience. South America. Otherwise, DAYS 20-21 | DEC 10-11 enjoy a night in town or ven- ture further afield to explore RETURN VIA DRAKE PASSAGE the highlights of Patagonia in As we make our way back to the southern tip of South the following days. America the educational presentations continue. You may +510-420-1550 | info@inca1.com 9
RCGS RESOLUTE Designed for comfort, RCGS Resolute are multiple areas to explore ranging sectional sofa provides a quiet nook is modern, well appointed, safe and from the well appointed theater style on which to read, while high quality ice-strengthened. Equipped with pro- presentation room, aft observation cabinetry with soft close drawers, con- pellers of stainless steel, high density lounge and bar, forward observa- temporary and a spacious bathroom steel plating and small frame spacing tion lounge and bar, and both dining design complete the stateroom’s on her hull, RCGS Resolute continues rooms. A multimedia room, gift shop, comfort and convenience. into the ice, when others simply can- doctor’s office and mobile laboratory not. Unmatched stability coupled with complete the spaces available to ex- Originally built to hold 189 guests, superior speed allows for a better plore and enjoy while cruising through the capacity is limited to just 135 chance for the eclipse viewing, more the most amazing scenery on earth. guests for the eclipse cruise. This time at your destination and more allows more opportunities for shore flexibility with itinerary planning, a The sumptuous meals prepared for excursions and a higher crew to guest critical factor in polar waters where you by the culinary team are enjoyed ratio. The Lloyds ice class rating of 1AS ice and weather conditions sometimes in either of two dining rooms, one results in no limitations to the sites dictate daily plans. of which features our popular bistro available for landing and exploration. menu offering quick and easy meals Spacious outer decks provide 360 de- for those prioritizing time out on RCGS Resolute is expedition cruising grees of viewing, perfect for photog- deck. Both dining rooms have ample at its finest. raphy, wildlife watching, birding and and open seating paired with modern appreciating the expansive views. The furnishings and large picture windows salt water plunge pool, large relax- with 180 degree views. ation deck, hot water jacuzzi are locat- ed aft of the wellness center (massage All staterooms feature lower berths therapy, Finnish Sauna, steam room) that can be configured with two single and well equipped gymnasium. Inside beds or a large double bed. A modern 10 INCA-International Nature & Cultural Adventures | www.inca1.com
Category Cruise Price Notes MAIN DECK TRIPLE 21,900 per person • Camping included • Rates are double occupancy land and ship TWIN PRIVATE $24,900 per person • Single Supplement of 70% SUPERIOR SOLD OUT • Price is subject to change at any time SUPERIOR PLUS $29,300 per person SHACKLETON SUITE $32,250 per person ONE OCEAN SUITE RCGS RESOLUTE Optional sea kayaking $895 per person $34,400 per person VESSEL DIAGRAM AND CABIN DESCRIPTIONS DECK 7 ENCLOSED ENCLOSED LIFEBOAT LIFEBOAT SAUNA / STEAM ROOM OBSERVATION LOUNGE SOLARIUM WELLNESS OBSERVATION DECK CENTRE WC POOL RESTING ROOM WC LIFT ZODIACS LIFT JACUZZI SHOWERS / CHANGE ROOM GYMNASIUM ENCLOSED ENCLOSED LIFEBOAT LIFEBOAT DECK 8 ENCLOSED ENCLOSED DECK 6 LIFEBOAT LIFEBOAT 602 610 612 604 606 608 LIFT BISTRO BRIDGE DINING ROOM LIFT & LOUNGE 601 609 CHART 611 WC 603 605 607 ROOM ENCLOSED ENCLOSED LIFEBOAT LIFEBOAT DECK 5 GANGWAY 510 512 518 504 508 524 532 514 516 520 522 534 506 526 528 530 RECEPTION WC WC LIFT BAR / LIFT LOUNGE 511 517 503 523 531 509 513 515 519 521 533 505 507 525 527 529 GANGWAY DECK 4 402 410 412 418 404 408 424 414 416 420 422 406 WC WC LIFT DINING ROOM LIFT 409 411 417 403 407 423 413 415 419 421 405 401 GIFT SHOP DOCTOR DECK 3 DECK 2 GANGWAY MUD ROOM 416 414 408 304 418 302 402 412 410 406 404 306 LIFT PRESENTATION THEATRE LIFT 415 413 407 301 411 303 417 401 409 405 403 305 MUD ROOM GANGWAY Designed for comfort, the RCGS Resolute is modern, well appointed, safe and ice-strengthened. From small group sessions to briefings for all passengers, we have public spaces onboard the ship ideally suited for each and every need. Two separate bar and lounge areas featuring 180 degree views and a wonderfully stocked library provide ideal places to relax or catch up on some reading. The sumptuous meals prepared for you by our culinary team are enjoyed in either of our two dining rooms, one of which features our popular bistro menu offering quick and easy meals for those prioritizing time out on deck. Both dining rooms have ample and open seating paired with modern furnishings and large picture windows with 180 degree views. Other facilities include our theatre style presentation room, gift-shop, gymnasium, wellness centre, hot water spa, sauna and steam room and salt water pool. ONE OCEAN SUITE S U P E R I O R P LU S C A B I N Located on deck 6 these cabins offer ample space (44m2) including the comfort +510-420-1550 of a sectional | info@inca1.com Located forward on deck 5 these cabins feature the option for either a double or two single 11 lounge with matching club chairs, a large desk, expansive soft close cabinetry, washroom facilities configured beds. A sectional lounge is placed by the large picture windows, writing desk/chair, including both a shower & bathtub. Sleeping quarters feature the option for either a double or two ample storage and private washroom facilities. These cabins are spacious and well appointed.
CAMPING Camping in Antarctica? Yes! Weather and conditions permitting, a camping experience on the Antarctic Peninsula is included for the intrepid adventurer. Equipment and guiding is provided. There is no additional fee or advance sign-up required, but space is limited. WHAT’S INCLUDED? EXPEDITION GEAR PACKAGE • Leadership of naturalist Richard Polatty Included in the expedition, you will have free use of an • Two night’s lodging in Ushuaia expedition gear package. This kid includes a quality wa- terproof/windproof jacket and bib-pants plus insulated • Tour in Ushuaia rubber boots designed for extended walking. Also includ- • On-board accommodation ed are a set of binoculars and a trekking pole for use when • Group transfers on shore. A waterproof backpack completes your package. • Activities/shore excursions as specified • Lectures and presentations by expedition leaders and naturalist staff • Expedition gear package • Comprehensive pre-voyage information package • Port fees and access permits • All meals throughout the voyage and where listed as included • Camping and equipment. WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED? • International and internal airfares • Arrival/departure taxes or reciprocity fees, visa fees where applicable • Optional sea kayaking - US$895 per person • Travel insurance • Meals where not included • Alcoholic & non-alcoholic beverages • Gratuities • Any items not mentioned as included • Items of a personal nature 12 INCA-International Nature & Cultural Adventures | www.inca1.com
SEA KAYAKING To experience Antarctica up-close, there is no substitute for exploring by kayak. Prior to your first kayak ad- venture, the guides will hand out and explain the use of all your gear, as well as explaining the basic techniques of using an ocean kayak. Kayaking will take place at landing sites that have appropriate conditions including weather, sea, and ice as determined by the expedition team. Anyone 16 or older in good health is welcome. Please note that when kayaking you will not be participating in the simul- taneous shore experience and Richard Polatty’s shore talks. Additional fee required and limited spaces available. PAYMENT SCHEDULE TRAVEL INSURANCE Deposit at time of Reservation: 20% of trip price All passengers must carry emergency medical and medical Due 140 days prior to departure: Balance evacuation insurance of at least $200,000 that covers per- sonal injury, medical expenses, repatriation expenses and CANCELLATION POLICY evacuation expenses. We strongly recommend a travel Before 140 days prior to departure: insurance plan which includes coverage for trip cancella- non-refundable deposit tion and interruption. From 140 days prior to departure: 100% of trip price NOTES In the unlikely event that this program cannot be operated Cancellations must be received in writing. INCA reserves for any reason beyond the control of the operators, the the right to treat reservations as canceled if payments are refund of all payments received shall release INCA/Inca not received when due. Floats, Inc. from any liability. All INCA Terms and Condi- tions apply. SINGLES/TRIPLES/SHARED CABINS A very limited number of triple cabins may be available. All leaders named in this brochure are confirmed at the Please inquire. time of publication. If any leader must cancel, INCA will attempt to provide, but cannot guarantee, a suitable Singles may be accommodated at a 170% of the double replacement. occupancy rate. It is difficult to predict fuel costs over the long term, and Participants traveling by themselves and wishing to share our prices are based upon the prevailing fuel rates at a cabin at double occupancy rates may request a room- the time of the brochure printing, which is well mate. We will do our best to match you with an- in advance of departure. While we will do other single traveler of the same gender. If everything possible to maintain our prices, if this is not possible, the single rate of 170% fuel prices increase significantly prior to the of the double occupancy per person rate time of the voyage, it may be necessary to will apply. apply a fuel surcharge. +510-420-1550 | info@inca1.com 13
What is a Total Solar Eclipse and what is unique about seeing this in Antarctica? A solar eclipse occurs when the moon moves in front of the sun as seen from a position on earth. During a total eclipse, the entire sun is covered as the moon blocks out any sunlight at a specific location on earth. What makes the 2021 Total Solar Eclipse in Antarctica particularly unusual is that its path is east to west; the opposite direction to most eclipse paths in lower latitudes. This phenomenon is only possible in polar regions. Like any operator, we cannot guarantee clear skies. However, the RCGS Res- olute is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to find the best possible viewing area. The itinerary allows enough time in the expedition schedule to RICHARD POLATTY maximize the chances of finding a break in the weather if the path of totality Richard Polatty has been guiding experiences cloudy weather. expeditions in Antarctica for 30 years. He has been an expedition leader on four different ships and is a veteran of How to Witness the Solar Eclipse in Antarctica over 60 round trips to the Antarctic. The only way to witness the Total Solar Eclipse is on an expedition cruise which Additionally, he has done research will position itself in an area under the path of totality, so you can enjoy the with the Antarctic Site Inventory for full 1 minute and 54 seconds of total darkness expected. Oceanites. Some of Richard’s accomplishments: Weather and Viewing • Working as naturalist in Galápagos This eclipse occurs in a dramatic yet difficult to place to access and lasts just for nearly 30 years. Chief Galápagos a short time. Antarctica and the entire Southern Ocean are renowned for naturalist with INCA from 1990 to wild weather and the most important factor in witnessing a solar eclipse is of present. course clear skies. We have allowed enough time in the expedition schedule to • Board of Directors of Galapagos maximize the chances of finding a break in the weather if the path of totality Conservancy experiences cloudy weather. • Expedition leader maiden voyages According to meteorologist Jay Anderson, ship-board observers may not have of Polar Circle and Hanseatic (now as limited of prospects as cloud cover maps might suggest. RCGS Resolute). • Research associate for the Ocean- “While the map of average December cloud cover shows rather pes- ites Foundation and researcher for simistic conditions for the month, and the station data—what there is the Antarctic Site Inventory funded of it—confirms the frequent cloud cover, day to day satellite images by the US National Science Founda- are slightly more optimistic. With enough mobility and time, there are tion 1992 to present sometimes large areas with open or nearly open skies beneath the eclipse track that a ship can reach. The hard part is recognizing them • Avid astronomer (ground own early enough so that the ship can reach the right place. telescope lenses and constructed telescopes) taught astronomy class- The Southern Ocean is justifiably famous for its bad weather, high es for the Galápagos National Park winds and large waves. Fortunately, ship-board observers may catch Naturalists Course a bit of a break here, as the track crosses a portion of the ocean that • Traveled internationally to wit- has a smaller wave climatology than other parts at this latitude.” ness and photograph 8 total solar RCGS Resolute’s Captain will be carefully monitoring the weather and cloud eclipses cover to position the ship in the site of highest probability for observations. • Expedition leader on over 50 expedi- The ship’s stability and speed will enhance the observation experience. tions to Antarctica • Collected late laying penguin eggs (under permit with the British Ant- arctic Survey) for various institutions 14 INCA-International Nature & Cultural Adventures | www.inca1.com
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FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.INCA1.COM/ANTARCTICA/ FOR BOOKING CALL 510-420-1550 OR EMAIL INFO@INCA1.COM While accurate at time of printing, this itinerary should be considered an approximation of the program and routing, rather than an inflexible schedule of events; it is subject to change due to circumstances beyond our control. This trip is subject to the Limitation of Liability and all INCA Terms and Conditions both included in this brochure and on www.inca1.com. CALIFORNIA SELLER OF TRAVEL #1013564-60 1311 63rd Street, Emeryville, CA 94608 USA 1-510-420-1550 | www.inca1.com | info@inca1.com
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