Gray stone peaks sketched with snow, towers of broken blue-white ice and dramatically different wildlife below and above. First pass the snow-capped Melchoir Islands and Schollaert Channel, sailing between Brabant and Anvers Islands.
Places to visit include:
Neumayer Channel - The vessel may position itself here, launching its multiple basecamp activities from the protected waters around Wiencke Island. Enjoy the splendors of this alpine environment at sea with Zodiac and kayaking trips, or if in the mood for a walk, there are possible snowshoe hikes and soft-climb mountaineering options farther inland. Naturally, favorable weather conditions determine the possible activities.
Port Lockroy - After sailing through the Neumayer Channel- get a chance to visit the former British research station, now a museum and a post office- of Port Lockroy on Goudier Island. Also be able to partake in activities around Jougla Point, meeting gentoo penguins and blue-eyed shags. There are great opportunities also for kayaking and camping here. When conditions are right, showshoe around the shore.
Pleneau & Petermann Islands - If the ice allow it, sail through the Lemaire Channel in search of Adelie penguins and blue-eyed shags. There's also a good change to encounter humpback and minke whales here, as well as leopard seals. Kayaking, glacier walks and more ambitious mountaineering trips are the potential activities of tis location.
Neko Harbour - An epic landscape of mammoth glaciers and endless wind-carved snow, Neko Harbour offers opportunities for a Zodiac cruise and landing that afford the closest views of the surrounding alpine peaks.
Paradise Bay - Have the chance to make camp here like a true polar explorer, enjoying supreme overnight Antarctic adventure.
Errera Channel - Possible sites in this area include Danco Island and Cuverville Island, but also the lesser known )though equally picturesque) Orne Island and Georges Point on Ronge Island.
On the last day of near-shore activities, pass the Melchoir Islands toward the open sea. Keep a sharp lookout for humpback whales in Dallmann Bay. Also, shoot for Half Moon Island, in the South Shetlands, with further chances for activities.
