Travel-Learn Program

When: February 15, 2011 - February 28, 2011 (iCal)

Description

“Spectacular pristine scenery and up-close wildlife.”

“Fantastic. We would definitely recommend it.”

We invite you to join us as we journey to this untouched wilderness aboard the exclusively chartered, M.S. Le Boreal, a state-of-the-art vessel launched in May 2010. We will sail during the lingering light of the austral summer, as long sunrises paint the icescape in soft shades of red and orange. With personalized service in a welcoming and intimate setting and featuring private balconies in many of the deluxe accommodations, the M.S. Le Boreal is sure to impress. On our shore excursions, we will be accompanied by an expert team of naturalist guides. Under their direction, we will board sturdy Zodiac craft for landings on rocky shores and beaches to observe Antarctica’s bountiful wildlife. This is Antarctica, Earth’s last frontier.

A 3 night post-program extension in the majestic Iguazu Falls region of the Amazon rain forest is also offered.

Cost

From $7,595 per person, based on double occupancy.

Contact

For more information,contact Usha Nand Sellers Ed. D., Director Tufts Travel-Learn Program, at usha.sellers@tufts.edu or 617-627-5323..

Itinerary

Day 1 – U.S.

Depart from the U.S.

Day 2 – Buenos Aires Argentina

Today we arrive in cosmopolitan Buenos Aires and check into the deluxe Marriot Plaza Hotel, adjacent to the chic boutique-lined Calle Florida. This evening, attend the welcome reception.

Day 3 – Buenos Aires

The city tour highlights Buenos Aires’ diverse barrios (neighborhoods) from the colorful La Boca district and the city center’s grand public building to the parks of Palermo and the charming old quarter of San Telmo. Visit the historic Recoleta Cemetery, famous for its ornate vaults and sculptures and as the final resting place of the legendary Evita Peron.

Day 4 – Buenos Aires/Ushuaia

Fly to rustic Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city and gateway to Antarctica. From here, embark onboard the M.S. Le Boreal this afternoon and cruise through the Beagle Channel, named for the ship that carried Charles Darwin on his South American voyages. Attend the Captain’s welcome reception this evening.

Day 5 – Cruising Drake Passage

Cross the legendary Drake Passage. Upon reaching the Antarctic Convergence, watch for breaching fin, humpback and minke whales and seabirds feeding on plankton and krill brought to the surface by the cold Antarctic surface waters merging with the warmer waters of the South Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. The expedition team of naturalists will present insightful lectures to prepare us for our arrival in Antarctica.

Days 6-10 Cruising Antarctica

The ship cruises below the 60th parallel to the outer shores and islands of the Antarctic Peninsula, the world’s last frontier. Here, explore Earth’s most pristine wilderness, where towering mountains of ice and lava create abrupt coastlines and islands and constantly changing patterns of ice stretch as far as the eye can see. In this seemingly harsh environment, a vast array of wildlife flourishes, including millions of penguins, countless seabirds and thousands of seal and whales. From spectacular volcanic topography and majestic glaciers to fascinating wildlife and historic outposts, this itinerary incorporates the following many major destinations for the complete Antarctica experience.

Day 11 – Cruising Drake Passage

Relax and reflect onboard today as the ship turns north and crosses the Drake Passage.

Day 12 – Drake Passage/Cape Horn

We will take part in lively informative discussions with the ship’s naturalists and watch for seabirds and whales. We will cruise across the Antarctic Convergence and past the infamous Cape Horn, the southernmost tip of South America. The Captain will bid his farewell as a reception this evening.

Day 13 Ushuaia/Buenos Aires

Today we will disembark and fly to Buenos Aires. Our return flight to the U.S. departs this evening.

Iguazu Falls Post Program Option

Complement your journey with this exclusive three-night extension to one of the Earth’s most exquisite natural wonders, majestic Iguazu Falls. Here 275 spectacular waterfalls cascade through the heart of the Argentina/Brazil jungle. Our accommodations at the Sheraton International Iquazu Resort overlook this impressive panorama.

Price and Itinerary remain tentative and subject to change

617-627-5323|usha.sellers@tufts.edu