Antarctica
For those dreaming of genuine adventure, Antarctica has long been considered the last frontier. This pristine landscape of mountains and glaciers remains largely untouched by civilisation, making this remote destination top of many travellers' wishlist.
To celebrate 20 years of Abercrombie & Kent's explorations to the region, we have chartered the spacious new MV Le Boreal, an all-balcony expedition ship for the 2010/11 season. The sleek contemporary design of Le Boreal allows us to offer a distinctly different adventure cruise experience.
A&K is a long-time member of the International Association of
Antarctic Tour Operators. Founded in 1991, this organisation advocates, promotes and practises safe and environmentally sound travel to the Antarctic. Staff and crew follow the highest codes of conduct to ensure that the presence of 'Le Boreal' and her passengers has minimal effect on the fragile and pristine landscapes through which they travel.
- Explore Le Boreal
- View Le Boreal Deck & Cabin Plan
- View Le Boreal programme prices
- View our expedition leaders
Strength & Style
'Le Boreal' features elegant design and innovative state-of-the-art marine technology. The vessel boasts a convenient and sensible layout, aided by three passenger lifts. She offers a single-seating dining room, al fresco dining, an outdoor heated pool and a modern lecture facility and theatre as well as well-equipped library. A full-service salon, steam rooms, spa and fitness centre complete the amenities.
Adventuring in Comfort
'Le Boreal' boasts elegant guest accommodation, among the most comfortable available on any Antarctic cruise. The ship features 104 outside, fully equipped balcony suites and cabins, with a maximum of 199 guests on Antarctic departures. Watch for whales breaching outside your floor to ceiling window, then step out onto your balcony for a closer look. 'Le Boreal' is also outfitted with a technologically advanced stabilizing system to minimise the effects of rough conditions.
Zodiacs
'Le Boreal' carries a fleet of Zodiacs, 10-12 seat motorised boats designed by Jacques Cousteau for safe operations in rough and shallow waters. Explore remote shores where there are no docking arrangements and nimbly cruise alongside towering glaciers or near pods of passing whales. Zodiacs feature fuel-efficient motors that comply with all environmental protection standards.
Safety
Safety is first and foremost on board. The ship is equipped with a GMDSS emergency communication system and a satellite weather system, receiving real-time images of weather and ice-conditions in the area. Le Boreal has an ice-rating that exceeds that required for these demanding conditions. In the unlikely event of an emergency, lifeboats are fully enclosed and equipped with survival gear, blankets, food & water.
Environmental Responsibility
'Le Boreal' employs the latest environmental practices and technology, including using the cleanest burning marine gas oil fuel and a state-of-the-art positioning system that eliminates the need to drop anchor in fragile marine reserves.
On-Board Cuisine
'Le Boreal' features two restaurants: La Licorne offers gourmet contemporary and international cuisine, La Boussole offers indoor and outdoor dining for breakfast, lunch and themed dinners. There is always a selection of light fare and vegetarian dishes and most special diets can be accommodated with advance notice. In-room cabin service is also available.
Buenos Aires direct with British Airways, via Madrid with Iberia or via Sao Paulo with TAM.
13.5 hours to Buenos Aires direct
GMT -3 hours
Yellow fever certificate required if arriving from an infected area
The months that visits are feasible are the austral summer months of November to March, when daily temperatures average from 25 to 45F.