January 17 to 30, 2013

Argentina, Antarctica
Featuring the Deluxe Small Ship m.s. L'Austral

"Everything wears an aspect of unreality," Ernest Shackleton wrote. "Icebergs hang upside-down in the sky, the land appears as layers of silvery or golden cloud, cloud banks look like land, and icebergs masquerade as islands." Discover how normal human scales and reference points disappear amid the grandeur of nature in its most pristine form. From the long sunrises that paint the icescape in soft shades of pink and gold to the lingering light of the austral summer, humpback whales, leopard seals and Adélie penguins flock to glimmering turquoise glaciers and sparkling icebergs. Antarctica's spectacular illuminations reveal the contrasts and marvels of the most unique place on Earth to those fortunate enough to visit.

Retrace the sea-lanes traveled by the storied explorers Ernest Shackleton, Roald Amundsen and Robert Falcon Scott as they sought out the final frontier of "The White Continent" on this extraordinary fourteen-day program featuring a nine-night Small-Ship Cruise aboard the finest vessel plying Antarctic waters, the state-of-the-art, Deluxe m.s. L'Austral , launched in 2011. Featuring private balconies in 95 percent of the 120 outside Staterooms, the m.s. L'Austral showcases a new generation of ship design and technology and sets unprecedented standards in elegance and comfort.

To enhance your Antarctic experience, the ship is staffed with an expedition team of expert naturalists who will guide you on excursions aboard sturdy Zodiac craft to explore the intricate ecosystems and marvelous nuances of the abundant wildlife found ashore, especially penguins and seals, who are unafraid of humans. An exclusive Iguazú Falls Post-Program Option is offered to explore the 270 majestic waterfalls in the heart of the lush Argentinian-Brazilian jungle.

This once-in-a-lifetime, comprehensive program is the best value for an Antarctic cruise and features the finest accommodations, all meals, all excursions, an optimal cruising experience and has sold out year after year. Space is limited to 200 passengers, so we urge you to place your reservation soon, while space is available!

Port Lockroy, Antarctica

m.s. L'Austral