Antarctica & the Total Solar Eclipse
Discover the wonders of Antarctica, South Georgia & the Falkland Islands & experience the Total Solar Eclipse aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
- 24 November 2021
It is hard to put into words the sheer grandeur of an Antarctic landscape. This most southern of continents, this desert of ice, is so unique and rare to man’s experience, that even the most dramatic of photographs pale into insignificance when one is confronted by the sheer magnitude, beauty and wonder of the landscape. Enormous icebergs rise from the sea, hillsides are covered with thousands of penguins and seals bask on icebergs dotted in the ocean; the sights, sounds and emotions will stay with you forever. When these scenic marvels are combined with an incredible astronomical phenomenon, the total solar eclipse, we have something very special.
For most travellers Antarctica is a once in a lifetime visit, it is therefore important that the trip should be as rewarding as possible and the MS Hebridean Sky is the perfect vessel both in terms of the educational opportunities on board and the number of occasions to go ashore. Antarctica is to be experienced, not just to be seen, and we believe the only way to do this is on board a small ship.
Whilst an undoubted highlight of the cruise is the opportunity to witness a total solar eclipse, there is much more included to occupy us. The timing of the eclipse coincides with what is regarded as spring in Antarctica as the pack ice begins to melt. This is the mating season for penguins and other species and you can observe their spectacular displays of courtship ritual, nest building and such antics as stone stealing. This is also the time when fur seals claim their breeding territories.
In addition to the Antarctic Peninsula, we have also included magnificent South Georgia where you will experience one of the world’s natural wonders, the ‘Alps in mid-ocean’, offering remarkable concentrations of wildlife against a backdrop of glaciers and snow-covered mountains. Hugging the coast to the wildest reaches of the island we will land on beaches alive with rampaging fur seals, somnolent elephant seals and truly astonishing numbers of king penguins. We have three days of exploration in this unique animal paradise and using the Zodiacs we will aim to land each day allowing you the optimum time ashore to experience this rich animal kingdom. We also spend time on the Falkland Islands, a truly enchanting place with a unique character and staggering wildlife. This is the last sanctuary of the elegant albatross which soars gracefully against the blue sky, with colonies of elephant seals basking at the foot of vertiginous cliffs. In between our landings and while at sea, you can pass the time on deck looking for wildlife, attend the series of lectures by members of the expedition team and simply relax on board.
Useful links & Travel Advice
Please find a selection of useful websites to refer to for information from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, on visa requirements, NHS travel health advice and other useful travel tips.
-
Total Solar Eclipse of 2021
During this cruise we will have the opportunity to experience an incredible astronomical phenomenon – the total solar eclipse. On 4 December 2021, the eclipse will paint a path through the sky over the Antarctic Peninsula and, aboard our small vessel we will be able to best position ourselves to be in the path of totality. Witnessing a total solar eclipse is an incredible experience; this rare celestial event occurs only when a New Moon aligns perfectly with the Sun as we see it, throwing a shadow onto the planet, and is only visible from a small area on earth. It is in the path of the shadow, away from the light pollution, that we hope to plummet into complete darkness for over two minutes as day turns into night. For this brief interval in time, the world as we know it completely transforms and our experts will be on hand throughout to enlighten us about this extraordinary phenomenon and its various manifestations, from flickering shimming waves of light and dark to the approaching shadow of the moon and the “diamond ring”, the remaining last bead of light before totality.
-
What to Expect...
Every expedition to Antarctica and South Georgia is unique and no two days are the same. Flexibility is key and often the whole day’s schedule will be changed to maximise your experience based on weather conditions or wildlife sightings. Each day holds something new and here are some extracts from previous Antarctic expedition logs which will provide you with an idea of what to expect.
Salisbury Plain, South Georgia: From the ship we could see the huge extent of the king penguin colony, as well as a myriad of cigar-shaped rocks. The rocks were, of course, hundreds of seals of the elephant and fur kind. By the landing spot there was a group of elephants, including a pup that was still suckling. In addition, there were tiny fur seal pups around as well, which looked adorable. The male fur seals are often huge and intimidating but were not a problem today. A route parallel to the beach had been flagged for us by the expedition team so it was a simple matter to get to and from the king colony in small groups. The birds were so curious that if we stopped they would often come sidling up towards us, to get a better look. In their black, white, grey and orange plumage, the kings looked both regal and resplendent.
Elephant Island: Elephant Island came into sight at midday but at first it was indistinct, as it blended in with the murk so well. More and more of it became apparent as we got closer but it looked pretty daunting – largely snow-covered cliffs that disappeared up into the clouds. Every now and then along the inhospitable coast there was a grounded iceberg. The captain did an excellent job of getting us into the relatively sheltered bay opposite the bust of Captain Pardo. He was in command of the rescue vessel that eventually, with Worsley’s local knowledge, managed to get all of Shackleton’s men off.
Culverville Island: Waiting for us at Cuverville were more Gentoo Penguins; the largest colony of them in Antarctica in fact. Some of us went directly to the beach whilst others went cruising in the channel between Cuverville and Ronge islands. Before landing we saw lots of ice, an old boat from the whaling days and a sleepy Weddell Seal or two. With hardly a breath of air and near-cloudless skies the landscape was picture-perfect. There was more to come, in the shape of a barbecue lunch on the lido deck. Our restaurant must surely have had the best views in the world! The ship then headed out into a still flat-calm Gerlache Strait, en route to Paradise Bay. A pod of about 30 killer whales were spotted so the Captain slowed the ship.
Hebridean Sky
The MS Hebridean Sky is one of our three flag ships and sister vessel to the MS Island Sky and MS Caledonian Sky. All three vessels were built in the same ship yard in Italy at similar times and share the same excellent attributes that make them three of the finest small ships in the world. Formerly known as the Sea Explorer, the vessel underwent a multi-million pound refurbishment in Sweden in Spring 2016 before being re-launched as the MS Hebridean Sky.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Santiago, Chile.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight.
Day 2 Santiago.
Arrive this morning and transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay. Spend the afternoon and evening at leisure to relax and enjoy the hotel facilities or explore the city independently.
Day 3 Santiago to Port Stanley, Falkland Islands.
After breakfast we will transfer to the airport for our specially chartered flight to Port Stanley, the charming capital of the Falkland Islands. On arrival transfer to the MS Hebridean Sky and enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we moor overnight.
Day 4 Port Stanley.
Spend the day in Stanley where during our excursion we will see some of the highlights of the town including the cathedral, battle memorial and the Historic Dockyard and museum which documents the social, maritime, military and natural history of the islands. Alternatively learn more about the 1982 conflict whilst, if conditions permit, we also hope to offer nature walks or a 4x4 tour to one of the beaches where we may find King, Magellanic and rockhopper penguins. Sail this evening for South Georgia.
Days 5 & 6 The Southern Ocean.
As we cruise towards South Georgia the richness of these waters will be evident in the marine mammal life, especially the fur seals on fishing forays. We have a good chance of spotting whales such as fins and minkies whilst the birds circling our stern will be outstanding, especially the large albatrosses and numerous breeds of petrels.
Days 7 to 9 South Georgia.
We have two and a half days of expedition cruising in and around South Georgia, a paradise island with snow-clad mountain peaks rising 9000 feet and with 165 glaciers tumbling down towards the sea. We arrive early in the season when parts of the island are still covered by a thin layer of snow. For anyone interested in wildlife, South Georgia is a true oasis. The beaches will be covered by elephant seal bulls and females with feeding pups. They share the beach with a myriad of nesting King penguins. Most of the other sea birds have arrived and started nesting. This is also the time when the great arrival of the fur seals starts. Millions of fur seals will, over a few weeks, return to the beaches to breed. During our time here we hope to visit Salisbury Plain where we will find enormous elephant seals which crowd the beaches alongside thousands of pairs of King penguins whilst in Fortuna Bay we will see nesting light mantled sooty albatrosses and hope to witness their gracious courting flights. A few thousand King penguins nest here. Meanwhile in Grytviken we will visit the old whaling station and of course pay our respect at the grave of ‘the boss’ – Ernest Shackleton.
Day 10 At sea.
The waters between South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula are rich with fin whales, where in good conditions we have seen as many as a hundred in a day. If not whale-watching, lookout for Antarctic petrel, Kerguelen petrel and one of the most beautiful birds of the Southern Ocean, the snow petrel. The icebergs will also become more plentiful as we sail south. Alternatively join the lecture programme as we learn more about the wildlife and history of the region.
Day 11 Solar Eclipse Day.
Today we will position the ship to achieve the best location to view the solar eclipse which is due to start in the late morning. The advantage of our small ship is the ability to find a spot or break in the clouds to increase our chances and maximise our time under a total eclipse. With our onboard experts on hand to provide commentary we will remain here until the end of the eclipse’s passage when we continue our voyage to Antarctica.
Days 12 to 18 Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands.
We have seven days of exploration around the Peninsula and South Shetland Islands which will include many of the best places for wildlife and magnificent scenery. Whilst we arrive with a planned itinerary the final schedule will be determined by our Captain and the Expedition Leader based on sea, weather and ice conditions. Using our Zodiacs we hope to make daily landings or cruises for unique close encounters with animals such as adelie and gentoo penguins, fur seals and petrels. Watch avidly on deck as we approach land or sail through breathtaking channels surrounded by lofty peaks looking down on ice-strewn waters where resting crab-eater or leopard seals can be spotted. Enroute South we plan to see Elephant Island with its rocky and inhospitable shore where Shackleton’s crew famously survived. We hope to sail past the collapsed volcanic cone of Deception Island for a chance to visit Whalers Bay, Petermann Island, home to numbers of adelie penguins, picturesque Neko Harbour, the Lemaire Channel where towering icebergs rise from the sea and Half Moon Island with its rookery of chinstrap penguins. We also endeavour to sail through the breathtaking Antarctic Sound, alternatively known as ‘iceberg alley’, where massive icebergs drift north from the continent.
Days 19 & 20 Drake Passage.
Two days to relax onboard and reminisce with your fellow travellers about all you have seen and experienced during our expedition. Enjoy a lecture, look for wildlife or simply relax as we make our way across the Drake Passage toward Ushuaia. Named after the 16th century English seaman, Sir Francis Drake, the Drake Passage separates the southernmost tip of South America from Antarctica. This is a particularly good area to spot royal albatross and blue petrel and we will also be on the lookout for pods of sperm whales.
Day 21 Ushuaia to Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to Buenos Aires. On arrival transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay. This evening we will meet for dinner and a tango show in a local restaurant.
Day 22 Buenos Aires to London.
After breakfast in the hotel transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Day 23 London.
Arrive this morning.
Dates and Prices
| 24 November to 16 December 2021 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| Amundsen Deck Standard Suite | £13395 | £12895 |
| Byrd Deck Superior Suite | £14395 | £13895 |
| Mawson Deck Premium Suite | £15395 | £14895 |
| Mawson Deck Corner Suite | £15995 | £15495 |
| Scott Deck Deluxe Balcony Suite | £17795 | £17295 |
| Shackleton Deck Owner's Balcony Suite | £18995 | £18495 |
| Shackleton Deck Hebridean Suite | £20495 | £19995 |
| Amundsen Deck Standard for sole use | £17495 | £16995 |
| Byrd Deck Superior for sole use | £19495 | £18995 |
Tour Reference Code: SCHSK241121
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled international air travel • Specially chartered flight to Port Stanley • Overnight hotel accommodation in Buenos Aires & Santiago with breakfast • Dinner & Tango Show in Buenos Aires • 18 nights aboard the MS Hebridean Sky on a full board basis • House wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Shore Excursions • Noble Caledonia expedition team • Gratuities • Group transfers • Use of parka jacket & rubber boots on board • Expedition log • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
NB. The Total Solar Eclipse is a natural phenomenon and sighting is weather dependent and cannot be guaranteed.
Hebridean Sky
The MS Hebridean Sky is one of our three flag ships and sister vessel to the MS Island Sky and MS Caledonian Sky. All three vessels were built in the same ship yard in Italy at similar times and share the same excellent attributes that make them three of the finest small ships in the world. Formerly known as the Sea Explorer, the vessel underwent a multi-million pound refurbishment in Sweden in Spring 2016 before being re-launched as the MS Hebridean Sky.
-
Ship Directory
Ship Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.
We are delighted you have chosen the MS Hebridean Sky for your upcoming voyage. The 118-passenger, all-suite vessel is one of the finest small ships in the world and benefits from unusually spacious accommodation, public areas and outside decks.
You will find the atmosphere on board akin to a private yacht or country hotel with a little music in the lounge or bar after dinner, talks from our onboard team and informative port briefings from your Cruise Director or Expedition Leader. After a day of exploration ashore, you will return to the comfort and peace of a well-run and exceedingly comfortable ship. Along with the Captain and officers and the Noble Caledonia team, our crew of 70 are dedicated to offering you the best possible experience during your time on board.
We hope this information booklet answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel and wish you a pleasant voyage.
VESSEL TECHNICAL DETAILS
Passengers: 118
Length: 90.60 metres
Width: 15.30 metres
Registered: Bahamas
Crew/Staff: 70
Year built: 1992
Year refurbished: 2016
Language: English
Gross Tonnage: 4200 tonnes
Net Tonnage: 1286 tonnesADAPTORS
Adaptors for hairdryers, mobile phones etc. can be obtained from Reception. These should be returned to Reception at the end of the cruise and are the property of the MS Hebridean Sky. There is also an adaptor extension box with USB ports by the cabin television.
AIR-CONDITIONING
The entire ship is air-conditioned. All cabins feature individual temperature controls. In order to keep the air-conditioning system working efficiently, please keep doors closed when in use.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
The ship uses a public address system to advise guests of all important information and activities during the cruise. Announcements can be heard throughout the public areas of the ship and in all cabins.
CABINS
Onboard there are 59 exceptionally spacious and well designed cabins. All feature a sitting area, en suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower featuring rainfall and separate hand held shower heads, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Cabins on the Shackleton & Scott Decks have private balconies.
All cabins have the following facilities:
• Dressing gowns and slippers
• TV
• Electrical outlet
• Hairdryer
• Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled)
• Mini bar & Fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin.
• Safe
• Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion
• Telephone
Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request with the exception of cabins 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception Desk, once on board, if you would like a double bed.
Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down.
Please note that aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, all cabins have a shower but none have baths.
COMMUNICATIONS
Telephone
If you wish to contact the ship, please call +1 954 672 6930. This is a US number so calls will be charged at an international rate. There is a phone in your cabin which has access to an outside line. Outgoing call costs will be advised on board. You can make cabin to cabin calls free of charge. The ship can be contacted by email at rec@hs.salenship.com. Please indicate the passenger name and cabin number in the subject field.
Satellite Internet & Wi-Fi
Connectivity is now an important feature in our lives and we do our best to bring this service to you on board. There are facilities in the Library to access the internet and Noble Caledonia also offers complimentary satellite Wi-Fi access on board. Wi-Fi is available in the public areas and passenger cabins. You will need to bring your own device to connect in these areas. Wi-Fi cards, with your unique log in and instructions, are available at Reception. The service provided on board uses direct satellite technology and has a certain amount of bandwidth available. The same level of connectivity and speed that we enjoy at home through cable or fibre-optic based infrastructures cannot be expected on board.
As you traverse the seas and ports, the ship’s antennae have to re-establish connection with the transmission satellites. Signal may also be blocked by mountains, buildings or even local radio frequency regulations. Remote locations out of satellite range, weather on earth or in space can also affect signal strength. Please also bear in mind that the network is shared by everyone on board so congestion can be anticipated which will slow down speeds especially at peak times. The bandwidth available to the ship means that connectivity is best served using text-based communications and simple social media. Some applications which involve downloading large files may not be available on board.
Here are some tips for using satellite Wi-Fi on board:
• Avoid peak times such as the return to the ship after an excursion.
• Always log off the system when not in use to free up bandwidth space for other passengers.
• Work offline.
• Download any apps you need before leaving home.
• Turn off or disable background app data services and updates – apps that sync in the background can quickly eat up data without your knowledge.
• Disable push notifications as these use a lot of data.
• Remember to bring any charging or data cables required.
• Your Network provider may offer a cruise package but be careful, once the land signal is lost, this will transfer to the satellite signal which will incur greater costs.
• Cruise Terminals ashore often have good land based internet to supplement your connectivity.
• Put your phone on Airplane Mode when not in use to avoid roaming charges from your Network Provider.
• Be careful not to access private accounts such as bank accounts on public Wi-Fi systems.
DAILY PROGRAMME
A Daily Programme, detailing the following day’s arrangements as well as any specific information about the day’s activities is produced on board and delivered to your cabin daily.
DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, low salt, gluten free and low cholesterol, please notify the Reservations Department. We regret that not all dietary requirements can be guaranteed. If you have any specific or special foods that you require we recommend that you take some with you although we will endeavour to accommodate your needs. Once on board, please speak to the Chef or the Maitre D’ at dinner on your first night on board to reconfirm your needs.
DINING & DRINKING
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in the Restaurant. During good weather, early riser’s coffee, breakfast, lunch and dinner may also be served on The Lido Deck. Afternoon tea is served in The Club or in The Lounge depending on activities. Complimentary tea, coffee and biscuits are available self-service 24 hours a day in The Club. House wine, beer and soft drinks are included at lunch and dinner. MS Hebridean Sky operates an open seating policy which greatly enhances the convivial atmosphere on board. The Restaurant has table configurations of 8, 6, 4 and some 2’s. Room service is not available on board. As we operate an open seating policy, we regret that reservations cannot be made. Please note that passengers are not permitted to consume their own supplies of alcohol on board.
DISABLED FACILITIES
There is a lift on board but the ship does not have facilities for disabled or wheelchair dependent passengers. Additionally, most shore excursions involve some walking and some excursions are walking tours only. There is no chair lift on board and access to the ship is by gangway.
DISEMBARKATION
Your Cruise Director / Expedition Leader will provide you with detailed disembarkation information prior to the end of your cruise. This will include transfer information (where applicable). If you should have any specific queries, please do not hesitate to contact the Cruise Director / Expedition Leader as soon as possible after embarkation.
DRESS CODE
The dress code on board is defined as casual. During the day, comfortable and casual attire is appropriate. The evenings are smart casual. Jackets and ties are not required. However, we kindly ask you to refrain from wearing shorts during evening meals in the Restaurant. You may wish to wear something a little dressier for the Welcome and Farewell Dinners, for example, a jacket and tie for gentlemen and a dress for ladies. No “black tie” is necessary. It is recommended to wear footwear at all times whilst on board.
ELECTRICITY
Voltage is 110V/60Hz (American standard) and a 220V razor socket. This is only suitable for low voltage electrical appliances, e.g. mobile phone or camera charger. We recommend that you bring a twopin American adaptor for the 110v plug. Please note that the use of personal hairdryers, clothing irons, coffee makers, curling tongs, etc. in the cabins is strictly forbidden as they may damage the ship’s electrical system. If you require electrical medical equipment, please notify the Reservations department as soon as possible.
GOING ASHORE
Please wait in the public areas or in your suite until an announcement is made with instructions to disembark. Sailing times for each port are listed in the Daily Programme. Please note sailing times and ensure that you return back to the vessel at least 30 minutes prior to departure. In some ports a passport or port landing card must be carried when going ashore. This will be announced over the PA System if required. If the ship is in a remote area and you hear a continuous blast of the ship’s horn then please return immediately to the landing site. When leaving the ship at any time while in port always ensure you have checked IN/OUT at the gangway.
HAIR & BEAUTY SALON
MS Hebridean Sky has a hairdresser providing haircuts and hairstyling. Some beauty treatments and massage are also available. Appointments for hair styling can be made onboard at the Reception Desk. Fees for all treatments are available at Reception and will be charged to your on board account. Each cabin is equipped with a hairdryer which can be found in the right hand top drawer of the dresser.
HEALTH & HYGIENE
In order to maintain health standards you will find hand sanitizers at key positions around the ship particularly at the entrance to restaurants and near the gangway. We kindly ask you to use these regularly.
LAUNDRY SERVICE
Laundry service is available on board. Laundry bags and a price list can be found in the wardrobe in your cabin. Please complete the laundry list and leave it together with the bag of items to be laundered on your bed. Your laundered items will be returned within 24 hours. There are no public launderette or ironing facilities on board. In the interest of safety we ask that you do not use an electric iron in your suite. An ironing service is available at reasonable cost. Dry cleaning facilities are not available on board. In the interest of the environment, towels will not be automatically changed every day. We ask that you put used towels on the bathroom floor if you wish them to be changed for fresh towels. Towels left hanging on the towel rack will not be changed.
LIFT
All passenger decks can be reached by lift. Please do not use the lift in the case of a fire or an emergency.
LOST PROPERTY
Before you disembark the ship, please check your cabin to ensure you do not leave anything behind. Onboard the ship, any liquids, cosmetics, paper(s) and perishable items left behind will be disposed of immediately. Any books left on board the ship will be incorporated into the ship’s library or donated to charity. Other items left behind on the ship will be kept on board for 1 month or 2 cruises (whichever is the longer period), and after this time, any unclaimed items will be given to a local charity at the next main port the ship visits. If you discover you have left any items behind, please contact Noble Caledonia within 21 days of disembarking. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection, and any costs incurred will be at your own expense.
MAIL
Although reception staff are happy to post letters on your behalf, they may not be able to do so straightaway or at the port of call at which you make such a request. Some postal services are unreliable and many letters or postcards that you ask to be delivered on your behalf may be delayed or even lost en route. Under no circumstances can we be held liable for such occurrences.
MEDICAL FACILITIES
Medical services are available 24 hours a day. There is a Doctor on board, and crew members are trained in first aid. Cabin visits by the ship’s Doctor are available. Please note that all consultations and services are charged for. To arrange an appointment with the ship’s Doctor please contact Reception. It takes some people longer to find their sea legs. Sea sickness tablets are available from Reception, and should be taken at least one hour prior to departure.
MINI BAR
For your convenience a mini bar facility has been set up in your suite on a chargeable basis. Items consumed during the cruise will be charged to your onboard account. Your Steward/ess will restock your mini bar on a daily basis and replenish consumed items. The mini bar price list is placed in the cabinet of your mini bar. The final statement will be delivered to your cabin in the early morning of your disembarkation.
NEWS
News channels are available on your cabin TV and in addition daily news bulletins can be found at Reception and in The Library.
NOBLE CALEDONIA TEAM
Throughout your cruise you will be accompanied by your Noble Caledonia team who will be happy to assist you with any queries or requests you may have.
ONBOARD ACCOUNT
All passengers will have their own “ship account” which allows you to sign a receipt for any expenses and then settle your bill at the Reception Desk at the end of the cruise. You will need to register your card at Reception shortly after sailing. If you are sharing a suite with a friend and would like separate bills, please inform Reception. Prices on board are shown in British Pounds. All final accounts will be presented in British Pounds.
Your ship’s account can be paid by:
• Credit Card (Visa, MasterCard or American Express).
• Cash (British Pounds, Euros or US Dollars).
• Travellers’ Cheques (British Pounds, US Dollars or Euros). Debit cards and pre-pad credit cards may not automatically be accepted. Please let us know in advance if you plan to use one.
PASSPORTS
All Passports are collected by the Purser upon embarkation. Passports are necessary to facilitate immigration formalities at each port of call and are returned at the end of the cruise.
PUBLIC AREAS
The Club – Located on the Mawson Deck aft. The Club features the main bar and a 24 hour tea and coffee station. A quiet place to meet friends or relax during the day. In the evening our onboard resident pianist plays before and after dinner.
The Library – Located on the Mawson Deck aft. In The Library you can find a well stocked selection of reference books pertaining to the destinations. Fiction books, games and playing cards are also available for your pleasure. Novels brought on board may be exchanged with other books in the paperback library. Should you wish to donate any books which you may have brought with you, we will be happy to add these for the pleasure of future guests. Reference books may not be removed from the ship.
The Lounge – Located on the Byrd Deck aft. Daily Briefings by the Cruise Director or Expedition Leader are given in The Lounge which is fitted with multiple screens and presentation equipment. Informative talks from the Guest Speaker or expedition team are also given here.
Observation Deck – Located on the Shackleton Deck. There is an area for sun loungers ideal for sunbathing as well as a forward facing viewing platform.
Promenade Deck – Located on the Mawson Deck. We kindly ask for your consideration to those guests whose cabins are located on and beneath the Promenade Deck. Please use the deck for walking / jogging between the hours of 8.30 am and 9.00 pm.
QUESTIONNAIRE
Your comments are important to us therefore before your cruise ends, you will receive a questionnaire. We are always looking for ways to improve your holiday experience and appreciate the time you take to complete the questionnaire. Kindly hand your completed questionnaire in at Reception.
SAFE
There is a safe in every suite located in the drawer of the television cabinet. The safe can be programmed with your own code, instructions can be found inside the closet door and cabin staff will be available to assist upon embarkation. We recommend that you leave money and other valuables in the safe. Kindly remember to remove all items from the safe before disembarking the ship at the end of your cruise.
SAFETY DRILL & SAFETY
International Maritime Law requires a lifeboat safety drill to take place prior to sailing. All guests must attend this compulsory and important exercise. Please listen for the announcements. During the drill, all ships services will be suspended. Your assigned lifeboat station, location of your life jacket and the signal for lifeboat and fire drills are clearly explained on the emergency card posted on the back of your suite’s door. Life jackets are located in your suite. During the safety drill you will be shown how to wear the life jacket. It is essential that you take certain safety precautions while on board:
• Walk, never run and be especially careful on wet and slippery decks. • Ladies are advised to wear low heeled shoes especially on deck. • Footwear should be worn at all times. • Hold on to the handrails in passageways and stairways.
SHIP’S ID CARD
These personal ID cards with essential information are issued to each guest during embarkation. Please remember to check in and out at the gangway with the crew member on duty in order for them to ensure that you are on board prior to sailing.
SMOKING POLICY
The MS Hebridean Sky offers a smoke-free cruise environment. Smoking is not permitted inside the ship, including the balcony areas and is only permitted in the designated area outside on Mawson Deck aft. Please never throw any cigarette ends overboard – the breeze could carry the smouldering end back on board and start a fire. We thank you for your cooperation in this matter.
TELEPHONE CALLS
Calls to other cabins can be made free of charge by dialing the cabin number. Lift the handset and dial the cabin number. If you wish to make an outside call, please check at Reception to purchase a prepaid telephone card and instructions. Costs are available from Reception and charges are automatically billed to your onboard account.
TELEVISION
All suites are equipped with a flat screen television. There is a selection of channels available including news and documentaries.A DVD player is available on request from the Reception and a small number of DVD's are available to borrow. DVD's are configured to Region 2.
TOILETRIES
Molton Brown shampoo, conditioner, hand soap, body lotion and shower gel are provided in your bathroom. If you have forgotten anything ie. toothpaste, please ask Reception, who have a selection of items available for purchase.
VISITORS
For the safety and security of all passengers no visitors are allowed on board the ship.
VISITING THE BRIDGE
At times Bridge visits may be possible. If visiting the Bridge, please note this is a working area and access may sometimes be restricted
WAKE UP CALL
Wake up calls can be requested through the Reception Desk before 11.00 pm.
WATER
Water from the taps in your cabin is safe to drink. Previously the MS Hebridean Sky used 54,000 bottles of water a year. In order to reduce the damage caused to the environment by waste plastic, we have replaced plastic bottled water where possible with eco-friendly, reusable water bottles and water carafes. These are for your use during the cruise and we kindly ask you to leave them in your cabin at the end of the cruise. The bottles and carafes can be filled from the tap or the water station outside the Club. Alternatively your cabin steward can refill your carafe daily. Should you prefer to use plastic bottled water then please just let your cabin steward know.
ZODIAC OR LOCAL BOATS TO GO ASHORE
Some destinations may require the use of the ship’s Zodiacs or local tender boats to go ashore. Guests will be advised where and when to meet the Zodiac or local tender boat for travel to and from the ship. Please ensure that your hands are free at all times and accept the assistance given by the crew onboard the MS Hebridean Sky when boarding tenders / Zodiacs. A Zodiac safety briefing will be given.
Please Note: These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
V.6 November 2019
-
Cabin Plans
Cabin Plans
-
Deck plans
-
Deckplan
-
Total Solar Eclipse of 2021
During this cruise we will have the opportunity to experience an incredible astronomical phenomenon – the total solar eclipse. On 4 December 2021, the eclipse will paint a path through the sky over the Antarctic Peninsula and, aboard our small vessel we will be able to best position ourselves to be in the path of totality. Witnessing a total solar eclipse is an incredible experience; this rare celestial event occurs only when a New Moon aligns perfectly with the Sun as we see it, throwing a shadow onto the planet, and is only visible from a small area on earth. It is in the path of the shadow, away from the light pollution, that we hope to plummet into complete darkness for over two minutes as day turns into night. For this brief interval in time, the world as we know it completely transforms and our experts will be on hand throughout to enlighten us about this extraordinary phenomenon and its various manifestations, from flickering shimming waves of light and dark to the approaching shadow of the moon and the “diamond ring”, the remaining last bead of light before totality.
Travelling with You
-
Dr Chris Edwards
Chris Edwards spent three summers and two winters stationed in Antarctica in the early 1970s. As a geologist for the British Antarctic Survey, he regularly traveled hundreds of miles by dog-sledge, camping for six months at a time away from base, to conduct his field research.
His doctoral studies based on this research resulted in a Ph.D. from the University of Birmingham. This experience and his knowledge of the geology, botany, wildlife and exploration history of Antarctica. with 11 years in the oil industry and further travels in the Arctic, South America, the Far East and NW Europe make him a sought-after lecturer, field guide and expedition leader.
Chris lives in Aberdeenshire, Scotland where, when not afloat, is a horologist in his own antique clock restoration business. Passionate about environmental and natural history matters, he is also a lichenologist, bookbinder, keen photographer and bakes real bread.
Dr Chris Edwards will be on the following tour dates: 24 November to 16 December 2021 -
Dot Robertson
Born and bred in Melbourne I have always had a love of the outdoors and adventure. Getting out into the wilderness, exploring new places and meeting people from different cultures is my passion. For the past 25 years I have travelled to many places around the world, exploring everything from cities, wilderness, coastal regions and many historical sites.
A family history in both world wars first drew me to PNG. For the past seven years I have taken trekkers across the Kokoda Track to explore the history, experience the amazing environment and meet the wonderful people who live along the track. It is definitely an experience that stays with you and brings to life the battle fought by those courageous Australians during the Kokoda campaign.
Over the past few years I have also taken groups to hike Mt Rinjani on Lombok,walked the Inca trail, Mt Blanc, West Highland Way, Cuba and sea kayaking around the Komodo Islands.
In 2014 this work led to the opportunity as a tour director and expedition team member on the Caledonian Sky, a role that I totally embraced and absolutely love doing, carrying out numerous and varied roles and responsibilities.
Dot Robertson will be on the following tour dates: 24 November to 16 December 2021 -
Colin Munro
Colin is a freelance marine biologist and photographer. Originally from the Scottish Highlands, he now splits his time between Southwest England and Thailand.
He has been working with Noble Caledonia on expedition ships since 2014; this work has taken him to some truly amazing places, from reefs off Papua New Guinea to rainforests in Panama, and taken him back to his homeland cruising the Western Isles of Scotland. Always happiest underwater with a camera, he has lead snorkelling in some of the World’s best locations, from the outer Great Barrier Reef to Aldabra. As someone who started his underwater career as a military diver (a long time ago) in lead boots and zero visibility in the freezing rivers of North Germany he truly appreciates how special these places are.
When not working on expedition ships Colin is still actively involved in marine biological projects in both the UK and Thailand. He also works as a professional photographer, specialising in nature and underwater.
Colin Munro will be on the following tour dates: 24 November to 16 December 2021 -
David Makepeace
A filmmaker by trade, David has spent the last 25 years crisscrossing the globe to chase the eclipse experience. His observations of 16 total eclipses, four annular and three partial eclipses has made him one of the busiest chasers in the world - and since the turn of the century he has fulfilled his goal of visiting each of the seven continents on the chase. As a member of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC) and a “celebrity” in the chaser community, David has devoted much of his life to the popularising of these events wherever they may occur. While not a scientist or professional astronomer, his style and enthusiasm are infectious, and his ability to make simple the hard science of eclipses has consistently earned him top marks from his audiences. His awardwinning documentary films and videos including “Hooked On The Shadow” (2000) and Still Hooked (2017) are widely regarded as films that define the eclipse chasing culture. David has accompanied RASC on many eclipse chases, and has personally lead expeditions to the Caribbean, India, Brazil and Australia.
David Makepeace will be on the following tour dates: 24 November to 16 December 2021 -
Ignacio Marino
Ignacio Marino – or Nacho - was born in Ushuaia, the capital city of Tierra Del Fuego Antartida e Islas Del Atlantico Sur, Argentina. From the age of 14 he has spent many seasons working with guests, at first taking care of Huskies used to pull the sledges in winter time and then over the years working for various hiking and trekking companies. He has taken guests to hidden lagoons, glaciers and different viewpoints in the mountain surrounding Ushuaia and has done climbing expeditions around South America. In 2010 Ignacio started guiding 4x4 excursions around the island of Tierra Del Fuego, never leaving the mountains far behind. During the climbing season he gives a hand at the climbing school of the CAMU (Club Amigos de la Montana Ushuaia). At the present he works as a freelance guide in Ushuaia for many different conventional an unconventional tours. Ignacio is an ‘all weather conditions’ zodiac driver, working down in Antarctica since 2014. He is also an active circus clown using this as a job when traveling around the world and he always carries juggling tools. During his first Antarctic season he married a couple below the Antarctic Circle at Detaille Island, which earned him the nickname “The Minister”.
Ignacio Marino will be on the following tour dates: 24 November to 16 December 2021
What to Expect...
Every expedition to Antarctica and South Georgia is unique and no two days are the same. Flexibility is key and often the whole day’s schedule will be changed to maximise your experience based on weather conditions or wildlife sightings. Each day holds something new and here are some extracts from previous Antarctic expedition logs which will provide you with an idea of what to expect.
Salisbury Plain, South Georgia: From the ship we could see the huge extent of the king penguin colony, as well as a myriad of cigar-shaped rocks. The rocks were, of course, hundreds of seals of the elephant and fur kind. By the landing spot there was a group of elephants, including a pup that was still suckling. In addition, there were tiny fur seal pups around as well, which looked adorable. The male fur seals are often huge and intimidating but were not a problem today. A route parallel to the beach had been flagged for us by the expedition team so it was a simple matter to get to and from the king colony in small groups. The birds were so curious that if we stopped they would often come sidling up towards us, to get a better look. In their black, white, grey and orange plumage, the kings looked both regal and resplendent.
Elephant Island: Elephant Island came into sight at midday but at first it was indistinct, as it blended in with the murk so well. More and more of it became apparent as we got closer but it looked pretty daunting – largely snow-covered cliffs that disappeared up into the clouds. Every now and then along the inhospitable coast there was a grounded iceberg. The captain did an excellent job of getting us into the relatively sheltered bay opposite the bust of Captain Pardo. He was in command of the rescue vessel that eventually, with Worsley’s local knowledge, managed to get all of Shackleton’s men off.
Culverville Island: Waiting for us at Cuverville were more Gentoo Penguins; the largest colony of them in Antarctica in fact. Some of us went directly to the beach whilst others went cruising in the channel between Cuverville and Ronge islands. Before landing we saw lots of ice, an old boat from the whaling days and a sleepy Weddell Seal or two. With hardly a breath of air and near-cloudless skies the landscape was picture-perfect. There was more to come, in the shape of a barbecue lunch on the lido deck. Our restaurant must surely have had the best views in the world! The ship then headed out into a still flat-calm Gerlache Strait, en route to Paradise Bay. A pod of about 30 killer whales were spotted so the Captain slowed the ship.
Tour Extensions
-
-
After our expedition, we are offering the opportunity to visit the Iguazu Falls, often considered the most dramatic waterfalls in the world.
Iguazu Falls
The Itinerary
Day 1 Buenos Aires to Iguazu Falls.
After breakfast in the hotel transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to Iguazu Falls. On arrival check in to our hotel, the Loi Suites (or similar) for our two night stay and this afternoon enjoy a guided tour of the Brazilian side of the falls.
Day 2 Iguazu Falls.
Enjoy a full day at the Iguazu Falls on a series of guided walks seeing the upper and lower circuits and also the Triple frontier the meeting point of Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay.
Day 3 Iguazu Falls to Buenos Aires.
Return to the airport this morning and join our scheduled flight to Buenos Aires. On arrival transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 4 Buenos Aires to London.
After breakfast in the hotel transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Day 5 London.
Arrive this morning.
Prices per person based on double occupancy
15 to 19 December 2021 Category Price Twin £1695 Single £2345 Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, overnight hotel accommodation in Buenos Aires and two nights hotel accommodation in Iguazu Falls at the Loi Suites with breakfast, lunch and dinner on days 1 & 2, guided tours at the Iguazu Falls, gratuities, transfers, airport taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
-
Also of Interest
Patagonia & the Total Solar Eclipse
Discover Patagonia & the Chilean Fjords and experience the Total Solar Eclipse aboard the MS Island Sky
Island Sky
Island Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Ushuaia
- Cape Horn
- Chilean Fjords, Punta Arenas & Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
- Valdivia
- Puerto Montt
- Santiago
Christmas & New Year in the Falkland Islands & Antarctica
Discover the magnificent wonders of the Falkland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula aboard the MS Island Sky
Island Sky
Island Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Santiago / Punta Arenas / Chilean Fjords / Falkland Islands /Antarctic Peninsula / South Shetland Islands / Ushuaia / Buenos Aires /
Antarctica, South Georgia & the Falklands
An expedition to the Great White Continent aboard the five-star Hanseatic Inspiration
Hanseatic Inspiration
Hanseatic Inspiration
Itinerary at a glance
- Buenos Aires / Falkland Islands / South Georgia / South Orkney Islands / South Shetland Islands / Antarctic Peninsula / Ushuaia / Buenos Aires
Expedition High Arctic - In the Land of Extremes
An exploration of coastal Greenland & the Canadian Arctic aboard the Hanseatic Inspiration
Hanseatic Inspiration
Hanseatic Inspiration
Itinerary at a glance
- Dusseldorf / Kangerlussuaq / Baffin Island / Ellesmere Island / Smith Sound / Nares Strait / Etah / Siorapaluk / Cape York / Ilulissat / Disko Bay / Sisimiut / Kangerlussuaq / Dusseldorf
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000