Sea Spirit gains extra Antarctica day before ice disrupts landings
Poseidon Expeditions’ nine-night voyage reached the region ahead of schedule, but changing winds and sea ice later prompted itinerary adjustments.
A recent account of Poseidon Expeditions’ nine-night Realm of Penguins and Icebergs voyage described an early arrival in Antarctica followed by several weather- and ice-related changes. The itinerary began in Ushuaia, Argentina, aboard the 4,200-ton M/V Sea Spirit, identified in the report as the expedition cruise line’s only vessel.
According to the account, a smooth Drake Passage crossing and a tailwind put Sea Spirit on course to reach Antarctica one day earlier than planned, providing an additional day for activities. Conditions remained changeable, however. Unanticipated winds led to the replacement of a scheduled call at Fort Point on Greenwich Island.
The report said three other planned landings were canceled because of sea ice. Poseidon Expeditions instead arranged sightseeing trips around the intended landing areas.
Sea Spirit can accommodate 114 passengers. The reviewed departure carried 107 guests and approximately 70 crew members. Under the regulations cited in the account, no more than 100 passengers may be ashore at one time in Antarctica. The traveler reported paying $26,790 for a Superior Suite for two people, equivalent to $13,395 per guest.