Whilst the imminent heavy fuel ban will take the wind out of the sails of many larger cruise ships, Gap Adventures’ owned and operated vessel the M/S Expedition will continue to cruise the Antarctic waters.
A ban on the use of heavy fuel oil in the Antarctic becomes law on August 1, meaning larger liners will no longer be able to ply the waters, leaving the seas and breathtaking scenery to smaller ships like the Expedition and its travellers.
Large ships that offer cruise-only trips, carry heavy fuel and more than 500 passengers will no longer be able to sail in Antarctica’s waters. However, Gap Adventures’ ship uses marine fuel instead of heavy diesel and its zodiacs have 4-stroke engines rather than 2-stroke, which create fewer emissions and noise that could disturb wildlife.
Not only is the recently-renovated Expedition committed to responsible environmental practices, it also boasts one of the largest average cabin sizes in her class and several spacious public areas, providing an exceptionally safe and comfortable expedition experience for all her guests. Alongside a highly experienced crew, there is an impressive ratio of one expert expedition team member for every 10 guests.
The world’s largest independently-owned adventure travel company, Gap Adventures launched camping and kayaking in its 2010/2011 Antarctic itineraries, enabling holidaymakers to encounter the intimacy and power of the polar regions in ways few have experienced before.
John Warner, Vice President of Global Sales for Gap, explains: "We are seeing a surge in the Expedition’s forward booking numbers for the Antarctic Season. There is no doubt the limited number of permitted ships, coupled with continued demand from travellers seeking the ultimate adventure cruise, will drive travellers to our ship.”
Take a look at two of Gap Adventures’ Antarctic tours:
Antarctica Classic in Depth; price, was £4,619, now £3,969pp; Duration: 13 days; Departure date: Nov 7. Price includes 11 nights on board M/S Expedition, 1 night’s accommodation with breakfast in Ushuaia, all meals on ship, Zodiac excursions with expedition team, lecture and educational programme, waterproof boots, Antarctica destination guide book and Canada Goose expedition jacket for guests who pay for a Category 5 suite.
Spirit of Shackleton; Price, £7409pp; Duration: 20 days; Departure date: Jan 11, 2012.
For more info, visit http://www.gapadventures.co.uk/ or the UK's leading adventure cruise specialists, The Cruise Line Ltd.
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