BENTOURS LAUNCHES 2012/13 ANTARCTICA BROCHURE
BENTOURS has launched its 2012/13 Antarctica brochure featuring eight voyages through the great white continent, including a new itinerary which takes in a selection of Argentina’s highlights.
The new 19-day Classical Antarctica and Argentina includes a tour of cosmopolitan Buenos Aires and the mighty Iguazu Falls before boarding the MS Expedition for a 12-day voyage from $9630* per person, twin share for departure 25 November 2012.
The package takes in Plaza de Mayo and the colourful La Boca district and a tango show and dinner in Buenos Aires before flying to Iguazu for a morning tour of Iguazu National Park, a scenic train ride through the lush forest and a walk along a boardwalk to the spectacular Devil’s Throat.
The voyage crosses the Drake Passage to the South Shetland Islands and on to the Antarctic Peninsula where weather permitting guests will go ashore twice a day to observe penguin rookeries and encounter seals. Additionally, guests booking this cruise will receive a free voucher to make their own photo book.
“The brochure contains a range of exhilarating voyages taking in the dramatic scenery and unique wildlife of the world’s last great wilderness,” Bentours business head Jeremy Hearst said. “This includes our newest tour, which is the perfect way to combine that once-in-a-lifetime voyage with Argentina’s highlights.
“The past year has brought some significant changes to Antarctic tourism, with many large cruise ships no longer allowed in Antarctic waters due to stringent new regulations. This has led to a dramatic increase in the demand for cruises on smaller vessels, so we strongly recommend booking early to ensure clients secure the voyage and cabin they want.”
Large cruise ships carrying heavy fuel oil have been banned from operating in Antarctic waters to help protect the continent’s fragile environment. Bentours’ Antarctic cruises, operated by Hurtigruten and Gap Adventures, are not affected.
Bentours’ most popular cruises have returned for 2012/13 including the 11-day Antarctica Classic which focuses on the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula from $7579*.
Other favourites include the 14-day Quest for the Antarctic Circle which makes a rare journey inside the polar circle from $7029*; the 19-day In the Realm of the Great Explorers from $8087*; and the 20-day Spirit of Shackleton from $14,849*.
The brochure also features two Latin America extensions – the 4-day Focus on Buenos Aires which includes 3 nights at hotel of choice, city tour and dinner and tango show from $670*; and 3-day Discover Iquazu Falls which includes 2 nights at Sheraton Internacional Iguazu in a room category of choice and a private half day Argentinean falls tour from $669*.
For bookings or further information contact Bentours on 1800 221 712, www.bentours.com.au.
*Terms and conditions apply. All prices are per person, twin share. Prices subject to change and availability.