MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Aurora Expeditions adds new Antarctic gateway in 2014/15

Aurora Expeditions are set to shake up the traditional Antarctic cruise itinerary with the launch of an exciting new ‘Antarctic Gateway’ in their 2014/15 Antarctic program. The Chilean port and nature haven of Puerto Williams will be used as an alternative to the usual Argentinian port of Ushuaia, with voyages either starting or ending on the eco-rich Navarino Island along the Chilean banks of the Beagle Channel.

The introduction of Puerto Williams to the company’s itineraries also brings with it a great new landing site, with an opportunity to explore part of the UNESCO Cape Horn Biosphere Reserve, which hosts the world's southernmost forested ecosystems and culture (the Yaghans) as well as protecting five per cent of the world's bryophyte diversity (mosses and liverworts).

As an added bonus, all itineraries that start or end in Puerto Williams will include in the voyage fare a tour of the port town and its surrounding natural attractions, along with a scenic flight over the spectacular granite spires of the Dientes de Navarino Mountains as passengers make their way to or from Punta Arenas, Chile.

A selection of itineraries will maintain the traditional Antarctic gateway of Ushuaia as a departure or arrival port, allowing passengers to experience both sides of the Beagle Channel.

The popular Fly/Sail itineraries remain with two departures including a flight between King George Island, Antarctica and Punta Arenas. Two further voyages will offer passengers the option to fly between Stanley, Falkland Islands and Santiago OR Punta Arenas. All Fly/Sail departures will start and end in Chile, allowing passengers to benefit from just one return international airfare to Punta Arenas.

Aurora Expeditions group size of 54 remains one of the smallest in the region, and their team of experts collectively bring over 150 years of Antarctic expedition travel experience to provide passengers with a unique and personal adventure.

For the more adventurous there are a range of activities on offer, such as scuba diving, kayaking, photography, camping and ice climbing.

Prices for the 2014/15 Antarctic season start from US$7,100 per person based on a triple cabin for a 10 day cruise plus one night’s accommodation in Punta Arenas.

Bookings made before 31 August 2013 will receive a 5% early bird offer. Valid on the first 15 bookings on each voyage only and not valid in conjunction with a offer .

- Visit www.auroraexpeditions.com.au to view the 2014/15 program online or to download a brochure or call our Expedition Experts on +61 2 9252 1033 or freecall within Australia 1800 637 688.