Once-in-a-lifetime expeditions to Antarctica
The White Continent
Antarctica is the coldest place on earth yet it is considered a desert due to its low annual rainfall. However, although the continent experiences low precipitation it holds approximately 90% of the fresh water present on the earth's surface according to the British Antarctic Survey.
With dramatic mountain scenery, giant majestic icebergs and an extraordinary array of wildlife, Antarctica is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Below is a slideshow of exclusive photographs taken by Ponant photographer Lorraine Turci on a recent voyage to Antarctica on megayacht Le Boreal.
Once-in-a-lifetime expeditions
Expeditions allow you to follow in the footsteps of great explorers including Roald Amundsen and Sir Ernest Shackleton. Included Zodiac excursions are perfect for getting up close to the abundance of wildlife that Antarctica has to offer, from colonies of Chinstrap penguins to Humpback whales and Leopard seals.
Some voyages to the White Continent also explore the remote Falkland Islands, rarely-visited South Georgia and deserted South Orkneys.
Falkland Islands: The archipelago has a population of approximately 2500, with the majority of people living in Stanley, one of the smallest capitals in the world. The islands boast a unique sub-Antarctic eco-system which means they are home to many species including king penguins and albatross.
South Georgia: Rarely-visited, the island is home to millions of breeding penguins, seals and seabirds as well as abandoned whaling stations. At Grytviken, visit the whaling museum and the small graveyard where you can pay your respects to Sir Ernest Shackleton.
South Orkney Islands: A deserted archipelago located about 600km north-east of the Antarctic Peninsula. The United Kingdom has a scientific research base on Signy Island which is run by the British Antarctic Survey.