After the successful completion of their maiden journey to the icy continent of Antarctica last year in December, The Q Experiences, the Mumbai-based luxury travel agency has now announced The White Continent 2018, their second cruise to Antarctica.
Curated exclusively for 200 people, The White Continent 2018 will see a mix of cultures from around the world. The 14 days voyage will begin on 27th December 2018, with a 2 days stay in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
The White Continent, apparently is the only experience in the world which provides an overnight stay in Ushuaia, a resort town located in the southernmost tip of South America, often known as the ‘End of the World’.
“I have always been curious about Antarctica. Tourism has been there for years, but until now, nobody has taken Indians there. I know a lot of people who have been waiting to go there but were not sure how to go about it. So I felt now the would best time to curate a trip to Antarctica,” Vasim Shaikh, CEO & Founder, The Q Experiences, who is gearing up for his fourth trip to the white continent.
On board, there will be Jean-Louis Etienne, a French doctor, explorer, and scientist, well known for his Arctic and Antarctic explorations. And displaying his culinary expertise will be India’s first Michelin Starred Chef Atul Kochhar, providing everything from comfort food like Rajma Chawal to his masterpieces.
Speaking about what made him curate this expedition, Vasim says, “We have come to realise that travelers today, prefer places that are unexplored and unique. And therefore, the itinerary is designed in such a way that our clients gain a lifetime of unmatched memories.”
The ship will flag off from Ushuaia and will cross the temperamental Drake Passage, and cruise through some of the most breathtaking glaciers of Neko Bay & Paradise Bay. It will then anchor at Port Lockroy and sail to the largest colony of Chinstrap Penguins at Deception Island to witness the majestic Wendell Sea.
About his thoughts on women traveling solo, Vasim says, "We had seven women who were traveling solo for our last year’s cruise to Antarctica. I would like to see more women like them exploring the world."
About her experience, Thanuja Reddy, a 59-year-old dermatologist from Chennai who was part of last year's cruise says, "Antarctica is different from the rest of the world. I'm glad I went there alone. When you travel alone, you are not trying to find your way back to the group of people you came with. Instead, you get to spent time with yourself and meet a lot of new people."
Another solo traveler, 60- year-old Academician from Delhi, Mala Kapoor insists on the safety aspects that one has to take care of while you are traveling alone. "My trip to Antarctica was great and I would recommend it to anyone who asks me about it. It was my first time traveling alone and to all those who are apprehensive about doing it, I would tell them not to be scared and grab the opportunities," she added.
Avg cost: Rs: 9,60,000