vibration and noise levels. Unlike older ships
where you hear the engine and the turning of
the turbines, the Viking Polaris, having launched
in 2022, is quiet as a mouse.
You cannot help but be impressed about the
small details across the ship. These include the
black-and-white photos of explorers and
landscapes throughout; the quotes in the
elevators and beautiful wood panelling on the
ship; the felt models of birds; and the real-time
giant electronic map and staff on hand to
discuss where the ship's position is and where
we are heading.
When I wake up, the view has changed
overnight. Icebergs, some looking like giant
floating white wedding marquees, others like
versions of the Sydney Opera House, float by.
Others looks like large stadiums in all shapes
and sizes; some were a beautiful shade of blue
as they bobbed up and down in the ocean. The
scene is simply breathtaking.
MEET THE LOCALS
Our first visit, arriving by Zodiac (you can also
kayak), is to Cuverville Island, an important
Gentoo penguin breeding colony. Navigating
through smaller icebergs on the Zodiac, the
Expedition Team have cut stairs into the ice. We
were briefed not to walk along the 'penguin
highway', sit, or crouch on the ice. We watch
what looks like three drunk penguins with their
wings pulled back waddle along their highway.
There are three human tracks to walk along and
watch groups of these truly delightful creatures.
The Gentoo penguin is the world's fastest
underwater bird, particularly when foraging for
food. With their streamlined bodies and strong
flippers, they can reach speeds of up to 36 km
per hour, and are also capable of diving to 200
metres. Standing watching this extraordinary
species in their habitat feels like such a privilege,
you never want to forget this experience.
The 1959 Antarctic Treaty was signed to
preserve Antarctica as a natural reserve
dedicated to peace and science. In 1991, the
Protocol on Environmental Protection to the
Antarctic Treaty ensures protection of the
natural environment. The International
Association of Antarctica Tour Operators was
also founded in 1991 and promotes safe and
environmentally responsible travel. In terms of
"e sense of celebration
and community is very
apparent."
- Michael Mchugh
Call us on 138 747 (AU), 0800 447 913 (NZ), contact your local Viking travel agent or visit viking.com | 29
ICEBERGS, ANTARCTICA
Flora & fauna
of the Arctic
& Antarctica
