Journey to the bottom of the world

THE SOUTH POLE: a plaque marking its geographic location.

THE SOUTH POLE: a plaque marking its geographic location.

Published Apr 18, 2012

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This year is a year of great celebrations. It's the year of the London Olympics and the 100th anniversary of both the Titanic disaster and Scott's reaching the fabled South Pole.

With a “passion for polar”, Unique Destinations, in representing both Adventure Network International (ANI) and Quark Expeditions, is celebrating big time.

ANI offers a wide range of expedition experiences on the Seventh Continent, ranging from extremely strenuous polar challenges and skiing to the South Pole, to a nine-day emperor penguin trip that requires moderate fitness.

To celebrate Scott's anniversary, the company is offering three Ski South Pole options, each featuring mountain passes, fields of sastrugi, whiteout conditions and sub-zero winds. They include the 1 170km classic route from Hercules Inlet; a shorter route undertaken by Reinhold Messner, and the historical route pioneered by Amundsen up the Axel Heiberg Glacier. They are suitable only for those with a high level of strength and aerobic fitness, capable of hauling sleds up to 3 350m for eight to 12 hours a day!

For those who prefer the more comfortable way - and I include myself - why not take an expedition cruise to the Antarctic aboard Quark's magnificent Ocean Diamond (previously La Diamant), a new addition to its fleet. The options are an 11-day journey focusing on the Antarctic Peninsula or 20 days incorporating South Georgia, the Falklands and Antarctica. This totally refurbished vessel is fast, cruising at 15.5 knots, allowing a greater distance to be covered.

In addition, on all trips, the adventure option of kayaking is offered, some including mountaineering and cross-country

skiing as well.

Good news for last. An introductory 25 percent discount for bookings made by the end of April is available - a generous offer making the “Last Paradise” a greater possibility for many. - Weekend Argus

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