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| Reviewed By: Butcher, Evesham on 28th Jan 2008 |
| Cruise Line: Voyages of Discovery |
Times cruised before: 6-10 |
| Cruise Ship: MV Discovery |
Sailed:
January,
2008 |
| Destination: Antarctica |
Age: 56-65 |
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This was a cruise to Antarctica on the Corinthian 11 which is a small ship with a big heart. Being a little over 4,000 tons it sails to the Antarctic with only 100 passengers. This is important as by treaty ships can only land 100 passengers at a time. The cruise itself consists of a 2 day passage from Ushuaia to the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsular. We set sail down the Beagle Channel a little late as we were awaiting 12 passengers who were on a delayed flight from Buenos Aires.
It is worth noting that two days are needed to transit the Drake Passage which can be rough. We were lucky on the way down but it was a little rough on our return. This is a small ship and despite the stabilisers it does roll in high seas. We were told that the flat bottom Ice Breakers are much worse, so that is another consideration in favour of Corinthian 11.
When we arrived in Antarctica the high quality of the expedition staff became fully evident in the way they looked after us. They were efficient and safe in a hazardous environment, whilst maintaining a fun atmosphere and continuing to inform us about everything we needed to see. They stayed in constant touch by radio with the Captain and kept a close watch on the changing weather and ice conditions.
The cabins are a good size especially for such a small ship with all being more than 200 square feet and many with balconies too. Everyone seemed happy with the cabins but there were several complaints that people could not regulate their shower. Four of my companions had the regulator changed several times but they still did not work properly. This is particularly disappointing for such an up market cruise.
Corinthian 11 is more like a private yacht than any cruise ship I have been on so far but the usual features are all there. What is missing (thankfully) is any form of games or entertainment. We were there for an expedition and entertainment consisted of dinner with fine wine and discussion of the day in the bar afterwards. The films that were shown related to our adventure, so this is not for those wishing a bucket and spade holiday.
As Corinthian 11 is an expedition ship, it is vital as mentioned above, that the expedition staff are good. On this the ship is outstanding. The expedition staff is led by an excellent and experienced organiser who also handpicked his team. They are all motivated and personable and to a man (and woman) look after their passengers very well indeed.
The dining room offers an open seating arrangement for dinner and a buffet for breakfast and lunch. The first thing you notice here is the helpful and friendly hotel staff, most of who are from the Ukraine. The bar is located in the club lounge with most drinks free of charge.
As an overall experience this is an expedition ship that is friendly and welcoming. Passengers can be assured that the staff will ensure they see as much as they can of the Antarctic wilderness whilst being looked after to the highest standard.
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| Quality of Food | n/a |
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| | Shore Excursions | n/a |
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| | Children's Facilities | n/a |
| | Onboard Activities | n/a |
| | Cabins | n/a |
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