G Adventures reports a 15 per cent increase in bookings for its Antarctica programs in 2011-12 in part due to the build up of the 100th anniversary of British Captain Robert F. Scott’s heroic expedition to the South Pole to be commemorated in January. Together with the successful airing in the UK and Australia of Frozen Planet, the nature documentary of Earth’s polar regions co-produced by the BBC, the Discovery Channel and The Open University, demand for these amazing regions has been steadily climbing.
Now the seven-part series, which focuses on life and the environment in both Antarctica and the Arctic, is coming to televisions across North America. Set to premiere on the Discovery Channel on Sunday, March 18th, the tour operator expects already brisk sales to continue their record growth and is encouraging travellers to book early to avoid the disappointment of sold out departure dates in 2012-13.
“The success of Frozen Planet illustrates the high level of interest in seeing some of our planet’s most amazing sights and wildlife and what is being done to protect this fragile environment,” says Bruce Poon Tip, G Adventures’ founder. “The series will spark a desire in many to go beyond HD and see for themselves what few travellers have been fortunate enough to explore. And they will be forever changed by the experience.”
G Adventures presents a diverse portfolio of Polar Expeditions for 2012 aboard the company-owned, small ship M/S Expedition. The company offers a number of different itineraries to suit varied budgets and possible time constraints in both Antarctica (travel November and March) and the Arctic (departures offered June through September) and all G Adventures Polar programs include the Expedition’s expert guides and lecturers who provide their insights and bring these amazing regions to life. For the traveller seeking a unique way to experience the region, G Adventures offers kayaking in both Antarctica and the Arctic and camping in Antarctica. In addition, pre and post-cruise hotel and flight add-ons are tailored to customize your vacation and extend your adventure.
Some highlights to expect on G’s 13-day Antarctica Classic tour include up-close encounters with leopard seals and immense rookeries of penguins. The 8-day Realm of the Polar Bear tour is the place to spot orca and humpback whales; and with G Adventures’ exclusive 100% Bear-antee if clients can’t spot a polar bear, every passenger on board will be credited the value of their cruise to put toward a future M/S Expedition Arctic cruise.
