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Antarctica Marathon 2024 - Voyage 1 - Prices from £7825.00pp

Antarctica Marathon 2024 - Voyage 1

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£7,825.00
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Based on a total price of £7,825.00 per person
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Your Experience

Marathon Tours & Travel has been offering the Antarctica Marathon® & Half-Marathon since its inception in 1995. As the proud event organizer and the exclusive tour operator, we are excited to bring almost 360 runners and their supporters to this authentic event in 2024. Additionally, for the first time an Ultra 50K will be offered!

The Antarctica Marathon® Package begins with three nights in Buenos Aires where you will meet your running peers, participate in a few optional training runs and attend the mandatory race briefing and welcome dinner. We fly you to Ushuaia, which is located at the southern tip of Argentina. It is here where you will start your journey to Antarctica aboard our significantly enhanced ship, the Ocean Victory. Over the course of several days, you will sail through the Beagle Channel across the Drake Passage, through the Shetland Islands and before reaching King George Island – the location of the Marathon, Half-Marathon and Ultra 50K!

Take on one of the most gruelling marathons in the world on the southernmost continent. In addition to the full and half marathon, for this voyage, you will also have the option to join our first Antarctica Ultra.

Inclusions

Ten nights on the Ocean Victory

Three nights hotel accommodations at the Alvear Icon Hotel in Buenos Aires from March 5th to March 8th

All hotel taxes

Full breakfast each morning at the hotel

Half-Day Guided City Tour in Buenos Aires 

Welcome Reception and Dinner 

Roundtrip flights to Ushuaia

Airport Transfers (see note below)

Three meals daily, afternoon tea and happy hour on board your ship

Drink Package during lunch and dinner

• Captain’s Welcome and Farewell Reception

Official Expedition Parka

Official Antarctica Marathon® Tech Race Shirt

Lecture program on board your ship

Zodiac and wildlife excursions

Kayaking with whales option  (additional cost)

Services of Marathon Tours & Travel staff

• Photographic package including race, excursion and trip-log

•  Ocean Victory Staff Tips

Race entry fee is £205 additional

Not Included

Meals unless noted on the itinerary

Gratuities and tips

Incidentals

Travel Insurance

Airfare to/from Buenos Aires

Event Includes

Your Details

Please check all the details shown to make sure the names on your booking are the same as each person's passport. If not, please let us know within 48 hours of making your booking so we can change them. If you don't let us know straight away you may be charged. Names must be given at the time of booking and any shown as TBA will be classed as a name change and there will be a charge.

Insurance

Destination Sport Experiences strongly recommends travellers to take out comprehensive travel insurance with sufficient healthcare cover, including cover for existing medical conditions and any activities you plan to do.

If you have a European Health Insurance Card it will be valid up to its expiry date. This will be replaced with a new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). You can find further details here.

Medical Certification

If you are taking part in a running or cycling event in Italy or France you will be required to produce a medical certificate in order to collect your race number. What you need to do and how to get your medical certificate is outlined here.

Special Assistance

If you or anyone on your booking needs any special assistance for reduced mobility, disability or any other medical condition, you should let us know at team@destinationsport.com

We can give you more information about the accessibility of different services and the assistance available from transport and accommodation suppliers, or at venues. Availability and access to certain services / seating may be limited by the service provider so we recommend you talk to us about what you need before booking. If you book online please add details of any special assistance you need in the special request box.

Special Requests

If you have any special requests please let us know. We will do our best to make them happen for you but we can't guarantee them.

Important Travel information

It’s important be up to date with the latest information about where you’re travelling to and what documents you need to have in order to travel.

For information about passports and applying for them, you should check the passport pages of the UK Government Website.

To learn more about the destination that you are travelling to, including specific travel advise and entry requirements, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development office (FCDO) publishes up to date information.

When you travel, you should be 'Travel Aware'. By following the Travel Aware link, you’ll find a whole list of useful information put together by the FCDO, which will help you be 'Travel Aware' for your journey ahead.

You can also find more helpful hints and tips that Destination Sport Experiences have put together on our nifty webpage, right here.

Disclaimer

Marathon Tours reserve the right to change the itinerary, times and/or running course without further notice in the event of extreme weather.

By signing up for this event you agree to the Terms & Conditions.

Visa

Please note that it is each traveler’s responsibility to check visa and passport requirements and ensure that they comply. Obtaining a passport and, if required, a visa, is solely the responsibility of each traveler.

Passports

You must have a valid passport that matches the name on your airline tickets and the name on this confirmation for the ship manifest. Your passport should be valid for six (6) months after your return date.  No visas are necessary for US, Canada and most countries. Please check online to see if you need a visa.  IMPORTANT: enclose a copy of your passport photo page and page that lists date of issue, etc. with your paperwork.

Race time:  7:00 AM Wave 1, 1:00 PM Wave 2

Course 

The course will be routed over a roller coaster course toward Artigas, the Uruguayan Base at the western end of Collins Glacier. The course is entirely on dirt roads, which often can be muddy.  The course changes each year based on the base operations as well as road and weather conditions.  All runners must be self-sufficient and cannot expect any access to indoor facilities. 

Charitable objective 

Each year Marathon Tours & Travel offers runners the opportunity to sponsor an official Antarctica Marathon and Half-Marathon Mile Marker(s). The proceeds of the Mile Markers are donated to Oceanites, which is the official non-profit organization of the Antarctica Marathon and Half-Marathon.  In return, the runner gets to keep his/her sponsored mile marker after the race as a great souvenir! You can sponsor a mile marker by completing the Antarctica Marathon Mile Marker Sponsorship Form.  Oceanites has been researching the effect of climate change and tourism on Antarctica for more than 20 years.  They have collected valuable data on wildlife and plant populations to support further research on this most pristine part of our planet.  In addition to the sponsored mile markers there is a live on-board auction during the tour with all proceeds also going to Oceanites!

Temperature 

Average temperatures range between 15F-34F minus the wind chill, which can lower it by about 10F.  Heavy snow is rare but light flurries are common. 

Course time limit 

Marathoners must finish under six (6) hours and thirty (30) minutes, weather permitting.  You must pass the halfway mark in three (3) hours and 10 minutes.  Half-Marathoners must finish under four (4) hours and thirty (30) minutes, weather permitting. Course marshals have the responsibility to stop  any runner from continuing who might endanger himself or herself through fatigue, hypothermia or dehydration.

Number pickup 

Race check-in and the briefing with emphasis on the environmental rules and regulations governing this event will be held at the welcome dinner in Buenos Aires.  Attendance is mandatory for participation in the race. 

Shoes 

You will not need any special shoes.  A training shoe designed for off-road running is best.  Bring two pair since it might be wet and muddy. Racing flats are not recommended. NOTE: trekking poles or any other aid are not allowed in either event.

Recommended Gear List

Expected temperatures:

Buenos Aires: 70-90F / 20-32C

Ushuaia: 45-60F / 7-16CF

Antarctica: 0-35F / -18-2C

We recommend the following based on the expected temperatures as noted above (modify based on your personal preference):

·       In Buenos Aires, in addition to your regular comfort wear don’t forget something a little nicer for our Welcome Reception and Dinner (you can also use for our farewell dinner on the ship).

·       In Ushuaia, a warmer jacket and you should always have a waterproof jacket handy.

·       On the ship, in addition to casual clothing:

-          Farewell dinner attire mentioned above

-          Swimsuit

-          Binoculars if interested, some are available when you are on the bridge

-           Converter for European electric outlets

          For zodiac excursions, kayaking and landings:

-          Three (3) layers for warmth:

-           wicking base layer insulating fleece layer

-          insulating waterproof outer layer

-          A moisture wicking sock liner and a heavy wool outer sock

-          Boots will be provided

·       Legs

-          Thermal layer

-          Medium weight pants

-          Waterproof outer pants (i.e. ski pants)

•            Torso

-          Long-sleeved wicking tech shirt base layer

-          Medium weight fleece ¼ to full zip tech shirt or puffy down jacket insulating layer

-          Waterproof jacket w/ hood if possible (i.e. ski jacket)

•            Hands

-          Glove liners

-          Outer gloves or mittens (big enough to accommodate liners)

-          Neoprene glove for kayakers if you have them

•            Neck and Head

-          Neck buff

-          Balaclava or facemask

-          Thermal hat

-          Sunscreen

•            Eyewear

-          Sunglasses

-          Ski goggles (especially if you wear contacts)

•            Other gear

-          Dry bag, for camer

Eligibility

All runners must be at least 18 years of age on race day for participation in the marathon. There is no age limit for the half-marathon.

Awards 

The top three overall for males and females in both races will be recognized.   In the marathon, the top two in each age category will be recognized (under 40, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, and 70 and over).  All finishers will receive a finisher certificate and a medallion.

Difficulty 

Very difficult, very hilly with constantly changing weather and running surface.

Event Waiver

In consideration for my entry acceptance, I hereby for myself my heirs, executors and administrators release any and all rights for damages I may have against the sponsors, organizers, government officials, Marathon Tours, Inc. and Albatros Expeditions A/S or its affiliates, or any individual associated with the event. I attest that I am physically fit to complete in this challenging event. I grant full permission to any and all of the foregoing to use my likeness in all media including photographs, pictures, recordings, or other record of this event for any legitimate purpose. I also understand that I am traveling to a very remote destination and that weather, acts of God and other forces beyond any person's control may prevent the event from taking place.  If the event is not held due to circumstances beyond our control such as but not limited to weather, acts of God or force majeure, I understand that no refund of my travel expenses or entry fees will be reimbursed.

Responsibility

These tours are operated by Marathon Tours, Inc. of Chelsea, MA who acts only as an agent for the passenger to the companies offering such services and assumes no liability for injury, damage, loss, accident, delay or irregularity caused by any reason whatsoever by any party offering such services. All terms and conditions offered are governed by the laws of Massachusetts. The right is reserved to cancel the tour prior to departure with a refund, less applicable credit card and processing fees, made as full settlement to the passenger. The right is reserved by Marathon Tours, Inc. to deny acceptance of a booking application by any person. Marathon Tours, Inc. may make any changes or alterations in the itinerary as it deems necessary for the proper handling of the tour. The sole responsibility of any airline used is limited to that set out in the passenger contract evidenced by the ticket. The airlines concerned are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time that the passengers are not on board their aircraft. All race participants must sign the trip application which acts as the race entry form and liability waiver.

Inclusions

Ten nights on the Ocean Victory

Three nights hotel accommodations at the Hilton in Buenos Aires from March 5th to March 8th

All hotel taxes

Full breakfast each morning at the hotel

Half-Day Guided City Tour in Buenos Aires 

Welcome Reception and Dinner 

Roundtrip flights to Ushuaia

Airport Transfers (see note below)

Three meals daily, afternoon tea and happy hour on board your ship

Drink Package during lunch and dinner

• Captain’s Welcome and Farewell Reception

Official Expedition Parka

Official Antarctica Marathon Tech Race Shirt

Lecture program on board your ship

Zodiac and wildlife excursions

Kayaking with whales option  (additional cost)

Services of Marathon Tours & Travel staff

• Photographic package including race, excursion and trip-log

•  Ocean Victory Staff Tips

Race entry fee is £205 additional

Not Included

Meals unless noted on the itinerary

Gratuities and tips

Incidentals

Travel Insurance

Airfare to/from Buenos Aires

Your Itinerary

Tuesday 5 March, 2024 - Flights arrive in Buenos Aires, Argentina and passengers are transferred to the Hilton Buenos Aires Hotel.  There will be an optional light training run in late afternoon.  Most flights will arrive at the Ezeiza International Airport (EZE) and transfers are arranged for only those arriving at this airport between the hours of 8:00 AM and 1:00 PM. You have this evening to explore some of this city's famous restaurants just a short walk to Puerto Madero.

Wednesday 6 March, 2024 – Following breakfast, enjoy a half-day city tour, which will introduce you to the vibrant capital of Argentina. There is an optional 4:00 PM light training run in the National Park. We look forward to seeing you at the evening cocktail reception, followed by a welcome dinner and the important mandatory race check-in/briefing at the hotel. (breakfast and dinner included).

Thursday 7 March, 2024 – Enjoy today to explore more of Buenos Aires and/or participate in a group light training run at 4:00 PM  in the National Park. You have this evening to explore some of this city's famous restaurants just a short walk to Puerto Madero. (breakfast included)

Friday 8 March, 2024 – Guests on the Ocean Victory will be transferred to the airport for an early morning flight to Ushuaia in the province of Tierra del Fuego, the world's southernmost city. Depending on flight arrival time, it’s possible you will have time to explore this interesting town with plenty of shops and restaurants; and then be ready to board the ship in the afternoon for your departure to Antarctica. Once you are settled in your cabin, we will regroup with a Welcome Reception and briefing on shipboard safety. (breakfast and dinner included).

Saturday 9 March and Sunday 10 March, 2024 – These two days are spent at sea crossing the Beagle Channel and Drake Passage. The open bridge policy invites everyone to get a bird's eye view of the navigational activity alongside the Captain and his crew. Videos and lectures will introduce visitors to the wildlife, climate and history of Antarctica. We expect to arrive at King George Island late in the day when we drop off to race operations crew to set up the course for the following day. (breakfast, lunch and dinner included).

Monday 11 March, 2024 - Race Day! The course has been prepared with flags and mileage markers. Hopefully, Mother Nature will be kind with the weather. The Wave 1 race will start at 7:00 AM and Wave 2 will start at 1:00 PM with both starts subject to change based on weather. After this major accomplishment, enjoy a post-race party and celebration this evening! The ship heads south overnight toward the Antarctica Peninsula. (breakfast, lunch and dinner included).

Tuesday 12 March, 2024 – We awake to the panoramic views of glaciers mountains and pristine bays and channels. Weaving among the icebergs, our destination is Paradise Bay, one of the most beautiful places on Earth. A sunny afternoon will permit us to have a barbecue and race awards ceremony on the stern deck. The zodiacs will bring us to shore for a visit to the vacated Argentine base nestled at the base of a hill where visitors are welcome to climb to the peak for a bird's eye view of the area. (breakfast, lunch and dinner included).

Wednesday 13 March to Friday 15 March, 2024 - These next three days we hope to find ourselves in the fjords near the Lemaire Channel where humpbacks cruise for krill (small crustaceans). The third afternoon we leave the "White Continent" to re-cross the Drake Passage. (breakfast, lunch and dinner included).

Saturday 16 March and Sunday 18 March, 2024 - We spend two days at sea on our return voyage hoping for calm seas to glorify in the memory of accomplishing a life-changing experience. We first sight land at Cape Horn, Chile where we will approach our return port at Ushuaia. (breakfast, lunch and dinner included).

Monday 19 March, 2024 - This morning will find us in Ushuaia at about 8:00 AM, where we disembark and check-in for our return group flight to Buenos Aires and then onward to your individual international flights back home. Flights departing from Buenos Aires to your home city should not depart before 8:30 PM. You should consider booking a one night (or more) stay on the return to relax before your long flights home. (breakfast included).

Need to Know

Disclaimer

Marathon Tours reserve the right to change the itinerary, times and/or running course without further notice in the event of extreme weather.

By signing up for this event you agree to the Terms & Conditions.

Visa

Please note that it is each traveler’s responsibility to check visa and passport requirements and ensure that they comply. Obtaining a passport and, if required, a visa, is solely the responsibility of each traveler. 

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is an essential part of any holiday you take, and we highly recommend that you purchase suitable insurance for your trip.

Comprehensive travel insurance that includes COVID coverage for quarantine or hospitalization is required by the government of Argentina. Please read carefully the Insurance Advisory Form. All travelers must complete and sign the Insurance Advisory Form.  Note: insurance should be booked 15 days from receiving your official confirmation to avoid loss of some benefits.

Passports 

You must have a valid passport that matches the name on your airline tickets and the name on this confirmation for the ship manifest. Your passport should be valid for six (6) months after your return date.  No visas are necessary for US, Canada and most countries. Please check online to see if you need a visa.  IMPORTANT: enclose a copy of your passport photo page and page that lists date of issue, etc. with your paperwork.

Race time 

7:00 AM Wave 1, 1:00 PM Wave 2

Course

The course will be routed over a roller coaster course toward Artigas, the Uruguayan Base at the western end of Collins Glacier. The course is entirely on dirt roads, which often can be muddy.  The course changes each year based on the base operations as well as road and weather conditions.  All runners must be self-sufficient and cannot expect any access to indoor facilities.  

Temperature

Average temperatures range between 15F-34F minus the wind chill, which can lower it by about 10F.  Heavy snow is rare but light flurries are common.  

Course time limit

Marathoners must finish under 6.5 hours, weather permitting.  You must pass the halfway mark in three (3) hours and 10 minutes.  Half-Marathoners must finish under 4 hours, weather permitting. Course marshals have the responsibility to disqualify any runner who might endanger himself or herself through fatigue, hypothermia or dehydration. 

Charitable objective

Each year Marathon Tours & Travel offers runners the opportunity to sponsor an official Antarctica Marathon®? and Half-Marathon Mile Marker(s). The proceeds of the Mile Markers are donated to Oceanites, which is the official non-profit organization of the Antarctica Marathon®? and Half-Marathon.  In return, the runner gets to keep his/her sponsored mile marker after the race as a great souvenir! You can sponsor a mile marker by completing the Antarctica Marathon®? Mile Marker Sponsorship Form.  Oceanites has been researching the effect of climate change and tourism on Antarctica for more than 20 years.  They have collected valuable data on wildlife and plant populations to support further research on this most pristine part of our planet.  In addition to the sponsored mile markers there is a live on-board auction during the tour with all proceeds also going to Oceanites!

Number Pickup

Race check-in and the briefing with emphasis on the environmental rules and regulations governing this event will be held at the welcome dinner in Buenos Aires.  Attendance is mandatory for participation in the race. 

Recommended Gear List

Expected temperatures: 

Buenos Aires: 70-90F / 20-32C

Ushuaia: 45-60F / 7-16C

Antarctica: 0-35F / -18-2C

We recommend the following based on the expected temperatures as noted above (modify based on your personal preference):

In Buenos Aires, in addition to your regular comfort wear don’t forget something a little nicer for our Welcome Reception and Dinner (you can also use for our farewell dinner on the ship).

In Ushuaia, a warmer jacket and you should always have a waterproof jacket handy.

On the ship, in addition to casual clothing:

- Farewell dinner attire mentioned above

- Swimsuit

- Binoculars if interested, some are available when you are on the bridge

-  Converter for European electric outlets

 For zodiac excursions, kayaking and landings:

- Three (3) layers for warmth:

-  wicking base layer insulating fleece layer 

- insulating waterproof outer layer

- A moisture wicking sock liner and a heavy wool outer sock

- Boots will be provided

Legs

- Thermal layer

- Medium weight pants

- Waterproof outer pants (i.e. ski pants)

Torso

- Long-sleeved wicking tech shirt base layer

- Medium weight fleece ¼ to full zip tech shirt or puffy down jacket insulating layer

- Waterproof jacket w/ hood if possible (i.e. ski jacket)

Hands

- Glove liners

- Outer gloves or mittens (big enough to accommodate liners)

- Neoprene glove for kayakers if you have them 

Neck and Head

- Neck buff

- Balaclava or facemask

- Thermal hat

- Sunscreen

Eyewear

- Sunglasses

- Ski goggles (especially if you wear contacts)

Other gear

- Dry bag, for camer

Shoes: You will not need any special shoes.  A training shoe designed for off-road running is best.  Bring two pair since it might be wet and muddy. Racing flats are not recommended. NOTE: trekking poles or any other aid are not allowed in either event.

Eligibility  

All runners must be at least 18 years of age on race day for participation in the marathon. There is no age limit for the half-marathon.

Awards

The top three overall for males and females in both races will be recognized.   In the marathon, the top two in each age category will be recognized (under 40, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, and 70 and over).  All finishers will receive a finisher certificate and a medallion. 

Difficulty

Very difficult, very hilly with constantly changing weather and running surface.

 

Location

Airfares & Transfers

International Fares to/from Buenos Aires: Packages do not include airfare to Buenos Aires (EZE), which is where the group first meets. 

- March 5 – airport transfers for arrivals will be provided if you arrive in Buenos Aires between the hours of 8:00am and 1:00pm

- March 18 – Return international flights should not depart before 8:30pm since some flights from Ushuaia often arrive back in Buenos Aires in the late afternoon at the Aeroparque (AEP), the domestic airport. A change of airports may be required, which takes at least one hour. If you cannot book a flight after 8:30pm, an extra night is recommended in Buenos Aires, we can book post tour hotel nights for you at a rate of £255 for a single room and £126 per person for a double room. 

Flights from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia and Ushuaia to Buenos Aires: Marathon Tours & Travel will confirm all domestic flights from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia.

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Prices from £7,825.00pp

Event 1

Antarctica Marathon 2024 - Voyage 1

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