June 30, 2008 - Regent Seven Seas Cruises is offering two Antarctica itineraries aboard top-rated expedition cruise ship, Minerva, in 2009.

Sailing to the Falkland Islands, Drake Passage and Antarctic Peninsula, guests will explore the White Continent in stylish comfort, accompanied by respected naturalists, geologists, zoologists, historians and ornithologists.

The journey will be highlighted by complimentary Zodiac tours and enlightening shore excursions featuring abundant glacier and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Minerva is the new name being given to Explorer II following a summer 2008 dry-dock, during which she will receive new furnishings, carpeting and additional amenities.

Unlike Antarctica cruises aboard today's large cruise ships, Minerva's smaller size and special Zodiac tours ensure our guests an abundance of unforgettable moments, said Mark Conroy, president of RSS.

Setting sail on January 14 to 25 and January 25 to February 8, both voyages begin with visits to the Falkland Islands wildlife-rich shores and the quaint village of Port Stanley. Minerva then cruises to the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula (with opportunities for disembarkation and exploration as weather permits), followed by a transit of the Drake Passage.

Before returning to Ushuaia, Argentina, Minerva will sail along Cape Horn, at the confluence of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. The 14-night cruise on January 25 adds a call at South Georgia Island, featuring large colonies of king penguins, fur and elephant seals.

Both itineraries include a one-night, pre-cruise stay in Santiago, Chile; roundtrip charter flights from Santiago to Ushuaia; a city tour and Patagonian lunch on embarkation day in Ushuaia; and a complimentary backpack and parka. All Zodiac excursions are also included.