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The journey begins in Cape Town, a vibrant coastal city set between mountains and ocean, known for Table Mountain, nearby vineyards, and diverse wildlife, before crossing the Southern Atlantic to the remote island of Tristan da Cunha, one of the most isolated inhabited places on Earth, rich in seabirds, penguins, and marine life. Continuing south, the expedition reaches South Georgia, often called the Galápagos of the Poles, where vast colonies of king penguins and elephant seals dominate the rugged coastline, and historic sites like Grytviken tell stories of early exploration. The voyage then enters the breathtaking Antarctic Peninsula, a world of towering glaciers, icebergs, and abundant wildlife including seals and penguins, offering some of the most iconic polar scenery on Earth. After crossing the Southern Ocean once more, the journey concludes in Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, nestled between the Martial Mountains and the Beagle Channel, marking the end of an extraordinary expedition through some of the planet’s most remote and pristine regions.
Day 1 – Cape Town
Between mountains and the ocean, Cape Town is a vibrant, multicultural city with a lively waterfront featuring seafood restaurants, shopping and attractions. A cable car transports visitors to distinctive Table Mountain with sweeping views. Boats head to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated.Boulders Beach is home to African penguins, and world-class Stellenbosch vineyards offer wine tastings amid Cape Dutch architecture
Days 2-5 – Day at sea
Days at sea are rarely idle on an expedition voyage. Scan the horizon from the open deck — albatrosses tracking the ship’s wake, a blow in the distance, ice on the edge of visibility. Between landings, the ocean itself becomes part of the itinerary. Head inside when you’re ready: sauna, gym, hot tub, or a talk from the expedition team on what lies ahead
Days 6 – Tristan Da Cunha
Seabirds outnumber humans on this remote British outpost in the middle of the southern Atlantic. Millions of species like the rare yellow-nosed albatross, skuas, terns and petrels, including the endangered Tristan albatross, inhabit the bluffs. Northern rockhopper penguins breed on the beaches, while upwellings attract whales and dolphins. Fur seals also haul out on the island teeming with avian life
Days 7-10 – Day at sea
Day 11 – 12: South Georgia
Often called the ‘Galapagos of the Poles,’ South Georgia has a number of landing sites with tens of thousands of King Penguins and gentoo penguins, making up some of the largest populations in the world alongside harrumphing elephant seals. Among its remarkable sites is Grytviken, the historic whaling station where legendary British explorer Ernest Shackleton (1874–1922) is laid to rest
Day 13 – 14: Day at sea
On some days at sea guests are welcome to visit the bridge and see how the ship is navigated through ice, read the instruments, and talk with the officers on watch. Days at sea are also when the expedition team runs their best talks: deeper dives into the wildlife, history, and science of the region you’re crossing. Or simply find a quiet corner and watch the Southern Ocean go by
Day 15 – 18: Antarctic Peninsula
Day 19 – 20: Day at sea
Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers
Day 21: Ushuaia
Nestled in the foothills of the snow-capped Martial Range, Ushuaia’s colourful streets and mismatched buildings cascade from the imposing mountains before coming to an abrupt halt at the shores of the Beagle Channel. As one of the world’s southernmost cities, Ushuaia carries its ‘end of the world’ reputation well. The moody weather and dramatic surroundings certainly help. Board your boutique ship before departing for your journey through one of the most captivating wilderness regions of the world
What’s INCLUDED:
Enhance your experience
You also have the option of adding some extra special services to your cultural cruise experience (additional charges apply):
To confirm reservations, a deposit of 20% of the cruise package price is due upon handing over of the security certificate. For suite bookings the down payment will be 30% of the cruise package price.
The remaining payment is due 120 days before the start of the trip, provided that the security note has been handed over.
Rates per person
Oceanview Staterooms measure 20m2 (215ft2) and can accommodate two guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.
Amenities also include a smart HDTV, individually-controlled air-conditioning, stocked minibar with snacks, soft drinks & beer, Illy Espresso coffee machine with pods, kettle and tea bags, towels for cabin, pool and gym, bathrobe, bedroom slippers, and toiletries by Lajatica. Each cabin welcomes you with a bottle of Champagne (75cl – Premium Suites, Suites, Junior Suites/37.5cl – Balcony, Oceanview) and there’s also free Wi-Fi, personal safe, and a pair of Nikon Prostaff 3S 10x42 binoculars to help you watch out for wildlife!
2
20m2 (215ft2)
Window
Oceanview Staterooms measure 20m2 (215ft2) and can accommodate two guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.
Amenities also include a smart HDTV, individually-controlled air-conditioning, stocked minibar with snacks, soft drinks & beer, Illy Espresso coffee machine with pods, kettle and tea bags, towels for cabin, pool and gym, bathrobe, bedroom slippers, and toiletries by Lajatica. Each cabin welcomes you with a bottle of Champagne (75cl – Premium Suites, Suites, Junior Suites/37.5cl – Balcony, Oceanview) and there’s also free Wi-Fi, personal safe, and a pair of Nikon Prostaff 3S 10x42 binoculars to help you watch out for wildlife!
2
20m2 (215ft2)
Window
Balcony Staterooms measure 25m² (269ft²) – including a 5m² (54ft²) private balcony – and can accommodate two or three guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.
Amenities also include a smart HDTV, individually-controlled air-conditioning, stocked minibar with snacks, soft drinks & beer, Illy Espresso coffee machine with pods, kettle and tea bags, towels for cabin, pool and gym, bathrobe, bedroom slippers, and toiletries by Lajatica. Each cabin welcomes you with a bottle of Champagne (75cl – Premium Suites, Suites, Junior Suites/37.5cl – Balcony, Oceanview) and there’s also free Wi-Fi, personal safe, and a pair of Nikon Prostaff 3S 10x42 binoculars to help you watch out for wildlife!
2
25m² (269ft²)
Balcony
Balcony Staterooms measure 25m² (269ft²) – including a 5m² (54ft²) private balcony – and can accommodate two or three guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.
Amenities also include a smart HDTV, individually-controlled air-conditioning, stocked minibar with snacks, soft drinks & beer, Illy Espresso coffee machine with pods, kettle and tea bags, towels for cabin, pool and gym, bathrobe, bedroom slippers, and toiletries by Lajatica. Each cabin welcomes you with a bottle of Champagne (75cl – Premium Suites, Suites, Junior Suites/37.5cl – Balcony, Oceanview) and there’s also free Wi-Fi, personal safe, and a pair of Nikon Prostaff 3S 10x42 binoculars to help you watch out for wildlife!
0
25m² (269ft²)
Balcony
Balcony Staterooms measure 25m2 (269ft2) – including a 5m2 (54ft2) private balcony – and can accommodate two or three guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.
Amenities also include a smart HDTV, individually-controlled air-conditioning, stocked minibar with snacks, soft drinks & beer, Illy Espresso coffee machine with pods, kettle and tea bags, towels for cabin, pool and gym, bathrobe, bedroom slippers, and toiletries by Lajatica. Each cabin welcomes you with a bottle of Champagne (75cl – Premium Suites, Suites, Junior Suites/37.5cl – Balcony, Oceanview) and there’s also free Wi-Fi, personal safe, and a pair of Nikon Prostaff 3S 10x42 binoculars to help you watch out for wildlife!
0
25m² (269ft²)
Balcony
Junior Suites measure 32-36m2 (344-388ft2) – including a 6m2 (65ft2) private balcony – and can accommodate two guests. They feature a king size bed, have a separate living room area, and luxurious en-suite bathroom.
Amenities also include a smart HDTV, individually-controlled air-conditioning, stocked minibar with snacks, soft drinks & beer, Illy Espresso coffee machine with pods, kettle and tea bags, towels for cabin, pool and gym, bathrobe, bedroom slippers, and toiletries by Lajatica. Each cabin welcomes you with a bottle of Champagne (75cl – Premium Suites, Suites, Junior Suites/37.5cl – Balcony, Oceanview) and there’s also free Wi-Fi, personal safe, and a pair of Nikon Prostaff 3S 10x42 binoculars to help you watch out for wildlife!
2
32-36m2 (344-388ft2)
Balcony
Suites feature a king size bed, and have a separate living room, with a flame-effect fireplace. There’s also a luxurious ensuite bathroom – with separate bath tub and walk-in shower – and a 10m2 (108ft2) private balcony.
Amenities also include a smart HDTV, individually-controlled air-conditioning, stocked minibar with snacks, soft drinks & beer, Illy Espresso coffee machine with pods, kettle and tea bags, towels for cabin, pool and gym, bathrobe, bedroom slippers, and toiletries by Lajatica. Each cabin welcomes you with a bottle of Champagne (75cl – Premium Suites, Suites, Junior Suites/37.5cl – Balcony, Oceanview) and there’s also free Wi-Fi, personal safe, and a pair of Nikon Prostaff 3S 10x42 binoculars to help you watch out for wildlife!
0
40m²
Balcony
Premium Suites have a king size bed, separate living room, and flame-effect fireplace. There’s also a luxurious ensuite bathroom – with separate bath tub and shower – walk-in wardrobe, and a 12m2 (129ft2) private balcony.
Amenities also include a smart HDTV, individually-controlled air-conditioning, stocked minibar with snacks, soft drinks & beer, Illy Espresso coffee machine with pods, kettle and tea bags, towels for cabin, pool and gym, bathrobe, bedroom slippers, and toiletries by Lajatica. Each cabin welcomes you with a bottle of Champagne (75cl – Premium Suites, Suites, Junior Suites/37.5cl – Balcony, Oceanview) and there’s also free Wi-Fi, personal safe, and a pair of Nikon Prostaff 3S 10x42 binoculars to help you watch out for wildlife!
2
47m²
Balcony
Oceanview Staterooms measure 20m2 (215ft2) and can accommodate two guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.
Amenities also include a smart HDTV, individually-controlled air-conditioning, stocked minibar with snacks, soft drinks & beer, Illy Espresso coffee machine with pods, kettle and tea bags, towels for cabin, pool and gym, bathrobe, bedroom slippers, and toiletries by Lajatica. Each cabin welcomes you with a bottle of Champagne (75cl – Premium Suites, Suites, Junior Suites/37.5cl – Balcony, Oceanview) and there’s also free Wi-Fi, personal safe, and a pair of Nikon Prostaff 3S 10x42 binoculars to help you watch out for wildlife!
2
20m2 (215ft2)
Window
Oceanview Staterooms measure 20m2 (215ft2) and can accommodate two guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.
Amenities also include a smart HDTV, individually-controlled air-conditioning, stocked minibar with snacks, soft drinks & beer, Illy Espresso coffee machine with pods, kettle and tea bags, towels for cabin, pool and gym, bathrobe, bedroom slippers, and toiletries by Lajatica. Each cabin welcomes you with a bottle of Champagne (75cl – Premium Suites, Suites, Junior Suites/37.5cl – Balcony, Oceanview) and there’s also free Wi-Fi, personal safe, and a pair of Nikon Prostaff 3S 10x42 binoculars to help you watch out for wildlife!
2
20m2 (215ft2)
Window
Balcony Staterooms measure 25m² (269ft²) – including a 5m² (54ft²) private balcony – and can accommodate two or three guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.
Amenities also include a smart HDTV, individually-controlled air-conditioning, stocked minibar with snacks, soft drinks & beer, Illy Espresso coffee machine with pods, kettle and tea bags, towels for cabin, pool and gym, bathrobe, bedroom slippers, and toiletries by Lajatica. Each cabin welcomes you with a bottle of Champagne (75cl – Premium Suites, Suites, Junior Suites/37.5cl – Balcony, Oceanview) and there’s also free Wi-Fi, personal safe, and a pair of Nikon Prostaff 3S 10x42 binoculars to help you watch out for wildlife!
2
25m² (269ft²)
Balcony
Balcony Staterooms measure 25m² (269ft²) – including a 5m² (54ft²) private balcony – and can accommodate two or three guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.
Amenities also include a smart HDTV, individually-controlled air-conditioning, stocked minibar with snacks, soft drinks & beer, Illy Espresso coffee machine with pods, kettle and tea bags, towels for cabin, pool and gym, bathrobe, bedroom slippers, and toiletries by Lajatica. Each cabin welcomes you with a bottle of Champagne (75cl – Premium Suites, Suites, Junior Suites/37.5cl – Balcony, Oceanview) and there’s also free Wi-Fi, personal safe, and a pair of Nikon Prostaff 3S 10x42 binoculars to help you watch out for wildlife!
0
25m² (269ft²)
Balcony
Balcony Staterooms measure 25m2 (269ft2) – including a 5m2 (54ft2) private balcony – and can accommodate two or three guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.
Amenities also include a smart HDTV, individually-controlled air-conditioning, stocked minibar with snacks, soft drinks & beer, Illy Espresso coffee machine with pods, kettle and tea bags, towels for cabin, pool and gym, bathrobe, bedroom slippers, and toiletries by Lajatica. Each cabin welcomes you with a bottle of Champagne (75cl – Premium Suites, Suites, Junior Suites/37.5cl – Balcony, Oceanview) and there’s also free Wi-Fi, personal safe, and a pair of Nikon Prostaff 3S 10x42 binoculars to help you watch out for wildlife!
0
25m² (269ft²)
Balcony
Junior Suites measure 32-36m2 (344-388ft2) – including a 6m2 (65ft2) private balcony – and can accommodate two guests. They feature a king size bed, have a separate living room area, and luxurious en-suite bathroom.
Amenities also include a smart HDTV, individually-controlled air-conditioning, stocked minibar with snacks, soft drinks & beer, Illy Espresso coffee machine with pods, kettle and tea bags, towels for cabin, pool and gym, bathrobe, bedroom slippers, and toiletries by Lajatica. Each cabin welcomes you with a bottle of Champagne (75cl – Premium Suites, Suites, Junior Suites/37.5cl – Balcony, Oceanview) and there’s also free Wi-Fi, personal safe, and a pair of Nikon Prostaff 3S 10x42 binoculars to help you watch out for wildlife!
2
32-36m2 (344-388ft2)
Balcony
Suites feature a king size bed, and have a separate living room, with a flame-effect fireplace. There’s also a luxurious ensuite bathroom – with separate bath tub and walk-in shower – and a 10m2 (108ft2) private balcony.
Amenities also include a smart HDTV, individually-controlled air-conditioning, stocked minibar with snacks, soft drinks & beer, Illy Espresso coffee machine with pods, kettle and tea bags, towels for cabin, pool and gym, bathrobe, bedroom slippers, and toiletries by Lajatica. Each cabin welcomes you with a bottle of Champagne (75cl – Premium Suites, Suites, Junior Suites/37.5cl – Balcony, Oceanview) and there’s also free Wi-Fi, personal safe, and a pair of Nikon Prostaff 3S 10x42 binoculars to help you watch out for wildlife!
0
40m²
Balcony
Premium Suites have a king size bed, separate living room, and flame-effect fireplace. There’s also a luxurious ensuite bathroom – with separate bath tub and shower – walk-in wardrobe, and a 12m2 (129ft2) private balcony.
Amenities also include a smart HDTV, individually-controlled air-conditioning, stocked minibar with snacks, soft drinks & beer, Illy Espresso coffee machine with pods, kettle and tea bags, towels for cabin, pool and gym, bathrobe, bedroom slippers, and toiletries by Lajatica. Each cabin welcomes you with a bottle of Champagne (75cl – Premium Suites, Suites, Junior Suites/37.5cl – Balcony, Oceanview) and there’s also free Wi-Fi, personal safe, and a pair of Nikon Prostaff 3S 10x42 binoculars to help you watch out for wildlife!
2
47m²
Balcony
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Our fleet of small, open-air Zodiac craft offer unique, in-depth experiences in the wild. Safe and sturdy, these specialised vessels are designed to withstand the harshest conditions.
Landing ashore by Zodiac in the Antarctic or sub-Antarctic is always exciting. The weather can be unpredictable and your Zodiac ride may be ‘energetic’. Our highly trained expedition team will guide you safely to shore, where you can get close to the fantastic wildlife, ice formations, and mountains that await.
Sometimes the best way to see Antarctica’s spectacular landscapes and wildlife (especially if the wildlife has not left you any room on the beach – i.e. penguins!) is from the Zodiac with your expert Swan Hellenic expedition team interpreting the wonders.
Prepare to immerse yourself in the serene silence of the Antarctic waters as you explore the icy landscapes and local wildlife with your expert kayak guide.
Additional charges may apply
The planet’s polar regions are being presented with huge challenges in the face of climate change.
Scientific research here is crucial. Becoming involved in the onboard Citizen Science Programmes is your chance to help collect important data, and give back to these precious environments.
In the Expedition laboratory is where Citizen Science comes in. Head to our onboard lab to meet our guest
researchers. Gain a deeper understanding of the important scientific work being done and get hands-on polar region research experience.
Snowshoeing in Antarctica offers an incredible way to explore the pristine, icy landscapes and experience the vast wilderness of the polar region. It allows adventurers to traverse deep snow and enjoy unique views of dramatic glaciers, icebergs, and diverse wildlife in a quiet, immersive setting. Expert guides will lead the way, ensuring a safe and memorable experience. Please note that snowshoeing depends on weather conditions, and snow levels may vary by season and location.
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Built in the Helsinki Shipyard in Finland, SH Diana (named after the Roman goddess of light, the moon, hunting and the wilderness) offers a truly elevated travel experience. Whether you’re taking in remarkable scenery from the panoramic sauna, dining in a world-class restaurant, or unwinding in your sumptuous stateroom, this outstanding 5-star ship has you covered.
The ship combines cutting-edge technology with stylish, sophisticated design, and the ship’s special ice-resistant PC6 hull means it’s able to visit some of the world’s most inaccessible regions. This new generation polar class ship is our largest, and features elegant interiors – including exclusive onboard art – wide unobstructed views, a spectacular grand staircase, and dedicated expedition facilities, so you can explore the world in style and comfort.
Swan Hellenic is all about personal service and genuine hospitality, and the crew on SH Diana are dedicated to giving you the best experience possible. No task is too big or too small: need a double espresso to get you going in the morning? Noted. Prefer your bed made up a certain way? We’ll look after it. Absorbed by the views or the conversation at dinner? We’ll take care of everything else. We take pride in our caring, thoughtful approach.
Board SH Diana and you’ll be welcomed by a crew who want nothing more than to give you the best experience possible. Swan Hellenic is all about personal service and genuine hospitality, and you’ll find your time on board will reflect that. No task is too big or too small: need a double espresso to get you going in the morning? Noted. Prefer your bed made up a certain way? We’ll look after it. Absorbed by the views or the conversation at dinner? We’ll take care of everything else. We’ve been in the business a long time and take pride in our caring, thoughtful approach.
Amenities also include a smart HDTV, individually-controlled air-conditioning, stocked minibar with snacks, soft drinks & beer, Illy Espresso coffee machine with pods, kettle and tea bags, towels for cabin, pool and gym, bathrobe, bedroom slippers, and toiletries by Lajatica. Each cabin welcomes you with a bottle of Champagne (75cl – Premium Suites, Suites, Junior Suites/37.5cl – Balcony, Oceanview) and there’s also free Wi-Fi, personal safe, and a pair of Nikon Prostaff 3S 10×42 binoculars to help you watch out for wildlife!
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Antarctica is the southernmost of the world’s seven continents and is surrounded by the Southern Ocean. The Antarctic Peninsula is the closest point to land and can be reached in two days from the tip of South America.
To visit Antarctica, you’ll need to fly to Argentina, or Chile, and then take an onward flight to Ushuaia, located at the very tip of South America. Today your Swan Hellenic ship will depart from Ushuaia, and some cruises start in Buenos Aires. We consider also departures from Puerto Williams. Please check your detailed itinerary.
The best time is during the southern hemisphere’s spring and summer (November to March). Weather can never be guaranteed, but visiting this time of year means you’ll probably see plenty of sunshine. The continent is at its warmest between mid-December and mid-January.
From November to mid-January, you can expect to see more sea ice and dramatic icebergs. This is also the mating season for seabirds and mammals, including breeding fur seals. Bear in mind that in early spring, proposed stops may have to be rescheduled if they remain ice-bound or if a sudden drop in temperature overnight causes ice to re-freeze.
End of January to March, the chances of seeing whales – including humpback, orca, and minke – are greater. Penguin chicks and seal pups are in abundance at this time of year, too. As the Austral summer progresses, you will experience almost 24-hour daylight.
Yes! Our kayak excursions are a wonderful way to experience the polar regions from water level. Kayaking in the world’s last great wildernesses is a unique opportunity that few people experience. You’ll be able to observe scenery, coastlines, ice formations and polar wildlife from the comfort – and almost complete silence – of your kayak.
Conditions permitting, your Expedition Leader and Kayak Guide will ensure you’ll be kayaking as often as possible throughout your Antarctic voyage.
While some kayak excursions are designed to allow you to disembark and explore on land, most of your kayak adventures will focus on connecting with your icy surroundings from the water level.
Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
As almost all Antarctica and Arctic cruises are designed as expedition-type cruises, we need to understand that flexibility is one of the main characteristics that best describe the planning, itinerary, and execution of such a voyage. Any itinerary given is only a broad idea, the realization of which depends on several factors that neither Swan Hellenic nor the captain or the expedition team can predict in advance. Weather conditions such as ice conditions, drift, wave height, wind direction, and visibility can not only have a significant influence on the planned Zodiac tours but can also change the itineraries in such a way that ad hoc rescheduling may be necessary. In this respect, we ask for your understanding that the pre-planned routes are not guaranteed and that the actual route may deviate at any time. Furthermore, medical emergencies or official restrictions on visiting individual landing points can also influence the route at any time. Rest assured, however, that your captain and the expedition team are very familiar with such conditions and, therefore, always have a solution or alternative at hand to offer you a fantastic polar adventure. Of course, this also applies to other cruising areas that are just as remote as the polar regions in the same way.
If you enjoy immersing yourself in pristine, off-grid wilderness and seeing extraordinary wildlife in its natural habitat, then there’s no reason you won’t enjoy both the Arctic and Antarctica. The two destinations share several characteristics and our itineraries to these places emphasize scientific appreciation and historical understanding. The wildlife is surprisingly different in both places – you’ll only see penguins in the Antarctic, not the Arctic.
However, extreme temperatures aren’t for everyone, and the journey to Antarctica (around two days in total, passing the well-known Drake passage each way) needs to be considered. Also, life on board will follow similar patterns, combining informative and engaging talks, expert-led excursions, fine dining, and relaxation time.
Our expedition staff work closely with IAATO and government/industry associations to monitor the remote wilderness areas visited by expedition cruises. Our staff reports any indication of the disease to these agencies.
Prior to expedition activities, our team scouts an area. If there are signs of the disease, it is reported and an alternate location is scouted for expedition activities. To prevent the spread of the disease, in certain areas, guests may need to adhere to certain distance and viewing regulations (i.e. no sitting on the ground to view wildlife, stay 5 meters from wildlife, etc.)
In the worst case, if avian flu is present in an expedition activity area, guests may be restricted to zodiac cruising rather than landing in an affected area.
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