Imagine cruising in a Zodiac through crackling sea ice, witnessing penguins building their nests; navigating through a maze of icebergs, each one uniquely shaped by its journey through the sea. You’ll enjoy iconic Antarctic highlights, exhilarating adventures and be rewarded with memories to last a lifetime.
Starting at: $7495
2020 Departures:
Nov 3-14 aboard the World Explorer, Starting at $8,995
Nov 4-14 aboard the Ocean Diamond, starting at $7,495
Nov 13-24 aboard the World Explorer, starting at $8,995
Nov 13-23 aboard the Ocean Diamond, starting at $7,495
Nov 30 - Dec 10 aboard the Ocean Diamond, starting at $7,495
Dec 9-19 aboard the Ocean Diamond, starting at $7,495
Dec 9-19 aboard the World Explorer, starting at $9,446 - on Sale!
Dec 18-28 aboard the World Explorer, starting at $9,995
2021 Depatures
Jan 4-14 aboard the Ocean Adventurer, starting at $10,495
Jan 28- Feb 7 aboard the World Explorer, starting at $9,495
Feb 6- 16 aboard the Ocean Adventurer, starting at $8,495
Feb 16 - 26 aboard the Ocean Diamond, starting at $7,495
Oct 31- Nov 10 aboard the Ultramarine, starting at $10,795 - On Sale
Nov 3- 13 aboard the World Explorer, starting at $8,995
Nov 20-30 aboard the Ultramarine, starting at $11,245 - On Sale
Dec 19-29 aboard the World Explorer, starting at $10,345 - On Sale
2022 Departures:
Jan 7-17 aboard the World Explorer, starting at $9,895
Jan 12-22 aboard the Ocean Adventurer, starting at $8,995
Jan 16-26 aboard the World Explorer, starting at $9,895
Jan 17-27 aboard the Ocean Diamond, starting at $8,095
Jan 21-31 aboard the Ocean Adventurer, starting at $8,995
Jan 30-Feb 9 aboard the Ocean Adventurer, starting at $8,995
Feb 13-23 aboard the Ocean Diamond, starting at $8,095
Mar 6-16 aboard the Ocean Diamond, starting at $7,195 - On Sale!
Antarctica has been inspiring explorers for centuries. This expedition offers you the chance to discover why, with an unforgettable journey through the spectacular wilderness of the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula. You’ll encounter a world where nature creates the rules, her unpredictable temperament making each trip unique, exciting and personal.
On all ships, rates include:
Also included during expeditions that embark in Ushuaia:
Exclusions
Rates specifically do not include:
Arrival in Ushuaia, Argentina
With a population of more than 63,000 people, Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world. The city has grown over the past few years, yet it has retained an easy going and accessible feel. With the sea to the south and mountains to the north, Ushuaia is a spectacular departure point for your Antarctic cruise. If you arrive early, you can spend some time in the nearby Tierra del Fuego National Park, enjoy some Argentinean wines and barbeques in the city, or visit the many boutique shops and cafés before you leave for your expedition to Antarctica.
Embarkation Day
Embarkation will occur in the late afternoon, after which your vessel will sail down the historic Beagle Channel. This historic channel transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America. Expect an air of excitement as you depart—the next time you see land you’ll be in the world’s most southern continent! (b,d)
Crossing the Drake Passage
Prepare yourself for potentially rough water, but hope for a smooth sailing as the Drake is unpredictable and always changing. You’ll spend these first days getting to know your shipmates while your Expedition Team provides safety briefings and insights into what excitement lies ahead. (b,l,d)
South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula
Once the Antarctic Convergence is left in our wake, you will truly begin your Antarctic adventure. It is perhaps the first sight of land itself that is embraced as the true beginning of any Antarctic expedition. You will begin to appreciate why this region has long captivated the attention of explorers and travelers alike. Every time we visit Antarctica, we witness something new or unexpected, which means that your expedition will be unlike any other—creating a unique, personal experience.
Each day, you will take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore local bays, channels and landing sites. With wildlife always at the forefront of our minds, you will visit penguin rookeries, scout for humpback and minke whales, and search for a number of southern seal species, including the cunning leopard seal.
The majesty of the Antarctic Peninsula’s mountains will enchant as you scramble up snowy pathways to vantage points offering you 360° views of your surroundings. One of these in particular, in Danco Island, affords us the opportunity to visit a penguin colony high up on a ridge. Here, you’ll have the choice between hiking to the island’s summit or spending time sitting quietly on a pebbled beach, enjoying the antics of curious penguins. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, participating in the Polar Plunge swim is about as crazy as it gets!
Amid the serene silence of Antarctica, noisy interludes become indelible memories, such as penguins squabbling over prized pebbles, or the boom and crack of a calving glacier in Neko Harbour.
Each day will be different, having been carefully crafted by your Expedition Team to entertain and educate you about this wonderful part of the world. (b,l,d)
Crossing the Drake Passage
The journey back across the Drake Passage provides final opportunities to enjoy the crisp Antarctic air. Spend time on the deck, watching for seabirds and scouting for whales, enjoy presentations by your Expedition Team, or simply relax and reminisce about your experiences. (b,l,d)
Disembarkation in Ushuaia
You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning, which allows for you to continue your adventure on land or catch your flights home. (b)
Important reminder: Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy – and excitement – of expedition travel. There are no guarantees that we can achieve everything we set out to accomplish. A measure of flexibility is something all of us must bring to a voyage. There are nearly 200 recognized sites in the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetlands and the places mentioned above may be changed to others equally as interesting.