Akademik Ioffe
Itinerary (Antarctic Circle (FLY/SAIL))
Itinerary (Ultimate Antarctica - Antarctic Peninsula, Weddell Sea & Falkland Islands (FLY/SAIL))
Itinerary (Antarctica Off the Beaten Track)
Itinerary (Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica)
Itinerary (Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica (FLY/SAIL))
Most Popular Antarctica Trips & Tours
| Trip | Price | Days | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ocean Nova | $4,995 | 6 - 10 Days | Glaciers, Icebergs, Penguins, Whales, Kayaking, Hiking, Snowshoeing |
| Sea Spirit | $7,895 | 11 - 23 Days | Glaciers, Icebergs, Whales, Penguins, Hiking, Kayaking, Camping, Photography |
| Ushuaia | $5,460 | 10 - 20 Days | Glaciers, Icebergs, Whales, Penguins, Hiking |
- DAY 1: Ushuaia, Argentina - Embark
PLEASE NOTE: Some departures are 12 days long, spending additional time in Antarctica and return with a flight from King George Island, Antarctica to disembark in Punta Arenas, Chile. Post trip hotel is included for these departures. Please inquire for details.
Welcome to Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world located in the shadow of the Andes and right on the Beagle Channel! Enjoy a morning at leisure. You may opt for a cruise on the Beagle Channel, a trek in Tierra del Fuego National Park, or visit a nearby historical estancia and museum. Please contact us for your extension options in Ushuaia. In the late afternoon, head to the port of Ushuaia where you will embark your Antarctic expedition vessel. Once onboard, you’ll check into your cabin and enjoy a welcome briefing as you sail through this scenic waterway. (D)
- DAYS 2-3: Drake Passage
The next two days are spent crossing the Drake Passage. Heading south, you’ll cross the Antarctic Convergence, arriving into the circum-Antarctic up welling zone. In this area you may see Wandering Albatrosses, Grey Headed Albatrosses, Black-browed Albatrosses, Light-mantled Sooty Albatrosses, Cape Pigeons, Southern Fulmars, Wilson’s Storm Petrels, Blue Petrels and Antarctic Petrels. Time onboard is spent attending lectures and observing the scenery and wildlife from the ship. As the journey across the Drake Passage ends, you’ll spot your first icebergs near the South Shetland Islands. (B,L,D)
- DAYS 4-8: Antarctic Peninsula
For the next five days you will explore the waterways of the Antarctic Peninsula, making stops in the South Shetlands along the way. Your expedition will make as much time as possible to explore via Zodiac cruising and numerous shore landings in order to marvel up close at the stunning scenery and abundant wildlife. Possible visits over the next few days include Neko Harbour, Wilhelmina Bay, Half Moon Island, and even the southerly Petermann Island. Throughout your journey, you will encounter a multitude of penguins, Skuas and other seabirds, as well as be on the lookout for Weddell, Crabeater, Leopard and Elephant seals. You may also hope to see the gentle Humpback whale dining on krill in its feeding grounds and possibly have an opportunity to observe Orca, Fin and Minke whales as you go.
In Neko Harbour or Paradise Bay, if the weather is mild enough to allow excursions to shore, you will set foot on the Antarctic Continent. You will be awed by a magnificent landscape of huge glaciers calving at sea level and enjoy the backdrop of alpine peaks during zodiac cruises in Neko Harbour. In Paradise Bay, with its myriad icebergs and deep cut fjords, you will enjoy more zodiac cruising between the icebergs in the inner parts of the fjords. When possible, some may wish to camp on shore overnight. After sailing through the spectacular Neumayer Channel, you may be able visit the British research station and post office at Port Lockroy on Goudier Island. A visit to one of the scientific stations in Antarctica will give you an insight about the life of modern Antarcticans working on the White Continent. You’ll continue on through the spectacular Lemaire Channel to Petermann Island where you’ll find a very large colony of the comical Adélie penguin. In the South Shetlands, your captain will head for Half Moon Island, where you’ll observe a breeding colony of Chinstrap penguins that share their territory with Fur seals. (B,L,D)
- DAYS 9-10: Drake Passage
As the expedition nears its end in the Antarctica Peninsula, you’ll head back to the open sea and sail through the Drake Passage back to Ushuaia. Time onboard is spent attending lectures and reflecting on your journey. As the vessel approaches the southern tip of South America, the captain will sail close to the legendary Cape Horn if conditions permit. (B,L,D)
- DAY 11: Disembark and Return Home
You arrive in the morning in Ushuaia and disembark the vessel after breakfast, meeting your driver to transfer you to the Ushuaia Airport. (B)
Key: (B)reakfast (L)unch (D)inner
- DAY 1: Ushuaia - Embark
*PLEASE NOTE: This itinerary can be combined with a Weddell Sea/Falkland Islands departure to extend your time in Antarctica. Special rates apply. Please inquire for details.
Your journey commences this morning in the southern Chilean city of Punta Arenas. This morning you will gather with your fellow expeditioners at a central meeting point and transfer to the airport for the scheduled service to Stanley, Falkland Islands (this flight is included in the price of your voyage). After the short 90-minute flight, you arrive in Stanley and will be transferred to the pier. Stanley is currently home to just over 2,000 residents and is reminiscent of a rural town in coastal Britain. It is charming with brightly colored houses, pretty flower-filled gardens, a quaint cathedral and several local pubs. The waterfront memorial, built to commemorate the lives of the servicemen lost during the Falklands War in the early 1980’s, is a sobering reminder of recent history. There is time to explore the town, before you’ll make your way to the ship for embarkation. After settling in to your cabins and exploring the ship, you will meet the expedition team and fellow passengers. Excitement is in the air as you enjoy a welcome cocktail and dinner and cast off, bound for Antarctica – and the adventure of a lifetime. Please contact us for your extension options in Chile. (D)
- DAYS 2-3: At Sea
The next two days are spent heading south bound for Antarctica. This stretch of the South Atlantic is rich in its bio-diversity and showcases an abundance of wildlife. Much of your time will be spent on the bridge or outer decks, scanning the horizon in search of whales and other marine mammals. Along the way, you’ll cross the Antarctic Convergence, arriving into the circum-Antarctic up welling zone. In this area you may see Wandering Albatrosses, Grey Headed Albatrosses, Black-browed Albatrosses, Light-mantled Sooty Albatrosses, Cape Pigeons, Southern Fulmars, Wilson’s Storm Petrels, Blue Petrels and Antarctic Petrels. You will spend plenty of time with the onboard polar experts as they educate you with a series of presentations on the wonders of the South Atlantic Ocean and Antarctic eco-systems, with the history of early polar exploration being a popular theme. Perhaps you will pick up some valuable tips from the onboard photographic guide, learning about image composition, the subtle and soft polar light and all the basics of good camera craft. If there are good sailing conditions crossing to Antarctica, your Captain may include a visit to the very historic location of Elephant Island – a place central to the Shackleton story. It is from here that Shackleton and four of his companions set off on their epic ocean crossing to South Georgia 100 years ago. Shore landings at Point Wild are notoriously tricky due to surging swell onto the rocky beach. Nevertheless this a thrilling place to visit. (B,L,D)
- DAYS 4-5: King George Island & Antarctic Peninsula
This morning your ship will be in position at King George Island – the largest in the South Shetlands group. There are two landing sites here and a visit depends on the prevailing weather conditions. Penguin Island and nearby Turret Point offer good opportunities for shore landings to view Adelie, Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins. Southern Giant petrels, Kelp gulls and Antarctic terns are also known to nest here. This afternoon your journey will continue south, navigating into the broad expanse of the Bransfield Straight and you’ll make your way ever closer to the Antarctic coastline. This is an important migration corridor for wildlife and your expedition team will keep a lookout for whales in the waters surrounding the ship. Large icebergs will be present from this point onwards and will make for striking photographs in the evening light. By morning, the towering mountain peaks of the Antarctic continent loom into view and you’ll likely make landfall around Wilhelmina Bay. This is truly an ‘A-list’ location and a place where one can often encounter sizeable pods of Humpback whales. Next your Captain will navigate under the towering cliffs of Spigot Peak and into the Errera Channel hoping for a shore landing at Cuverville Island – home to a rookery of Gentoo penguins. It’s a fantastic location for a zodiac cruise or a paddle in the sea kayaks. (B,L,D)
- DAYS 6-8: Toward the Antarctic Circle & Gerlache Coastline
As your Captain navigates further south, you will find yourself spending time on the outer decks soaking up the scenery. You will pass through the ice-strewn waters making your way towards the ultimate objective, the Antarctic Circle. Given favorable ice conditions, the first goal will be to sail south of the Antarctic Circle and into Crystal Sound. A favored landing site here is Detaille Island, home to an abandoned British science hut from the 1950’s.This vicinity marks the turnaround point and from now on, you will return in a northerly direction exploring the dramatic coastline of the Antarctic Peninsula. The hope will be to visit a working scientific base to learn something of the important climate-related research happening here. A hike over the snowy saddle of nearby Winter Island allows you to stretch your legs and explore a historic British Antarctic Survey hut. If the conditions are right, the expedition team will aim to offer an overnight camping program to all adventurers somewhere in this vicinity. All the gear is onboard and an experienced team will make this a night to remember! Petermann Island is home to an Adelie penguin rookery. Adelies, the smallest of the Antarctic penguins, nest here and share the location with Gentoo penguins and Imperial cormorants. The view to the north of Mount Shackleton and Mount Scott is impressive. These towering granite sentinels mark the southern entrance to the nearby Lemaire Channel. Pleneau Island offers more opportunities for shore landings. Just off shore, massive icebergs run around in the shallows. Constant wind and wave action sculpt these gargantuan chunks of ice into fantastic shapes, revealing more shades of blue than you can possibly imagine. For many, a zodiac cruise here may well be a highlight of the voyage. (B,L,D)
- DAY 9-10: Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands
The aim now is to transit the Lemaire Channel, on route to stunning Paradise Harbour is always a favorite location and may be the first opportunity to step foot on the continent of Antarctica itself, while nearby dramatic Neko Harbour offers another continental landing. Both locations offer terrific hiking opportunities up to panoramic viewpoints. For the sea kayakers, the paddling opportunities here are endless. Expect to be in full sensory overload by this time of the voyage. By morning you’ll arrive in the South Shetland Islands. The adventure is not over and if the weather conditions allow, you Captain will sail the ship into the flooded volcanic caldera at Deception Island. This is a very dramatic place and history is all around you as you explore the old whaling station, with the rusted old boilers and dilapidated wooden huts. At the far end of the beach is an old aircraft hangar. This is where Australian, Sir Hubert Wilkins made the very first flight in Antarctica in 1928. There is also an outstanding hike here, high up onto the rim of the crater. On a sunny day, cruising along the coast of Livingston Island is a memorable experience. There are several other landing sites in the vicinity including Half Moon Island, or the broad pebbly beach at Yankee Harbour, where you may encounter Weddell seals sunning themselves. This is another great spot for a hike or a zodiac cruise. It’s a fitting place to reflect on a wonderful expedition. Charting a course for King George Island in early evening light, you’ll enjoy a special dinner attended by the Captain of the ship. (B,L,D)
- DAY 11: King George Island - Disembark - Punta Arenas
- This morning your ship is anchored off King George Island. After breakfast you will disembark the vessel and transfer ashore by Zodiac, walking from the landing site up towards the airstrip to prepare to board your flight. The two-hour journey from King George Island to Punta Arenas, Chile is included in the price of your voyage. Upon arrival into Punta Arenas a transfer from the airport to your complimentary hotel in town is provided. This evening is at your leisure. Punta Arenas is home to some cozy restaurants, cafes and bars – including the historic ‘Shackleton Bar’ at the Hotel Jose Nogueira – a fitting location to reflect on your journey to Antarctica. (B, L)
- DAY 12: Punta Arenas
- After a leisurely breakfast and check-out, you will make your own way to the airport for your onward journey. We recommend you book flights after midday. Otherwise, why not continue your exploration of Patagonia. Just a few hours north, lies the celebrated Torres del Paine National Park, home to towering peaks, glaciers and spectacular wilderness, and a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. (B)
**Please note that weather conditions in Antarctica can prevent the charter flight from departing King George Island. In the event of a delay, the Akademik Ioffe will continue to accommodate you while you await your departure from Antarctica. We highly recommend that you do not book your homeward flight or international departure from Chile on the same day as your scheduled flight from Antarctica, but instead plan to take advantage of the complimentary hotel night in Punta Arenas.
Key: (B)reakfast (L)unch (D)inner
- DAY 1: Punta Arenas, Chile - King George Island, Antarctica - Embark
- *PLEASE NOTE: This itinerary can be combined with the Circle Crossing departure to extend your time in Antarctica. Special rates apply. Please inquire for details.
Welcome to Punta Arenas, Chile, the largest and oldest city in Chilean Patagonia, overlooking the Straights of Magellan! This morning you will gather with your fellow expeditioners at a central meeting point and transfer to the airport for the two-hour flight across the Drake Passage to Antarctica (this flight is included in the price of your voyage). Upon arrival at the Chilean Antarctic base on King George Island, you embark your ship via Zodiac. After settling into your cabins and exploring your new surroundings, you will meet the expedition team and fellow passengers. Excitement is in the air as we enjoy a welcome cocktail and dinner. Everyone on board will be looking forward to the incredible adventure ahead. Please contact us for your extension options in Chile. (L, D)
**Please note that weather conditions in Antarctica can prevent the charter flight from departing for King George Island, thereby delaying the start of your trip. In addition to purchasing the required emergency evacuation insurance, Travel Insurance that covers you for an unexpected delay in your trip, and any necessary expenses that you may acquire due to the delay, is imperative.
- Day 2-4: Gerlache Straight & Antarctic Peninsula
- Overnight your Captain has navigated across the Bransfield Strait and you awake to the towering peaks of the Antarctic continent laid out before you. For the next three days you will have a varied itinerary exploring the Gerlache coastline. If ice conditions allow, you will cruise through the Lemaire Channel and visit sites which may include Pleneau Island and the Penola Strait. To the south lies Petermann Island, home to a sizeable penguin rookery where both Adelie and Gentoo penguins nest side by side. A visit to an active research base nearby provides a fascinating insight into the important climate change science occurring in Antarctica. There’s a fantastic walk on a nearby island and you can make a full traverse across a snowy knoll from one side of the island to the other. The old British Antarctic Survey hut of Wordie House, begs for further investigation. Returning north, you will pass the massive granite sentinels of Mount Scott and Mount Shackleton and your Captain may attempt a second transit of the Lemaire Channel. The landscape all along this section of the Antarctic coastline feature heavily glaciated mountains permanently covered in ice and snow. The activity program is in full swing by now, and each day you will enjoy guided walks on shore, visits to wildlife colonies, and zodiac cruising among the ice with the expert guides providing insight and interpretation. Planned visits could include Paradise Harbour, Orne Harbour or Andvord Bay, or a cruise through the Errera Channel to visit the penguin rookeries at Cuverville Island. Wilhelmina Bay is another favorite location and one where pods of humpback whales are frequently encountered. (B,L,D)
- Day 5: South Shetland Islands
- You are now heading north towards Antarctic Sound – the gateway into the icy Weddell Sea. Along the way the hope will be to make a planned visit at Deception Island. If weather conditions permit, your Captain will sail the ship right into the middle of a volcanic caldera. This is a very dramatic place and home to several penguin rookeries along the black sand beaches. History is all around you as you explore the old whaling station, with the rusted relics and dilapidated wooden structures and Fur seals gather among the old structures seeking protection from the elements. At the far end of the beach is an old aircraft hangar. This is where Australian, Sir Hubert Wilkins made the very first flight in Antarctica in 1928. There is an outstanding hike here to a location known as ‘Neptune’s Window’ - high up onto the rim of the crater. (B,L,D)
- DAY 6-7: Antarctic Sound & Weddell Sea
- At about 25 nautical miles long and about 10 nautical miles wide, the Antarctic Sound separates Joinville Island from the northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula. As you sail into the sound, you will look starboard and the vastness of the Antarctic icecap, imagining the sweeping Katabatic (gravity-driven) winds that this region is famous for, and as you sail through the sound and into the Weddell Sea, the only difference discernable will be an increase in the number of large tabular icebergs and the presence of sea ice. These massive icebergs break from the huge ice shelves to the south and drift north on the currents which makes for exciting navigation – and stunning photographic opportunities in the soft Antarctic twilight. This is wild and remote Antarctica and has a distinctly different feel from locations visited thus far.
This region is home to Adelie penguin rookeries of staggering size – some contain more than 100,000 nesting birds. Such colonies dwarf the rookeries we have visited so far. Your expedition team will maximize your time onshore, as well as in our zodiac boats, absorbing as much of the wilderness as possible. Weather permitting, excursions may include Hope Bay, Paulet Island, and Brown Bluff. All eyes will be trained on the ice floes through which your Captain will navigate the ship. Sailing among the islands of the Weddell Sea, you are in the realm of the Emperor penguin, the largest of the penguins, and everyone will be on deck keeping a lookout. Juvenile Emperors are sometimes sighted riding the ice floes. The region also features a rich exploration history and Remnants of Nordenskjöld’s Swedish expedition of 1901-1904 are found in several locations in this area. The epic century-old story of Shackleton and the HMS Endurance expedition also has strong links to the region. It was here that he and his men drifted north on the ice after their ship had been lost in the ice months earlier. As your Captain charts a course north and out of the Weddell Sea, leaving Antarctica behind, the lavender pink sunset off the port quarter of the ship will likely make you pause to consider the bravery and/or foolhardiness of those early explorers who traveled these waters a hundred years before you. (B,L,D)
- DAY 8: Elephant Island
- Today your Captain will approach Elephant Island from the south. Point Lookout, on the southern tip of the island, is home to an impressive Macaroni penguin colony. Gentoo penguins are also known to nest here and there are often sizeable numbers of Antarctic Fur seals hauled out on the beaches. Shore landings at the fabled Point Wild on the north coast of Elephant Island, where Shackleton and his men were encamped under their upturned life boats, are notoriously difficult due to the surging ocean currents and pounding surf on the rocky beach. If conditions are right, though, an attempt at a landing here will be made. This is a thrilling location and a major highlight for history buffs. (B,L,D)
- DAY 9-10: At Sea
- While sailing across to the Falkland Islands the onboard polar experts will recap on your Weddell Sea adventures and prepare you for the days ahead in the Falkland Islands. Much of your time will be spent scanning the horizon in search of whales and other marine mammals as well as seabirds. The spectacular seabirds, including several albatross and petrel species, are your constant companions as they soar above the ship and the friendly onboard experts will continue to fill minds with heroic stories of some of the earliest daredevils to explore Antarctica. (B,L,D)
- DAY 11: West Point & Saunders, Falkland Islands
- Arriving into the Falkland Islands overnight, today you will explore the islands of West Point and Saunders, both in the West Falklands archipelago. West Point is known for its sizeable rookeries of Rockhopper penguins and nesting Black Browed albatross. While nearby Saunders Island, with its white sand beaches, features no less than four penguin species including Gentoo, Magellanic and Rockhopper - and the ultimate goal for the Falkland Island visit, the impressive King penguin. (B,L,D)
- DAY 12: Port Stanley, Falkland Islands - Disembark - Punta Arenas, Chile
- In the early morning, your ship will navigate through the narrows and into the harbor of Port Stanley. After breakfast, a transfer will take you to the airport for your return flight to Punta Arenas, Chile (this flight is included in the price of your voyage). It may be possible to connect to flights through to Santiago or other destinations in Chile. Otherwise, you will be transferred to Punta Arenas to enjoy a night in this delightful city, or venture further afield to explore the highlights of Patagonia. (B)
Key: (B)reakfast (L)unch (D)inner
- DAY 1: Ushuaia, Argentina - Embark
Welcome to Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world located in the shadow of the Andes and right on the Beagle Channel! Enjoy a morning at leisure. You may opt for a cruise on the Beagle Channel, a trek in Tierra del Fuego National Park, or visit a nearby historical estancia and museum. Please contact us for your extension options in Ushuaia. In the late afternoon, head to the port of Ushuaia where you will embark your Antarctic expedition vessel. Once onboard, you’ll check into your cabin and enjoy a welcome briefing as you sail through this scenic waterway. (D)
- DAYS 2-3: Drake Passage
The next two days are spent crossing the Drake Passage. Heading south, you’ll cross the Antarctic Convergence, arriving into the circum-Antarctic up welling zone. In this area you may see Wandering Albatrosses, Grey Headed Albatrosses, Black-browed Albatrosses, Light-mantled Sooty Albatrosses, Cape Pigeons, Southern Fulmars, Wilson’s Storm Petrels, Blue Petrels and Antarctic Petrels. Time onboard is spent attending lectures and observing the scenery and wildlife from the ship. As the journey across the Drake Passage ends, you’ll spot your first icebergs near the South Shetland Islands. (B,L,D)
- DAYS 4-10: Antarctic Pennisula
For the next seven days you will explore the Antarctic waterways from south of the Lemaire Channel to the Northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula, possibly making stops in the South Shetland Islands along the way. Although your expedition leader will make as much time as possible to explore via Zodiac cruising and numerous shore landings in order to marvel up close at the stunning scenery and abundant wildlife, please note that the focus of this program strives to extend beyond the standard limits of expedition cruising itineraries by placing the emphasis on the adventure experience rather than the number of penguins you will see.
Amongst the varied landing sites and extraordinary bays for cruising, you may choose to delve into the expedition field photography program as well as expedition snowshoeing, camping, ski touring, sea kayaking and even overnight sea kayaking! Opportunities to hike and snowshoe with a more gradual approach is also offered on this voyage at a handful of preferred landing sites. Whether to be the contemplative wanderer amidst the rocky shore, or the long distance hiker to the outer limits – it will always be your choice.
Likely visits throughout the week include Neko Harbour, Wilhelmina Bay, and even the southerly Petermann Island where you’ll find a very large colony of the comical Adélie penguin. The abundance of wildlife is truly extraordinary including five seal species, massive penguin rookeries of Gentoo, Adélie and Chinstrap penguins, as well as a profusion of seabirds from Albatross to Skuas. In Neko Harbour, you will be awed by a magnificent landscape of huge glaciers calving at sea level and enjoy the backdrop of alpine peaks. Sometime during your week, hardy adventurers will have the chance to camp out on the ice amidst the Polar landscape and feel the thrill and audacity of early explorers who attempted to conquer this continent. Ideal weather and just the right campsite make this experience a life changing memory. B,L,D)
- DAYS 11-12: Drake Passage
As the expedition nears its end in the Antarctica Peninsula, you’ll head back to the open sea and sail through the Drake Passage back to Ushuaia. Time onboard is spent attending lectures and reflecting on your journey. As the vessel approaches the southern tip of South America, the captain will sail close to the legendary Cape Horn if conditions permit. (B,L,D)
- DAY 13: Ushuaia, Argentina - Disembark and Return Home
You arrive in the morning in Ushuaia and disembark the vessel after breakfast, meeting your driver to transfer you to the Ushuaia Airport. (B)
Key: (B)reakfast (L)unch (D)inner
- DAY 1: Ushuaia, Argentina - Embark
Welcome to Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world located in the shadow of the Andes and right on the Beagle Channel! Enjoy a morning at leisure. You may opt for a cruise on the Beagle Channel, a trek in Tierra del Fuego National Park, or visit a nearby historical estancia and museum. Please contact us for your extension options in Ushuaia. In the late afternoon, head to the port of Ushuaia where you will embark your Antarctic expedition vessel. Once onboard, you’ll check into your cabin and enjoy a welcome briefing as you sail through this scenic waterway. (D)
- DAYS 2: At Sea
The day is spent at sea as you sail toward the Falkland Islands. Time onboard is spent attending lectures and observing the scenery and wildlife from the ship. You may see several species of albatrosses, storm petrels, shearwaters and diving petrels following the ship. (B,L,D)
- DAYS 3-4: Falkland Islands
Arriving in the Falkland Islands (Malvinas) overnight, the plan is to spend the whole day exploring the fascinating of the West Falkland Archipelago, home to a profusion of seabirds and migratory birds including the Black-browed Albatross. Sixty species of migratory birds and the rare Rockhopper penguin inhabit these islands. Your first penguin sightings will likely be on the island of West Point with its bustling rookeries of Rockhopper penguins. On Carcass Island, you will observe nesting Magellanic penguins along with Oystercatchers, geese and the flightless Steamer duck who is a permanent Falkland resident. A hike along the shore of Carcass Island will give you views of Magellanic and Gentoo-Penguins, as well as close encounters with water fowl, night herons and passerines. In Stanley, the capital of the Falklands, you’ll get a glimpse of Falkland culture which is a fusion of South American characteristics and Victorian charm, and you will see a number of stranded clippers from a century ago. (B,L,D)
- DAYS 5-6: At Sea
The next two days will be spent at sea as the vessel heads to South Georgia. Along the way, you will cross the Antarctic Convergence. Entering Antarctic waters, the temperature will drop by as much as 10 degrees Celsius in the time span of only a few hours. Near the Convergence, you will see a multitude of southern seabirds near the ship including species of Albatrosses, Shearwaters, Petrels, Prions and Skuas. (B,L,D)
- DAYS 7-9: South Georgia
This afternoon, enjoy your first landing site in majestic South Georgia. Towering glacier-covered mountains are merely the backdrop to spectacular wildlife sightings including rookeries of the pompous king penguin, several seal species such as Fur and Elephant seals, and the laughable macaroni penguin. Your ship will cruise the protected waters of the eastern coast looking for suitable landing spots such as Salisbury Plain and St. Andrews Bay. You will observe Fur seals poking their heads above the water, Skuas and Giant Petrels swooping in the skies above, and the albatross never far away. The highlight of these excursions, though, is the mind-boggling abundance of king penguin adults and young that live in these locations by the hundreds of thousands, covering every inch of the shore. At Grytviken (Greet-vik-in), you’ll explore an abandoned whaling station, where King Penguins now walk in the streets and seals have taken over the buildings. At Grytviken you will also visit the grave of the most famous Antarctic explorer, Sir Ernest Shackleton. (B,L,D)
- DAYS 10-12: Scotia Sea, South Orkney Islands or Elephant Island
- Weather and ice will dictate your crossing of the Scotia Sea from South Georgia to Antarctica, leading your ship perhaps to the South Orkney Islands or Elephant Island. As with all expedition itinerary planning, your expedition leader and Captain will make a decision based on the conditions at the time. The South Orkney Islands represent the peaks of a submarine mountain range called the Scotia Arc, connecting South Georgia to the South Shetland Islands. Often shrouded in fog and surrounded by ice much of the year, a chance to visit these islands doesn’t come often. As you edge ever closer to the frozen continent, large icebergs announce our arrival in Antarctic waters. If conditions allow, the hope will be to see the dark cliffs of Elephant Island appear on the horizon. Shackleton and his men were encamped here for many months, having lost HMS Endurance in the thick sea ice, far to the south in the Weddell Sea in 1915. From the tiny beach at Point Wild, Shackleton and six companions set off on the rescue mission to South Georgia, aboard the tiny lifeboat, James Caird. To this day, the epic ocean crossing is considered one of the greatest in history. If conditions allow, an attempt at landing at Point Wild on Elephant Island will be made. (B,L,D)
- DAYS 13-16: South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula
- Around 60 miles off the coast of the Antarctic mainland one finds the South Shetland Island chain. Possible landing sites could include King George Island, Half Moon Island, Yankee Harbour or Hannah Point. Weather conditions permitting your Captain will sail the ship into the flooded volcanic caldera of Deception Island. There are some outstanding hikes at these locations and the old whaling station and aircraft hangar at Deception Island beg for further exploration. After so much anticipation, you enter the icy waters of the Antarctic Peninsula in the vicinity of Mikkelson Harbour or Cierva Cove. Snow covered mountains soar from the dark waters. Along the shoreline in the bays and harbors of the Peninsula lives an incredible abundance of wildlife. Large rookeries are home to Chinstrap, Gentoo and Adelie penguins. Seals live on the ice floes, including the powerful Leopard seal that can hope to encounter. Gulls, skuas and cormorants are also found nesting and feeding at many sites along the Antarctic Peninsula. You will explore by zodiac boat and ashore where a range of wonderful activities await. Locations you may hope to visit include Wilhelmina Bay, Orne Harbour, Cuverville Island and the Errera Channel. Join the photographic guide and go take close up photos of the penguins, or of the impossibly blue ice. Or enjoy a hike to the top of a snowy mountain saddle with one of the adventure guides. The sea kayakers may range up to several miles from the ship, for a truly memorable experience. If the opportunity presents itself, a visit to a science base or an old historic hut will also be included. Each and every day, you have a range of great choices. (B,L,D)
- DAYS 17-18: Drake Passage
As the expedition nears its end in the Antarctica Peninsula, you’ll head back to the open sea and sail through the Drake Passage back to Ushuaia. Time onboard is spent attending lectures and reflecting on your journey. As the vessel approaches the southern tip of South America, the captain will sail close to the legendary Cape Horn if conditions permit. (B,L,D)
- DAY 19: Ushuaia, Argentina - Disembark
You arrive in the morning in Ushuaia and disembark the vessel after breakfast, meeting your driver to transfer you to the Ushuaia Airport. (B)
- DAY 1: Punta Arenas - Stanley, Falkland Islands - Embark
- *PLEASE NOTE: Some departure operate in reverse direction, and additionally, some departures will fly one-way between Antarctica and Punta Arenas to embark or disembark the ship, instead of sailing to Ushuaia. These Fly/Sail departures are 18-19 days in length, and will spend more or less time in Antarctica or South Georgia depending on the departure date. Please inquire for details.
Your journey commences this morning in the southern Chilean city of Punta Arenas. This morning you will gather with your fellow expeditioners at a central meeting point and transfer to the airport for the scheduled service to Stanley, Falkland Islands (this flight is included in the price of your voyage). After the short 90-minute flight, you arrive in Stanley and are met on arrival and transferred to the pier to embark your expedition ship. Stanley is currently home to just over 2,000 residents and is reminiscent of a rural town in coastal England or Scotland. It is charming with brightly colored houses, pretty flower-filled gardens, a quaint cathedral and several local pubs. The waterfront memorial, built to commemorate the lives of the servicemen lost during the Falklands War in the early 1980’s, is a sobering reminder of recent history. There is time to explore the town, before you make your way to the ship for embarkation. After settling in to your cabin and exploring the ship, you will meet your expedition team and fellow passengers. Excitement is in the air as you enjoy a welcome cocktail, dinner and cast off for the adventure of a lifetime. Please contact us for your extension options in Chile. (D)
- DAY 2: Sea Lion Island, Falkland Islands
- Having cruised down the eastern coastline of the Falkland Islands overnight, you are now at the far south-eastern end of the archipelago. Here you’ll find remote Sea Lion Island which features a barren and windswept landscape, you will go ashore to view the wildlife colonies found here. Three species of penguin including Gentoo, Magellanic and Rockhopper exist in the vicinity, and Southern Elephant seals and South American sea lions are found hauled out on the beaches. Once ashore, you may also look for King cormorants and Striated caracaras. Weather permitting we may have time to visit neighboring Bleaker Island, another settlement on the exposed southeastern coast of the Falklands. In the evening, your Captain will push out into the Scotia Sea, charting a course for South Georgia. (B,L,D)
- DAY 3-4: At Sea
- The next two days will be spent at sea as the vessel heads southeasterly bound for South Georgia. Along the way, you will cross the Antarctic Convergence. Entering Antarctic waters, the temperature will drop by as much as 10 degrees Celsius in the time span of only a few hours. Near the Convergence, you will see a multitude of southern seabirds near the ship including species of Albatrosses, Shearwaters, Petrels, Prions and Skuas. History being a key theme of this voyage, the educational presentations continue with the epic story of Sir Ernest Shackleton and the HMS Endurance expedition as it is central to any trip to South Georgia. You will also learn about Polar conservation - a theme particularly close to the hearts of your guides and crew. (B,L,D)
- DAY 5-7: South Georgia
- South Georgia has often been called the ‘Serengeti of the Southern Ocean’ – and, as you approach the deep bays of this rugged, rocky outcrop, you will begin to see why. Towering glacier-covered mountains are merely the backdrop to spectacular wildlife sightings including rookeries of the pompous king penguin, several seal species such as Fur and Elephant seals, and the laughable macaroni penguin. This afternoon, enjoy your first landing site in majestic South Georgia, in the vicinity of Elsehul Bay. Large numbers of Fur seals and the much larger Elephant seal will line the dark sand beaches. Living in the tussock grass, King penguins and their chicks may number up to 100,000 birds in some locations, including Salisbury Plain, St Andrews Bay and Gold Harbour. The island is also home to large numbers of nesting albatross and they fill the skies above, coming and going from the nest. The scenery is spectacular and the snowy peaks of the island make one pause to consider the incredible feat of mountaineering when Shackleton and his exhausted companions traversed the island from the wild south coast in 1916.
South Georgia is a thrilling location for history buffs and the rusting relics of the early whaling industry are all around. The hope is to observe several of the old stations at locations including Leith, Husvik and Stromness. A highlight is also a visit to Grytviken – the largest of the whaling stations, situated at the head of Cumberland Bay. It is here you may visit the gravesite of Sir Ernest Shackleton. For many, being in the presence of the great explorer will be a highlight of the trip. There’s an excellent museum at Grytviken, maintained by the South Georgia Heritage Trust, and the restored church, built by the original Norwegian whalers, provides a fascinating glimpse into the past. (B,L,D)
- DAY 8-10: Scotia Sea, South Orkney Islands or Elephant Island
- Weather and ice will dictate your crossing of the Scotia Sea from South Georgia to Antarctica, leading your ship perhaps to the South Orkney Islands or Elephant Island. As with all expedition itinerary planning, your expedition leader and Captain will make a decision based on the conditions at the time. The South Orkney Islands represent the peaks of a submarine mountain range called the Scotia Arc, connecting South Georgia to the South Shetland Islands. Often shrouded in fog and surrounded by ice much of the year, a chance to visit these islands doesn’t come often. As you edge ever closer to the frozen continent, large icebergs announce our arrival in Antarctic waters. If conditions allow, the hope will be to see the dark cliffs of Elephant Island appear on the horizon. Shackleton and his men were encamped here for many months, having lost HMS Endurance in the thick sea ice, far to the south in the Weddell Sea in 1915. From the tiny beach at Point Wild, Shackleton and six companions set off on the rescue mission to South Georgia, aboard the tiny lifeboat, James Caird. To this day, the epic ocean crossing is considered one of the greatest in history. If conditions allow, an attempt at landing at Point Wild on Elephant Island will be made. (B,L,D)
- DAY 11-15: South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula
- Around 60 miles off the coast of the Antarctic mainland one finds the South Shetland Island chain. Possible landing sites could include King George Island, Half Moon Island, Yankee Harbour or Hannah Point. Weather conditions permitting your Captain will sail the ship into the flooded volcanic caldera of Deception Island. There are some outstanding hikes at these locations and the old whaling station and aircraft hangar at Deception Island beg for further exploration. After so much anticipation, you enter the icy waters of the Antarctic Peninsula in the vicinity of Mikkelson Harbour or Cierva Cove. Snow covered mountains soar from the dark waters. Along the shoreline in the bays and harbors of the Peninsula lives an incredible abundance of wildlife. Large rookeries are home to Chinstrap, Gentoo and Adelie penguins. Seals live on the ice floes, including the powerful Leopard seal that can hope to encounter. Gulls, skuas and cormorants are also found nesting and feeding at many sites along the Antarctic Peninsula. You will explore by zodiac boat and ashore where a range of wonderful activities await. Locations you may hope to visit include Wilhelmina Bay, Orne Harbour, Cuverville Island and the Errera Channel. Join the photographic guide and go take close up photos of the penguins, or of the impossibly blue ice. Or enjoy a hike to the top of a snowy mountain saddle with one of the adventure guides. The sea kayakers may range up to several miles from the ship, for a truly memorable experience. If the opportunity presents itself, a visit to a science base or an old historic hut will also be included. Each and every day, you have a range of great choices. (B,L,D)
- DAY 16-17: Drake Passage
- After several busy days of exploration along the Antarctic Peninsula, it’s time to sail through the Drake Passage back to South America. The educational presentations continue and you will enjoy an entertaining and memorable voyage recap by your Expedition Leader. You may also choose to join the photography experts in the multimedia room and download and back up your precious images. If weather conditions allow, the hope will be to make a rounding of Cape Horn. This fabled stretch of water is home to legendary tales of exploration and early navigation. It’s a fitting place to reflect on a wonderful expedition to some of the most remote corners of the planet. Approaching the entrance to the Beagle Channel in early evening light, you will enjoy a special dinner attended by the Captain of the ship. (B,L,D)
- DAY 18: Disembark - Ushuaia, Argentina
- You arrive in the morning in Ushuaia, Argentina and disembark the vessel after breakfast. You and your fellow travelers will be transported to your hotels or to the airport for return flights home. It will be possible to connect to flights through to Buenos Aires or other destinations in South America. Otherwise enjoy a night in town or venture further afield to explore the highlights of Patagonia. (B)
Key: (B)reakfast (L)unch (D)inner
Weather
When to Visit- jan
- feb
- mar
- apr
- may
- jun
- jul
- aug
- sep
- oct
- nov
- dec
You may also wish to schedule your trip according to what wildlife activities you are likely to observe at different points during the season, details below:
o Late October and November: The early part of the season showcases a number of highlights. Landing sites are at their most pristine. The possibility of seeing sea ice is present early on, before it breaks up later on in the season. Late October to early November sees Adélie, Chinstrap and Gentoo adult penguins and Antarctic-breeding seabirds starting to come ashore to their breeding sites where they commence courtship rituals and nest building. Shortly thereafter eggs are laid and incubated. Emperor penguins can be seen on the frozen Weddell Sea (visited occasionally by ice-strengthened expedition ships on special itineraries).
Spring flowers begin blooming in the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) and elephant seals are actively courting in South Georgia. South Georgia's female king penguins lay their eggs in November and the parents can be seen "carrying" eggs on their feet so that the parent can shuffle around the colony while the other adult goes out to sea to feed. "Oakum Boys" — king penguin chicks from the previous season — can also be seen in the rookeries. Fur seals litter the beaches in South Georgia with the males aggressive and ready to mate.
o December and January: The increased number of daylight hours brings exceptional opportunities for photographers and non-photographers alike, and the expeditions make the most of the summer weather and continuous hours of daylight. Research activity in the Peninsula at the scientific bases is at its peak. Penguin chicks begin hatching in the Falklands (Islas Malvinas); followed by hatchings in mid- to late-December at sites in the Antarctic Peninsula. Some 30 days after hatching, penguin chicks can be found in "crèches," resembling a nursery of sorts, which leaves both adults free to replenish their food supply. An exciting time of this part of the season is when the parent returns with food and the hungry chicks are persistent in being fed, running after the parent (or any adult penguin with food) in a "feeding chase." Whale sightings of baleen and toothed whales escalate in the Peninsula area. Seal pups can be seen on the beaches in South Georgia. Sea ice is also beginning to break up which allows for the possibility to begin to access to rarely visited sites in the Weddell Sea, Ross Sea and within the Antarctic Circle.
o February and March: Sightings of whales are at their peak in the Peninsula and an increasing number of fur seals can be found along the Peninsula and offshore islands. Young fur seals are also quite playful in South Georgia. Penguin colonies are very active with the penguin chicks beginning their molt - losing their fuzzy down and developing their adult plumage. During this timeframe, the parents will abandoned their chicks, and return out to sea to feed and fatten up for their own molting stage. Most colonies (Adélie, Chinstrap and Gentoo) are nearly vacated by the end of February to early March. Blooming snow algae is prevalent and receding pack ice has reached its peak for the season, allowing for easier exploration within the Weddell Sea, Ross Sea and Antarctic Circle.
Maps
Antarctic Peninsula Adventure
- Pricing
Days Start Date End Date Triple Twin Semi Twin Private Superior Shackleton Suite One Ocean Suite 11 3/4/19 3/14/19 $8,695 $10,795 $11,795 $12,795 $13,995 $15,895 11 12/6/19 12/16/19 $9,095 $11,295 $12,295 $13,395 $14,595 $16,595 11 3/4/20 3/14/20 $9,095 $11,295 $12,295 $13,395 $14,595 $15,595 -Activities offered on all departures are: Zodiac Excursions, Camping, Kayaking, Hiking and Photography.
-All prices are PER PERSON.
-A single supplement applies to a solo traveler in a private cabin. Please inquire for single supplement pricing. A solo traveler willing to share a cabin with another passenger (or passengers) of the same gender can avoid the single supplement.- Included in tour cost
- Antarctica cruise accommodations
- All meals onboard Antarctica cruise
- Airport transfers in Ushuaia - Included for some departures
- Airport transfers in Punta Arenas - Included for some departures
- Airfare (Falklands/Punta Arenas) - Included for some departures
- Airfare (King George Island/Punta Arenas) - Included for some departures
- 1 night's accommodations Punta Arenas - Applies on some departures
- All shore excursions throughout voyage by zodiac
- Access to special programs onboard (such as hiking & photography)
- Photography Program
- Camping - all gear included
- Use of multimedia room onboard
- Wet weather gear available onboard - must be pre-reserved
- Rubber boots available onboard – must be pre-reserved
- Trekking poles available onboard
- Snowshoes available onboard
- English-speaking certified guides
- Entrance fees for all scheduled tours, national parks & archaeological sites
- Southern Explorations pre-departure services
- Excluded from tour cost
- International airfare to/from Argentina and/or Chile
- Hotel accommodations in Argentina and/or Chile - unless otherwise noted
- Ground transportation in Argentina and/or Chile - unless otherwise noted
- Meals in Argentina and/or Chile - unless otherwise noted
- Medical evacuation insurance (mandatory)
- Trip cancellation/interruption insurance (recommended)
- Personal expenses (gratuities, alcoholic beverages, telecommunication charges, laundry, airport taxes, etc.)
- Kayaking available at additional cost - includes all gear
- Ski Trekking available on some departures at an additional cost
Antarctic Circle (FLY/SAIL)
- Pricing
Days Start Date End Date Triple Twin Semi Twin Private Superior Shackleton Suite One Ocean Suite 11 12/28/19* 1/7/20 $11,695 $13,795 $14,895 $15,595 $17,195 $18,895 -Activities offered include: Zodiac Excursions, Camping, Kayaking, Hiking and Photography.
-All prices are PER PERSON.
-A single supplement applies to a solo traveler in a private cabin. Please inquire for single supplement pricing. A solo traveler willing to share a cabin with another passenger (or passengers) of the same gender can avoid the single supplement.
*PLEASE NOTE: This itinerary can be combined with a Weddell Sea/Falkland Islands departure to extend your time in Antarctica. Special rates apply. Please inquire for details.- Included in tour cost
- Antarctica cruise accommodations
- All meals onboard Antarctica cruise
- Airport transfers in Ushuaia - Included for some departures
- Airport transfers in Punta Arenas - Included for some departures
- Airfare (Falklands/Punta Arenas) - Included for some departures
- Airfare (King George Island/Punta Arenas) - Included for some departures
- 1 night's accommodations Punta Arenas - Applies on some departures
- All shore excursions throughout voyage by zodiac
- Access to special programs onboard (such as hiking & photography)
- Photography Program
- Camping - all gear included
- Use of multimedia room onboard
- Wet weather gear available onboard - must be pre-reserved
- Rubber boots available onboard – must be pre-reserved
- Trekking poles available onboard
- Snowshoes available onboard
- English-speaking certified guides
- Entrance fees for all scheduled tours, national parks & archaeological sites
- Southern Explorations pre-departure services
- Excluded from tour cost
- International airfare to/from Argentina and/or Chile
- Hotel accommodations in Argentina and/or Chile - unless otherwise noted
- Ground transportation in Argentina and/or Chile - unless otherwise noted
- Meals in Argentina and/or Chile - unless otherwise noted
- Medical evacuation insurance (mandatory)
- Trip cancellation/interruption insurance (recommended)
- Personal expenses (gratuities, alcoholic beverages, telecommunication charges, laundry, airport taxes, etc.)
- Kayaking available at additional cost - includes all gear
- Ski Trekking available on some departures at an additional cost
Ultimate Antarctica - Antarctic Peninsula, Weddell Sea & Falkland Islands (FLY/SAIL)
- Pricing
Days Start Date End Date Triple Twin Semi Twin Private Superior Shackleton Suite One Ocean Suite 12 *1/7/20 2/18/20 $12,595 $14,895 $16,695 $17,595 $19,495 $21,195 12 *2/4/20 2/15/20 $12,595 $14,895 $16,695 $17,595 $19,495 $21,195 *PLEASE NOTE: This itinerary can be combined with another itinerary to extend your time in Antarctica. Special rates apply. Please inquire for details.
-Activities offered include: Zodiac Excursions, Camping, Kayaking, Hiking and Photography.
-All prices are PER PERSON.
-A single supplement applies to a solo traveler in a private cabin. Please inquire for single supplement pricing. A solo traveler willing to share a cabin with another passenger (or passengers) of the same gender can avoid the single supplement.- Included in tour cost
- Antarctica cruise accommodations
- All meals onboard Antarctica cruise
- Airport transfers in Ushuaia - Included for some departures
- Airport transfers in Punta Arenas - Included for some departures
- Airfare (Falklands/Punta Arenas) - Included for some departures
- Airfare (King George Island/Punta Arenas) - Included for some departures
- 1 night's accommodations Punta Arenas - Applies on some departures
- All shore excursions throughout voyage by zodiac
- Access to special programs onboard (such as hiking & photography)
- Photography Program
- Camping - all gear included
- Use of multimedia room onboard
- Wet weather gear available onboard - must be pre-reserved
- Rubber boots available onboard – must be pre-reserved
- Trekking poles available onboard
- Snowshoes available onboard
- English-speaking certified guides
- Entrance fees for all scheduled tours, national parks & archaeological sites
- Southern Explorations pre-departure services
- Excluded from tour cost
- International airfare to/from Argentina and/or Chile
- Hotel accommodations in Argentina and/or Chile - unless otherwise noted
- Ground transportation in Argentina and/or Chile - unless otherwise noted
- Meals in Argentina and/or Chile - unless otherwise noted
- Medical evacuation insurance (mandatory)
- Trip cancellation/interruption insurance (recommended)
- Personal expenses (gratuities, alcoholic beverages, telecommunication charges, laundry, airport taxes, etc.)
- Kayaking available at additional cost - includes all gear
- Ski Trekking available on some departures at an additional cost
Antarctica Off the Beaten Track
- Pricing
Days Start Date End Date Triple Twin Semi Twin Private Superior Shackleton Suite One Ocean Suite 13 11/6/2019 11/18/2019 $9,295 $11,695 $12,795 $13,695 $15,495 $17,395 -Activities offered include: Zodiac Excursions, Hiking, Camping, Back-Country Ski Touring, Kayaking & Overnight Sea Kayaking, Snowshoeing & Expedition Snowshoeing, Photography Workshop & Expedition Field Photography.
-All prices are PER PERSON.
-A single supplement applies to a solo traveler in a private cabin. Please inquire for single supplement pricing. A solo traveler willing to share a cabin with another passenger (or passengers) of the same gender can avoid the single supplement.- Included in tour cost
- Antarctica cruise accommodations
- All meals onboard Antarctica cruise
- Airport transfers in Ushuaia - Included for some departures
- Airport transfers in Punta Arenas - Included for some departures
- Airfare (Falklands/Punta Arenas) - Included for some departures
- Airfare (King George Island/Punta Arenas) - Included for some departures
- 1 night's accommodations Punta Arenas - Applies on some departures
- All shore excursions throughout voyage by zodiac
- Access to special programs onboard (such as hiking & photography)
- Photography Program
- Camping - all gear included
- Use of multimedia room onboard
- Wet weather gear available onboard - must be pre-reserved
- Rubber boots available onboard – must be pre-reserved
- Trekking poles available onboard
- Snowshoes available onboard
- English-speaking certified guides
- Entrance fees for all scheduled tours, national parks & archaeological sites
- Southern Explorations pre-departure services
- Excluded from tour cost
- International airfare to/from Argentina and/or Chile
- Hotel accommodations in Argentina and/or Chile - unless otherwise noted
- Ground transportation in Argentina and/or Chile - unless otherwise noted
- Meals in Argentina and/or Chile - unless otherwise noted
- Medical evacuation insurance (mandatory)
- Trip cancellation/interruption insurance (recommended)
- Personal expenses (gratuities, alcoholic beverages, telecommunication charges, laundry, airport taxes, etc.)
- Kayaking available at additional cost - includes all gear
- Ski Trekking available on some departures at an additional cost
Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica
- Pricing
Days Start Date End Date Triple Twin Semi Twin Private Superior Shackleton Suite One Ocean Suite 19 11/18/18 12/6/18 $14,195 $16,295 $18,195 $19,295 $21,195 $23,195
-Activities offered include: Zodiac Excursions, Kayaking, Hiking, Snowshoeing and Photography.
-All prices are PER PERSON.
-A single supplement applies to a solo traveler in a private cabin. Please inquire for single supplement pricing. A solo traveler willing to share a cabin with another passenger (or passengers) of the same gender can avoid the single supplement.- Included in tour cost
- Antarctica cruise accommodations
- All meals onboard Antarctica cruise
- Airport transfers in Ushuaia - Included for some departures
- Airport transfers in Punta Arenas - Included for some departures
- Airfare (Falklands/Punta Arenas) - Included for some departures
- Airfare (King George Island/Punta Arenas) - Included for some departures
- 1 night's accommodations Punta Arenas - Applies on some departures
- All shore excursions throughout voyage by zodiac
- Access to special programs onboard (such as hiking & photography)
- Photography Program
- Camping - all gear included
- Use of multimedia room onboard
- Wet weather gear available onboard - must be pre-reserved
- Rubber boots available onboard – must be pre-reserved
- Trekking poles available onboard
- Snowshoes available onboard
- English-speaking certified guides
- Entrance fees for all scheduled tours, national parks & archaeological sites
- Southern Explorations pre-departure services
- Excluded from tour cost
- International airfare to/from Argentina and/or Chile
- Hotel accommodations in Argentina and/or Chile - unless otherwise noted
- Ground transportation in Argentina and/or Chile - unless otherwise noted
- Meals in Argentina and/or Chile - unless otherwise noted
- Medical evacuation insurance (mandatory)
- Trip cancellation/interruption insurance (recommended)
- Personal expenses (gratuities, alcoholic beverages, telecommunication charges, laundry, airport taxes, etc.)
- Kayaking available at additional cost - includes all gear
- Ski Trekking available on some departures at an additional cost
Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica (FLY/SAIL)
- Pricing
Days Start Date End Date Triple Twin Semi Twin Private Superior Shackleton Suite One Ocean Suite 18 *1/18/20 2/4/20 $18,095 $20,595 $22,795 $24,395 $26,295 $28,295 19 **2/15/20 3/4/20 $18,895 $22,295 $24,495 $25,895 $27,495 $28,695 *This departure begins with a flight from Punta Arenas to Stanley, Falkland Islands, and ends in with a return flight from King George Island to Punta Arenas. Please inquire for details.
**This departure begins with a flight to Stanley, Falkland Islands. Please inquire for details
-Activities offered include: Zodiac Excursions, Kayaking, Hiking, Snowshoeing and Photography.
-All prices are PER PERSON.
-A single supplement applies to a solo traveler in a private cabin. Please inquire for single supplement pricing. A solo traveler willing to share a cabin with another passenger (or passengers) of the same gender can avoid the single supplement.- Included in tour cost
- Antarctica cruise accommodations
- All meals onboard Antarctica cruise
- Airport transfers in Ushuaia - Included for some departures
- Airport transfers in Punta Arenas - Included for some departures
- Airfare (Falklands/Punta Arenas) - Included for some departures
- Airfare (King George Island/Punta Arenas) - Included for some departures
- 1 night's accommodations Punta Arenas - Applies on some departures
- All shore excursions throughout voyage by zodiac
- Access to special programs onboard (such as hiking & photography)
- Photography Program
- Camping - all gear included
- Use of multimedia room onboard
- Wet weather gear available onboard - must be pre-reserved
- Rubber boots available onboard – must be pre-reserved
- Trekking poles available onboard
- Snowshoes available onboard
- English-speaking certified guides
- Entrance fees for all scheduled tours, national parks & archaeological sites
- Southern Explorations pre-departure services
- Excluded from tour cost
- International airfare to/from Argentina and/or Chile
- Hotel accommodations in Argentina and/or Chile - unless otherwise noted
- Ground transportation in Argentina and/or Chile - unless otherwise noted
- Meals in Argentina and/or Chile - unless otherwise noted
- Medical evacuation insurance (mandatory)
- Trip cancellation/interruption insurance (recommended)
- Personal expenses (gratuities, alcoholic beverages, telecommunication charges, laundry, airport taxes, etc.)
- Kayaking available at additional cost - includes all gear
- Ski Trekking available on some departures at an additional cost
Antarctic Peninsula Adventure
- Trip Dates
- Availability changes constantly on Antarctica cruises. Please contact us for the most up-to-date availability.Monday, March 4, 2019 to Thursday, March 14, 2019Friday, December 6, 2019 to Monday, December 16, 2019Wednesday, March 4, 2020 to Saturday, March 14, 2020
Antarctic Circle (FLY/SAIL)
- Trip Dates
- Availability changes constantly on Antarctica cruises. Please contact us for the most up-to-date availability.Saturday, December 28, 2019 to Tuesday, January 7, 2020
Ultimate Antarctica - Antarctic Peninsula, Weddell Sea & Falkland Islands (FLY/SAIL)
- Trip Dates
- Availability changes constantly on Antarctica cruises. Please contact us for the most up-to-date availability.Tuesday, January 7, 2020 to Saturday, January 18, 2020Tuesday, February 4, 2020 to Saturday, February 15, 2020
Antarctica Off the Beaten Track
- Trip Dates
- Availability changes constantly on Antarctica cruises. Please contact us for the most up-to-date availability.Wednesday, November 6, 2019 to Monday, November 18, 2019
Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica
- Trip Dates
- Availability changes constantly on Antarctica cruises. Please contact us for the most up-to-date availability.Monday, November 18, 2019 to Friday, December 6, 2019
Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica (FLY/SAIL)
- Trip Dates
- Availability changes constantly on Antarctica cruises. Please contact us for the most up-to-date availability.Saturday, January 18, 2020 to Tuesday, February 4, 2020Saturday, February 15, 2020 to Wednesday, March 4, 2020
One Day
-
9 hours $410Highlights of Aconcagua Valley
One Day -
5 Hours $210This Buenos Aires bicycle tour takes you north of Buenos Aires to experience what the nearby countryside has to offer
One Day -
4 Hours $120Bike through the nostalgic city of Buenos Aires, stop and enjoy restaurants, markets and historic sites
One Day -
2 Hours $75Guided walking tour
Highlights of Buenos Aires
One Day -
3 Hours $160Spend an unforgettable evening with a connoisseur guide to taste the country's finest wine
One Day -
8 Hours $375Chile’s best white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay
Cool-loving reds such as Pinot Noir and Syrah
One Day -
10 Hours $280El Morado National Park
Hiking, Bird Watching
Soak in natural pools of varying temperatures
One Day -
10 Hours $215Visit the Pacific Coastal city of Valparaiso
Enjoy a seafood lunch at a local restaurant
One Day -
10 Hours $270Zapallar
Excellent seafood lunch
Maitencillo
One Day -
11 Hours $440100+ year old vines
Lunch Viu Manent Winery
Wine tasting
One Day -
1 Day $370Hiking
Glaciers
Horseback riding
One Day -
3 Hours $230The Latin American Art Museum of Buenos Aires
Heft Collection Tour with Curator Ms. Heft
Fernandez Blanco Museum
One Day -
4 Hours $275Take an inside look at the real life experiences of Buenos Aires' Jewish population, past and present
One Day -
5 hours $425Morning or afternoon kayaking
Delta of the Parana
One Day -
13 Hours $615Mythical Strait of Magellan
Tierra del Fuego
Unique King Penguin Colony
One Day -
4 hours $195Santa Rita Winery
Maipo Valley Wine Region
Chilean Wine Tour
One Day -
Full Day $365Lake Argentino
Modern Catamaran & Gourmet Lunch
Perito Moreno, Spegazzini, and Upsala Glaciers
Los Glaciares National Park
One Day -
Outstanding Chilean wines
Sauvignon Blanc
Chardonnay
Pinot Noir
Syrah
One Day -
4 Hours $130Historic Santiago sites
Plaza de Armas
Presidential Palace
Mercado Central - Sea Food Market
Museums
One Day -
4 Hours $230Take in a Tango show with dinner and round trip transfers included
One Day -
4 Hours $210Tour Buenos Aires, this beautiful city is called the Paris of South America,
One Day -
4 Hours $260Learn the sensual dance, the Tango at a milonga which is a tango hall frequented by local dancers
One Day -
8 Hours $275This Buenos Aires tour takes you out of the city to experience what the nearby countryside has to offer
One Day -
12 Hours $255Wine Tours and Coastal views
Catrala Vineyard
Outstanding White Wines
Pinot Noir
Syrah
One Day
Multi-Day
-
4 Days $1295Explore the magnificent vistas and fascinating history of Tierra del Fuego, at the southern tip of Patagonia
Multi-Day -
4 Days $2,530Pristine areas in the Araucania Region
Multi-Day -
5 days $2900Cape Horn National Park
Beagle Channel
Penguins
Glacier Alley
Multi-Day -
4 Days $1145Experience the heart of the Lakes District on this Patagonia tour based in the resort town of Bariloche
Multi-Day -
4 Days $1195Tierra del Fuego National Park
Beagle Channel
Ushuaia
Multi-Day -
2 Days $895Colchagua is known as the “King of Chilean Red Wines” and a must-visit for aficionados of vino tintoMulti-Day
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3 Days $1,745Lake Argentina
Upsala Glacier
Canal De Las Americas
Perito Moreno Glacier
Multi-Day -
4 Days $1190Visit all highlight areas of the Island
Local Rapa Nui guides
Multi-Day -
2 Days $660Historic estancia
Horseback riding
4x4 tour
Glacier views
Multi-Day -
4 Days $1675Fitz Roy
El Chalten
Highlights Hikes
Flexibility
Multi-Day -
3 Days $795Considered one of South America’s most impressive sights, Iguazu isn’t exactly on the beaten path
Multi-Day -
4 Days $1,195Visit the Argentine province where The Andes reach their highest
Multi-Day -
3 Days $750Explore and photograph the incredibly beautiful Perito Moreno Glacier and wander the quaint streets of El Calafate.
Multi-Day -
4 Days $1,700Austral Highway
Austral Fjords
Chilean Patagonia
Multi-Day -
4 & 5 Days $2,200Experience archaeological wonders, offering breathtaking and unique views
Multi-Day -
4 Days $1935Amalia Glacier
El Brujo Glacier
Calvo Fjord
Montonas Fjord
Burnal Glacier
More.....
Multi-Day -
4 Days $2,250Chile’s Northern Patagonia
Picturesque villages and dramatic landscapes
Chiloe culture and traditions
Multi-Day -
4-5 Days $2,930Torres del Paine National Park
Explore all highlights
Outstanding Lodges
Multi-Day -
3 Days $1370Whales
Penguins
Elephant Seals
Views & Wildlife
Multi-Day -
2 Days $1200Viña del Mar
Drink wine at Catrala Vineyards
Valparaiso
Multi-Day -
Stay at the Vik Guest House after a day of unforgettable wine tasting and tours
Multi-Day -
4 Days $995Villa Angostura
Hiking
Sea Kayaking
Multi-Day
The M/V Akademik Ioffe accommodates 96 passengers in 48 passenger cabins with shared, semi-private or private toilet and shower facilities. All cabins are outside cabins with exterior views from windows or portholes.
- Triple (2) two lower and one upper berth, en-suite washbasin, shared facilities, porthole, 8-10 square meters
- Twin Semi Private (12) two lower berths, semi-private facilities (one bathroom between two cabins), window, 11 square meters
- Twin Private (18) two lower berths, private facilities, window, 13 square meters
- Superior (10) two lower berths + sofa, private facilities, windows, 16 – 18 square meters
- Shackleton Suite (5), double bed + sofa bed, separate sleeping quarters, refrigerator, private facilities, upgraded en-suite amenities, windows, 19 square meters
- One Ocean Suite (1) double bed + sofa bed, separate sleeping quarters, refrigerator, private facilities with bathtub, upgraded en-suite amenities, windows, 28 square meters
VIEW DECK PLAN - HERE
Ship Amenities
- The M/V Akademic Ioffe offers many open deck spaces, including a top deck with 360 degree views around the ship. The bridge is located on deck six, and is accessible to travelers throughout their journey. She has comfortable staterooms, a restaurant with portholes, a renovated bar/lounge with portholes and access out to the covered main deck viewing/seating area, a library with wonderful forward facing views, a theater style lecture room, a multi-media room, sauna, hot water spa, salt water plunge pool, fitness and massage room, an elevator servicing decks 1-5 and a mudroom!
- Well-equipped for a range of adventure activities, the vessel is equipped with 10-11 zodiacs for shore excursions.
Ship Services
- The M/V Akademik Ioffe is manned by a highly experienced, 50 member marine crew, including an international catering/hotel staff, and an expedition staff of about 14 (comprised of an expedition leader, an assistant expedition leader, six guides/lecturers, four adventure concierges, a photographer in residence and a doctor).
Marisa, we've been back a week and I'm writing to say how wonderful our trip was. Thanks you for all your guidance and planning. Buenos Aires was so interesting. Our tour guide, Alejandro, was top notch-- and very funny. The hotel was in a good location and the all-day tour in Ushuaia was memorable. The ship was well-run and the food was both interesting and plentiful. The crew was professional. The expedition leaders were kind, enthusiastic and very knowledgeable. I can't give you credit for the fantastic weather and incredible scenery but it was an amazing trip. Thank you. - Susan Ogden/Rose Marie Wilson (Akademik Ioffe) Carrie and Justin, I just wanted to send the two of you a message to thank you for all your help putting together our trip to the Antarctic. The trip was absolutely fantastic – definitely the best trip we have ever taken! I would strongly recommend the Akademik Ioffe team to anyone that asks. The places we visited and the excursions we were able to participate in were definitely first-rate, and I would credit the staff for making this happen. They selected great places to visit, and really made each zodiac or on-shore excursion a special experience. The Antarctic is just mind-blowing. We did get south of the Circle – which sounds like it was a bit of an accomplishment – and had really great weather for the entire trip. So again, thanks for making a totally fabulous trip a reality for us. -Ron & Bonnie Milzer (Antarctic Circle Voyage onboard Akademik Ioffe)
- Antarctica - Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: How do I choose an itinerary?A: Antarctica is the trip of a lifetime, offering abundant wildlife and unique landscapes. Travelling to the end of the world is an unparalleled experience. It’s hard to go wrong with any option but for those with specific interests we recommend reviewing our guide to Antarctica Cruises found here or contacting an Adventure Travel Coordinator.Q: Can I make changes or additions to these tours?A: Antarctica cruise itineraries are set and cannot be changed, but you can certainly add pre/post cruise services (hotels, tours, transfers, flights, etc.) in Argentina and Chile. Southern Explorations is happy to assist with any additional services you require.Q: When is the best time to go to Antarctica?A: Travel to Antarctica occurs during the Austral Summer with cruise expeditions departing from late October through March. You may wish to schedule your trip according to what wildlife activities you’d like to observe, or any specific adventure activities you would like to do, such as snowshoeing, skiing, mountaineering, whale watching, and more, which are only offered on certain departures.Q: When is the most affordable time of year to travel to Antarctica? What’s the best way to get a deal on an Antarctica cruise?A: It is a popular misconception that the best way to obtain a deal on an Antarctica cruise is to wait until the last possible moment to book. While this works out sometimes, this scenario is rarer and rarer as Antarctica’s popularity as a tourist destination increases. A few years ago, operators had trouble filling their boats with paying passengers, so last-minute deals were common. Now, most Antarctica cruise departures sell out far in advance, so there is no reason for operators to offer last-minute deals. Currently the best way to obtain a deal on an Antarctica cruise is to book early, as many operators offer early booking discounts.
Generally, it is a good idea to confirm your cruise at least eight months to one year in advance. The time period around the holidays (Christmas/New Year's) tends to sell out further in advance. Fly cruises, during which you fly over the Drake Passage rather than crossing it onboard the vessel, also tend to sell out early, so it is a good idea to book more than one year in advance if you choose this type of cruise.
Prices are higher for travel in late December, January, and early February, as this is high season. Prices are lower early season (November/early December) and late season (late February/March).Q: What can I expect to see at different points during the season?A:- Late October and November: The early part of the season showcases a number of highlights. Landing sites are at their most pristine. The possibility of seeing sea ice is present early on, before it breaks up later in the season. Late October to early November sees Adélie, Chinstrap and Gentoo adult penguins and Antarctic-breeding seabirds starting to come ashore to their breeding sites where they commence courtship rituals and nest building. Shortly thereafter eggs are laid and incubated. Emperor penguins can be seen on the frozen Weddell Sea (visited via helicopter on special Emperor penguin voyages).
Spring flowers begin blooming in the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) and elephant seals are actively courting in South Georgia. South Georgia's female king penguins lay their eggs in November and the parents can be seen "carrying" eggs on their feet so that the parent can shuffle around the colony while the other adult goes out to sea to feed. "Oakum Boys" — king penguin chicks from the previous season — can also be seen in the rookeries. Fur seals litter the beaches in South Georgia with the males aggressive and ready to mate.
- December and January: The increased number of daylight hours brings exceptional opportunities for photographers and non-photographers alike, and the expeditions make the most of the summer weather and continuous hours of daylight. Research activity in the Peninsula at the scientific bases is at its peak. Penguin chicks begin hatching in the Falklands (Islas Malvinas); followed by hatchings in mid- to late-December at sites in the Antarctic Peninsula. Some 30 days after hatching, penguin chicks can be found in "crèches," resembling a nursery of sorts, which leaves both adults free to replenish their food supply. An exciting time of this part of the season is when the parent returns with food and the hungry chicks are persistent in being fed, running after the parent (or any adult penguin with food) in a "feeding chase." Whale sightings of baleen and toothed whales escalate in the Peninsula area. Seal pups can be seen on the beaches in South Georgia. Sea ice is also beginning to break up, which allows for the possibility to begin to access to rarely visited sites in the Weddell Sea, Ross Sea and within the Antarctic Circle.
- February and March: Sightings of whales are at their peak in the Peninsula and an increasing number of fur seals can be found along the Peninsula and offshore islands. Young fur seals are also quite playful in South Georgia. Penguin colonies are very active with the penguin chicks beginning their molt - losing their fuzzy down and developing their adult plumage. During this timeframe, the parents will abandoned their chicks, and return out to sea to feed and fatten up for their own molting stage. Most colonies (Adélie, Chinstrap and Gentoo) are nearly vacated by the end of February to early March. Blooming snow algae is prevalent and receding pack ice has reached its peak for the season, allowing for easier exploration within the Weddell Sea, Ross Sea and Antarctic Circle.
Q: What is the weather like in Antarctica?A: Antarctica is the highest, driest, windiest, coldest place on earth, but keep in mind that all tourism trips occur during Austral summer. The average summer temperature in the Antarctic Peninsula area is around 25 to 32°F (-4 to 0°C), although sometimes it will feel substantially colder due to the wind chill factor and water splashing up while riding in zodiacs. You can expect to encounter varied conditions including rain, snow, high winds, bright sun, and fog.Q: What is a typical day like in Antarctica?A: All three meals are eaten on board the ship. After breakfast, you will head out for your morning excursion for 2 to 5 hours, then get back on board to eat lunch while the ship navigates to the next landing site. Here you will once again disembark on land for 2 to 5 hours before dinner.Q: How physically fit do I need to be to enjoy a trip to Antarctica?A: You do not need to be extremely physically fit to travel to Antarctica, but should be comfortable walking short distances over uneven terrain, including snow, ice, and rock. Most ships also have a steep metal gangway that you must descend and ascend to embark/disembark the small zodiac boats that ferry passengers to shore. Your guides will always be there to assist you.Q: While in Antarctica, will I get to get off the ship and walk around on land?A: Yes! You will make landings every day you are in Antarctica, and the cruise staff will ensure you spend as much time on land as possible. This is true of every Antarctica cruise we offer. There is no cruise during which you stay onboard the ship the entire time.Q: How much time do I need to visit Antarctica?A: Standard Antarctic Peninsula cruise itineraries are 10 to 12 days long. The shortest Antarctica voyage we offer is 6 days long, with our longest being 32 days. Please inquire for details about specific voyages.Q: What are your booking and cancellation policies?A: All Antarctica cruises have different deposit policies, with the deposit amount typically ranging from $1500 per person to 25% of the total trip costs. Final payment is usually due between 100 days and 120 days prior to travel.
Antarctica cruise cancelation policies vary widely from ship to ship. The cancelation penalty from the time of booking up until 90 or 120 days prior to departure can be as little as $500 per person or as much as $5000+ per person. Generally, all cruises will have a 100% cancelation penalty within 90 days of departure. Please inquire for details about cancelation penalties for specific ships.Q: What kind of accommodations can I expect?A: Accommodations and amenities on board Antarctica cruises vary from simple 3-star to luxury 5-star. Please inquire for details.Q: Do tours include airfare?A: Most Antarctica cruises do not include any airfare, though some include roundtrip flights from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, and “fly cruises” include flights from Punta Arenas, Chile to Antarctica or to the Falkland Islands. Southern Explorations is happy to arrange any flights you require within Argentina or Chile. Please inquire about airfare inclusions for specific cruises.Q: How many people are on your tours?A: The Antarctica cruise ships we offer range in size from a capacity of 54 to 200 passengers. “Mega ships” with thousands of passengers on board are not allowed to make landings in Antarctica, so all vessels are relatively small.Q: Do I need travel insurance, what all do I need, and how much does it cost?A: All Antarctica cruises require that passengers purchase travel insurance covering emergency medical evacuation and repatriation. The cost of medical evacuation transport from Antarctica is high, and as it is the responsibility of the traveler, this coverage is imperative. Though trip cancellation insurance is not required, it is highly recommended. The cost of travel insurance varies from individual to individual and depends on many factors, such as cost of trip covered, age of traveler, where you live, etc. We recommend contacting Berkshire Hathaway or Travel Guard, or click here to compare other trip insurance companies.Q: Where do Antarctica cruises begin and end?A: Most Antarctica cruises begin/end in either Ushuaia, Argentina or Punta Arenas, Chile. Occasionally cruises depart directly from Buenos Aires, Montevideo, or other port cities, but this is rare. When departing from Ushuaia, you board the cruise at the pier in town and cross the Drake Passage onboard the vessel. Trips departing from Punta Arenas are "fly/cruise" programs that fly you (one-way or both-ways) by small aircraft to the South Shetland Islands, just off the Antarctic Peninsula to embark your expedition ship there. There are also some cruises that start with a flight from Punta Arenas to Stanley in the Falkland Islands. Please check your itinerary for any inclusions, or needed additions, such as pre- or post-trip hotel nights and domestic flights to your embarkation cities. Southern Explorations can book any needed pre- or post-trip hotels, domestic flights, tours and transfers, and include them within your trip costs.Q: What can I expect while crossing the Drake Passage? Will I get seasick?A: The Drake Passage is the body of water between Cape Horn (the southernmost tip of South America) and the Antarctic Peninsula. On most Antarctica cruise ships it will take a full two days to cross the Drake Passage. This passage has some of the roughest recorded sea conditions in the world (the “Drake Shake”), but it can also be pristinely calm (the “Drake Lake”). Conditions in this waterway can vary at any time of year depending on weather, and it is impossible to predict how rough it will be in advance. Some passengers experience seasickness, and others do not. It is advisable to come prepared by packing motion sickness remedies. All ships also have doctors onboard, and these medical professionals are extremely adept at assisting passengers with any seasickness concerns. Once in Antarctica, sheltered waters are normally encountered with little problem for rough seas. NOTE: There are also options to do what is called a "fly/cruise" program where you fly by small aircraft to the South Shetland Islands, just off the Antarctic Peninsula and then join up with your expedition cruise ship there, thus avoiding crossing the Drake Passage onboard the vessel.Q: Can I bring my photographic drone to Antarctica?A: The governing body of Antarctic tourism is called the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) and Southern Explorations is a member of this organization. IAATO members have agreed that they will not allow the recreational use of UAVs (drones) in the unique, and often wildlife rich, coastal areas of Antarctica. Through the unique global partnership that is the Antarctic Treaty system, the entire continent is formally designated as a 'natural reserve, devoted to peace and science'. Antarctica is regarded as the last great wilderness on our planet, still pristine with wildlife and landscapes that show little evidence of direct human activity. Visiting and operating in an environment like this comes with a responsibility to do so carefully and with minimal impact. UAVs are a relatively new phenomenon and IAATO Is therefore taking a cautionary approach, as it is possible they could have a negative impact on the environment. Also, as you can imagine, many drones flying over a penguin colony would not only be potentially detrimental to the birds (adult penguins are distracted by drones, which allows a Skua to swoop in and eat their eggs or swipe one of their chicks), but will also greatly diminish the experience of other passengers seeking to enjoy the beauty and solitude of the Seventh Continent. So, please, leave the drones at home!Q: Will I get more information on packing, vaccines, currency, electricity, etc.?A: After booking, you will receive a link to our online trip portal which includes all of the need-to-know information that is specific to your itinerary. This includes packing lists, restaurant recommendations, tipping guides, FAQs, vaccine recommendations and currency information. Your Adventure Travel Coordinator will also be a great resource for any other information you may need. - Late October and November: The early part of the season showcases a number of highlights. Landing sites are at their most pristine. The possibility of seeing sea ice is present early on, before it breaks up later in the season. Late October to early November sees Adélie, Chinstrap and Gentoo adult penguins and Antarctic-breeding seabirds starting to come ashore to their breeding sites where they commence courtship rituals and nest building. Shortly thereafter eggs are laid and incubated. Emperor penguins can be seen on the frozen Weddell Sea (visited via helicopter on special Emperor penguin voyages).
