Antarctica
Ultimate Wildlife Cruise–16 Day South Georgia and Antarctica Penguin Eco-Tour
A Little More Info
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
Single travelers staying in a room by themselves will be charged this additional single supplement fee, as all of our regular prices are otherwise based on double occupancy.
SINGLE SHARE OPTIONS (if available)
If you are traveling alone and wish to share a room, we will make every effort to find you a roommate of the same gender, in which case you will not have to pay the single supplement fee. The single supplement will be charged until we are able to confirm a roommate for you. If we are able to match you with a roommate, the single supplement will be refunded. In the event that we cannot find a share for you, you will be required to pay the single supplement fee.
New: Click the Singles Find a Share' icon below or check our "Community" page to connect with other single travelers looking to share.
Antarctica
Ultimate Wildlife Cruise–16 Day South Georgia and Antarctica Penguin Eco-Tour
Highlights
- Explore the world’s seventh continent on the Antarctic Peninsula by ship, Zodiac and on foot
- Learn about Antarctica’s unique geology, history and wildlife with an expert team of lecturers
- See the incredible wildlife of South Georgia, often referred to as “the Galapagos of the South.” This includes more than 30 species of breeding birds, including four species of penguin
- Visit South Georgia’s king penguin rookeries – the largest in the world
- Visit abandoned whaling stations and learn stories of inhabitants who called this island home
- Immerse yourself in the icy realm of the Antarctic, with an optional kayaking excursion
20-Day Ushuaia Deparutres at a Glance
- Day 1 Arrival Day in Ushuaia
- DAY 2 Embarkation
- DAY 3-6 Southern Ocean
- DAY 7-8 South Georgia
- DAY 9-10 Scotia Sea
- DAY 11-13 Antarctic Peninsula
- DAY 14-15 Crossing the Drake Passage
- DAY 16 Disembarkation in Ushuaia and Fly to Buenos Aires, Argentina or Home
16-Day Ship Options
World Explorer – Jan 6-23, 2025
Triple $17,209/person
Veranda Suite $20,246/person
Infinity Suite $21,259/person
Superior Suite $26,321
Deluxe Suite $28,346/person
Owner's Suite $33,371/person
Ocean Adventurer – Feb 16-Mar 5, 2025
Triple $14,171/person
Lower Deck Twin $17,209/person
Main Deck Porthole $17,884/person
Main Deck Window $19,571/person
Superior/Deluxe Cabin $20,584/person
Suite $27,334/person
Owner’s Suite $29,359/person
Above prices are per-person for the cruise only
Ultimate Wildlife Cruise–16 Day South Georgia and Antarctica Penguin Eco-Tour
Note about expedition cruising: Due to the expeditionary nature of our voyage, specific stops cannot be guaranteed. Flexibility is paramount in expedition travel; the following itinerary depends on the conditions at the time of travel. We strive to land often and stay as long as possible, abiding by the Guidelines for Responsible Ecotourism from IAATO.
Detailed Itinerary Crossing the Circle via Falklands and South Georgia
Day 1 International Flights to Ushuaia, Argentina
You will begin your journey in Ushuaia, a small but bustling port at the tip of South America. It’s the ideal gateway for you to explore the southern extent of Patagonia while preparing for your adventure ahead. Get active in the mountains or enjoy handcrafted chocolate at a café in town.
DAY 2 Ushuaia & Embarkation
Embarkation will occur in the late afternoon, after which your vessel will sail down the historic Beagle Channel, which transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America. Expect an air of anticipation as you depart!
DAY 2-3 Southern Ocean
There are many activities to keep you engaged while you are at sea. Learn to identify seabirds that glide alongside the ship, or attend dynamic presentations by your Expedition Team. You will be prepped on safety procedures for Zodiac cruises and shore landings, and also be given instructions for getting the most out of your optional sea kayaking adventures (extra cost), a truly intimate way to experience Antarctica.
If conditions are right, the first indication that you are approaching South Georgia is the sight of birds around a group of rocky spires called Shag Rocks. Have your binoculars and cameras ready to capture these rocks rising out of the icy ocean waters. Shags and prions often rest here, and due to nutrient rich upwellings around the rocks it can be a good place to keep a lookout for whales.
DAY 7-8 South Georgia
After enjoying South Georgia from a distance, we’ll head toward its numerable beaches to find a bay for your first land excursion. Landing sites are varied, largely determined by the weather conditions of your voyage. Whichever sites we visit, they’ll provide you with wildlife encounters unrivaled anywhere else on earth.
South Georgia is one of the most fertile breeding grounds in the world for sub-Antarctic wildlife, with beaches blanketed with penguins. It won’t take you long to realize that you are in a bird paradise, as burrowing seabirds, albatross and petrels can be seen in abundance.
You’ll find that South Georgia, once a popular base for whalers and sealers, is also scattered with abandoned relics and evidence of human activity from centuries gone by. Your Expedition Team will help bring those days to life while you visit old whaling stations and enjoy presentations on the South Georgia of then and now.
One of the most significant sites you will visit on the island is Grytviken. This settlement is one of the first whaling stations established in sub-Antarctic waters. Many travelers find that this place has a special appeal, as it is home to the remains of Sir Ernest Shackleton, one of the most famous Antarctic explorers.
DAY 9-10 Scotia Sea
Say goodbye to the king penguins, as your next destination is Antarctica! Your days at sea are filled with presentations, lectures and workshops led by your Expedition Team, who will prepare you for the wildlife that will greet you upon your arrival.
DAY 11-13 Antarctic Peninsula
The experience is hard to put into words, but the most common reaction upon reaching the White Continent is a sense of reverence and awe. You will discover that Antarctica is a land of extremes: at one moment you’ll be overcome with a feeling of complete silence and solitude; the next, you’ll be laughing at the comical antics of a curious penguin.
Your Expedition Team will take care of you at each excursion, whether you are Zodiac cruising, visiting a historical site or consorting with penguin colonies. Chinstrap, Adélie and gentoo penguins are found here, along with Weddell, fur, crabeater and leopard seals. During Zodiac cruises, keep an eye out for Antarctic whales such as minkes, which may give you a chance for an intimate experience with these majestic animals. Each day and each excursion will present a new collection of creatures to entertain you and keep your camera busy.
As exciting as the Zodiac excursions and landings are, perhaps you’ll treat yourself to an extra-special Antarctic experience by partaking in an optional paddling excursion (at an extra cost) or cast reason aside and jump into Antarctic waters for the polar plunge!
DAY 14-15 Crossing Drake Passage
After more than a dozen days of unique wildlife encounters and remarkable landscapes, your journey home begins. Crossing the Drake is your unofficial rite of passage. Spend time on deck watching for seabirds and whales, enjoy presentations by your Expedition Team, or simply relax and reminisce about your experiences.
DAY 16 Ushuaia Disembarkation
After breakfast aboard the ship, it is time to part ways and say goodbye to your Expedition Team. Airport transfers will be provided for those departing on the first homeward flights. Other guests will be transferred to town
Antarctica Lodging
Our Ultimate Wildlife 16-Day Cruise is conducted by the World Explorer.
ANTARCTICA SHIPS
Ultramarine
The newest ship in our fleet, Ultramarine, is designed to go beyond the familiar in polar exploration, to discover new places, and to immerse you in the best the region has to offer.
Equipped with two twin-engine helicopters, Ultramarine offers the most robust portfolio of adventure activities in the industry, the most spacious suites in its category, breathtaking public spaces, and more outdoor wildlife viewing spaces than other expedition ships its size. It also features an innovative mix of sustainability features that exceed all industry standards.
With all this and more, Ultramarine is set to deliver the ultimate polar expedition experience.
SHIP FACILITIES
- Polar Boutique
- Ready Rooms - Designed for efficiency—with wider hallways, plenty of seating, and conveniently located bathrooms—our two ready rooms allow guests to quickly change in and out of their expedition gear.
- Auditorium - A state-of-the-art, high-resolution LED screen wall in the main theater ensures high-definition viewing of presentations from your Expedition Team from any angle.
- Restaurant & Bistro
- Bridge
- Spa and Sauna
- Fitness Center
- Panorama Lounge and Bar
ALL SUITE FEATURES
- Showers and Toilets with heated floors
- Hairdryers
- Bathrobes
- Cabin Safe
- Temperature Control
- Housekeeping Service
CABIN OPTIONS
Explorer Triple Located on Deck 3, and approximately 285 sq. ft. (26.5 m2). This suite is perfect for guests traveling solo who want to share their experience with other like-minded travelers of the same gender, or for groups of three traveling together. Featuring three separate single beds, and amenities for each of the three guests.
Features: three single beds (two of which can be combined into a double bed), sitting area, picture window, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors.
Explorer Suite Located on Deck 3, and approximately 285 sq. ft. (26.5 m2). These suites are perfect for people traveling together or solo guests looking to share with like-minded individuals. This suite maximizes interior living space while still offering guests the opportunity to stay connected to the outdoors. Our entry-level twin suites are the largest available on a ship of this class.
Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, picture window, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors.
Balcony Suite Located on Decks 4 and 6, with approximately 226 sq. ft. (21 m2) of indoor living space, and a 52 sq. ft. (4.8 m2) balcony, this entry-level balcony suite is one of the largest available on a ship of this class. This suite is perfect for guests who are looking for both indoor and outdoor living spaces. There are four connecting suites in this category, making this an excellent option for families or groups wanting to stay connected to each other during their expedition.
Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors.
Deluxe Balcony Suite Located on Decks 4 and 6, with approximately 299 sq. ft. (27.8 m2) of indoor living space, and a 70 sq. ft. (6.5 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests wanting a larger living space, full bathroom, and a substantial balcony. Deluxe Balcony Suites are the first suite type to offer additional privacy in the bathroom with an enclosed toilet, a full bath and shower to make it easier for guests to get ready together in the morning.
Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors
Solo Panorama Located on Deck 6, and approximately 132 sq. ft. (12.3 m2). This suite is perfect for solo guests who appreciate privacy and want to wake up to sweeping views from the comfort of their bed. These are the only solo suites with floor-to-ceiling windows available onboard any ship in its class.
Features: single bed, floor-to-ceiling window, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors.
Terrace Suite Located on Deck 6, with approximately 350 sq. ft. (32.5 m2) of indoor living space, and a 100 sq. ft. (9.3 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests wanting generous interiors with a wide layout and the largest balconies on the ship. Centrally located on Deck 6, guests will enjoy minimal movement and motion from the comfort of these suites.
Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private extra-wide balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors.
Owner’s Suite Located on Deck 6, with approximately 446 sq. ft. (41.4 m2) of indoor living space and a 46.3 sq. ft. (4.3 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests who want it all. A large, luxurious suite featuring a private bedroom, full bathroom, powder room, and two separate living spaces. This suite is perfect for families or couples who want all the comforts of home onboard the ship.
Features: one double or two single beds in a private bedroom with walk-in closet, sitting area with sofa bed and additional closet, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors and separate powder room.
Ultra Suite Located on Deck 6, with approximately 563 sq. ft. (52.3m2) of interior living space, and a 46 sq. ft. (4.3 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests who want to travel without compromise. Our largest and most luxurious suite features the most sleeping, entertainment and storage space onboard the ship. It is perfect for families or travelers who want all the comforts of home onboard the ship.
Features: one double or two single beds in a private bedroom with walk-in closet, sitting area with sofa bed and additional walk-in hallway closet, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors and separate powder room.
Penthouse Suite The only suite category to be located on Deck 7, with approximately 369 sq. ft. (34.3 m2) of indoor living space, and a 67 sq. ft. (6.2 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests wanting to wake up to unobstructed polar views from the warmth and comfort of their bed onboard the ship. These suites offer the best of everything—views, spacious interiors, full bathrooms and generous balcony sizes—as well as easy access to the wellness center.
Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors
SHIP SPECS
Crew: 140
Guests: 199
Length: 128 m (420 ft)
Draft: 16.4 m (16 ft)
Class: 1A+, PC6
Cruising Speed: 16 Knots
Lifeboats: 4 fully enclosed
Ocean Diamond
The Ocean Diamond is a luxurious vessel with spacious cabins. All cabins have private bathroom facilities and exterior views. Please feel free to enjoy the flat screen TV and DVD player in your cabin. The Ocean Diamond is modern, stable super-yacht. Carrying a maximum of 189 passengers, this outstanding vessel features numerous adventure options plus on board amenities for you to enjoy such as a well-stocked polar library.
SHIP FACILITIES
- Polar Boutique
- Library - A large collection of polar books and DVDs in a quiet cozy place for reading and relaxation.
- Lounge Areas and Lecture Theater - Offers great opportunities for socializing and observing fantastic landscapes with audiovisual facilities.
- Reception Area
- Crew Areas
- Gym
- Observation Decks
- Medical Clinic
- Elevator
- Dining Room
ALL SUITE FEATURES
- Showers and Toilets
- Electric Current
- Hairdryers
- Bathrobes
- Cabin Safe
- Temperature Control
- Housekeeping Service
CABIN OPTIONS
Triple Approximately 200 sq. ft. (19 sq. m) in size, this cabin has a two twin beds and an upper bed, and two portholes. Located on the Lower Deck, these cabins have a private bathroom with shower. A refrigerator, TV, and DVD player are included in each cabin. Please note that porthole covers may be closed during sea days or during inclement weather as a safety precaution.
Twin Obstructed View Approximately 200 sq. ft. (19 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double bed or two twin beds, and a picture window (the view is obstructed). Located on the Captain’s and Upper Decks, these cabins have a private bathroom with shower. A refrigerator, TV, and DVD player are included in each cabin.
Twin Window Approximately 95 to 105 sq. ft. (9-10 sq. m), a Twin Porthole on Deck 4 features a porthole window, two lower beds and a private bathroom. Cabins 4060, 4062, and 4064 have one lower and one upper bed and a private bathroom.
Twin Window Between 183 and 200 sq. ft. (17 and 19 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double bed or two twin beds, and a picture window. Located on the Upper, Main and Captain’s Decks, these cabins have a private bathroom with shower. A refrigerator, TV, and DVD player are included in each cabin.
Suite Approximately 400 sq. ft. (37 sq. m) in size, these suites have one double bed or two twin beds, and two picture windows. Located on the Main Deck, these suites have two private bathrooms, and a separate sitting area with a sofa, chair, and small table. Two refrigerators, TVs, and DVD players are included in each cabin.
Single Porthole Approximately 200 sq. ft. (19 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double bed and two portholes. Located on the Lower Deck, these cabins have a private bathroom with shower. A refrigerator, TV, and DVD player are included in each cabin. Please note that porthole covers may be closed during sea days or during inclement weather as a safety precaution.
Single Obstructed View Approximately 200 sq. ft. (19 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double bed, and a picture window (the view is obstructed by the lifeboats). Located on the Captain’s Deck these cabins have a private bathroom with shower. A refrigerator, TV, and DVD player are included in each cabin.
Balcony Suite Approximately 325 sq. ft. (30 sq. m) in size, including the balcony, this suite has one double bed or two twin beds, and a full-size window with a sliding glass door that leads to a private deck with chairs. Located on the Observation Deck, this suite has a private bathroom with shower. A refrigerator, TV, and DVD player are included in each cabin.
SHIP SPECS
Crew: 144
Guests: 189
Length: 124 m (407 ft)
Breadth: 16 m (52.5 ft)
Draft: 4.9 m (16 ft)
Propulsion: 2 Wichmann Engines, 7,375 horsepower
Class: B.V. Ice Class 1D
Cruising Speed: 14 Knots
Lifeboats: 2 fully enclosed
Ocean Adventure
The Ocean Adventurer is a comfortable vessel with spacious cabins, which all have private bathroom facilities and exterior views. Designed to carry travelers in comfort to the most remote corners of the world, Ocean Adventurer was built in 1976, and underwent extensive upgrades in 2017. This multi-million dollar investment included renovations to the interior of the ship, significant technical upgrades, and the addition of a new cabin category, the Owner’s Suites. The refurbishment gave the ship new bathrooms in every cabin, and upgrades to the Lounge, Dining Room, gym, and suites. Technical enhancements – including two new engines, generators, gear boxes, drive systems, and re-bladed propellers – resulted in increased fuel efficiency, and a minimized carbon footprint.
SHIP FACILITIES
- Polar Boutique
- Library - A large collection of polar books and DVDs in a quiet cozy place for reading and relaxation.
- Lounge Areas and Lecture Theater - Offers great opportunities for socializing and observing fantastic landscapes with audiovisual facilities.
- Reception Area
- Crew Areas
- Gym
- Observation Decks
- Medical Clinic
- Dining Room
ALL SUITE FEATURES
- Showers and Toilets
- Electric Current
- Hairdryers
- Bathrobes
- Cabin Safe
- Temperature Control
- Housekeeping Service
CABIN OPTIONS
Triple From 145 sq. ft. (13.5 sq. m), a Triple Cabin is equipped with two lower berths and one upper berth. Located on the Main Deck, it has private facilities, and a porthole with exterior views. Please note that porthole covers may be closed during sea days or during inclement weather as a safety precaution.
Lower Deck Twin From 115 sq. ft. (11 sq. m), a Lower Deck Twin Cabin is equipped with two lower berths. Located on the Lower Deck, it has private facilities, and a porthole with exterior views. Please note that porthole covers may be closed during sea days or during inclement weather as a safety precaution.
Main Deck Twin Porthole From 115 sq. ft. (11 sq. m), a Main Deck Twin Porthole Cabin is equipped with two lower berths. Located on the Main Deck, it has private facilities, and a porthole with exterior views. Please note that porthole covers may be closed during sea days or during inclement weather as a safety precaution.
Main Deck Twin Window From 115 sq. ft. (11 sq. m), a Main Deck Twin Window Cabin is equipped with two lower berths. Located on the Main Deck, it has private facilities, and a window with exterior views.
Superior Cabins From 132 sq. ft. (12 sq. m), a Superior Cabin is equipped with two lower berths. Located on the Upper and Captain’s Decks, it has private facilities, and windows with exterior views.
Deluxe Cabins From 144 sq. ft. (13 sq. m), a Deluxe Cabin is equipped with two lower berths. Located on the Captain’s Deck, it has private facilities, and windows with exterior views.
Suite Approximately From 215 sq. ft. (20 sq. m), a Suite is equipped with one double bed made up of two twin berths. Located on the Captain’s Deck, it has windows with exterior views and private facilities. Cabin 403 has a bathtub; other Suites have shower stalls.
Owner's Suite From 208 sq. ft. (19 sq. m), an Owner’s Suite Cabin is equipped with one double bed made up of two twin berths. Located on the Bridge Deck, it has private facilities, and windows with exterior views.
SHIP SPECS
Crew: 87
Guests: 132
Length: 101.1 m (332 ft)
Breadth: 16.2 m (53 ft)
Draft: 4.5 m (15 ft)
Propulsion: Rolls Royce Diesel Twin Engines, 6 cylinder, 5400 horsepower
Class: B.V. Ice Class 1A
Cruising Speed: 12 Knots
Lifeboats: 4 partially enclosed
World Explorer
Distinct and comfortable, refined and roomy—these attributes and more describe World Explorer. Every cabin has either a private walk-out or Juliet balcony for direct ocean views. World Explorer also delivers plenty of public areas to unwind in after a day outdoors, including the glass-domed Observation Lounge, the Explorer Lounge, and a dedicated presentation theater. Health and wellness facilities feature an outdoor walking track, a fitness center and a spa, plus a sauna with a change room and shower.
SHIP FACILITIES
- Polar Boutique
- Library - Located on in the Observation Lounge on Deck 7, the library includes a selection of field guides, picture books and reference books. Whatever your personal interests are, we’re sure you’ll find something worth reading. The World Explorer collection includes books in multiple languages covering subjects like wildlife, history, marine biology, ecology and geology.
- Lounge Areas and Lecture Theater - On Deck 4, the Explorer Lounge is used for special functions and events, and where you can grab a cup of complimentary coffee or tea. The Observation Lounge on Deck 7 is a comfortable spot to relax and enjoy panoramic polar views.
- Auditorium - Our theater-style auditorium on Deck 4 can easily accommodate everyone on board, so it serves as our main hall where presentations and videos are provided for your education and enjoyment.
- Observation Decks - The Observation Deck is generally open for viewing wildlife and enjoying the open ocean. Our outer decks provide a good deal of open space and are accessible at any time (unless weather/sea conditions deem it unsafe).
- Reception Area
- Fitness Center - Located on Deck 7, fitness center hours are posted at the door, with facilities available on a first come, first served basis. Please refrain from bringing glass bottles into the fitness center. We kindly ask that you take care using these facilities and when you leave, please ensure the equipment is as clean and tidy as when you arrived.
- Spa - The spa is located on Deck 7. Please see the spa attendant for details on how to book massages, facials, and hand and foot treatments using L’Occitane products.
- Pool - Deck 7 features a large heated outdoor pool, surrounded by deck space, and flanked by two hot tubs. Please note, there is no lifeguard on duty
- Medical Clinic - The Clinic is located on Deck 4. In case of emergency, the doctor is available 24 hours a day, and can be contacted through reception or any member of the Expedition Team.
- Elevator
- Crew Areas
- Dining Room
ALL SUITE FEATURES
- Showers and Toilets
- Electric Current
- Hairdryers
- Bathrobes
- Cabin Safe
- Temperature Control
- Housekeeping Service
CABIN OPTIONS
Triple Located on Deck 6, and approximately 242 sq. ft. (22.5 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walk-out balcony. A separate combo sitting area/bedroom with a sofa bed and additional closet is around the corner, and a refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.
Infinity Suite Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 270 sq. ft. (25 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a floor-to-ceiling glass Juliet balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.
Veranda Suite Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 215 sq. ft. (20 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walk-out balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.
Superior Suite Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 278 sq. ft. (26 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, walk-in closet, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.
Deluxe Suite Located on Deck 5, and approximately 334 sq. ft. (31 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, double closets, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.
Owner's Suite Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 355 sq. ft. (33 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower, dual vanity, and bathtub is also featured in each cabin.
SHIP SPECS
Crew: 125
Guests: 172
Length: 126 m (413 ft)
Breadth: 19 m (62 ft)
Draft: 4.7 m (15 ft)
Propulsion: 2 x Rolls Royce 9,000 kw hybrid diesel/electric
Class: B.V. Ice Class 1B
Cruising Speed: 16 Knots in open water
Lifeboats: 2 fully enclosed
Antarctica Activities
At a Glance
We emphasize spending the maximum amount of time possible in the field, both on land and cruising in zodiacs. Our unique flexible wildlife format means that we have enough leaders so that instead of keeping participants in large, tight guided groups, we are able to intersperse guides in the area visited so that travelers are able to roam freely.
Antarctica Wildlife
Rare or Endangered Possible Sightings
Mammals: Commerson's Dolphin, Peale's Dolphin
Prolific & Likely Sightings
Mammals: European Hare, Antarctic Fur Seal, South American Fur Seal, Southern (Australasian) Fur Seal, South American Sea Lion, Leopard Seal, Weddell Seal, Southern Elephant Seal, Reindeer (Caribou), Southern Right Whale, (Common) Minke Whale, Fin Whale, Humpback Whale, Hourglass Dolphin, Orca (Killer Whale), Sperm Whale, Southern Bottlenose Whale
Birds: Upland Goose, Kelp Goose, Ruddy-headed Goose, Falkland (Flightless) Steamer-Duck, Crested Duck, Chiloe Wigeon, Blue-winged Teal, Yellow-billed Pintail, South Georgia Pintail, Silver Teal, Yellow-billed Teal, Silvery Grebe, King Penguin , Adelie Penguin, Gentoo Penguin, Chinstrap Penguin, Magellanic Penguin, Macaroni Penguin, Rockhopper Penguin, Gray-headed Albatross, Black-browed Albatross, Sooty Albatross, Light-mantled Albatross, Southern Royal Albatross, Northern Royal Albatross, Wandering Albatross, Southern Giant-Petrel, Northern Giant-Petrel, Southern Fulmar, Cape (Pintado) Petrel, Snow Petrel, Kerguelen Petrel, Soft-plumaged Petrel, White-headed Petrel, Atlantic Petrel, Blue Petrel
OCCASIONAL
Birds: Broad-billed Prion, Antarctic Prion, Slender-billed Prion, White-chinned Petrel, Great Shearwater, Sooty Shearwater, Wilson's Storm-Petrel, Gray-backed Storm-Petrel, Black-bellied Storm-Petrel, Common Diving-Petrel, South Georgia Diving-Petrel, Magellanic (Rock) Cormorant, South Georgia Shag, Imperial Cormorant (King), Black-crowned Night-Heron, Variable Hawk, Snowy Sheathbill, Blackish Oystercatcher, Magellanic Oystercatcher, Two-banded Plover, Rufous-chested Dotterel, Least Seedsnipe, White-rumped Sandpiper, South American Snipe, South Polar Skua, Brown (Antarctic) Skua, Brown (Subantarctic) Skua, Parasitic (Arctic) Jaeger, Brown-hooded Gull, Dolphin Gull, Franklin's Gull, Kelp Gull, Arctic Tern, South American Tern, Antarctic Tern, Short-eared Owl, Striated Caracara, Southern Caracara, Peregrine Falcon (ssp. Cassin's), Blackish (Tussock Bird) Cincloides, Dark-faced Ground-Tyrant, Black-crowned Monjita, Cobb's Wren, Sedge Wren, Austral Thrush, Correndera Pipit, South Georgia Pipit, White-bridled (Black-throated) Finch, Long-tailed Meadowlark, Black-chinned Siskin
Antarctica FAQ
Antarctica Facts for Visitors
Climate
Typical daytime temperatures for the Antarctic Peninsula during the summer are -2º to 4ºC (28º to 39ºF). However, the weather is quite changeable, and you may encounter different conditions not only in a single day but even on a single landing. Also, strong winds can make it feel considerably colder (as low as -18ºC/0ºF), so you must be dressed for windy and wet conditions at all times. The only thing we can guarantee about the weather is that it will be unpredictable.
Health and Safety
Flights
Airfare is not included in trip costs. Detailed flight information and the contact information for our recommended flight ticketing agent is included in the Trip Materials we will send after you sign up; if you need help, she can help you arrange your flights.
We include one hotel night in the embarkation city on Day 1 of the trip, so you may book your flights to arrive at any time on the start date for your trip, or of course, you may choose to arrive a few days early to explore the city. To facilitate this, we’ll add an additional night immediately prior to the group night at no extra charge.
Our estimated disembarkation time from the vessel is 8:00 a.m. (0800 hrs) on the last day of the trip, with an included group transfer to the airport following disembarkation. Therefore we expect to be at the airport ready to check in about 9:00am, but this is subject to weather conditions in Ushuaia as well as sea conditions en route. Therefore, if you intend to fly out of Ushuaia on the day of disembarkation, we recommend booking your return flight as late in the day as possible. Try to avoid any flights departing before noon (1200 hrs). Arrival delays can occur and Wild Planet Adventures cannot be held responsible for any costs incurred due to delayed disembarkation.
Travel Insurance
Emergency Medical and Evacuation Insurance is required for this tour.
Seasickness
While in the Antarctic Peninsula area, seasickness shouldn’t be a problem for anyone save the most extremely sensitive people. It is best to be prepared for the Drake Passage crossing however. Motion sickness medication is preventative not curative. Please be prepared and bring your own medication and start taking it as soon as the ship leaves port – don’t wait until you feel sick! Patch style medication and suppositories work best. Oral medication won’t work if you can’t “keep it down”, so again, take it immediately after embarking, don’t wait to see how you feel without it. Also, the best advice we can give you is this: EAT. It may sound counter-intuitive but the sensation of nausea is much worse on an empty stomach. Eat a little something at every meal, stay hydrated and rested, take your medication and you’ll be fine.
Trip Materials
Detailed information about your specific tour will be sent to you after you make your reservation with us. These trip materials include information about flights, packing, entry and departure requirements, airport transfers, gratuities, etc. Please take a moment to read this important informtation upon receipt.
Conditions
Smoking policy: Smoking is permitted in designated outside areas only.
Itinerary route: The itinerary route, stops and plans are subject to change by unforeseen circumstances beyond our control, such as weather, wildlife sightings, or road conditions.
Medical conditions and travel risks: Travel to remote places is exciting, but it is important to understand and accept the risks, both medical and logistical. Minor medical problems can usually be treated, but due to the fact that we often travel to locations far from medical facilities, there can be no expectation for immediate medical treatment or evacuation, even in cases of trauma. Anyone with health problems needing close medical supervision should not consider going on this trip. Bring enough medication for the duration of the trip for any chronic medical needs, since pharmacies are usually not available. When you send your tour deposit and signed reservation form, you certify to us that you do not knowingly have any physical or other conditions that would create a risk for yourself or for other trip participants.
This Trip's Exclusive Wildlife Features:
- Explore the world’s seventh continent on the Antarctic Peninsula by ship, Zodiac and on foot
- Learn about Antarctica’s unique geology, history and wildlife with an expert team of lecturers
- See the incredible wildlife of South Georgia, often referred to as “the Galapagos of the South.” This includes more than 30 species of breeding birds, including four species of penguin
- Visit South Georgia’s king penguin rookeries – the largest in the world
- Visit abandoned whaling stations and learn stories of inhabitants who called this island home
- Explore the world’s seventh continent on the Antarctic Peninsula by ship, Zodiac and on foot
- Learn about Antarctica’s unique geology, history and wildlife with an expert team of lecturers
- See the incredible wildlife of South Georgia, often referred to as “the Galapagos of the South.” This includes more than 30 species of breeding birds, including four species of penguin
- Visit South Georgia’s king penguin rookeries – the largest in the world
- Visit abandoned whaling stations and learn stories of inhabitants who called this island home