Antarctica
Falkland, South Georgia, Antarctica
Antarctica
Antarctica
A unique Sail/Fly expedition with New Scientist Discovery Tours aboard the Douglas Mawson (2025). Engage in field-based learning, Zodiac cruises, and citizen science to understand Antarctica's role as Earth’s natural laboratory and monitor environmental change.
Duration: 10 days / 9 nights
Starts: Ushuaia, Argentina
Ends: Punta Arenas, Chile
Language: English speaking voyage
The itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather, sea state and other conditions beyond our control. Your Captain and Expedition Leader will make the necessary adjustments to ensure the best possible experience.
Charter Flights More info about this activity
In departures with charter flights, part of the air transport segment is covered by the operation of the trip as part of the itinerary.
Check in the inclusions and exclusions of the program which air sections are included in your itinerary.
Ship Cruise More info about this activity
Not only we travel from one point to another and find our shelter on board the ship we chose. We also enjoy from incredible scenery, landscapes and interactions that only our noble vessel can provide.
Everyday the Bridge Team navigates the ship to position ourselves on the best posible spots, looking for unique opportunities.
Many times, this includes sainig through narrow passages, on the vicinity of glaciers or entering bays and fjords only approachable from the ship.
Enjoy this incredible places from the comfort of the common areas on board, open decks or your own private balcony!
Shore Excursion More info about this activity
Shore excursions are the backbone of almost all itineraries, with most ships making landfall at least once every day once they reach their destination. The weather plays a huge role in your daily itinerary, although given the sheer array of fantastic landing sites all over there are plenty of options your Captain and Expedition Leader can choose from. On-shore excursions allow you to visit scientific research stations, communities, prominent wildlife colonies and take hikes to elevated viewing points for fantastic photography.
Photo Workshop More info about this activity
The photography workshops are composed of onboard lectures and practical activities led by dedicated expedition guide. Each session is meant to give you additional skills you can put into immediate practice out in nature.
You'll become more familiar with your own camera equipment while also learning best practices for taking pictures of moving wildlife and wide-open terrain in typical polar conditions, such as dim lighting and falling snow.
Zodiac cruising More info about this activity
On board the Zodiac you will discover a world of possibilities; accessing the most exclusive landing sites, cruising the coast in search of wildlife or simply enjoying a tour in the calm of the polar regions in search of marine wildlife or bird colonies.
The blue ice an its intimate presence is experienced at its best on zodiac tours.
It is not uncommon to meet curious seals, or humpback whales feeding.
Enrichment Program More info about this activity
Expedition cruising must be one of the most incredible ways of travelling. Not only for the amazing places you visit and the unforgetable wildlife but for the wildlife, the sensory overload and the unimaginable memories.
But all of this needs a context in order to understand where you are and what you are experiencing.
On board your expedition vessell you will find a group of experts, naturalists, zodiac drivers and guides that that will translate the language of nature for you, telling you the stories of the places you are visiting, reviewing the historical, biological, ecological and geological aspects of your trips.
You will experience first hand what surrounds you and arrive back home wiser and loaded with new knowledge.
Citizen Science More info about this activity
There’s important work being done every day, at some of the most renowned climate research facilities around the world, to record and study the incredible changes happening in remote places like Antarctica and th Arctic. As you might imagine, gathering critical on-site data on a regular basis would be a virtually impossible task for these groups. So we do it for them, in partnership with different research facilities.
If you’d like to get a first-hand look at how climate change is impacting our birds, sea life, glaciers, oceans, and weather patterns, and help scientists better understand our evolving planet, you’re welcome to join our Citizen Science program. And don’t let the word “science” scare you. We make it informative, interactive, and fun.
Hiking More info about this activity
Hiking options include very easy beach hikes (good for photographers who need time for photography), easier short hikes, medium-difficulty extended hikes, and more challenging long hikes.
Snorkelling More info about this activity
Witness wildlife and scenery unlike any other place on earth. Through crystal clear waters you’ll discover the amazing mobility and speed of penguins entering and exiting from the ice, marvel at beautiful sculpted icebergs below the water and witness marine life such as crustaceans, isopods, starfish and nudibranchs!
With a longstanding tradition of pushing the boundaries, Aurora Expeditions launched our Antarctic snorkelling adventures in 2014. In 2016 the activity has also been added to a range of our Arctic expeditions. This unique experience will allow passengers to see both destinations in a completely new dimension, witnessing wildlife and scenery unlike any other place on earth.
Kayaking More info about this activity
The experience of sea kayaking in the humbling wilderness of Antarctica or the Arctic is guaranteed to stir your soul.
Sea kayaking is one of the highlights for any Polar Traveller, providing ice and weather conditions are assessed as safe by your Expedition Team.
This activity requires previous kayaking experience.
Paddling More info about this activity
Paddle Excursion Program provides sit-on-top, two-person, inflatable kayaks that provide guests with an intimate, water-level experience in unforgettable locations in both the Arctic and Antarctica. These stable, rugged and comfortable crafts are an ideal way to see the polar regions from a different perspective. On-ship, you'll be provided with instruction and equipment including dry suits, personal flotation devices (PFDs), and waterproof gloves. Experienced guides will lead you safely throughout the paddling excursion. Your group will always be escorted by a safety driver in another kayak who will stay close by to provide additional support.
This Antarctic Explorer expedition, in collaboration with New Scientist Discovery Tours, treats the harsh and remote continent not merely as a destination but as a vital natural laboratory for scientific exploration. Aboard the state-of-the-art polar expedition vessel, the Douglas Mawson (built 2025), guests will travel with a deeper understanding of the systems that govern our changing world. The vessel features the revolutionary Ulstein X-BOW and is designed to minimize negative environmental impacts, offering a sleek cruising experience with a limit of 130 guests.
The expedition is structured as a carefully curated mix of offboard daytime activity and enriching onboard talks and workshops. During the Antarctic Peninsula exploration, the itinerary remains flexible to maximize wildlife encounters, including observing penguin colonies, seals, and whales, and learning how they serve as indicators of environmental health. Guests will join expert-led science talks and have the opportunity to participate in a unique citizen science program, collecting valuable data for the global scientific community.
Highlights:
Sail aboard the new, state-of-the-art vessel, the Douglas Mawson (2025)
Dynamic, field-based learning with New Scientist Discovery Tours experts
Participate in hands-on citizen science programs and workshops
Observe wildlife and learn about their role as environmental change indicators
Zodiac cruising in secluded bays filled with brash ice and enormous glaciers
Day 1: Arrival in Ushuaia, Argentina
Pre-voyage Logistics and Leisure
Arrive in Ushuaia and be transferred to your assigned pre-voyage hotel. Visit the Aurora Expeditions hospitality desk between 3:00 pm and 7:00 pm to collect luggage tags and confirm details, including the optional Lake Escondido tour. Guests arriving later will receive a welcome pack and must visit the desk the following morning. All meals on this day are at your own expense.
Day 2: Embarkation and Scenic Drive Option
Andes Panoramic Drive or Direct Embarkation
After breakfast and check-out, cabin luggage will be transferred directly to the port. Guests can join the optional Lake Escondido tour, which offers an unforgettable panoramic drive through glacial valleys and forests in the Andes Mountain Range, reaching Garibaldi Pass for views of Lake Escondido and Fagnano Lake, potentially including a typical Fuegian Lamb barbecue. Alternatively, meet at the hotel lobby or designated meeting point for transfer to the pier. Mandatory briefings follow embarkation, and the adventure commences with a welcome dinner and views over Ushuaia.
Days 3-4: Drake Passage Crossing
Polar Lectures, Wildlife Watch, and Antarctic Convergence
The Drake Passage crossing begins with the expedition team preparing guests with wildlife guidelines and biosecurity procedures. A lecture program starts, covering Antarctica’s history, wildlife, and environment. Guests can watch for and photograph seabirds, including majestic albatrosses and giant petrels. Excitement builds as the ship nears the South Shetland Islands on Day 4, crossing the Antarctic Convergence and encountering the surreal presence of floating ice sculptures. The first Antarctic landing may be attempted by late afternoon, weather permitting.
Days 5-8: Antarctic Peninsula Exploration
Zodiac Safaris, Citizen Science, and Shore Excursions
The western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands are explored, utilizing approximately 18–24 hours of daylight. The expedition team designs the itinerary daily, choosing the best options based on weather, ice, and wildlife opportunities, generally aiming for two landings or Zodiac excursions daily. Activities include cruising along ice cliffs, visiting penguin rookeries and historic huts, and wandering up snow-covered ridgelines. Guests can participate in the unique, hands-on citizen science program, assisting in sampling and data collection. Keen polar plungers may take the chance to fully immerse themselves in polar waters.
Day 9: Fly King George Island to Punta Arenas
Farewell to Antarctica and Charter Flight
Approach Frei Base on King George Island to farewell Antarctica before boarding a charter flight (approximately one hour and forty-five minutes) to Punta Arenas, Chile. This location requires a clear sky for safe take-off and landing, and delays are possible. Upon arrival in Punta Arenas, guests will be transferred to the Hotel Cabo de Hornos for an overnight stay.
Day 10: Depart Punta Arenas
Disembarkation and Onward Travel
After breakfast, bid farewell to fellow travelers. A transfer to the airport is included in the voyage fare. Guests are advised against booking flights departing Punta Arenas prior to 12:00 pm.
Day 1: Arrival in Ushuaia, Argentina
Pre-voyage Logistics and Leisure
Arrive in Ushuaia and be transferred to your assigned pre-voyage hotel. Visit the Aurora Expeditions hospitality desk between 3:00 pm and 7:00 pm to collect luggage tags and confirm details, including the optional Lake Escondido tour. Guests arriving later will receive a welcome pack and must visit the desk the following morning. All meals on this day are at your own expense.
Day 2: Embarkation and Scenic Drive Option
Andes Panoramic Drive or Direct Embarkation
After breakfast and check-out, cabin luggage will be transferred directly to the port. Guests can join the optional Lake Escondido tour, which offers an unforgettable panoramic drive through glacial valleys and forests in the Andes Mountain Range, reaching Garibaldi Pass for views of Lake Escondido and Fagnano Lake, potentially including a typical Fuegian Lamb barbecue. Alternatively, meet at the hotel lobby or designated meeting point for transfer to the pier. Mandatory briefings follow embarkation, and the adventure commences with a welcome dinner and views over Ushuaia.
Days 3-4: Drake Passage Crossing
Polar Lectures, Wildlife Watch, and Antarctic Convergence
The Drake Passage crossing begins with the expedition team preparing guests with wildlife guidelines and biosecurity procedures. A lecture program starts, covering Antarctica’s history, wildlife, and environment. Guests can watch for and photograph seabirds, including majestic albatrosses and giant petrels. Excitement builds as the ship nears the South Shetland Islands on Day 4, crossing the Antarctic Convergence and encountering the surreal presence of floating ice sculptures. The first Antarctic landing may be attempted by late afternoon, weather permitting.
Days 5-8: Antarctic Peninsula Exploration
Zodiac Safaris, Citizen Science, and Shore Excursions
The western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands are explored, utilizing approximately 18–24 hours of daylight. The expedition team designs the itinerary daily, choosing the best options based on weather, ice, and wildlife opportunities, generally aiming for two landings or Zodiac excursions daily. Activities include cruising along ice cliffs, visiting penguin rookeries and historic huts, and wandering up snow-covered ridgelines. Guests can participate in the unique, hands-on citizen science program, assisting in sampling and data collection. Keen polar plungers may take the chance to fully immerse themselves in polar waters.
Day 9: Fly King George Island to Punta Arenas
Farewell to Antarctica and Charter Flight
Approach Frei Base on King George Island to farewell Antarctica before boarding a charter flight (approximately one hour and forty-five minutes) to Punta Arenas, Chile. This location requires a clear sky for safe take-off and landing, and delays are possible. Upon arrival in Punta Arenas, guests will be transferred to the Hotel Cabo de Hornos for an overnight stay.
Day 10: Depart Punta Arenas
Disembarkation and Onward Travel
After breakfast, bid farewell to fellow travelers. A transfer to the airport is included in the voyage fare. Guests are advised against booking flights departing Punta Arenas prior to 12:00 pm.
INCLUSIONS
All airport transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
One night’s hotel accommodation including breakfast, in Punta Arenas on Day 1.
Charter flight from Punta Arenas to King George Island.
Onboard accommodation during voyage, including daily cabin service.
All meals, snacks, tea, coffee, soft drinks and juices during voyage.
Beer and house wine with dinner.
Captain’s Farewell reception including four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic beverages.
All shore excursions and Zodiac cruises.
Educational lectures and guiding services provided by Expedition Team.
Complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consultation).
One 3-in-1 waterproof, polar expedition jacket.
Complimentary use of Muck Boots during the voyage.
Comprehensive pre-departure information.
Port surcharges, permits and landing fees.
Wi-Fi*.
One night’s hotel accommodation including breakfast, in Ushuaia on Day 1.
Lake Escondido tour in Ushuaia, on Day 2.
Charter flight King George Island to Punta Arenas on Day 9.
One night’s hotel accommodation including breakfast, in Punta Arenas on Day 9.
Onboard accommodation during voyage, including daily cabin service.
All meals, snacks, tea, coffee, soft drinks and juices during voyage.
Beer and house wine with dinner.
Captain’s Farewell reception including four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic beverages.
All shore excursions and Zodiac cruises.
Educational lectures and guiding services provided by Expedition Team.
Complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consultation).
One 3-in-1 waterproof, polar expedition jacket.
Complimentary use of Muck Boots during the voyage.
Comprehensive pre-departure information.
Port surcharges, permits and landing fees.
Wi-Fi*.
* Please note we travel to remote regions and therefore the connection can be unreliable.
EXCLUSIONS
International or domestic flights – unless specified in the itinerary.
Transfers – unless specified in the itinerary.
Airport arrival or departure taxes.
Passport, visa, reciprocity and vaccination fees and charges.
Travel insurance or emergency evacuation charges.
Hotel accommodation and meals – unless specified in the itinerary.
Optional excursions and optional activity surcharges.
All items of a personal nature, including but not limited to alcoholic beverages (outside of dinner service), gratuities, laundry services, personal clothing, medical expenses or phone charges.
Note: A $15 USD per person per day gratuity for the crew is automatically added to your onboard account. It is at your discretion if you would like to remove the tip (or adjust the amount) when you settle your bill. It is not necessary to tip the expedition team members. This gratuity amount is included for suites as part of their ‘Suite Benefits’.
15.37m² - 15.97m² (165.4ft² - 171.9ft²)
The Douglas Mawson features two Aurora Stateroom Twin cabins featuring windows, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they´re close to the mudroom and loading platforms, perfect for adventurers who are looking for a comfortable base that´s close to the action.
Private en-suites
Porthole window
Desk area
Closet space
Room-controlled thermostat
Room safe
42´´ flat-screen TV
Mini bar*
1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all staterooms except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite
Stateroom size: 22.57m² (242.9ft²)
There are two Aurora Stateroom Triple cabins featuring portholes, both with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they´re close to the mudroom and loading platforms.
Private en-suites
Porthole window
Closet space
Room-controlled thermostat
Room safe
42´´ flat-screen TV
Mini bar*
1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all staterooms except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite
Stateroom size: 13.97m2 - 16.17m2 (150.4ft2 - 174.1ft2)
With a bit more room to stretch the legs, the Aurora Stateroom Superior are perfect for polar adventurers who travel with plenty of gear.
Located on Deck 7, the Staterooms feature french balconies, floor to ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area.
Private en-suites
French balcony
Desk area
Closet space
Room-controlled thermostat
Room safe
42´´ flat-screen TV
Mini bar*
1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all staterooms except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite
Stateroom & balcony combined size: 21.07m2 - 26.77m2 (226.8ft² - 288.2ft2)
We have three categories of our Balcony Staterooms. These are classified as A, B or C depending on the stateroom size.
Our 15 Balcony Stateroom Category C rooms are our most economical, fitted with all the necessities and comfortable for up to 2 people. These staterooms are scattered throughout Deck 4 & 6.
Private en-suites
Private balcony
Full size window
Desk area
Closet space
Room-controlled thermostat
Room safe
42´´ flat-screen TV
Mini bar*
1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all staterooms except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite
Stateroom & balcony combined size: 21.07m2 - 26.77m2 (226.8ft² - 288.2ft2)
We have three categories of our Balcony Staterooms. These are classified as A, B or C depending on the stateroom size.
Our 17 Balcony Stateroom B rooms are our standard room, many fitted with interconnecting features making them great for families or groups. These staterooms are located at the fore and aft of Deck 4 and 6.
Private en-suites
Private balcony
Full size window
Desk area
Closet space
Room-controlled thermostat
Room safe
42´´ flat-screen TV
Mini bar*
1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all staterooms except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite
Stateroom & balcony combined size: 21.07m2 - 26.77m2 (226.8ft² - 288.2ft2)
We have three categories of our Balcony Staterooms. These are classified as A, B or C depending on the stateroom size.
Our 25 Balcony Stateroom A rooms are our premium room, and the most abundant on board. These staterooms are located in preferred positions on Deck 4 and 6 which provides easy access between Decks via the internal stairs or elevator.
Private en-suites
Private balcony
Full size window
Desk area
Closet space
Room-controlled thermostat
Room safe
42´´ flat-screen TV
Mini bar*
1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all staterooms except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite
Stateroom & balcony combined size: 27.77m2 - 36.27m2 (298.9ft2 - 390.4ft2)
With a bit more room to stretch the legs, the Balcony Stateroom Superiors are perfect for polar adventurers who travel with plenty of gear.
Located on Deck 4 and 6, the Staterooms feature floor to ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area.
Some of these rooms are equipped with wheelchair accessible bathrooms.
Private en-suites (wheelchair accessible)
Private balcony
Full size window
Desk area
Closet space
Room-controlled thermostat
Room safe
42´´ flat-screen TV
Mini bar*
1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
Some of these rooms are equipped with wheelchair accessible bathrooms.
*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all staterooms except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite
Stateroom & balcony combined size: Up to 41.47m2 - 41.87m2 (446.4ft2 - 450.7ft2)
The four Junior Suites take in some impressive scenery from their vantage points on Deck 7. When you aren\\\\\\\'t enjoying a landing, you can relax in the suites\\\\\\\' separate lounge area, or just watch the world float by from the private balcony.
Private en-suites
Private balcony
Full size window
Separate lounge area
Desk area
Closet space
Room-controlled thermostat
Room safe
42´´ flat-screen TV
Mini bar*
1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
1 x free pair of binoculars per suite
Free stocked mini bar^
1 x free bottle of champagne per suite
A gratuity of $15 USD per person per day for the crew is included with each suite
^Junior Suites stocked once only, not replenished. Captain’s Suite replenished as needed.
Stateroom & balcony combined size: 45.22m2 (486.7ft2)
The largest of all our rooms, the singular Captain\\\\\\\'s Suite will take you to the polar regions in ultimate style and comfort. Complete with large lounge area, balcony, walk-in wardrobe and en-suite, you\\\\\\\'ll need to get in early to secure this suite.
Private en-suites
Private balcony
Full size window
Separate lounge area
Desk area
Closet space
Room-controlled thermostat
Room safe
42´´ flat-screen TV
Mini bar*
1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
1 x free pair of binoculars per suite
Free stocked mini bar^
1 x free bottle of champagne per suite
A gratuity of $15 USD per person per day for the crew is included with each suite
^Junior Suites stocked once only, not replenished. Captain’s Suite replenished as needed.
* The prices are per person in US Dollars, unless expressly specified in a different currency. In that case, payment will be in US dollars at the exchange rate of the day.
** Rates are correct at the time of publication. All prices will be re-confirmed by email at the time of booking.
NOTE: Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy—and excitement—of expedition travel. When traveling in extremely remote regions, your expedition staff must allow the sea, the ice and the weather to guide route and itinerary details. This itinerary is a tentative outline of what you’ll experience on this voyage; please be aware that no specific itinerary can be guaranteed.
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THE POLAR TRAVEL COMPANY LLC
USA
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