Antarctica
Antarctic Polar Circle
Antarctica
Antarctica
A 15-day Christmas and New Year expedition sailing to and across the Antarctic Circle. Experience the region’s profound shift in landscape and wildlife, enjoy elevated cuisine, culinary demonstrations, and witness penguin chicks hatching amidst spectacular ice.
Duration: 15 days / 14 nights
Starts: Ushuaia, Argentina
Ends: Ushuaia, Argentina
Language: English speaking voyage
The itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather and ice conditions. Your Captain and Expedition Leader will make the necessary adjustments to ensure the best possible experience.
Includes an overnight hotel stay in Ushuaia (Arakur Resort & Spa) with a welcome dinner upon arrival. This special sailing includes Christmas and New Year celebrations.
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.
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.
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.
Snow Shoeing More info about this activity
This popular alpine activity is easy to learn. No experience is necessary – all you need is a willingness to try. All training is provided and our team of guides will have you trained and ready to go in no more than half an hour.
Participants should be confident in their footing and have an average level of fitness – outings may be up to three hours in duration. Those who enjoy hiking trails or taking long walks at home will possess enough fitness to enjoy this activity. As with any other activity, you will get more enjoyment out of it with some preparation in advance, such as long walks with uphill sections or bike riding.
In Antarctica, the longest hike can be 2-3 hours long, while in the Arctic it can be a full day tour.
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.
Join the Antarctic Feast: Circle in Depth expedition for a special 15-day Culinary Christmas and New Year sailing adventure. This journey pushes south, exploring deeper and traveling further by crossing the legendary Antarctic Circle. By venturing beyond the northern Peninsula, you will witness a profound change in the landscape and the diversity of wildlife that calls this remote region home. Experience the thrill of Zodiac-cruising through mirror-like waters, taking in breathtaking scenes of ice-clad mountains and spectacular glaciers under the long, sunlit days of the Antarctic summer.
This unique expedition offers more than just discovery; it’s a celebration. Enjoy a Christmas and New Year holiday like no other, toasting the crossing of the Antarctic Circle (66°33' South) with fellow adventurers. Your tastebuds will be equally delighted with our elevated cuisine and engaging cooking demonstrations led by our culinary team. This period is prime time for wildlife viewing, offering the sight of bustling penguin colonies with newly hatching chicks, while predatory skuas patrol the skies. This is an adventure likely to be remembered and talked about for many years to come, offering a sense of accomplishment by joining the few who venture to this far south.
Highlights:
Celebrate a white Christmas like no other and new year with like-minded adventurers and new friends.
Experience a toast with the crossing of the Antarctic Circle at latitude 66°33' South (approximately).
Witness bustling penguin colonies with chicks hatching as predatory skuas pick off vulnerable prey.
Tantalise your tastebuds with our elevated cuisine and enjoy cooking demonstrations with our culinary team.
Join a small group of lucky adventurers who have ventured to the most profound reaches of the world.
Day 1: Arrive Ushuaia
Arrival, Welcome Dinner, and Pre-Voyage Hotel Stay
Arrive in Ushuaia and be met by an Aurora Expeditions representative for transfer to the assigned pre-voyage hotel, Arakur Resort & Spa (check-in from 3:00 pm). Visit the hospitality desk between 3:00 pm and 7:00 pm for luggage tags and to confirm interest in the pre-embarkation tour. All expeditioners are encouraged to arrive by 5:00 pm to enjoy a group welcome dinner at La Cravia restaurant, known for its "Haute Cuisine" and views over the Beagle Channel and Vinciguerra Glacier.
Day 2: Embarkation
City Tour Option and Setting Sail Through the Beagle Channel
After breakfast, check out and ensure your cabin luggage is left for direct transfer to the ship. Guests may join the optional pre-embarkation tour at 8:45 am or enjoy the day at leisure before meeting for the transfer to the pier. Once onboard, mandatory briefings take place. As the ship leaves port, gather on deck for spectacular views over Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego, followed by a welcome dinner to celebrate the start of the Antarctic adventure.
Days 3–4: Drake Passage Crossing
Lectures, Biosecurity, and First Iceberg Sightings
As we commence the Drake Passage crossing, the Expedition Team prepares guests with essential wildlife guidelines and biosecurity procedures. The lecture program begins, covering Antarctica’s history, environment, and wildlife. Enjoy watching and photographing seabirds, including majestic albatrosses and giant petrels. Guests can utilize onboard facilities like the gym, sauna, and jacuzzis. On Day 4, as we near the South Shetland Islands and cross the Antarctic Convergence, the palpable excitement leads to the surreal sighting of the first floating ice sculptures. Time and weather permitting, we may attempt our first Antarctic landing by late afternoon.
Days 5–12: Antarctic Peninsula & Antarctic Circle
Deep South Exploration, Holiday Celebrations, and Polar Crossing
Upon arrival in Antarctica, the western side of the Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands become our exploration ground for eight days. The experienced team designs the daily itinerary based on weather, ice, and wildlife opportunities, utilizing the long daylight hours (18-24 hours). We aim for twice-daily landings or Zodiac cruises along ice cliffs and among grounded icebergs, keeping watch for whales, seals, and porpoising penguins. Ashore, we explore penguin rookeries, historic huts, and wander along pebbly beaches or up snow-covered ridgelines. This period is dedicated to reaching and crossing the Antarctic Circle (approximately 66°33' South), which will be celebrated with a toast. The landscape changes, and the waters are rich with krill, maximizing the chance to see humpback and minke whales and penguin chicks hatching. Expect a special Christmas feast and celebration in the restaurant, surrounded by the spectacular icy landscape. Optional activities (Snowshoeing, Sea Kayaking, Snorkelling, Paddling) and the Polar Plunge are offered when conditions allow.
Days 13–14: Drake Passage Crossing
Final Landing and Reflective Voyage North
We enjoy a final morning landing in the South Shetland Islands before re-entering the Drake Passage for the return journey to South America. Use this time to attend final lectures and film presentations to complete the Antarctic experience. This is a time for reflection on the immense power of nature and advocacy for Antarctica’s conservation. Weather and time permitting, the Captain may sail close to the legendary Cape Horn as we approach the tip of South America.
Day 15: Disembark Ushuaia
Arrival in Tierra del Fuego and Onward Travel
During the early morning, we cruise up the Beagle Channel and quietly slip into dock in Ushuaia, with disembarkation around 8:00 am. Farewell your expedition team and fellow passengers. Transfers to the airport will be arranged for guests with flights before 12:30 pm. Those with later flights (after 12:30 pm) will have the opportunity to explore Ushuaia before an afternoon airport transfer.
Note: We do not recommend booking flights departing Ushuaia prior to 12:00 pm.
Day 1: Arrive Ushuaia
Arrival, Welcome Dinner, and Pre-Voyage Hotel Stay
Arrive in Ushuaia and be met by an Aurora Expeditions representative for transfer to the assigned pre-voyage hotel, Arakur Resort & Spa (check-in from 3:00 pm). Visit the hospitality desk between 3:00 pm and 7:00 pm for luggage tags and to confirm interest in the pre-embarkation tour. All expeditioners are encouraged to arrive by 5:00 pm to enjoy a group welcome dinner at La Cravia restaurant, known for its "Haute Cuisine" and views over the Beagle Channel and Vinciguerra Glacier.
Day 2: Embarkation
City Tour Option and Setting Sail Through the Beagle Channel
After breakfast, check out and ensure your cabin luggage is left for direct transfer to the ship. Guests may join the optional pre-embarkation tour at 8:45 am or enjoy the day at leisure before meeting for the transfer to the pier. Once onboard, mandatory briefings take place. As the ship leaves port, gather on deck for spectacular views over Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego, followed by a welcome dinner to celebrate the start of the Antarctic adventure.
Days 3–4: Drake Passage Crossing
Lectures, Biosecurity, and First Iceberg Sightings
As we commence the Drake Passage crossing, the Expedition Team prepares guests with essential wildlife guidelines and biosecurity procedures. The lecture program begins, covering Antarctica’s history, environment, and wildlife. Enjoy watching and photographing seabirds, including majestic albatrosses and giant petrels. Guests can utilize onboard facilities like the gym, sauna, and jacuzzis. On Day 4, as we near the South Shetland Islands and cross the Antarctic Convergence, the palpable excitement leads to the surreal sighting of the first floating ice sculptures. Time and weather permitting, we may attempt our first Antarctic landing by late afternoon.
Days 5–12: Antarctic Peninsula & Antarctic Circle
Deep South Exploration, Holiday Celebrations, and Polar Crossing
Upon arrival in Antarctica, the western side of the Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands become our exploration ground for eight days. The experienced team designs the daily itinerary based on weather, ice, and wildlife opportunities, utilizing the long daylight hours (18-24 hours). We aim for twice-daily landings or Zodiac cruises along ice cliffs and among grounded icebergs, keeping watch for whales, seals, and porpoising penguins. Ashore, we explore penguin rookeries, historic huts, and wander along pebbly beaches or up snow-covered ridgelines. This period is dedicated to reaching and crossing the Antarctic Circle (approximately 66°33' South), which will be celebrated with a toast. The landscape changes, and the waters are rich with krill, maximizing the chance to see humpback and minke whales and penguin chicks hatching. Expect a special Christmas feast and celebration in the restaurant, surrounded by the spectacular icy landscape. Optional activities (Snowshoeing, Sea Kayaking, Snorkelling, Paddling) and the Polar Plunge are offered when conditions allow.
Days 13–14: Drake Passage Crossing
Final Landing and Reflective Voyage North
We enjoy a final morning landing in the South Shetland Islands before re-entering the Drake Passage for the return journey to South America. Use this time to attend final lectures and film presentations to complete the Antarctic experience. This is a time for reflection on the immense power of nature and advocacy for Antarctica’s conservation. Weather and time permitting, the Captain may sail close to the legendary Cape Horn as we approach the tip of South America.
Day 15: Disembark Ushuaia
Arrival in Tierra del Fuego and Onward Travel
During the early morning, we cruise up the Beagle Channel and quietly slip into dock in Ushuaia, with disembarkation around 8:00 am. Farewell your expedition team and fellow passengers. Transfers to the airport will be arranged for guests with flights before 12:30 pm. Those with later flights (after 12:30 pm) will have the opportunity to explore Ushuaia before an afternoon airport transfer.
Note: We do not recommend booking flights departing Ushuaia prior to 12:00 pm.
INCLUSIONS
All airport transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
One night’s hotel accommodation including breakfast, in Ushuaia on Day 1.
Welcome dinner in Ushuaia on Day 1.
Pre-embarkation tour in Ushuaia on Day 2.
Onboard accommodation during voyage, including daily cabin service.
Elevated menu curated by a guest chef.
All meals, snacks, tea, coffee, soft drinks and juices during voyage.
Premium spirits, beer and wine during voyage.
Captain’s Farewell reception including four-course dinner, cocktails, premium spirits, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages.
Onboard cooking demonstrations (subject to sea and weather conditions)
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 gratuities, laundry services, personal clothing, medical expenses, email 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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USA
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Miami - Dade, Florida
Tel: +1 (786) 321-5654
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Email:
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