Antarctica
Antarctic Peninsula
Antarctica
Antarctica
An extended 12-day voyage featuring an extra day dedicated to encountering Humpback, Orca, and Minke whales during the peak feeding season in the Antarctic Peninsula.
Duration: 12 days / 10 nights on board
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. The Captain and/or Expedition Leader will make necessary adjustments to ensure the best possible experience. This voyage features an extra day of exploration dedicated to whale spotting during the peak feeding season.
The trip includes a 1-Night Pre-Voyage Hotel stay at the luxurious Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa (or similar).
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.
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.
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.
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.
Camping More info about this activity
Camp ashore in Antarctica!
After dinner, you’ll leave your cruise ship and zip ashore via a Zodiac. An experienced guide will choose the campsite spot and instruct everybody in how to set up their tents and sleeping bags. The next morning everybody will help to break down the camp, making sure that no gear or garbage gets left behind, and clean the camping gear. The location for camps and the number of camp nights offered depends on the operator, weather and location of the ship.
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.
Antarctica during peak whale spotting season is something truly special, and this 12-day voyage gives you the privilege of spending an extra day in this Whale Lover’s Paradise. The expedition is timed to be in the company of the incomparable Humpback whale, who will be feeding on the abundance of krill in the water this time of year. Orcas and Minkes are also common sightings, adding yet another bonus to this very special expedition.
The journey begins with an overnight stay at a luxury hotel in Ushuaia. After the Drake Passage crossing, you will explore the South Shetland Islands, a rugged display of mountains and glaciers, where you can share the water’s edge with Elephant and Fur seals. On the Antarctic Peninsula (Days 7–9), you will maneuver through majestic channels, navigate wildlife-rich waters, and explore stunning bays and historic landing sites. The focus is on the longest and most adventurous off-ship experience, with the Citizen Science program available to deepen your understanding of this ecosystem.
Highlights:
Enjoy an extra day dedicated to exploration during the peak whale feeding season.
Spend time in the company of the incomparable Humpback whale, along with common sightings of Orcas and Minkes.
Explore the volcanic geology and diverse natural beauty of the South Shetland Islands.
Maneuver through majestic channels, explore historic landing sites, and visit active scientific bases.
Benefit from optional adventure activities including Kayaking and Immersive Photography.
Day 1: Arrive and explore in Ushuaia
Relaxation and optional evening briefing
After a friendly welcome at the airport and a transfer to the luxurious Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa (or similar), take some time to unwind or explore the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia. Our optional evening briefing is your opportunity to ask questions and meet some of your fellow explorers.
Day 2: All Aboard!
Embarkation, safety briefing and Captain’s welcome dinner
Spend your morning relaxing at the hotel, visiting a museum, or exploring the shops in Ushuaia, before our mid-afternoon escort to the ship. Our Expedition Team and ship staff will welcome you on board and get you settled in, followed by a safety and orientation briefing and our Captain’s welcome dinner. We’re on our way to Antarctica!
Days 3–4: Drake Passage
Polar experts, citizen science, and wildlife spotting
Join our Polar Experts as they share their vast knowledge of Antarctica, from its enchanting wildlife to its bold history. Participate in our pioneering Citizen Science program or sit back and take in this fabled journey while catching glimpses of rarely seen wildlife. Keep your binoculars handy to identify the many seabirds that escort our ship.
Days 5–6: South Shetland Islands
Volcanic geology and fully immersive exploration
The volcanic activity of the South Shetland Islands has sculpted a diverse natural beauty. Here, you can expect a spectacular display of mountains, glaciers, and wildlife, including Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins. This time of year is feeding time for Humpback whales, so don’t be surprised if you’re joined by a number of them on your day’s adventure.
Days 7–9: Antarctica (and Whales) Await
Extra day with Humpback whales and historic sites
On to the Antarctic Peninsula, where we’ll explore any number of stunning bays and famed landing sites. A particular highlight is the privilege of spending an extra day in the company of the giant Humpback whale. Orcas and Minkes are also common sightings. We’ll maneuver through majestic channels, passing glorious icebergs, on our way to historic landing sites and perhaps even an active scientific base.
Days 10–11: Drake Passage
The journey north and conclusion celebration
We leave this magical place and make our way north, once again crossing the legendary Drake Passage. We have one last hurrah as we celebrate the conclusion of our expedition with a special slideshow and a final meal together.
Day 12: Ushuaia Disembarkation
Departure
With huge smiles on weary, content faces, we disembark in the morning, letting you catch a flight to Buenos Aires or stay in Ushuaia for more sights and adventure.
Day 1: Arrive and explore in Ushuaia
Relaxation and optional evening briefing
After a friendly welcome at the airport and a transfer to the luxurious Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa (or similar), take some time to unwind or explore the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia. Our optional evening briefing is your opportunity to ask questions and meet some of your fellow explorers.
Day 2: All Aboard!
Embarkation, safety briefing and Captain’s welcome dinner
Spend your morning relaxing at the hotel, visiting a museum, or exploring the shops in Ushuaia, before our mid-afternoon escort to the ship. Our Expedition Team and ship staff will welcome you on board and get you settled in, followed by a safety and orientation briefing and our Captain’s welcome dinner. We’re on our way to Antarctica!
Days 3–4: Drake Passage
Polar experts, citizen science, and wildlife spotting
Join our Polar Experts as they share their vast knowledge of Antarctica, from its enchanting wildlife to its bold history. Participate in our pioneering Citizen Science program or sit back and take in this fabled journey while catching glimpses of rarely seen wildlife. Keep your binoculars handy to identify the many seabirds that escort our ship.
Days 5–6: South Shetland Islands
Volcanic geology and fully immersive exploration
The volcanic activity of the South Shetland Islands has sculpted a diverse natural beauty. Here, you can expect a spectacular display of mountains, glaciers, and wildlife, including Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins. This time of year is feeding time for Humpback whales, so don’t be surprised if you’re joined by a number of them on your day’s adventure.
Days 7–9: Antarctica (and Whales) Await
Extra day with Humpback whales and historic sites
On to the Antarctic Peninsula, where we’ll explore any number of stunning bays and famed landing sites. A particular highlight is the privilege of spending an extra day in the company of the giant Humpback whale. Orcas and Minkes are also common sightings. We’ll maneuver through majestic channels, passing glorious icebergs, on our way to historic landing sites and perhaps even an active scientific base.
Days 10–11: Drake Passage
The journey north and conclusion celebration
We leave this magical place and make our way north, once again crossing the legendary Drake Passage. We have one last hurrah as we celebrate the conclusion of our expedition with a special slideshow and a final meal together.
Day 12: Ushuaia Disembarkation
Departure
With huge smiles on weary, content faces, we disembark in the morning, letting you catch a flight to Buenos Aires or stay in Ushuaia for more sights and adventure.
INCLUSIONS
Prior to Embarkation
One pre-voyage hotel night with breakfast in Ushuaia
Transfer from airport in Ushuaia (USH) to group hotel (providing you arrive on Day 1 of the itinerary, and we have your confirmed air itinerary at least 15 days prior to departure)
Transfer from group hotel to ship for embarkation
On Board
Shipboard accommodations and meals
“Welcome” and “Farewell” receptions with sparkling wine and soft drinks
Beer/wine/soft drinks at lunch and dinner
Coffee/Tea/Cocoa 24 hours a day
500MB WiFi card for use on your personal devices
Expedition jacket for use during the voyage
Fleece-lined down jacket (yours to keep)
A pair of loaner boots for use during the voyage
All scheduled landings and excursions
Snowshoes for use during landings (subject to availability)
Our Citizen Science program: participation in a variety of scientific activities that support important research projects
Photography Coach available throughout the voyage
Participation in the Polar Plunge
Access to our onboard medical clinics
Access to our onboard fitness centers
All port and landing fees
Digital Voyage Log
Included with Ocean Albatros & Ocean Victory Suites
Wine and fruit on arrival
Restocked mini bar (non-alcoholic)
Complimentary laundry service
In-room espresso machine
Post Disembarkation
Group transfer from ship to airport, hotel in Ushuaia, or central location (please note we cannot drop at Airbnbs or private homes, which are often inaccessible for our transfer vehicles)
EXCLUSIONS
Any airfare or travel expenses associated with arrival or departure other than those specified above
Pre- or post-voyage expenses in Ushuaia other than those specified above
Travel insurance; medical insurance; evacuation coverage
Laundry and personal expenses incurred on board, except as listed in inclusions
Any other alcohol and soft drinks, except as listed in inclusions
Onboard communication charges such as outgoing phone calls or WiFi, except as listed in inclusions
Staff/crew gratuities
Exterior views
Sitting area with chairs or sofa and table
Complimentary Mini-Bar
Flat Screen TV
Telephone
Safe to store your valuables
Independent temperature controls
Luxury toiletries
Hair dryer
Exterior views
Sitting area with chairs or sofa and table
Complimentary Mini-Bar
Flat Screen TV
Telephone
Safe to store your valuables
Independent temperature controls
Luxury toiletries
Hair dryer
Exterior views
Sitting area with chairs or sofa and table
Complimentary Mini-Bar
Flat Screen TV
Telephone
Safe to store your valuables
Independent temperature controls
Luxury toiletries
Hair dryer
Exterior views
Sitting area with chairs or sofa and table
Complimentary Mini-Bar
Flat Screen TV
Telephone
Safe to store your valuables
Independent temperature controls
Luxury toiletries
Hair dryer
Exterior views
Sitting area with chairs or sofa and table
Complimentary Mini-Bar
Flat Screen TV
Telephone
Safe to store your valuables
Independent temperature controls
Luxury toiletries
Hair dryer
Exterior views
Sitting area with chairs or sofa and table
Complimentary Mini-Bar
Flat Screen TV
Telephone
Safe to store your valuables
Independent temperature controls
Luxury toiletries
Hair dryer
Exterior views
Sitting area with chairs or sofa and table
Complimentary Mini-Bar
Flat Screen TV
Telephone
Safe to store your valuables
Independent temperature controls
Luxury toiletries
Hair dryer
Exterior views
Sitting area with chairs or sofa and table
Complimentary Mini-Bar
Flat Screen TV
Telephone
Safe to store your valuables
Independent temperature controls
Luxury toiletries
Hair dryer
Exterior views
Sitting area with chairs or sofa and table
Complimentary Mini-Bar
Flat Screen TV
Telephone
Safe to store your valuables
Independent temperature controls
Luxury toiletries
Hair dryer
Exterior views
Sitting area with chairs or sofa and table
Complimentary Mini-Bar
Flat Screen TV
Telephone
Safe to store your valuables
Independent temperature controls
Luxury toiletries
Hair dryer
* 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
8175 NW 12 ST #120, Doral, FL 33126
Miami - Dade, Florida
Tel: +1 (786) 321-5654
WhatsApp: +1 (786) 705-2241
Email:
travel@thepolartravelcompany.com
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