In Shackleton’s Footsteps (20 days)

Follow the trail of Sir Ernest Shackleton from Antarctica's serene ice to the wildlife sanctuary of South Georgia. Explore Weddell Sea's ‘Iceberg Alley’ and hike the final leg of Shackleton's historic traverse to Stromness. This quintessential polar voyage is enriched with historical insights and abundant wildlife sightings.


South Georgia and Antarctica
© AUE

Duration: 20 days / 19 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.


Included
Optional


This quintessential 20-day polar voyage invites guests to follow in the footsteps of Sir Ernest Shackleton, known as 'the Boss'. The journey begins by exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and setting foot on the continent, before heading north to the spectacular Antarctic Sound, known as ‘Iceberg Alley’. Travelers embrace the true expedition spirit by navigating as far as possible into the Weddell Sea, the historical location where Shackleton’s Endurance met its fate. This remote area is renowned for enormous tabular icebergs that escape into the Antarctic Sound, providing a dramatic backdrop.

The final legs of the voyage retrace the most desperate moments of the Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition. This includes setting course for Elephant Island—the desolate outpost where 22 men survived for months—and then following the perilous route of the James Caird across the Scotia Sea. The adventure culminates in South Georgia, an incredible wildlife sanctuary where fur seals, elephant seals, and four species of penguin coexist in harmony. The expert expedition team enriches the journey with insights, wildlife-spotting tips, and stories of Shackleton’s epic adventure.

Highlights:
Marvel at the enormous tabular icebergs that escape the Weddell Sea into the Antarctic Sound, also known as ‘Iceberg Alley’.
Learn about the fascinating history of Shackleton’s Endurance expedition, including the 2022 discovery of the shipwreck.
Experience South Georgia, an incredible wildlife sanctuary where fur seals, elephant seals and four species of penguin coexist in harmony.
Hike from Fortuna Bay to the abandoned Stromness whaling station, repeating the final leg of Shackleton’s remarkable traverse of South Georgia from east to west.

Itinerary

© AUE
© AUE
© AUE

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 the optional Lake Escondido tour. All meals today are at your own expense.

Day 2: Embarkation and Scenic Drive Option
Andes Panoramic Drive or Direct Embarkation
After breakfast and check-out, luggage is transferred directly to the port. Guests may join the optional Lake Escondido tour, featuring a panoramic drive through glacial valleys and forests in the Andes. The tour includes reaching Garibaldi Pass for views and potentially enjoying a typical Fuegian Lamb barbecue before returning for ship embarkation. Mandatory briefings follow embarkation, concluding with a welcome dinner.

Days 3-4: Drake Passage Crossing
Lectures, Wildlife Watch, and First Iceberg Sighting
Settle into your stateroom and attend mandatory briefings on biosecurity and Zodiac safety. The expedition team offers presentations on Antarctica’s history and wildlife. Excitement builds as the ship nears the South Shetland Islands on Day 4, crossing the Antarctic Convergence and spotting the first iceberg and porpoising penguins. The first Antarctic landing may be attempted in the late afternoon, weather permitting.

Days 5-7: Exploring the Antarctic Peninsula
Zodiac Excursions, Shore Landings, and Pristine Views
The western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands are open for exploration. The experienced expedition team designs the itinerary daily based on weather, ice, and wildlife opportunities. Landings or Zodiac excursions generally occur twice a day, viewing spectacular ice cliffs, whales, seals, and penguins. Options include hikes up snow-covered ridgelines for vantage points or walks along pebbly beaches. The traditional Polar Plunge may be offered.

Day 8: Weddell Sea
Iceberg Alley, Endurance History, and Tabular Icebergs
Your passage begins at the northernmost extreme of the Antarctic Peninsula, in the Antarctic Sound. This is the gateway to the Weddell Sea, central to Shackleton’s story, where the Endurance met its fate. Embrace the expedition spirit, forging your way as far as possible into the Weddell Sea, renowned for its breathtaking tabular icebergs and expansive sea ice. The area attracts abundant wildlife, including crabeater and Weddell seals, and seabirds. Reflect on the historic seas, sailing near where the wreck of the Endurance was discovered in 2022.

Day 9: Elephant Island
Following Shackleton’s Men to Point Wild
Set a course for Elephant Island, the lonely outpost where 22 of Shackleton’s men survived for several winter months. An early presentation covers the awe-inspiring story of their survival. The ship plans to sail past Cape Valentine, where the men first put ashore, and follow the coastline west to Point Wild. A Zodiac cruise or landing at the historic Point Wild promontory is planned, weather permitting.

Days 10-11: Scotia Sea Crossing
Route of the James Caird and Abundant Whales
Relax on sea days sailing towards South Georgia, following the route taken by Shackleton and five men in the open boat James Caird. The onboard lecture program continues, focusing on South Georgia’s wildlife, geology, and history. The Scotia Sea is known for its abundant wildlife, including fin, humpback, and blue whales, as well as elusive orca.

Days 12-16: South Georgia Exploration
King Penguin Colonies, Shackleton’s Grave, and Stromness Hike
Explore South Georgia, an island of incredible riches with a snow-capped mountain range and vast congregations of wildlife. Activities include Zodiac cruises in search of penguins and seals, and shore excursions to visit huge king penguin colonies, historical whaling stations, and the final resting place of Sir Ernest Shackleton. An optional highlight is the hike from Fortuna Bay to the abandoned Stromness whaling station, retracing the final section of Shackleton’s traverse.

Days 17-19: At Sea to Ushuaia
Shag Rocks Sighting and Captain’s Farewell Dinner
Sail from South Georgia towards Ushuaia, with the ceaseless flight of seabirds following the vessel. Weather permitting, the ship may pass close to Shag Rocks, a group of jagged rocky islets. Attend final lectures and reflect on the voyage. Celebrate your unforgettable journey with a special Captain’s farewell dinner on the final night.

Day 20: Disembarkation in Ushuaia
Arrival in Ushuaia and Onward Travel
The ship cruises up the Beagle Channel, docking in Ushuaia for disembarkation around 8:00 am. Transportation to the airport or assigned hotels will be arranged. Guests with flights prior to 12:30 pm will be transferred directly to Ushuaia Airport.

Itinerary

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 the optional Lake Escondido tour. All meals today are at your own expense.

Day 2: Embarkation and Scenic Drive Option
Andes Panoramic Drive or Direct Embarkation
After breakfast and check-out, luggage is transferred directly to the port. Guests may join the optional Lake Escondido tour, featuring a panoramic drive through glacial valleys and forests in the Andes. The tour includes reaching Garibaldi Pass for views and potentially enjoying a typical Fuegian Lamb barbecue before returning for ship embarkation. Mandatory briefings follow embarkation, concluding with a welcome dinner.

Days 3-4: Drake Passage Crossing
Lectures, Wildlife Watch, and First Iceberg Sighting
Settle into your stateroom and attend mandatory briefings on biosecurity and Zodiac safety. The expedition team offers presentations on Antarctica’s history and wildlife. Excitement builds as the ship nears the South Shetland Islands on Day 4, crossing the Antarctic Convergence and spotting the first iceberg and porpoising penguins. The first Antarctic landing may be attempted in the late afternoon, weather permitting.

Days 5-7: Exploring the Antarctic Peninsula
Zodiac Excursions, Shore Landings, and Pristine Views
The western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands are open for exploration. The experienced expedition team designs the itinerary daily based on weather, ice, and wildlife opportunities. Landings or Zodiac excursions generally occur twice a day, viewing spectacular ice cliffs, whales, seals, and penguins. Options include hikes up snow-covered ridgelines for vantage points or walks along pebbly beaches. The traditional Polar Plunge may be offered.

Day 8: Weddell Sea
Iceberg Alley, Endurance History, and Tabular Icebergs
Your passage begins at the northernmost extreme of the Antarctic Peninsula, in the Antarctic Sound. This is the gateway to the Weddell Sea, central to Shackleton’s story, where the Endurance met its fate. Embrace the expedition spirit, forging your way as far as possible into the Weddell Sea, renowned for its breathtaking tabular icebergs and expansive sea ice. The area attracts abundant wildlife, including crabeater and Weddell seals, and seabirds. Reflect on the historic seas, sailing near where the wreck of the Endurance was discovered in 2022.

Day 9: Elephant Island
Following Shackleton’s Men to Point Wild
Set a course for Elephant Island, the lonely outpost where 22 of Shackleton’s men survived for several winter months. An early presentation covers the awe-inspiring story of their survival. The ship plans to sail past Cape Valentine, where the men first put ashore, and follow the coastline west to Point Wild. A Zodiac cruise or landing at the historic Point Wild promontory is planned, weather permitting.

Days 10-11: Scotia Sea Crossing
Route of the James Caird and Abundant Whales
Relax on sea days sailing towards South Georgia, following the route taken by Shackleton and five men in the open boat James Caird. The onboard lecture program continues, focusing on South Georgia’s wildlife, geology, and history. The Scotia Sea is known for its abundant wildlife, including fin, humpback, and blue whales, as well as elusive orca.

Days 12-16: South Georgia Exploration
King Penguin Colonies, Shackleton’s Grave, and Stromness Hike
Explore South Georgia, an island of incredible riches with a snow-capped mountain range and vast congregations of wildlife. Activities include Zodiac cruises in search of penguins and seals, and shore excursions to visit huge king penguin colonies, historical whaling stations, and the final resting place of Sir Ernest Shackleton. An optional highlight is the hike from Fortuna Bay to the abandoned Stromness whaling station, retracing the final section of Shackleton’s traverse.

Days 17-19: At Sea to Ushuaia
Shag Rocks Sighting and Captain’s Farewell Dinner
Sail from South Georgia towards Ushuaia, with the ceaseless flight of seabirds following the vessel. Weather permitting, the ship may pass close to Shag Rocks, a group of jagged rocky islets. Attend final lectures and reflect on the voyage. Celebrate your unforgettable journey with a special Captain’s farewell dinner on the final night.

Day 20: Disembarkation in Ushuaia
Arrival in Ushuaia and Onward Travel
The ship cruises up the Beagle Channel, docking in Ushuaia for disembarkation around 8:00 am. Transportation to the airport or assigned hotels will be arranged. Guests with flights prior to 12:30 pm will be transferred directly to Ushuaia Airport.


© AUE
© AUE
© AUE


INCLUSIONS

All airport transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
One night’s hotel accommodation including breakfast, in Ushuaia on Day 1.
Lake Escondido tour in Ushuaia, on Day 2.
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’.


Dates & Rates


Ship: Douglas Mawson | Date: 08 Nov 2026 - 27 Nov 2026 (3792)
Aurora Stateroom Twin
$31,195
$26,516
Aurora Stateroom Triple
$30,295
Aurora Stateroom Superior
$32,895
$27,961
Balcony Stateroom Category C
$33,795
$28,726
Balcony Stateroom Category B
$35,595
$30,256
Balcony Stateroom Category A
$38,295
$32,551
Balcony Stateroom Superior
$41,795
$35,526
Junior Suite
$49,795
$42,326
Captain’s Suite
$56,895
$48,361
Ship: Sylvia Earle | Date: 06 Nov 2027 - 25 Nov 2027 (3440)
Aurora Stateroom Triple Share
$30,595
$24,476
Aurora Stateroom Superior
$33,295
$26,636
Balcony Cat. C
$34,195
$27,356
Balcony Cat. B
$35,995
$28,796
Balcony Cat. A
$38,695
$30,956
Balcony Stateroom Superior
$42,295
$33,836
Junior Suite
$50,395
$40,316
Captain´s Suite
$57,595
$46,076

* 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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