Antarctica
South Georgia and Antarctica
Antarctica
Antarctica
An epic 20-day polar voyage retracing Ernest Shackleton's historic journey across the Antarctic Peninsula, the Weddell Sea, desolate Elephant Island, and the magnificent wildlife-rich rookeries of South Georgia.
Duration: 20 days / 18 nights on board.
Starts: Buenos Aires, Argentina
Ends: Buenos Aires, 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.
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.
Polar Plunge More info about this activity
The ultimate icy challenge! The Polar Plunge is a classic rite of passage for every explorer, it is a heart-pumping experience that earns you a badge of courage and unforgettable memories.
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.
Trekking More info about this activity
Trekking is with no doubt the first and most simple of the outdoor sports.
To wander arund nature in walks of different difficulty with basic equipment and few to worry about is one of the most fullfilling activities one can do.
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.
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.
Embark on a comprehensive 20-day polar expedition retracing Sir Ernest Shackleton's historic Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition and the survival saga of the Endurance crew. Starting with an overnight hotel stay in Buenos Aires, travelers board an included flight to Ushuaia to embark and set sail along the Beagle Channel into the Drake Passage. After crossing the Antarctic Convergence, the vessel explores the western Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands before navigating the iceberg-filled waters of the Antarctic Sound into the Weddell Sea.
The voyage charts a course to rugged Elephant Island, visiting historic Point Wild where 22 stranded crewmen survived under overturned lifeboats. Retracing the James Caird route across the Scotia Sea, the expedition spends five full days in South Georgia discovering massive king penguin rookeries, seal colonies, and visiting Shackleton's grave at Grytviken. Hikers can retrace the final leg of the legendary traverse from Fortuna Bay to the abandoned Stromness whaling station before cruising back to Ushuaia for their return flight to Buenos Aires.
Highlights:
Cruising among immense tabular icebergs in the Antarctic Sound and the historic waters of the Weddell Sea.
Visiting Point Wild on isolated Elephant Island, the famous encampment of Shackleton's stranded men.
Five full days discovering South Georgia's colossal king penguin colonies and elephant seal beaches.
Optional guided hike from Fortuna Bay to Stromness retracing the final mountain leg of Shackleton's traverse.
Included roundtrip flights between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia and pre-cruise hotel stay in Buenos Aires.
Day 1: Arrive in Buenos Aires
Welcome to Argentina's capital
Arrive in Buenos Aires, meet your representative at the airport, and transfer to the included group hotel. Visit the hospitality desk to collect cabin tags and receive embarkation information. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure, with all meals at your own expense.
Day 2: Fly Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, Embark Ship
Flight to the End of the World and Beagle Channel sailing
Transfer to the airport for the included domestic flight to Ushuaia. Upon arrival, transfer to a pre-boarding lounge with free time to explore the city or visit the Ushuaia Prison Museum. Transfer to the pier in the late afternoon to board the vessel, complete mandatory safety briefings, and set sail into the Beagle Channel ahead of the welcome dinner.
Day 3-4: Drake Passage Crossing
Ocean crossing, pelagic seabirds, and lecture program
Begin the Drake Passage crossing accompanied by wandering albatrosses and giant petrels. Attend biosecurity briefings and polar history presentations. On the afternoon of day four, cross the Antarctic Convergence and scan the horizon for your first icebergs, attempting an initial landing if conditions allow.
Day 5-7: Antarctic Peninsula & Weddell Sea
Tabular icebergs, penguin rookeries, and the Endurance route
Explore the western Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands with twice-daily Zodiac outings and landings among penguin colonies and seal haul-outs, with a chance to brave the polar plunge. Sail into the Antarctic Sound and push into the ice-laden Weddell Sea, surrounded by massive tabular icebergs where Shackleton's Endurance met its fate.
Day 8: Elephant Island
The isolated haven of Point Wild
Sail toward rugged Elephant Island, where 22 of Shackleton's men sheltered for months beneath two overturned boats. Cruise past Cape Valentine and, weather permitting, embark on a Zodiac cruise or landing at historic Point Wild.
Day 9-10: Scotia Sea
Retracing the path of the James Caird
Chart a course across the Scotia Sea, following the historic 17-day rescue voyage of the James Caird. Attend onboard lectures on South Georgia's ecology and wildlife, while watching for humpback, fin, and blue whales from the outer decks.
Day 11-15: South Georgia
Sub-Antarctic wildlife sanctuary and Shackleton's resting place
Spend five days exploring the glaciated fjords and coastlines of South Georgia. Take Zodiacs ashore to visit massive king penguin rookeries, fur seal colonies, and elephant seal beaches. Visit historic Grytviken and Shackleton's grave, with an optional hike from Fortuna Bay to Stromness retracing the final leg of Shackleton's traverse.
Day 16-19: At Sea
Homeward crossing and Captain's farewell dinner
Sail westward toward Ushuaia, potentially passing the jagged spires of Shag Rocks weather permitting. Spend your final days at sea attending recap presentations and watching seabirds glide in the ship's wake, celebrating the voyage during the Captain's farewell dinner.
Day 20: Disembark in Ushuaia, Fly to Buenos Aires
Morning disembarkation and return flight
Sail up the Beagle Channel and disembark in Ushuaia around 8:00 am. Transfer to Ushuaia Airport for the scheduled return flight to Buenos Aires, where the expedition concludes.
Day 1: Arrive in Buenos Aires
Welcome to Argentina's capital
Arrive in Buenos Aires, meet your representative at the airport, and transfer to the included group hotel. Visit the hospitality desk to collect cabin tags and receive embarkation information. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure, with all meals at your own expense.
Day 2: Fly Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, Embark Ship
Flight to the End of the World and Beagle Channel sailing
Transfer to the airport for the included domestic flight to Ushuaia. Upon arrival, transfer to a pre-boarding lounge with free time to explore the city or visit the Ushuaia Prison Museum. Transfer to the pier in the late afternoon to board the vessel, complete mandatory safety briefings, and set sail into the Beagle Channel ahead of the welcome dinner.
Day 3-4: Drake Passage Crossing
Ocean crossing, pelagic seabirds, and lecture program
Begin the Drake Passage crossing accompanied by wandering albatrosses and giant petrels. Attend biosecurity briefings and polar history presentations. On the afternoon of day four, cross the Antarctic Convergence and scan the horizon for your first icebergs, attempting an initial landing if conditions allow.
Day 5-7: Antarctic Peninsula & Weddell Sea
Tabular icebergs, penguin rookeries, and the Endurance route
Explore the western Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands with twice-daily Zodiac outings and landings among penguin colonies and seal haul-outs, with a chance to brave the polar plunge. Sail into the Antarctic Sound and push into the ice-laden Weddell Sea, surrounded by massive tabular icebergs where Shackleton's Endurance met its fate.
Day 8: Elephant Island
The isolated haven of Point Wild
Sail toward rugged Elephant Island, where 22 of Shackleton's men sheltered for months beneath two overturned boats. Cruise past Cape Valentine and, weather permitting, embark on a Zodiac cruise or landing at historic Point Wild.
Day 9-10: Scotia Sea
Retracing the path of the James Caird
Chart a course across the Scotia Sea, following the historic 17-day rescue voyage of the James Caird. Attend onboard lectures on South Georgia's ecology and wildlife, while watching for humpback, fin, and blue whales from the outer decks.
Day 11-15: South Georgia
Sub-Antarctic wildlife sanctuary and Shackleton's resting place
Spend five days exploring the glaciated fjords and coastlines of South Georgia. Take Zodiacs ashore to visit massive king penguin rookeries, fur seal colonies, and elephant seal beaches. Visit historic Grytviken and Shackleton's grave, with an optional hike from Fortuna Bay to Stromness retracing the final leg of Shackleton's traverse.
Day 16-19: At Sea
Homeward crossing and Captain's farewell dinner
Sail westward toward Ushuaia, potentially passing the jagged spires of Shag Rocks weather permitting. Spend your final days at sea attending recap presentations and watching seabirds glide in the ship's wake, celebrating the voyage during the Captain's farewell dinner.
Day 20: Disembark in Ushuaia, Fly to Buenos Aires
Morning disembarkation and return flight
Sail up the Beagle Channel and disembark in Ushuaia around 8:00 am. Transfer to Ushuaia Airport for the scheduled return flight to Buenos Aires, where the expedition concludes.
INCLUSIONS
All airport transfers.
One night’s hotel accommodation with breakfast in Buenos Aires on Day 1.
Return flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia on Days 2 and 20.
Onboard accommodation during voyage, including daily cabin service.
All meals, snacks, tea, coffee, soft drinks and juices during voyage.
Premium spirits, cocktails, beer, wine and liqueurs during voyage.
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 the 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 surcharges.
All items of a personal nature, including but not limited to on board gratuities*, laundry services, personal clothing, medical expenses or phone charges.
Note: *A gratuity of USD $20 per person, per day for the crew and Expedition Team will be automatically added to your onboard account. You may remove or adjust this amount when settling your account. For suite guests, this gratuity is included as part of the Suite Benefits.
There are six Aurora Stateroom Triple cabins featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they\\\'re close to the mudroom and loading platforms. *Please note the Aurora Stateroom Triple cabins are only available on certain departures.
Three single beds, Private En-suite, Porthole window, Desk area, Closet space, Room-controlled thermostat, Safe for storing valuables, 42\\\" flat-screen TV
Greg Mortimer features 8 double porthole rooms, 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.
Twin or double bed, Private En-suite, Porthole window, Desk area, Closet space, Sofa bed (can sleep 3rd passenger in select cabins), Room-controlled thermostat, Safe for storing valuables, 42\" flat-screen TV
Our 14 Balcony Stateroom – C cabins are our most economical, fitted with all the necessities and comfortable for up to 2 people. These cabins are scattered throughout Deck 4 and 6.
Twin or double bed, Private En-suite, Floor to ceiling window, Desk area, Closet space, Private balcony, Room-controlled thermostat, Safe for storing valuables, 42\" flat-screen TV
Our 21 Balcony Stateroom – B Cabins are our standard cabin, many fitted with interconnecting features making them great for families or groups. These cabins are located at the fore and aft of Deck 4 and 6.
Twin or double bed, Private En-suite, Floor to ceiling window, Desk area, Closet space, Private balcony, Room-controlled thermostat, Safe for storing valuables, 42\" flat-screen TV
Room size 20.9m² 24.8m² (224.97 ft² - 266.95 ft²)
Location Deck 6
Sleeps 1
Features
Private Ensuite
Private Balcony
Full Size Window
Desk area
Closet Space
Room-controlled Thermostat
Room Safe
42\" Flat-Screen TV
Mini Bar
Cabin inclusions
A 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
Our 23 Balcony Stateroom – A cabins are our premium cabin, and the most abundant on board. These cabins are located in preferred positions on Deck 4 and 6 which provides easy access between Decks via the internal stairs or elevator.
Twin or double bed, Private En-suite, Floor to ceiling window, Desk area, Closet space, Private balcony, Room-controlled thermostat, Safe for storing valuables, 42\" flat-screen TV
Room size 23.6m² - 24.8m² (254.03 ft² - 266.95 ft²)
Location Deck 6
Sleeps 1
Features
Private Ensuite
Private Balcony
Full Size Window
Desk area
Closet Space
Room-controlled Thermostat
Room Safe
42\" Flat-Screen TV
Mini Bar
Cabin inclusions
A 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only).
With a bit more room to stretch the legs, the Greg Mortimer\\\'s two Balcony Suites are perfect for polar adventurers who travel with plenty of gear. Featuring private balconies, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area, these will sell out quickly!
Twin or double bed, Private en-suite, Full size window, Desk area, Closet space
Private balcony, Room-controlled thermostat, Safe for storing valuables, 42\\\" flat-screen TV
Room size 24.1m² - 28m² (259.41 ft² - 301.39 ft²)
Location Decks 4 & 6
Sleeps 1
Features
Private Ensuite
Private Balcony
Full Size Window
Desk area
Closet Space
Room-controlled Thermostat
Room Safe
42\" Flat-Screen TV
Mini Bar
Cabin inclusions
A 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only).
The Greg Mortimer\'s 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.
Twin or double bed, Private en-suite, Full size window, Desk area, Closet space, Private balcony, Room-controlled thermostat, Safe for storing valuables, 42\" flat-screen TV, Separate lounge area
The largest of all our rooms, the Greg Mortimer\\\'s 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.
Twin or double bed, Private en-suite, Full size window, Desk area, Closet space, Private balcony, Room-controlled thermostat, Safe for storing valuables, Separate lounge area, 42\\\" flat-screen TV
* 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.
THE POLAR TRAVEL COMPANY LLC
USA
Tel: +1 (786) 321-5654
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Email:
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