Antarctica
South Georgia and Antarctica
Antarctica
Antarctica
A 20-day photography-focused expedition capturing the surreal light of late Antarctic summer across South Georgia’s dramatic peaks and Antarctica’s frozen wilderness. Travel with expert guidance and witness abundant, curious wildlife, including whales and porpoising penguins.
Duration: 20 days / 19 nights
Starts: Punta Arenas, Chile
Ends: Ushuaia, Argentina
Language: English speaking voyage
This is a Fly/Sail expedition with a photography focus.
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.
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.
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.
This special photography expedition offers an unparalleled opportunity to capture the wilderness of South Georgia and Antarctica. The journey is timed for the fading southern summer, ensuring the changing light delivers stunning sunsets and dazzling backdrops across the sky. Wildlife is abundant and often curious, providing intimate photographic encounters with whales, porpoising penguins, and ice seals like Weddell and crabeater seals. This voyage is ideal for photographers of all experience levels, offering expert guidance throughout.
The itinerary is structured as a Fly/Sail, starting with a charter flight from Punta Arenas to King George Island to bypass the Drake Passage transit time. The reduced passenger limit (100 passengers) and small Zodiac groups (8 passengers) ensure ample space for photographers to work with their gear. The journey covers the majestic Antarctic Peninsula, the remote Weddell Sea—where Shackleton's Endurance wreck was discovered—and the rich, historical coastline of South Georgia, loosely following the trail of great explorers. Onboard photography workshops and lectures complement the daily Zodiac cruises and shore excursions.
Highlights:
Capture the stunning sunsets and dazzling backdrops of the late Antarctic summer
Limited to 100 passengers and 8 per Zodiac to maximize photography space
Witness abundant wildlife, including whales and ice seals
Explore the dramatic landscapes of South Georgia and the frozen Antártica
Opportunity to photograph history frozen in time along the explorers' trail
Day 1: Arrive Punta Arenas, Chile
Pre-flight Briefing and Contingency Plan
Upon arrival in Punta Arenas, you will be transferred to the hotel. Guests must arrive no later than 2:00 pm, as a contingency plan may require an immediate departure for King George Island. Collect your luggage cabin tags from the Aurora Expeditions hospitality desk between 2:00 pm and 6:00 pm. In the evening, a voyage briefing will reconfirm transfers and outline the flight procedures to King George Island and IAATO regulations. Meals are at your own expense.
Day 2: Flight Punta Arenas to King George Island, Embarkation
Charter Flight and Zodiac Transfer to Vessel
Transfer to Punta Arenas airport for the charter flight to King George Island, Antarctica (approximately one hour and forty-five minutes). Upon arrival, the expedition team will greet you and prepare you for the Zodiac transfer to the vessel. After settling in, mandatory safety briefings will take place. Note: A clear sky with perfect visibility is required for safe take-off and landing on King George Island, and a contingency plan will be applied if flights are delayed.
Days 3-7: Exploring the Antarctic Peninsula
Photography Focus, Wildlife Encounters, and Sunset Excursions
The Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands are open for exploration. The experienced expedition team and photography experts will design the voyage daily based on prevailing weather, ice, and light conditions to maximize photographic opportunities. Landings or Zodiac excursions generally occur twice a day, focusing on capturing views of spectacular ice cliffs, whales, seals, and porpoising penguins. Excursion options may include hikes to high vantage points or leisurely walks on pebbly beaches. Late summer is ideal for capturing the beauty of an Antarctic sunset, with planned sunset excursions.
Day 8: Weddell Sea
Tabular Icebergs, Expansive Sea Ice, and Shackleton History
Enter the beautifully barren Antarctic Sound, the gateway to the remote Weddell Sea, renowned for its breathtaking tabular icebergs and expansive sea ice. The area attracts an abundance of wildlife, including crabeater and Weddell seals, and an array of seabirds drawn by Antarctic krill. Reflect on the historic seas, sailing near where Ernest Shackleton's Endurance wreck was discovered.
Days 9-10: Antarctic Sound and Elephant Island
Following Shackleton’s Trail and Presentation
Set a course for Elephant Island, the striking, ice-covered extremity of the South Shetland Islands, a lonely outpost where 22 of Shackleton’s men survived for several winter months. There may be a presentation on the awe-inspiring story of Shackleton’s survival and the nearly 500 days they spent at sea and on the ice.
Days 11-12: Scotia Sea Crossing
Following the James Caird and Wildlife Watch
Relax and enjoy the slower pace of sea days sailing towards South Georgia. You follow the route taken by Shackleton and five men in the open boat James Caird in their desperate search for rescue. The onboard lecture program continues, focusing on South Georgia’s wildlife, geology, and history. The Scotia Sea is known for abundant wildlife, including fin, humpback, and blue whales, and elusive orca, along with petrels and albatrosses.
Days 13-16: South Georgia Exploration
King Penguin Colonies, Whaling History, and Shackleton’s Rest
Explore the rugged island of South Georgia, known for its snow-capped mountains and some of the world’s largest congregations of wildlife. Activities include Zodiac cruises around craggy coves , shore excursions to visit huge king penguin colonies, take a guided walk among fur and elephant seals, and observe kelp forests. We hope to visit remnants of whaling stations and the final resting place of Sir Ernest Shackleton. An optional hike from Fortuna Bay to Stromness follows Shackleton’s final traverse route.
Days 17-19: At Sea to Ushuaia
Shag Rocks, Farewell Dinner, and Reflection
Sail from South Georgia towards Ushuaia. If time and weather permit, the ship may pass close to Shag Rocks, a fascinating group of jagged rocky islets. Use this time to enjoy the onboard facilities, attend final lectures, and reflect on the voyage. The expedition concludes 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.
Day 1: Arrive Punta Arenas, Chile
Pre-flight Briefing and Contingency Plan
Upon arrival in Punta Arenas, you will be transferred to the hotel. Guests must arrive no later than 2:00 pm, as a contingency plan may require an immediate departure for King George Island. Collect your luggage cabin tags from the Aurora Expeditions hospitality desk between 2:00 pm and 6:00 pm. In the evening, a voyage briefing will reconfirm transfers and outline the flight procedures to King George Island and IAATO regulations. Meals are at your own expense.
Day 2: Flight Punta Arenas to King George Island, Embarkation
Charter Flight and Zodiac Transfer to Vessel
Transfer to Punta Arenas airport for the charter flight to King George Island, Antarctica (approximately one hour and forty-five minutes). Upon arrival, the expedition team will greet you and prepare you for the Zodiac transfer to the vessel. After settling in, mandatory safety briefings will take place. Note: A clear sky with perfect visibility is required for safe take-off and landing on King George Island, and a contingency plan will be applied if flights are delayed.
Days 3-7: Exploring the Antarctic Peninsula
Photography Focus, Wildlife Encounters, and Sunset Excursions
The Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands are open for exploration. The experienced expedition team and photography experts will design the voyage daily based on prevailing weather, ice, and light conditions to maximize photographic opportunities. Landings or Zodiac excursions generally occur twice a day, focusing on capturing views of spectacular ice cliffs, whales, seals, and porpoising penguins. Excursion options may include hikes to high vantage points or leisurely walks on pebbly beaches. Late summer is ideal for capturing the beauty of an Antarctic sunset, with planned sunset excursions.
Day 8: Weddell Sea
Tabular Icebergs, Expansive Sea Ice, and Shackleton History
Enter the beautifully barren Antarctic Sound, the gateway to the remote Weddell Sea, renowned for its breathtaking tabular icebergs and expansive sea ice. The area attracts an abundance of wildlife, including crabeater and Weddell seals, and an array of seabirds drawn by Antarctic krill. Reflect on the historic seas, sailing near where Ernest Shackleton's Endurance wreck was discovered.
Days 9-10: Antarctic Sound and Elephant Island
Following Shackleton’s Trail and Presentation
Set a course for Elephant Island, the striking, ice-covered extremity of the South Shetland Islands, a lonely outpost where 22 of Shackleton’s men survived for several winter months. There may be a presentation on the awe-inspiring story of Shackleton’s survival and the nearly 500 days they spent at sea and on the ice.
Days 11-12: Scotia Sea Crossing
Following the James Caird and Wildlife Watch
Relax and enjoy the slower pace of sea days sailing towards South Georgia. You follow the route taken by Shackleton and five men in the open boat James Caird in their desperate search for rescue. The onboard lecture program continues, focusing on South Georgia’s wildlife, geology, and history. The Scotia Sea is known for abundant wildlife, including fin, humpback, and blue whales, and elusive orca, along with petrels and albatrosses.
Days 13-16: South Georgia Exploration
King Penguin Colonies, Whaling History, and Shackleton’s Rest
Explore the rugged island of South Georgia, known for its snow-capped mountains and some of the world’s largest congregations of wildlife. Activities include Zodiac cruises around craggy coves , shore excursions to visit huge king penguin colonies, take a guided walk among fur and elephant seals, and observe kelp forests. We hope to visit remnants of whaling stations and the final resting place of Sir Ernest Shackleton. An optional hike from Fortuna Bay to Stromness follows Shackleton’s final traverse route.
Days 17-19: At Sea to Ushuaia
Shag Rocks, Farewell Dinner, and Reflection
Sail from South Georgia towards Ushuaia. If time and weather permit, the ship may pass close to Shag Rocks, a fascinating group of jagged rocky islets. Use this time to enjoy the onboard facilities, attend final lectures, and reflect on the voyage. The expedition concludes 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.
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*.
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*.
* 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’.
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
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
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
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.
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THE POLAR TRAVEL COMPANY LLC
USA
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Miami - Dade, Florida
Tel: +1 (786) 321-5654
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Email:
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