Antarctica
Antarctic Polar Circle
Antarctica
Antarctica
A 17-day extreme expedition aiming to visit two of Antarctica's most isolated regions: below the Antarctic Circle and the frozen Weddell Sea. Encounter rare Adélie penguins, ice seals, and vast ice landscapes, following the paths of legendary polar explorers.
Duration: 17 days / 16 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 a pre-voyage hotel night in Ushuaia (Arakur Resort & Spa) with an optional pre-embarkation tour to Lake Escondido.
Coach or Van tours More info about this activity
Coach, Bus or Van excursions with specialized guides or just as a means of transportation from one point to the next.
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.
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.
The Southern Antarctic Realms: Antarctic Circle & Weddell Sea is an ambitious 17-day expedition designed for true polar adventurers, offering the opportunity to tick two rare regions off their bucket list: crossing below the Antarctic Circle and attempting to forge a path through the formidable sea ice of the Weddell Sea. As you push south along the western Antarctic Peninsula, you will witness spectacular, towering cliffs and glittering icebergs, potentially sighting Adélie penguins and rare ice seals like the leopard and crabeater seals resting on ice floes.
The journey then shifts to the eastern side of the Peninsula, aiming for the legendary Weddell Sea—an unimaginably spectacular realm of icy landscapes, forever linked to the heroic endurance tales of Otto Nordenskjöld and Ernest Shackleton. Access to the Weddell Sea is a thrilling challenge, where successful entry reveals gigantic, skyscraper-sized tabular icebergs and thriving wildlife, including vast Adélie penguin colonies and ice seals. This extreme voyage provides a rare experience of Antarctica’s remotest and wildest parts, celebrating the adventurous spirit of those who dare to go further south.
Highlights:
Raise a toast to celebrate crossing the Antarctic Circle (weather and conditions permitting), joining an exclusive group of adventurers.
With favourable conditions, explore the mind-blowing, icy realm of the Weddell Sea, following the paths of historic explorers.
Marvel at some of the most dazzling icy landscapes in the Peninsula as we forge our way south to the Antarctic Circle.
Keep a close watch for the tail fluke of whales and ice seals (crabeater, leopard, Weddell) hauled out on ice floes.
Discover ancient fossils in the Weddell region, remnants of a more temperate era.
Day 1: Arrive Ushuaia
Arrival, Transfer, and Optional Tour Confirmation
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 to collect luggage tags and confirm interest in the optional Lake Escondido pre-embarkation tour tomorrow. The remainder of your time is at leisure. All meals today are at your own expense.
Day 2: Embarkation
Optional Lake Escondido Tour and Ship Boarding
After breakfast, check out of the hotel. Guests choosing the optional Lake Escondido tour (8:45 am meeting) will enjoy a panoramic drive through the Andes, passing glacial valleys and forests, reaching Garibaldi Pass for views of Lake Escondido and possibly Fagnano Lake. The tour includes a typical Fuegian Lamb barbecue at a local ranch. Alternatively, enjoy the day at leisure before transferring to the pier for embarkation. Once onboard, settle into your cabin, attend mandatory briefings, and gather on deck for spectacular views over Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego before the welcome dinner.
Days 3–4: Drake Passage Crossing
Lectures, Biosecurity, and Entering the Antarctic Convergence
As we commence the Drake Passage crossing, the Expedition Team conducts briefings on wildlife guidelines and biosecurity, and begins the lecture program focused on Antarctic history, wildlife, and environment. Watch for majestic seabirds, including albatrosses and giant petrels. Guests can enjoy onboard facilities (gym, sauna, jacuzzis). On the afternoon of Day 4, the excitement builds as we near the South Shetland Islands and cross the Antarctic Convergence, anticipating the surreal sight of the first icebergs. Time and weather permitting, we may attempt our first Antarctic landing by late afternoon.
Days 5–14: Antarctic Circle, Antarctic Peninsula & Weddell Sea
Extreme South Exploration and Historic Icy Realms
For ten immersive days, the expedition team utilizes their expertise to navigate the most ambitious regions. Initially, we venture south of the Antarctic Peninsula, attempting to cross the Antarctic Circle (66° 33’ South). This deeply isolated realm offers subtle changes in landscape, vast pack ice, and a celebratory toast upon crossing. Thread through narrow channels, spotting whales, leopard seals, and soaring snow petrels.
The focus then shifts north to the Weddell Sea on the eastern side of the peninsula, a historical center of polar exploration (Nordenskjöld, Shackleton). This is a realm defined by immense sea ice pushed from the Filchner-Ronne Ice Shelf. With favourable conditions, we attempt to enter the Weddell Sea via Antarctic Sound, known as "iceberg alley" for gigantic tabular bergs. Exploration here offers sightings of ice seals (crabeater, leopard, Weddell) breeding on sea ice, large Adélie penguin colonies, and the chance to find ancient fossils (gastropods, ammonites) on remote beaches, reminders of a more temperate past. We aim for twice-daily landings or Zodiac excursions to explore historic huts, penguin rookeries, and coastlines where fur seals frolic. Optional activities (kayaking, snorkeling, paddling, polar plunge) are offered when conditions allow.
Days 15–16: 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 to South America. Attend final lectures and film presentations, reflecting on the experience and planning how to become ambassadors for Antarctic conservation. Weather and time permitting, the Captain may sail close to the legendary Cape Horn.
Day 17: 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 will be arranged for guests with flights before 12:30 pm or those staying in downtown areas. Note: We do not recommend booking flights departing Ushuaia prior to 12:00 pm.
Day 1: Arrive Ushuaia
Arrival, Transfer, and Optional Tour Confirmation
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 to collect luggage tags and confirm interest in the optional Lake Escondido pre-embarkation tour tomorrow. The remainder of your time is at leisure. All meals today are at your own expense.
Day 2: Embarkation
Optional Lake Escondido Tour and Ship Boarding
After breakfast, check out of the hotel. Guests choosing the optional Lake Escondido tour (8:45 am meeting) will enjoy a panoramic drive through the Andes, passing glacial valleys and forests, reaching Garibaldi Pass for views of Lake Escondido and possibly Fagnano Lake. The tour includes a typical Fuegian Lamb barbecue at a local ranch. Alternatively, enjoy the day at leisure before transferring to the pier for embarkation. Once onboard, settle into your cabin, attend mandatory briefings, and gather on deck for spectacular views over Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego before the welcome dinner.
Days 3–4: Drake Passage Crossing
Lectures, Biosecurity, and Entering the Antarctic Convergence
As we commence the Drake Passage crossing, the Expedition Team conducts briefings on wildlife guidelines and biosecurity, and begins the lecture program focused on Antarctic history, wildlife, and environment. Watch for majestic seabirds, including albatrosses and giant petrels. Guests can enjoy onboard facilities (gym, sauna, jacuzzis). On the afternoon of Day 4, the excitement builds as we near the South Shetland Islands and cross the Antarctic Convergence, anticipating the surreal sight of the first icebergs. Time and weather permitting, we may attempt our first Antarctic landing by late afternoon.
Days 5–14: Antarctic Circle, Antarctic Peninsula & Weddell Sea
Extreme South Exploration and Historic Icy Realms
For ten immersive days, the expedition team utilizes their expertise to navigate the most ambitious regions. Initially, we venture south of the Antarctic Peninsula, attempting to cross the Antarctic Circle (66° 33’ South). This deeply isolated realm offers subtle changes in landscape, vast pack ice, and a celebratory toast upon crossing. Thread through narrow channels, spotting whales, leopard seals, and soaring snow petrels.
The focus then shifts north to the Weddell Sea on the eastern side of the peninsula, a historical center of polar exploration (Nordenskjöld, Shackleton). This is a realm defined by immense sea ice pushed from the Filchner-Ronne Ice Shelf. With favourable conditions, we attempt to enter the Weddell Sea via Antarctic Sound, known as "iceberg alley" for gigantic tabular bergs. Exploration here offers sightings of ice seals (crabeater, leopard, Weddell) breeding on sea ice, large Adélie penguin colonies, and the chance to find ancient fossils (gastropods, ammonites) on remote beaches, reminders of a more temperate past. We aim for twice-daily landings or Zodiac excursions to explore historic huts, penguin rookeries, and coastlines where fur seals frolic. Optional activities (kayaking, snorkeling, paddling, polar plunge) are offered when conditions allow.
Days 15–16: 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 to South America. Attend final lectures and film presentations, reflecting on the experience and planning how to become ambassadors for Antarctic conservation. Weather and time permitting, the Captain may sail close to the legendary Cape Horn.
Day 17: 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 will be arranged for guests with flights before 12:30 pm or those staying in downtown areas. 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.
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’.
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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