When to go
November – March
Price
From £9,400 pp (excluding flights)
Flight time
17hrs 06mins
Introduction
Discover the best that the Antarctic Peninsula has to offer on this memorable 11-day journey. Along the way you will encounter towering blue icebergs, a wide array of land, bird, and marine wildlife, and many landing opportunities via the Zodiac motorboat. Whether you are a wildlife, photography, or nature enthusiast, you will find something to capture your imagination in this arctic wonderland.
At a Glance
Duration
11 days & 10 nights
Guide price
Group: £9,400pp (excluding flights)
Cities/Destinations (in order)
Ushuaia, Argentina – Beagle Channel – Drake Passage – Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula – Drake Passage – Ushuaia
Tour Type
Experienced local tour manager and guided sightseeing
Tour Theme
Group Tour
Activity Level
1 out of 7 - Leisurely
Age Range
18+
Star Rating of Tour
Superior
Accommodation
Private ship
Board Basis
Varied - please see the sample itinerary for details
Min|Max Group Size
189 group size
Start/Finish
Ushuaia – Ushuaia
Extensions
Highlights
Explore the Antarctic Peninsula
The Antarctic Peninsula is home to a wide variety of wildlife, stunning scenery, and jaw-dropping ice structures. You will quickly understand why the region has captivated the imagination of explorers for generations. From visiting research stations to sightseeing the many species of penguins, the Antarctic Peninsula is the perfect arctic playground for adventure and discovery.
Incredible Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
Here you will witness a wide array of unique arctic wildlife. These include different species of penguins, whales, narwhals, seals, and seabirds. All of which have their own distinct appearance, habits, and lifecycles. You will encounter many of these animals in close, or near close proximity, providing a wealth of photographic opportunities.
Scout for Humpback and Minke Whales, Plus Leopard Seals
You will encounter many arctic marine wildlife during your journey, such as humpback whales, minke whales, and leopard seals. The minke whale is the smallest of the baleen whales in North American waters, while leopard seals have a distinctive, black-spotted coat that resemble the spot patterns found on leopard cats.
Recommended Hotels
Private ship
Sample Itinerary
Antarctic Explorer
Discover the best that the Antarctic Peninsula has to offer in this sample itinerary. Go on a private charter across the icy cold waters, encountering a wide variety of land, sea, and bird wildlife, as you breeze past hanging glaciers and small, isolated villages with remote research stations. Along the way, the Expedition Team will educate you on different aspects of the region, including the culture and effects of climate change, giving you a deeper understanding of how this Arctic wonderland continues to function in modern society.
Day 1: Ushuaia, Argentina
Start your journey in the bustling port town of Ushuaia, situated at the bottom tip of South America. Spend your day exploring this quaint town as you prepare for your adventure ahead.
(N)
Day 2: Board Ship – Beagle Channel
In the morning, explore Ushuaia more and do some last-minute shopping. Transfer to the ship in the afternoon and participate in the introductory meeting with your fellow travelers and the Expedition Team. You will learn about the team, the ship (and its layout), safety guidelines, and your itinerary for the next 10 days. Set sail for Beagle Channel in the early evening.
(D)
Days 3 – 4: Drake Passage
Traverse through Drake Passage. Along the way, the Expedition Team will tell you where to look to spot whales. They will also help you identify seabirds. You can also participate in a series of talks and presentations, teaching you about Antarctica. After crossing the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, you will start to feel the air get colder, while huge icebergs loom against the horizon.
(B, L, D)
Days 5 – 8: South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula
Over the next few days, you will reach the White Continent, a surprisingly untouched part of Antarctica that has been known to elicit strong emotions from visitors, due to its unique landscape and eerie silence.
Each day, you will board the Zodiac (a small motorboat) to explore the surrounding local bays, landing sites, and channels. You will have the chance to visit local research stations, go on short hiking trips, and encounter the local Gentoo, Adelie, and Chinstrap penguins. You may also encounter the Fur, Leopard, Crabeater, and Weddell seals.
Every day will be a new experience, as your Expedition Team will have carefully curated your destinations for each day.
(B, L, D)
Days 9 – 10: Sail Back Through Drake Passage
Leave the Antarctic Peninsula and sail back through Drake Passage. If the weather permits, you may also visit Cape Horn, located in the southernmost point of South America.
(B, L, D)
Day 11: Disembark in Ushuaia
In the early morning, arrive back in Ushuaia. Your journey will officially end here.
(B)
