Spend more time in the remote, ice-laden Weddell Sea—home to massive Adélie penguin colonies and colossal tabular icebergs—than you ever imagined possible. While many Antarctic itineraries attempt to include the Weddell, they typically spend just a day here, two at most. Our 12-day Antarctic Peninsula: A Rare Exploration of the Weddell Sea devotes three to four days in the farthest reaches of the Weddell Sea and Antarctic Sound. In fact, our arrival in Antarctica coincides with the Winter Solstice, December 21, 2027. Guided by our seasoned Expedition Team, this route is designed with maximum flexibility to adapt to shifting conditions and reach rarely visited sites few travelers ever see.
Revel in the excitement of crossing the famed Drake Passage after embarking from Ushuaia, with the convenience of a northbound return flight at the end of your expedition. Minke and humpback whales or Adélie penguins floating on ice floes may greet you as you pass, enroute to the northernmost tip of the Antarctic Peninsula. The surreal silence in this vast wilderness may at first overwhelm, but playful, charismatic wildlife and your intrepid traveling companions keep you grounded. You’ll develop a new appreciation and understanding of Antarctica’s extreme contrasts - harsh, rugged mountain peaks and fragile ecosystems; stark, lonely icescapes and populous, gregarious penguins.
On this extraordinary 18-day voyage, explore the fascinating Falkland Islands and mind-blowing South Georgia, before heading to the Antarctic Peninsula - all the highlights of the Southern Ocean. After the Falklands, we venture onwards to South Georgia. A strip of jagged glacier-clad mountains piercing the brooding sky, South Georgia leaves a mark on every visitor, and it is no mystery why. The shores brim with wildlife, with thousands of King Penguins, elephant seals and Antarctic fur seals. The vast penguin colonies, seal-filled seas and albatross-packed skies have to be seen to be believed. Continuing southward, we delve deeper into the inlets and bays of the Antarctic Peninsula; Icebergs, glaciers, mountains and rugged snowfields characterise this wildly beautiful landscape.
See black browed albatross and elusive macaroni penguins - in the Falkland Islands
Witness the king penguins - in their thousands, a true wildlife spectacle!
Soak up the rich history of these regions - on this epic polar adventure
Take the fastest route to Antarctica – a three-hour flight – and enjoy your first glimpse of the continent from the air, a unique introduction to the vast and dramatic landscape that remains one of the last unspoiled regions in the world. Continue your journey on ship, where an adventure beyond your wildest imagination awaits. Later, return through the world’s most legendary – and exciting – passage of water, as you follow the path of historic explorers across the infamous Drake Passage. Expect the unexpected and be rewarded with unique wildlife and natural attractions, each highlight surpassing the last. Marvel at the contrast of a desolate landscape inhabited by abundant wildlife including curious, playful penguins and seals. And embrace the excitement of standing on the continent for the very first time.
We made polar history in 2004 at Snow Hill Island. We were the first to reach its Emperor penguin rookery, offering one of the most exclusive wildlife encounters on the planet. Our Expedition Team has the deepest experience in the industry, bringing more people on more successful Snow Hill landings than anyone else. We invite you to share in the legacy and the true spirit of the explorer; embracing the unexpected, and pursuing one of the most jaw-dropping experiences imaginable. Experience a true polar quest as we journey on our new ship, Ultramarine, which is equipped with two twin-engine helicopters that will fly guests to the vicinity of this rarely-visited rookery, whereupon they will walk across the thick sea ice to stand within metres of the most coveted penguin species on the planet. Anticipate scenes reminiscent of “March of the Penguins” and BBC’s “Frozen Planet.” Just imagine the penguins tobogganing across the ice towards the sea. Such wildlife moments are too precious for words! Celebrate Snow Hill’s majestic moments on ice, alongside more than 4,000 pairs of breeding Emperor penguins and their chicks. Revel in the once-in-a-lifetime wonders of the Weddell Sea, and set foot on the seventh continent’s eastern Peninsula. Join us at Snow Hill. Be part of a legendary story, and write one of your own.
Experience unparalleled adventure and discovery on this ultimate Antarctic voyage. Be transported to enthralling subantarctic islands, rich with human history and unique wildlife. Then venture into the deep south of the Antarctic Peninsula, crossing the coveted Antarctic Circle. Zodiac-cruise in vast ice-covered landscapes, visit lively penguin colonies, watch for whales and discover the rich history of this fascinating region.
Step ashore on the Antarctic continent - to unforgettable vistas, bustling penguins and curious seals
Raise a glass - as you cross the Antarctic Circle
Zodiac through glassy waters - gaze at the iridescent blues of gleaming icebergs
Stand in awe - at the world's largest king penguin rookeries
Hike along pebble beaches and climb tussock steps - with unexpected wildlife encounters at every turn
Set sail from Ushuaia on this ultimate Antarctic bucket list adventure, crossing the Earth's final frontier - the Antarctic Circle. From the 'mainland' of the Peninsula we will set sail southwards, aiming for the Antarctic Circle at 66°33? South - a goal which has eluded many of the wilful and skilful early explorers. Dense pack ice forbids many from reaching this far south, but your sturdy expedition vessel will allow you to explore areas that are off-limits for most ships. Watch as the sun circles around you, never quite setting at this extreme latitude. Based on our Classic Antarctic adventure but with two extra days to explore, you will have even more time to experience the majesty of the Great White Continent.
Cross the Antarctic Circle - at 66°33? South
Enjoy extra time to explore the Peninsula - with its numerous penguin rookeries
Be amongst the few - to venture this far South
Enjoy an array of Antarctic wildlife - see seals, whales, penguins and incredible birdlife