Antarctic Classic in Depth

From Ushuaia to Ushuaia

All Antarctic Cruises
Antarctic Peninsula
Small Ship Cruising
Wildlife and Nature

Tour Description

Antarctica is a unique world of its own and this voyage, a little longer than the Classic Antarctica trip, gives an extra two days for those that think our 11 day trip is not quite enough to explore Antarctica's wonders.

More time to encounter leopard seals and immense rookeries of several varieties of penguins, gentoo, Adelie, chinstrap... From the open deck you can witness dramatic glaciers and gaze at icebergs, make use of the long days, and enjoy every moment being in awe of nature. There will be time to land on the 7th continent, to walk and explore research stations or historic site, climb to get a view over the bay, or simply sit and be in awe of the stunning landscapes. Take a zodiac cruise or kayak through the ice, be daring and jump in for a polar plunge!

The M/S Expedition will guide you safely and comfortably through the marvels of the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula while its expert tour leaders and lecturers offer knowledge and insights that will really bring the natural history to life and create an adventure you will never forget.

Viva's Best Bits...

Spend six full days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands - a little longer than many other itineraries allowing more time for landings and exploration.

“During your cruise try to get up early to experience the morning atmosphere, stand outside on the open decks, quite often you may be the only one there.” Pia, Team Viva

Come face to face with the abundant wildlife - Encounter leopard seals lazing on ice floes and immense rookeries of penguins surrounded by towering glaciers.

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Day 1

Arrive Ushuaia

Arrive in Ushuaia at any time. Arrival transfer included. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the world's most southerly city.

Overnight in a hotel in Ushuaia

Day 2

Depart Ushuaia

Enjoy a free morning in Ushuaia. Do any last minute shopping, explore the town, or visit the surrounding countryside. Embarkation on the G Expedition begins in the afternoon at the port in Ushuaia. Enjoy the evening sailing through the Beagle Channel.

Day 3-4

Drake Passage

The adventure begins with an 1000km (600 mi) crossing of the passage named in honour of 16th-century English sea captain and privateer, Sir Francis Drake. The ship is at home in this part of the Southern Ocean. Take in daily lectures from the expedition team and keep an eye out for icebergs, whales, and albatross following in the G Expedition's wake.

The G Expedition is at home in this part of the Southern Ocean, known for the unimpeded never ending fetch of the winds that encircle the Antarctic.

As the Expedition crosses the passage there will be time to become acquainted with the ship and frequent the common areas that include the lounge, dining hall, library and lecture hall where we meet our guides, ship’s crew and expedition staff.

Begin lectures and information sessions to learn the extraordinary human and natural history of the Antarctic region.

Day 5-10

Antarctic Peninsula & the South Shetland Islands

With a total of six days to explore the world's most southerly ecosystem, there's more time to encounter the unique wildlife and awe-inspiring scenery of the Antarctic. Attempt two shore landings per day (weather permitting) to encounter penguin rookeries, get a good look at the variety of seal species, and keep an eye out for the whales that feed in the peninsula's cold, fertile waters.

Day 11-12

Drake Passage

Begin the journey north to the home port of Ushuaia. Review the highlights of the Antarctic experience with the lecturers and staff. Keep eyes peeled on the observation deck for some last-minute whale sightings.

Leave Antarctica and head north across the Drake Passage. In between bird watching and whale watching and enjoying some final lectures by the expedition staff, this is a chance to relax and review the adventures of the past week before returning to Ushuaia.

Remember, the best way to experience the wildlife of the Drake Passage is to be on deck keeping a look out for Albatross, Prions and Whales!

Day 13

Disembark in Ushuaia

This adventure draws to a close. Enjoy your final breakfast on the expedition ship before saying our farewells as we disembark in Ushuaia in the morning.

Accommodation

11 nights onboard the G Expedition
1 night hotel in Ushuaia, twin share
Same sex willing to share cabins available, ideal for solo travellers

Food

All meals, tea, coffee and water whilst onboard, breakfast at hotel in Ushuaia

Fees & Services

Arrival and departure transfers
Lectures and educational program
Zodiac excursions, landings and shore excursions with our expert expedition team
Waterproof boots supplied for USA sizes 4 - 16
Expedition parka to keep
Camping in Antarctica (additional costs apply)
Kayaking in Antarctica (additional costs apply)
International flights, Gratuities, Laundry, bar, beverage and other personal charges
Comprehensive Travel/Medical Insurance (Mandatory)

Transportation

G Expedition

134 Passengers

Dare to take a polar plunge!
Options to camp or kayak in Antarctica
Spend six full days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands
Explore Antarctica by zodiac and make shore landings
Lectures on all things Antarctica history, geology and wildlife
Set foot on Antarctica — the world's least-visited continent
Lots of time to visit penguin rookies and see a range of other wildlife

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Duration

13 days

Price from

$8,799 USD

Per person, sharing

Based on a quad cabin

Desired Travel Date

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