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Antarctica - The adventure of your lifetime!
Dates: Ask about the available dates
Duration: From 11 nights
Ship of the sample itinerary: m/v Ortelius
Embark: Ushuaia
Disembark: Ushuaia
Extra optional activities: Kayaking, camping, mountaineering, photo workshop and snowshoeing are all included in this example trip
Price: starting from 7 950 USD
Duration: From 11 nights
Ship of the sample itinerary: m/v Ortelius
Embark: Ushuaia
Disembark: Ushuaia
Extra optional activities: Kayaking, camping, mountaineering, photo workshop and snowshoeing are all included in this example trip
Price: starting from 7 950 USD
Other two ships, and different itineraries are all available, ask about specific details and we help to choose the best cruise for you
Most nature loving traveler will get to a point where a trip to Antarctica becomes inevitable. We all have to go to Antarctica once (or more), to see the last continent with our own eyes, to see the incredible icebergs, glaciers and of course all the animals: whales, seals, penguins and more.
A trip to Antarctica is comfortable and extreme at the same time. It is comfortable because the ship we are using is big, comfortable and cozy, the service is top-notch. And extreme simply because of the location: sees can be rough while crossing the Drake Passage and of course temperatures can be a bit cold.
This itinerary includes not only cruising around the Antarctica Peninsula by motorized Zodiacs but also the possibility of kayaking, mountaineering or snowshoeing. And not only you can step foot of the “Last Continent,” but you can also camp there overnight to feel close to the elements and nature.
This itinerary is the best activity based trip out on the market, where you will get to try all the activities at least once, and they are all included in the price.
Join Encounters and discover Antarctica in this comfortable but super exciting and adventurous trip - one of the biggest adventures in the history of Encounters!
A trip to Antarctica is comfortable and extreme at the same time. It is comfortable because the ship we are using is big, comfortable and cozy, the service is top-notch. And extreme simply because of the location: sees can be rough while crossing the Drake Passage and of course temperatures can be a bit cold.
This itinerary includes not only cruising around the Antarctica Peninsula by motorized Zodiacs but also the possibility of kayaking, mountaineering or snowshoeing. And not only you can step foot of the “Last Continent,” but you can also camp there overnight to feel close to the elements and nature.
This itinerary is the best activity based trip out on the market, where you will get to try all the activities at least once, and they are all included in the price.
Join Encounters and discover Antarctica in this comfortable but super exciting and adventurous trip - one of the biggest adventures in the history of Encounters!
Sample Itinerary
Day 1 : Embarkation and departure from Ushuaia
In the afternoon, we embark in Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world located at the Beagle Channel and sail through this scenic waterway for the rest of the evening.
Day 2-3 : At sea
During these two days, we sail across the Drake Passage. When we cross the Antarctic Convergence, we arrive in the circum-Antarctic up welling zone. In this area we may see Wandering Albatrosses, Grey Headed Albatrosses, Black- browed Albatrosses, Light-mantled Albatrosses, Cape Pigeons, Southern Fulmars, Wilson’s Storm Petrels, Blue Petrels and Antarctic Petrels. Near the South Shetland Islands, we spot our first icebergs.
Day 4-9 : Antarctica
Gray stone peaks sketched with snow, towers of broken blue-white ice, and dramatically different wildlife below and above. You first pass the snow-capped Melchior Islands and Schollaert Channel, sailing between Brabant and Anvers Islands.
Places you might visit includes:
Neumayer Channel
– The vessel may position itself here, launching its multiple basecamp activities from the protected waters around Wiencke Island. You can enjoy the splendors of this alpine environment at sea with Zodiac and kayaking trips, or when you’re in the mood for a walk, there are possible snowshoe hikes and soft-climb mountaineering options further inland. Naturally, favorable weather conditions determine the possible activities.
Port Lockroy
– After sailing through the Neumayer Channel, you may get a chance to visit the former British research station – now a museum and post office – of Port Lockroy on Goudier Island. You may also be able to partake in activities around Jougla Point, meeting gentoo penguins and blue-eyed shags. There are great opportunities also for kayaking and camping here, and when conditions are right, you can even snowshoe around the shore.
Pléneau & Petermann Islands
– If the ice allows it, you can sail through the Lemaire Channel in search of Adélie penguins and blue-eyed shags. There’s also a good chance you’ll encounter humpback and minke whales here, as well as leopard seals. Kayaking, glacier walks, and more ambitious mountaineering trips are the potential activities of this location.
Neko Harbour
– An epic landscape of mammoth glaciers and endless wind-carved snow, Neko Harbour offers opportunities for a Zodiac cruise and landing that afford the closest views of the surrounding alpine peaks.
Paradise Bay
– You have the chance to make camp here like a true polar explorer (but with a better tent), enjoying a supreme overnight Antarctic adventure.
Errera Channel
– Possible sites in this area include Danco Island and Cuverville Island, but also the lesser- known (though equally picturesque) Orne Island and Georges Point on Rongé Island.
On your last day of near-shore activities, you pass the Melchior Islands toward the open sea. Keep a sharp lookout for humpback whales in Dallmann Bay. You might also shoot for Half Moon Island, in the South Shetlands, with further chances for activities.
Conditions on the Drake Passage determine the exact time of departure.
Day 10-11 : At sea
On our way north we are again followed by a great selection of seabirds while crossing the Drake Passage.
Day 12 : Arrival in Ushuaia and disembark
We arrive in the morning in Ushuaia and disembark.
In the afternoon, we embark in Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world located at the Beagle Channel and sail through this scenic waterway for the rest of the evening.
Day 2-3 : At sea
During these two days, we sail across the Drake Passage. When we cross the Antarctic Convergence, we arrive in the circum-Antarctic up welling zone. In this area we may see Wandering Albatrosses, Grey Headed Albatrosses, Black- browed Albatrosses, Light-mantled Albatrosses, Cape Pigeons, Southern Fulmars, Wilson’s Storm Petrels, Blue Petrels and Antarctic Petrels. Near the South Shetland Islands, we spot our first icebergs.
Day 4-9 : Antarctica
Gray stone peaks sketched with snow, towers of broken blue-white ice, and dramatically different wildlife below and above. You first pass the snow-capped Melchior Islands and Schollaert Channel, sailing between Brabant and Anvers Islands.
Places you might visit includes:
Neumayer Channel
– The vessel may position itself here, launching its multiple basecamp activities from the protected waters around Wiencke Island. You can enjoy the splendors of this alpine environment at sea with Zodiac and kayaking trips, or when you’re in the mood for a walk, there are possible snowshoe hikes and soft-climb mountaineering options further inland. Naturally, favorable weather conditions determine the possible activities.
Port Lockroy
– After sailing through the Neumayer Channel, you may get a chance to visit the former British research station – now a museum and post office – of Port Lockroy on Goudier Island. You may also be able to partake in activities around Jougla Point, meeting gentoo penguins and blue-eyed shags. There are great opportunities also for kayaking and camping here, and when conditions are right, you can even snowshoe around the shore.
Pléneau & Petermann Islands
– If the ice allows it, you can sail through the Lemaire Channel in search of Adélie penguins and blue-eyed shags. There’s also a good chance you’ll encounter humpback and minke whales here, as well as leopard seals. Kayaking, glacier walks, and more ambitious mountaineering trips are the potential activities of this location.
Neko Harbour
– An epic landscape of mammoth glaciers and endless wind-carved snow, Neko Harbour offers opportunities for a Zodiac cruise and landing that afford the closest views of the surrounding alpine peaks.
Paradise Bay
– You have the chance to make camp here like a true polar explorer (but with a better tent), enjoying a supreme overnight Antarctic adventure.
Errera Channel
– Possible sites in this area include Danco Island and Cuverville Island, but also the lesser- known (though equally picturesque) Orne Island and Georges Point on Rongé Island.
On your last day of near-shore activities, you pass the Melchior Islands toward the open sea. Keep a sharp lookout for humpback whales in Dallmann Bay. You might also shoot for Half Moon Island, in the South Shetlands, with further chances for activities.
Conditions on the Drake Passage determine the exact time of departure.
Day 10-11 : At sea
On our way north we are again followed by a great selection of seabirds while crossing the Drake Passage.
Day 12 : Arrival in Ushuaia and disembark
We arrive in the morning in Ushuaia and disembark.
Our Ship
The vessel has the highest ice-class notation (UL1 equivalent to 1A) and is therefore very suitable to navigate in solid one-year sea ice and loose multi-year pack ice. “Ortelius” is a great expedition vessel for 116 passengers with lots of open-deck spaces. The vessel is manned by 22 highly experienced international nautical crew, 19 international hotel crew, 8 expedition staff (1 expedition leader, 1 assistant expedition leader and 6 guides/lecturers), and 1 doctor.
”Ortelius” offers a comfortable hotel standard, with a u-shaped, a bar and a lecture room. Our voyages are primarily developed to offer our passengers a quality exploratory wildlife program, trying to spend as much time ashore as possible. As the number of passengers is limited to approximately 116 on the “Ortelius”, flexibility assures maximum wildlife opportunities. “Ortelius” carries 10 zodiacs. The zodiac engines are 60hp Yamaha.
In keeping with our expeditions atmosphere, dress on board is informal. Bring casual and comfortable clothing for all activities. Keep in mind that much of the spectacular scenery can be appreciated from deck, which can be slippery. Bring sturdy shoes with no-slip soles and make sure the parka is never far away in case of the call "Whales!" comes over the loudspeaker and you have to dash outside. Wear layers since it is comfortably warm aboard the ship - and often cold on deck.
”Ortelius” offers a comfortable hotel standard, with a u-shaped, a bar and a lecture room. Our voyages are primarily developed to offer our passengers a quality exploratory wildlife program, trying to spend as much time ashore as possible. As the number of passengers is limited to approximately 116 on the “Ortelius”, flexibility assures maximum wildlife opportunities. “Ortelius” carries 10 zodiacs. The zodiac engines are 60hp Yamaha.
In keeping with our expeditions atmosphere, dress on board is informal. Bring casual and comfortable clothing for all activities. Keep in mind that much of the spectacular scenery can be appreciated from deck, which can be slippery. Bring sturdy shoes with no-slip soles and make sure the parka is never far away in case of the call "Whales!" comes over the loudspeaker and you have to dash outside. Wear layers since it is comfortably warm aboard the ship - and often cold on deck.
Extra activities (free of charge)
Kayaking
Polar cruise kayaking is a fantastic way to slip into the white and blue beauty of the quiet oceans around you.
Cruises with a motorized Zodiac are the usual part of the trip, but if you want to have a more silent and pristine experience, we suggest the kayaks. Approaching wildlife while paddling silently is unforgettable regardless of the animal, it could be a group of penguins, seals or even feeding whales if lucky.
You don’t have to be a super experienced kayaker, but some experience in sea-kayaks is needed, even when conditions are super clear.
Cruises with a motorized Zodiac are the usual part of the trip, but if you want to have a more silent and pristine experience, we suggest the kayaks. Approaching wildlife while paddling silently is unforgettable regardless of the animal, it could be a group of penguins, seals or even feeding whales if lucky.
You don’t have to be a super experienced kayaker, but some experience in sea-kayaks is needed, even when conditions are super clear.
Camping
If you’re looking for an experience that truly breaks the mold of traditional cruise line activities, then we’d like to introduce you to one of our unique offerings – camping out under the Antarctic skies.
After dinner, you’ll leave your cruise ship and zip ashore via a Zodiac. An experienced guide will choose the campsite spot and instruct everybody in how to set up their tents and sleeping bags. The next morning everybody will help to break down the camp, making sure that no gear or garbage gets left behind, and clean the camping gear. The location for tents and the number of camp nights offered depends on the weather and location of the ship. One night of camping to accommodate all of our passengers is our goal; additional nights are offered whenever we can manage it, subject to conditions.
After dinner, you’ll leave your cruise ship and zip ashore via a Zodiac. An experienced guide will choose the campsite spot and instruct everybody in how to set up their tents and sleeping bags. The next morning everybody will help to break down the camp, making sure that no gear or garbage gets left behind, and clean the camping gear. The location for tents and the number of camp nights offered depends on the weather and location of the ship. One night of camping to accommodate all of our passengers is our goal; additional nights are offered whenever we can manage it, subject to conditions.
Mountaineering
Looking for a way to push yourself beyond the usual Antarctic cruise fare? Sign on for one of our mountaineering excursions. Snowshoe out to where the Antarctic foothills begin, then strap on some crampons and get ready for amazement as you make your way up to some of the best views available on the Antarctic Peninsula.
Snowshoeing
We offer a variety of snow-shoeing treks to suit your experience and your desired level of activity. No snow-shoeing experience? No problem! We’ll get you suited up and get you marching across the pristine snows of the Arctic and Antarctic landscapes in no time at all.
Photo workshop
Landscapes. Icebergs. Polar bears, whales, or penguins.
Describing them to your friends is one thing, showing them is a whole other level. New to photography? We have photo pros on our cruises that can help you build up your basics. A shutterbug expert? Then bring your gear and get ready to wear out your memory cards.
Describing them to your friends is one thing, showing them is a whole other level. New to photography? We have photo pros on our cruises that can help you build up your basics. A shutterbug expert? Then bring your gear and get ready to wear out your memory cards.
This trip and price include:
This trip and price do not include:
- Voyage aboard the indicated vessel as indicated in the itinerary
- All meals throughout the voyage aboard the ship including snacks, coffee and tea.
- Shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by Zodiac.
- Additional activities, like kayaking, camping, mountaineering, photo workshop and snowshoeing
- Program of lectures by noted naturalists and leadership by experienced expedition staff.
- Free use of rubber boots and snowshoes.
- Transfers and baggage handling between the airport, hotels and ship only for those passengers on the group flights to and from Longyearbyen.
- All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the programme.
- AECO fees and governmental taxes.
- Comprehensive pre-departure material.
This trip and price do not include:
- Any airfare, whether on scheduled or charter flights
- Pre- and post- land arrangements.
- Passport and visa expenses.
- Government arrival and departure taxes.
- Meals ashore.
- Baggage, cancellation and personal insurance (which is mandatory).
- Excess baggage charges and all items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar, beverage charges and telecommunication charges.
- The customary gratuity at the end of the voyages for stewards and other service personnel aboard (guidelines will be provided).
