Embark on this unique small-ship whale watching trip to Antarctica, in search of pinnipeds, penguins, and numerous whale species, including blue, fin, humpback, minke and orca, to name a few.
During the Antarctic summer months (October–March), an impressive array of majestic whale species grace these waters. However, it's during February and March that their presence truly intensifies, as whale numbers peak and their behaviour changes. After feasting on the abundant krill throughout summer, these magnificent creatures are full of energy and are preparing for their impending migration north. This period offers an exceptional opportunity to witness nature's spectacle, with large pods of whales frequently spotted engaging in a variety of captivating behaviours such as breaching, diving, lobtailing, and spyhopping.
During this time, you're likely to encounter a diverse range of cetaceans. Possible sightings include the awe-inspiring blue whale, the elegant fin whale, the elusive sei whale, the formidable orca, and the iconic humpback whale. Additionally, sightings of dwarf and Antarctic minke whale further enrich your experience. Hourglass, Commerson’s and Peale’s dolphins often accompany the vessel, their playful antics and friendly demeanour showcasing the rich marine life that thrives in these pristine polar waters.
With Zodiacs at your disposal, you take to the water to view the wildlife at closer quarters. You can expect to see a variety of pinnipeds including fur, leopard, crabeater, and Weddell seals, in addition to numerous penguin species, such as chinstrap, Adelie, and gentoo, and a particular highlight at this time of year are the curious and playful penguin chicks, with their moulting feathers.
As you traverse the wild Antarctica Peninsula, you can uncover the region's unique ecosystem and learn about the majestic creatures that call this wilderness home. During this ‘late season’ as the night hours start to draw out, you can enjoy long magical sunsets, and are likely to have most landing sites to yourself during daily excursions.
Typical Itinerary
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Day 1:
Arrive in Ushuaia
Arrive in Ushuaia and spend the remainder of the day at leisure.
Accommodation: Arakur Ushuaia Resort
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Day 2:
Embarkation
Board your vessel this afternoon and set sail!
Accommodation: Seaventure, 9-nights
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Days 3-4
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Drake Passage
Make your way across the Drake Passage to the great white continent. Your days at sea are filled with presentation led by your expert expedition team, or spend time on deck looking for wildlife. Enjoy watching and photographing the many seabirds following the vessel, including majestic albatrosses and giant petrels, and keep watch for dolphins, often seen swimming alongside the ship.
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Day 5:
South Shetland Islands
Discover the unique landscape of the South Shetland Islands by Zodiac. You can expect a spectacular display of mountains, glaciers, and wildlife, including chinstrap and Adélie penguin, Antarctica tern and giant petrel. At this time of year, fin and humpback whales can often be found feeding here, so keep your eyes peeled while you're enjoying your day's adventure.
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Days 6-8
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Antarctica Peninsula
Welcome to Antarctica! You spend the next few days exploring any number of picturesque bays and famed harbours, manoeuvring through majestic channels as you travel the wildlife-rich waters. During daily excursions, you're likely to encounter a variety of penguin species, including gentoo, chinstrap and Adelie, plus numerous seal species, such as Weddell, crabeater and leopard seal. It's thought that these waters are home to more whales and dolphins than anywhere else on Earth, so look out for the impressive population of humpback, minke, fin, sei, and orca whales feeding and playing in the icy waters, with hourglass, Commerson’s and Peale’s dolphins also possible. Enjoy observing an array of seabirds, gracefully navigating the icy winds and vast ocean expanses, including several species of albatross, prions, petrels, shearwaters, and skuas.
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Days 9-10
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Drake Passage
Make your way north, once again crossing the legendary Drake Passage. Once again, presentations will fill your days, in addition to wildlife watching on deck, or perhaps join the captain on the bridge to learn about the vessel operations and navigation.
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Day 11:
Disembark in Ushuaia
After breakfast on board, bid farewell before disembarking in Ushuaia.
Please note: Exact itinerary and duration will depend on your chosen vessel, departure date and local conditions. Additional adventure activities are not available on every vessel and may incur an additional cost.
OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS
To enhance your Antarctic adventure, why not extend your journey and discover more of South America’s natural and cultural wonders? Soak up the vibrant energy of
Buenos Aires, feel the spray of the mighty
Iguazú Falls, or explore the windswept wilderness of Patagonia. You could search for elusive pumas in
Torres del Paine or embark on a self-drive adventure through jaw-dropping Andean landscapes.
Ask us for ideas or more information on how to make the most of your time in the region.
LUXURY VESSEL
EXPEDITION VESSEL
