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The Weddell Sea comprises a deeply incised, 2,000-kilometre wide bay, taking its name from British sailor, James Weddell, who in 1823 reached latitude 74° South while hunting seals.

Famed for its huge ice shelves and flat-topped icebergs, the Weddell Sea is the site of an upwelling of cold water from the ocean depths that provides food for any creature hardy enough to withstand the intense cold.

As you enter the Weddell Sea on a wildlife expedition cruise, the increase in the number of icebergs and quantity of sea ice is striking. Wildlife here includes Weddell and elephant seals, seabirds, plus an abundance of penguins. Humpbacks feed in the nutrient-rich waters, so there are opportunities to see whales, as well as the Antarctic’s largest predator, the solitary leopard seal.

View suggested itineraries

Key info

  • Ideal for viewing: elephant seal, humpback whale, leopard seal, Weddell seal, orca, emperor penguin, South polar skua, light-mantled albatross

Wildlife trips

This wildlife location is featured in the following itineraries:

Emperor Penguins of the Weddell Sea

This voyage to the Weddell Sea offers a unique highlight - three days are reserved to visit, by helicopter, an emperor penguin colony, situated south of Snow Hill Island. Getting close to these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is a unique and memorable once in a lifetime experience. Find out more about Emperor Penguins of the Weddell Sea

  • Price (exc. flights): 11-14 days from £11,285
  • Trip type:
    Voyage
  • When to go:
    • J
    • F
    • M
    • N
    • D

Great Antarctic Voyage

This ultimate Antarctic experience marries the phenomenal wildlife of the sub-Antarctic islands of the Falklands and South Georgia to the pristine beauty of the Antarctic Peninsula. Explore dramatic wilderness areas and visit huge penguin colonies, all amongst hauntingly beautiful polar scenery. Find out more about Great Antarctic Voyage

  • Price (exc. flights): 19-22 days from £12,095
  • Trip type:
    Voyage
  • When to go:
    • J
    • F
    • M
    • N
    • D

Weddell Sea Explorer

A land of icebergs, volcanic islands and year-round sea ice, the Weddell Sea has played a pivotal role in Polar exploration. A haven for birdlife and a feeding ground for migrating whales, this voyage offers the opportunity to discover the less-visited side of the Antarctic Peninsula and icy perimeter of the Weddell Sea. Find out more about Weddell Sea Explorer

  • Price (exc. flights): 12 days from £12,165
  • Trip type:
    Voyage
  • When to go:
    • M
Recommended cruise vessels:

Greg Mortimer

The Greg Mortimer introduces an exciting new generation of ship for cruising in the Polar regions. Purpose-built for expedition cruising with a uniquely designed ice-strengthened hull to provide a more comfortable voyage, this small ship can venture into remote areas that larger vessels cannot reach. Find Out More about Greg Mortimer

Ortelius

The ice-strengthened Ortelius is an excellent vessel for expeditions in the Arctic and Antarctic. With the highest ice-class notation, it offers possibilities to travel to remote locations such as the Ross Sea and Franz Josef Land. Flexibility assures maximum wildlife opportunities. Find Out More about Ortelius

Plancius

The Plancius accommodates a maximum of 108 passengers in cabins ranging from triple to superior, all with outside view and private facilities. She offers a range of itineraries in Antarctica and the Arctic, and the large open deck spaces offer excellent opportunities to watch wildlife. Find Out More about Plancius

Ultramarine

Equipped with two twin-engine helicopters plus 20 quick-release Zodiac boats, Ultramarine offers passengers the next level in polar exploration. The opportunity to view frozen landscapes from above and to take impromptu wildlife viewing excursions speedily and efficiently, set it apart from other polar vessels. Find Out More about Ultramarine

Janssonius

The M/V Janssonius exceeds all requirements set out in the Polar Code for ice-strengthened cruise ships, making her arguably one of the most advanced vessels on which to explore the polar regions. The latest sustainable technology also ranks her alongside the most environmentally friendly ships in the world. Find Out More about Janssonius