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Classic Antarctica

from £6680 excluding flights

  • 9-14 nights
  • Jan-Mar, Oct-Dec
Home Destinations Polar Antarctica Classic Antarctica

Highlights

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Enjoy shore landings and Zodiac cruises past glistening icebergs

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Spot adelie, gentoo and chinstrap penguins

Weddell seal in Antarctica

Encounter a wealth of wildlife including seals, seabirds and whales

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Marvel at towering mountains and exquisite blue-hued icebergs

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Cross the fabled Drake Passage en route from Ushuaia, Argentina

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Choose from a range of adventure options

Why this trip...

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Choice of vessels

We offer a wide choice of small ships from simple budget-conscious options to purpose-built luxury vessels

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Immersive exploration

Immerse yourself in your surroundings on a true exploration of remote and spectacular areas

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Special interest

Leading experts from renowned scientists to professional photographers accompany select departures

Overview

The Peninsula offers dramatic scenery and the greatest variety of wildlife in Antarctica. This adventurous voyage also offers an unequalled introduction to the stunning scenery of the Great White Continent.

During the austral summer, large areas of the Peninsula are ice-free making exploration possible and affording truly amazing photographic opportunities such as curious penguins, seals hauled out on ice floes and intricate ice sculptures. With routes dictated by sea, ice and weather conditions, no two voyages are the same – adding a real sense of adventure to your expedition.

Offering the classic Antarctic experience, this voyage is both affordable and well-paced making it our most popular choice for first-time Polar travellers.

Special Interest Departures

Select departures will be accompanied by leading experts, from renowned scientists to professional photographers – view down the page for details.

Itinerary

With a population of more than 63,000, Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world. Although the city has grown during the past few years, it retains an easygoing and accessible feel. Surrounded by the sea to the south and the mountains to the north, Ushuaia is a spectacular departure point for your Antarctic cruise. Overnight at a hotel in Ushuaia.

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After embarkation in the late afternoon, you will cruise down the historic Beagle Channel towards open sea. Stay on deck to keep watch for seabirds, penguins and rainbows.

Prepare for rough water, but do not be disappointed if your crossing is smooth sailing. The Drake is always changing and provides excellent opportunities for spotting seabirds, including many species of albatross and petrels.

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Expedition ship on board lecture - Quark
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Explore the highlights of the Antarctic Peninsula. Many factors play a role in shaping the expedition’s itinerary, including sea, ice and weather conditions, but the plan is to take Zodiac excursions from the ship at least twice a day. You will have the opportunity to explore local bays, channels and landing sites. Visit penguin rookeries, scout for humpback and minke whales, and search for a number of southern seal species, including the cunning leopard seal.

Perhaps you’ll feel salt spray on your face as the Zodiac weaves in and around grounded icebergs in Pleneau Bay. You could scramble to the top of a craggy ridge on Danco Island or visit the remote British post office at Port Lockroy. Listen to the boom of a calving glacier in Neko Harbour or sit quietly on a pebble beach as penguin chicks squabble around you. If you’re feeling brave, take to the icy waters for a memorable Polar plunge!

Each day will be different, with your Expedition Team on hand throughout to entertain and educate you about this fascinating part of the world.

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Adelie penguins
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The journey back across the Drake Passage provides final opportunities to enjoy the crisp Antarctic air. Spend time on the deck, watching for seabirds and scouting for whales, enjoy presentations by your Expedition Team, or simply relax and reminisce about your experiences.

Arrive back in Ushuaia this morning and disembark, ready for your onward adventure.

  • All voyage itineraries are intended as a guideline only – embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy of expedition travel. Actual routes and landings will be dependent on weather, sea and ice conditions. A degree of flexibility is essential in the polar regions!
  • The above sample itinerary is based on the 11-day voyage on the G Expedition. Other departures may vary in duration and routing, ie alternative embarkation or disembarkation ports, or do not include the pre-voyage hotel night. Please contact us for specific details.
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Vessel Finder

There are a choice of vessels available for this voyage. Compare the facilities of up to three ships at a glance then talk to our Travel Specialists who will be happy to advise which one is right for you.

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Ocean Albatros

Part of a brand new generation of low-energy small ships, custom built for Polar expedition cruising, the Ocean Albatros boasts cutting edge…

  • Passengers: 189
  • Class: Ice-strengthened
  • Balcony Cabins
  • Pool/Hot tub
  • Sauna
  • Rubber Boots: Loan of rubber boots
  • Optional Activities
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Ocean Endeavour

The Ocean Endeavour is a bright and spacious purpose-built expedition ship, with excellent facilities, a range of optional activities and a focus…

  • Passengers: 199
  • Class: Ice-strengthened
  • Pool/Hot tub
  • Sauna
  • Jacket: Jacket to keep
  • Rubber Boots: Loan of boots
  • Optional Activities
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Ocean Adventurer

An attractive ice-strengthened vessel, the Ocean Adventurer features plenty of outside deck space making this a great choice for a polar adventure.

  • Passengers: 132
  • Class: Ice-strengthened
  • Jacket: Jacket to keep
  • Rubber Boots: Loan of rubber boots
  • Optional Activities
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Sea Spirit

This all-suite vessel couples adventure with spacious accommodation and a friendly atmosphere.

  • Passengers: 114
  • Class: Ice-strengthened
  • Balcony Cabins
  • Jacket: Jacket to keep
  • Rubber Boots: Loan of rubber boots
  • Optional Activities
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Greg Mortimer

A custom-built expedition ship featuring cutting-edge design, superior comfort and environmentally friendly technology.

  • Passengers: 120
  • Class: Ice-strengthened
  • Balcony Cabins
  • Sauna
  • Jacket: Jacket to keep
  • Rubber Boots: Loan of rubber boots
  • Optional Activities
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Sylvia Earle

The sister ship to the Greg Mortimer, the Sylvia Earle features the same cutting-edge design, superior comfort and environmentally friendly technology.

  • Passengers: 126
  • Class: Ice-strengthened
  • Balcony Cabins
  • Pool/Hot tub
  • Sauna
  • Jacket: Jacket to keep
  • Rubber Boots: Loan of rubber boots
  • Optional Activities
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Ultramarine

The spacious Ultramarine is a purpose-built expedition ship, offering a choice of adventure activities as well as the chance to explore by…

  • Passengers: 199
  • Class: Ice-strengthened
  • Balcony Cabins
  • Sauna
  • Helicopter: on board
  • Jacket: Jacket to keep
  • Rubber Boots: Loan of rubber boots
  • Optional Activities
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Ocean Explorer

A purpose-built expedition ship offering ample deck space and generously sized cabins, the Ocean Explorer’s innovative design has been meticulously crafted specifically…

  • Passengers: 138
  • Class: Ice-strengthened
  • Balcony Cabins
  • Pool/Hot tub
  • Sauna
  • Jacket: Jacket to keep
  • Rubber Boots: Loan of rubber boots
  • Optional Activities
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World Explorer

The World Explorer is a new state of the art, purpose-built expedition vessel, among the fastest and most luxurious in our fleet…

  • Passengers: 176
  • Class: Ice-strengthened
  • Balcony Cabins
  • Pool/Hot tub
  • Sauna
  • Jacket: Jacket to keep
  • Rubber Boots: Loan of rubber boots
  • Optional Activities
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G Expedition

The ever-popular G Expedition offers spacious and comfortable accommodation at an affordable price.

  • Passengers: 134
  • Class: Ice-strengthened
  • Sauna
  • Jacket: Jacket to keep
  • Rubber Boots: Loan of rubber boots
  • Optional Activities
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Seaventure

A classic and strong Polar expedition ship, the MS Seaventure immerses passengers in their surroundings with opportunities to participate in important scientific…

  • Passengers: 139
  • Class: Ice-strengthened
  • Balcony Cabins
  • Pool/Hot tub
  • Sauna
  • Jacket: Jacket to keep
  • Rubber Boots: Load of Rubber boots
  • Optional Activities
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M/V Hondius

The M/V Hondius is one of the strongest vessels of its category in the polar regions.

  • Passengers: 174
  • Class: Ice-strengthened
  • Rubber Boots: Loan of rubber boots
  • Optional Activities
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M/V Ortelius

A former scientific-research vessel, the Ortelius offers the classic small ship experience.

  • Passengers: 116
  • Class: Ice-strengthened
  • Helicopter: on selected dates
  • Rubber Boots: Loan of rubber boots
  • Optional Activities
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M/V Plancius

The M/V Plancius is a traditional ex-research vessel, with proven experience in icy waters.

  • Passengers: 116
  • Class: Ice-strengthened
  • Rubber Boots: Loan of rubber boots
  • Optional Activities

Select 2-3 items to compare.

Prices and Departures

Price from £6680 excluding flights

Airfares are quoted separately to the holiday price. When enquiring, our Travel Specialists will provide the best fare possible from your preferred airline / airport.
Note: Airfares tend to be cheaper the earlier you book.

Voyage prices shown are standard but you can be assured that any relevant offers will be applied with your quote.

What's Included

  • Shipboard accommodation
  • All breakfasts, lunches & dinners on board
  • Tea & coffee available around the clock
  • All Zodiac transfers, cruising & shore landings
  • Presentations by the Expedition Team and guest speakers
  • Loan of rubber boots during voyage
  • All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges
  • 24 hour emergency assistance from our team during your holiday
  • No surcharge guarantee
  • Full financial protection

2024/25 Departures

Prices are per person, based on a twin cabin. The indicative prices shown in the table below are the standard voyage fare and do not reflect any applicable special offers or discounts. Single, triple and quad cabins are also available. Please get in touch for a tailored quote based on the best available price for your preferred voyage and cabin type.

Departure Duration Vessel Activities Prices from (pp) Special Interest
27 Oct 2024 12 days Greg Mortimer £10,996
30 Oct 2024 10 days Ocean Albatros £8,996
05 Nov 2024 11 days World Explorer £13,000
06 Nov 2024 15 days Greg Mortimer £14,246
11 Nov 2024 13 days G Expedition £8,999
12 Nov 2024 12 days Sylvia Earle £12,413 Photography
14 Nov 2024 11 days World Explorer £13,800
16 Nov 2024 12 days Ultramarine £15,400
18 Nov 2024 11 days Ocean Endeavour £6,680
19 Nov 2024 13 days MS Seaventure £10,538 Citizen Science
22 Nov 2024 11 days G Expedition £8,399
22 Nov 2024 12 days Sylvia Earle £12,996
22 Nov 2024 11 days Ocean Explorer £11,400
23 Nov 2024 11 days World Explorer £11,400
26 Nov 2024 11 days Ultramarine £15,400
27 Nov 2024 11 days Ocean Endeavour £7,080
29 Nov 2024 12 days MS Seaventure £9,488 Citizen Science
01 Dec 2024 13 days G Expedition £9,799
01 Dec 2024 11 days Ocean Explorer £11,400
06 Dec 2024 10 days Ocean Albatros £9,746
06 Dec 2024 12 days Sea Spirit £11,695
06 Dec 2024 12 days Ultramarine £15,400
08 Dec 2024 13 days MS Seaventure £10,538 Citizen Science
08 Dec 2024 12 days Greg Mortimer £12,829
10 Dec 2024 11 days Ocean Explorer £11,800
12 Dec 2024 11 days G Expedition £8,599
16 Dec 2024 12 days Sea Spirit £11,695
18 Dec 2024 11 days Ocean Endeavour £7,800
26 Dec 2024 12 days Sea Spirit £12,195
27 Dec 2024 11 days Ocean Endeavour £7,800
28 Dec 2024 11 days World Explorer £15,100
02 Jan 2025 11 days G Expedition £9,399
06 Jan 2025 12 days Greg Mortimer £13,329
15 Jan 2025 13 days MS Seaventure £12,121 Citizen Science
18 Jan 2025 12 days Ultramarine £17,500
22 Jan 2025 11 days World Explorer £11,800
26 Jan 2025 11 days Ocean Endeavour £7,800
30 Jan 2025 11 days G Expedition £9,399
31 Jan 2025 11 days World Explorer £14,300
06 Feb 2025 12 days Sea Spirit £11,695
06 Feb 2025 13 days MS Seaventure £12,121 Citizen Science
09 Feb 2025 11 days World Explorer £14,300
16 Feb 2025 13 days MS Seaventure £11,488 Citizen Science
16 Feb 2025 12 days Sea Spirit £11,695
18 Feb 2025 11 days World Explorer £14,300
19 Feb 2025 13 days Ocean Albatros £12,746
19 Feb 2025 12 days Ultramarine £16,200
04 Mar 2025 11 days G Expedition £7,999
09 Mar 2025 11 days Ocean Endeavour £6,680
11 Mar 2025 11 days World Explorer £11,800
13 Mar 2025 11 days G Expedition £7,799
13 Mar 2025 13 days Sylvia Earle £13,329

Activity Icon Key

  • Camping
  • Cross-country skiing
  • Diving
  • Kayak taster session
  • Kayaking
  • Paddleboarding
  • Photography
  • Ski-touring
  • Snorkelling
  • Snow-shoeing

NOTES

  • Two pre-voyage nights in a hotel in Ushuaia are included on voyages aboard the MS Seaventure
  • One pre-voyage night in a hotel is included with all other ships, except for the M/V Plancius, M/V Ortelius, M/V Hondius and M/V Janssonius
  • The inclusions for this cruise are dependent on the vessel chosen, though those shown are applicable to all
  • Participation in Citizen Science projects is available on voyages aboard the MS Seaventure, Greg Mortimer and Sylvia Earle
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