These adventurous voyages offer an unequalled introduction to the wildlife and stunning scenery of the great White Continent. Departing and finishing in the port of Ushuaia, Argentina, they include the most sought after sights of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands, the most easily accessible part of Antarctica during the austral summer.
The Smaller Adventure fleet and expedition vessels
We sincerely believe that the smaller vessels offer the best experience for polar enthusiasts, and as such we offer a hand-picked selection of sturdy ice-strengthened ships and icebreakers carrying between 46-122 passengers. Please refer to the links on the left hand side of this page to access information regarding itineraries, prices and deckplans for the vessels.
The Peninsula offers dramatic scenery and the greatest variety of wildlife in Antarctica. During the austral summer, large areas are ice-free and truly amazing photographic opportunities are afforded from curious penguins, seals hauled out on ice floes and vivid ice sculptures.
Offering the classic Antarctic experience, these voyages are both affordable and well-paced, ranging from 11-12 days (departing from and returning to South America), making them the most popular itineraries for polar travellers. Frequent departure dates throughout the season and a wide choice of vessels make these the most flexible Antarctic voyages. First time visitors need look no further for a full and rewarding experience of the Great White Continent.
Antarctica is a vast continent of superlatives - the highest, coldest, most remote and least visited part of the world. To experience the best of this seemingly endless region it's a good idea to completely immerse yourself in this stunning part of the world on one of our special expedition voyages. Cruise past brilliant blue icebergs, breathe in the freshest air in the world and marvel at the amazing Antarctic wildlife on this small ship adventure.
Our staff are polar experts, having visited the polar regions themselves, as Nikki Rickett, Discover the World's Polar Journeys Product Manager explains:
"Antarctica is the ultimate trip of a lifetime – the vast landscapes (tabular icebergs, tumbling glaciers, ice choked waterways, craggy mountain peaks), the wildlife (grumpy elephant seals lazing on volcanic beaches; a huge variety of very comical and entertaining penguins; orcas spy-hopping and humpback whales feasting on nutrient-rich waters), the weather (firey sunsets; cloudy days that make the blues of the icebergs even more intense; biting winds, impressive blizzards interspersed with spells of bright sunshine) - this is nature at its most powerful!"During the southern summer, large areas of this region are ice-free, providing the breeding ground for huge numbers of birds and seals. The wildlife in Antarctica is often curious about human visitors, so at times you may find yourself close enough to take truly amazing photographs of the different species of penguin and many other birds, along with predatory leopard seals and huge elephant seals, hauled out on rocks and ice floes, "posing" for the camera!
You'll also most likely enjoy an encounter with some of the great whales of the world, which might include humpback, minke and fin whale. What strikes many visitors above all else is the sheer vastness and remoteness of Antarctica. Setting foot on the great "White Continent", where glaciers calve colossal icebergs that drift among its offshore islands and waterways, you will experience the true essence of exploration and Antarctica.
Route of Voyage
Please note the voyage route and daily itinerary is subject to ice and weather conditions therefore flexibility is the key to enjoying your expedition voyage to the full. Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.
This voyage starts and finishes in Ushuaia. As such, opportunities for extending your stay in Argentina or South America in general are extensive. Due to the considerable variety of choice of airlines and stopovers en route to your port of departure, flights are not included and are offered and quoted on a tailor-made basis. We are able to offer competitive rates with a variety of airlines for flights from the UK; please contact us for the best price at the time of booking and to discuss your further itinerary within South America. Thank you.
Photo Gallery
To view our photo gallery
click hereAdventure Options
Please see the link to the left of this page for details of exciting adventure options that are available on specific departure dates and vessels for this itinerary. Adventure options are strictly on a pre-registered basis only, and are subject to availability at the time of booking – demand is high and spaces are limited for each trip, so contact us now to discuss adding a different dimension to your polar journey!
Further Information
Please select links from the left-hand panel for further information about the tour itinerary, prices and departure dates. Alternatively please contact our expert team who will be delighted to hear from you.
Phone: 01737 218800
Email: antarctica@discovertheworld.co.uk