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Chinstrap penguin sighting

South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula

Example 10 Day Cruise aboard Ocean Victory
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Enjoy this classic 10-day voyage to the great white continent aboard Ocean Victory. Depart Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world, to cross the infamous Drake Passage to reach Antarctica. Spend two days exploring the sub-Antarctic South Shetland islands, which abound with volcanic landscapes, massive glaciers, towering icebergs, and abundant wildlife. Look for multiple species of seals, countless penguin rookeries, and the blows of whales. Continue further south to the Antarctic peninsula, and set foot on this remote, pristine continent. Marvel at the soaring icy cliffs, gigantic icebergs, and powerful glaciers that form the breathtaking landscape of Antarctica, and keep your eyes open for the ever-present wildlife.
Hiking in the South Shetland islandsFur seals eyeing visitors to their islandBlue ice of AntarcticaWhale sighting in Polar waters!Rosy midnight sun colors over icy seasBleak but beautiful: Deception IslandChinstrap penguin sighting
Highlights
  • Safely sail across the infamous Drake Passage - twice!
  • Look for seals, whales, penguins, and more wildlife
  • Explore the volcanic landscape of the South Shetland Islands
  • Set foot on the Antarctic continent with landings on the peninsula
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Ushuaia | Embark

Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina - the world’s southernmost town. Explore the quaint city or local countryside. Alternatively, consider a day trip off the beaten path to the raw, natural archipelago of Tierra del Fuego. It's a hiker's paradise with rugged snow-capped mountains, glaciers, flower-filled meadows and boggy quagmires.

In the afternoon, board Ocean Victory and enjoy a welcome dinner.

Your journey begins as you navigate through the calms of Beagle Channel, a strait in the Tierra del Fuego Archipelago.

 

Day 2-3: At Sea

Sail two days across the Drake Passage, a body of water that marks the intersection of the cold Antarctic with the warmer Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Drake Passage is known for rollicking conditions and strong westerly winds, called the Roaring Fifties. While this passage may be challenging, rest confidently aboard the expedition vessel, which is purpose-built with stabilizers, powerful engines and a highly-qualified crew. The most spirited sailors consider Drake Passage a lifetime achievement, and complete the crossing twice! In the Drake, the excitement builds as Antarctic wildlife comes into view. Weather permitting, catch your first sight of seals and penguins! The area is also well-know for its abundance of birds.

Day 4-5: South Shetland Islands

Over the next two days, begin the exciting Antarctic experience and explore the sub-Antarctic islands of the South Shetland chain and marvel at the captivating landscapes along the way. Weather permitting, projected landfalls include: King George Island; Deception Island, an extinct volcano with waters warm enough for a polar swim; and Half Moon Island with nesting Wilson's storm petrels and chinstrap penguins.

The itinerary and activities over the next few days depend on weather and ice conditions. The route and shore landings are to be determined by the captain and expedition leader and communicated to guests through regularly scheduled briefings.

Day 6-7: Antarctic Peninsula

As the white shimmer of Antarctica looms on the horizon, the presence of wildlife multiplies by tens of thousands with many species of lively penguins, inquisitive seals, nesting birds and the spray of marine mammals. Wildlife abounds along the projected route along the Antarctic Peninsula: leopard, Antarctic fur, and Weddell seals off Cuverville Island; humpback whales in Gerlache Strait and Paradise Bay; orcas in the dramatic Lemaire Channel, and much more.

The itinerary and activities over the next few days depend on weather and ice conditions. The route and shore landings are to be determined by the captain and expedition leader and communicated to guests through regularly scheduled briefings.

Please note that all the outings and landings rely on weather, sea and ice conditions being favorable both for the ship to access the areas, as for the zodiacs and kayaks to maneuver under adequate conditions, ensuring the safety of all passengers and staff.

Day 8-9: At Sea

Depart Antarctica and spend two days at sea on the way back to the calms of Beagle Channel and Ushuaia, Argentina. En-route, cross Drake Passage and cruise past Cape Horn, a legendary maritime landmark and the southern tip of South America. During your time at sea, a variety of activities will be arranged on board which will provide the perfect opportunity to socialize with fellow travelers equally passionate for discovering the world, enjoy the lectures by the expedition team on board, visit the shop or relax at leisure in ship’s facilities, designed to provide a comfortable, relaxing time.

Day 10: Ushuaia | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Return to Ushuaia and disembark after breakfast. Transfer to the airport to continue your independent travels or return home.

Ship/Hotel

Ocean Victory

Ocean Victory ship
Ocean Victory ship
Ocean Victory ship in South Georgia

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$8,995 2-3 travelers
Ocean Victory Cat-G
Category G Single
Single Stateroom (Porthole) 18 m2 Standard single stateroom onboard, located on deck 3. This is a conveniently located stateroom close to the Mudroom which facilitates access to the Zodiacs during embarkation and disembarkation to begin your adventures on the Zodiacs. Single staterooms are normally with a porthole, single bed (200*90), reading light, and a sitting chair.
Ocean Victory Cat-E Cat-F Porthole_Triple
Category F Triple
Triple Stateroom (Porthole) 22 m2 There are four Triple staterooms on board Ocean Victory featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they're close to the mudroom and loading platforms. Triple staterooms are normally with a sofa bed and two twin beds however a double bed can be accommodated.
OceanVictory Cat-E
Category E
French Balcony Suite 16 m2 The French Balcony Suite is a standard stateroom with a French balcony, a double bed, floor-to-ceiling windows and a bathroom. All French Balcony Suites are located on Deck 7.
OceanVictory Cat-D
Category D
Albatros State Stateroom (Porthole) 22 m2 The standard stateroom on Ocean Victory is close to the Mudroom and has quick access to the zodiac platforms for disembarkation during landings. This is very convenient if you have more limited mobility and would like a short distance to the zodiacs. The staterooms are perfect for those who wish a comfortable base during their stay onboard Ocean Victory. The standard staterooms all have a double bed or 2 single beds and bathroom. The staterooms are located on deck 3 except for 1 which is located on deck 4.
Ocean Victory Cat COcean Victory Cat C
Category C
Balcony State Stateroom 24 m2 The most abundant type of stateroom on Ocean Victory, the Balcony State Staterooms are located on decks 4 & 6. They have a balcony, a double bed or two single beds, a bathroom, and a sofa that can be used as a bed for a child if traveling as a family. If you desire to book two staterooms with connecting doors, this is also a possibility under this category.
Ocean Victory Cat COcean Victory Cat C
Category Csp
Superior Balcony Stateroom (48) 24 sqm., incl. Balcony
Ocean Victory Cat COcean Victory Cat C
Category Cxl
Grand Balcony Stateroom (4) app. 30 sqm., incl. Balcony
Ocean Victory Cat-B2
Category B
Balcony Suite 35 m2 Ocean Victory has 2 Balcony Suites on board located on Deck 4. The suites feature double or twin beds, a seating area, a bathroom and a large balcony. The balcony suites can host 2 people.
Ocean Victory Cat-AOcean Victory Cat-A
Category A
Junior suite 42 m2 The 4 Junior Suites aboard Ocean Victory have a great view from their location high up on the ship on deck 7. The suites feature a double bed or twin beds, sofa bed, seating area, a spacious bathroom, and a private balcony. The suite can accommodate up to 3 people.
Ocean Victory Cat-D
Premium Suite
Premium suite 45 m2 – PS The largest of all the staterooms on board the Ocean Victory is the Premium Suite. This 2-bedroom suite features a double bed (or twin beds), a sofa bed, table and chair, a balcony, and a spacious bathroom. Located on deck. 4. This category is available upon request. Please refer to Albatros Expeditions for price.

Notes

Kayaking activities available on both Arctic and Antarctic voyages. 
Although kayaking opportunities are possible in most locations during each excursion in the Antarctic region, weather, sea and ice conditions will dictate the when and where to ensure your safety and improve your experience.
In order to sign up for this activity, you need to have previous kayaking experience and attend a mandatory safety briefing by the Kayak Master. The cost is $345/person per outing and it can only be booked onboard.

Possible shared staterooms for same-gender, single travelers: Category C (Balcony Stateroom) and Category F (Triple Porthole Stateroom)
Included
  • 9 Breakfasts, 8 Lunches, 9 Dinners
  • 9 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Welcome and Farewell Cocktails   
  • Digital visual journal link after voyage, including voyage log, gallery, species list and more.
  • English-speaking expedition team
  • Information briefings and lectures by expedition team
  • Parkas and Boots in assorted sizes, suitable for shore landings
  • Special photo workshop
  • Complimentary house wine, beer and soda at dinner (selected labels and brands, served at the a-la-carte dinners)
  • All Zodiac landings and excursions, as per itinerary, guided by the Expedition Team
  • Free tea and coffee available 24 hours
  • Taxes and landing fees
  • Embarkation shuttle transfer to the vessel from Ushuaia city centre
  • Shuttle transfer after disembarkation from the ship to Ushuaia city centre or airport
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Beverages (other than coffee and tea)
  • Anything not mentioned under 'inclusions'
  • Extra excursions and activities not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Meals not on board the ship
  • Emergency Evacuation insurance of at least $200,000 per passenger is required. Please bring a copy of your insurance onboard.
  • Tips for the crew (we recommend USD 16 per person per day)
  • Camping - This should be secured at the time of booking. Limited to 30 participants only and offered on all Nov - Jan voyages if conditions allow.
  • Snowshoeing - Offered on all Nov - Dec trips if conditions allow. (For Svalbard trips, only in June) This be booked onboard only.
  • Kayaking - Offered on all ships and all trips if conditions allow. This can be booked onboard only.

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The trip was terrific with great planning on your part. Most of the adventures were not mainstream and somewhat off the beaten path which made it especially enjoyable!! We felt taken care of and you all were readily available to respond to questions and issues. I would highly recommend your company and friends have already expressed interest based on our pictures and excitement.
Gale Cantor

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