Classic Antarctica
10 Days
Reviews
Tour Overview
Join us for this amazing tour to Antarctica! For over two centuries, the remote White Continent has attracted scientists and explorers and now this frozen land has opened its doors to adventure travellers. Journey from the fascinating archipelago of Tierra del Fuego to the Antarctic Peninsula and be totally mesmerized by unique wildlife, majestic icebergs and superb scenery. Sightings of large penguin colonies, magnificent whales, and breathtaking landscape will make each day more incredible than the last.
About this tour
- Type of Travel: Cruise
- Group Size: Max 90
- Recommended Age: Open Age
- Physical Rating:
- Accommodation:9 night(s) on boat
- Meals:9 Breakfast(s), 8 Lunch(es), 8 Dinner(s)
- Country:Argentina, Antarctica
What should you expect?
The price is based on a standard cabin, you can upgrade your cabin by selecting the cabin upgrade during the booking process. If you are a solo traveller we can match you with another traveller of the same sex to share a standard cabin, or you can upgrade to a private cabin.
We strongly recommend arriving in Ushuaia a day or two before the ship departure to account for any flight delays you might experience. Please note embarkation is at 4pm and the ship will set sail at 6pm and cannot wait for missing passengers or delayed luggage.
Our expedition to Antarctica takes place during the Austral summer. Generally, temperatures in the Antarctic Peninsula are between 20°F and 40°F (approximately –5 C to + 5C). Although it can be quite sunny, expect rain, snow, fog and a high wind-chill factor. Please read the packing list carefully and ensure you have enough thermal/warm/waterproof clothing.
All cabins have en-suite bathrooms, hairdryers, air-conditioning/heating and bed linen/towels provided. Your linen and towels will be changed on request.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrive Ushuaia – Board M/V Ushuaia
Your holiday to Antarctica starts here in Ushuaia, the southernmost point of South America. Ushuaia, with a population of about 42,000, is in Argentine Tierra del Fuego. The world's most southerly town, Ushuaia is surrounded by snow-covered peaks, a beautiful bay and the Beagle Channel - named after Charles Darwin's 1830's exploration ship. Ushuaia's history is still visible in many of its old buildings and there are several excellent museums.
We board our ship, the M/V Ushuaia around 4pm at the Tierra del Fuego Port of Ushuaia and set sail at around 7pm through the Beagle Channel, the Mackinley Pass and pass the Logos shipwreck. After boarding you will have an introduction to the ship and its amenities and have the chance to ask any questions.
We strongly recommend arriving to Ushuaia one or two days before your departure date in case of flight delays or lost luggage. The ship departs promptly and will not wait for delayed passengers.
Please read your trip notes for in depth information on what to expect onboard.
Accommodation
1 night(s) on boat 
Day 2 - Crossing the Drake Passage
The Drake passage is named after the renowned explorer Sir Frances Drake, who sailed these waters in 1578. It marks the Antarctic Convergence, a biological barrier where cold polar water sinks beneath the warmer northern waters. This creates a great upwelling of nutrients, which sustains the biodiversity of this region and also marks the northern limit of many Antarctic seabirds.
Lecturers will be out on deck with you to help in the identification of an amazing variety of seabirds as we sail across the passage, including many albatrosses which follow in our wake.
The Drake passage can be smooth sailing one day and some of the choppiest waters in the world the next. Turbulent crossings are a 'rite of passage' for most, giving a taste of adventure on the high seas that is replaced by the peacefulness and tranquillity of the Antarctic.
Accommodation
1 night(s) on boat
Meals
1 Breakfast(s), 1 Lunch(es), 1 Dinner(s)
Day 3 - Open Sea Voyage to South Shetland Islands
The M/V Ushuaia's open bridge policy allows you to join our officers on the bridge and learn about navigation, watch for whales, and enjoy the view. During the voyage a full program of lectures and films relative to the expedition are offered in English and Spanish.
The first sightings of icebergs and snow-capped mountains indicate that we have reached the South Shetland Islands, a group of twenty islands and islets first sighted in February 1819 by Captain William Smith of the brig Williams.
With favourable conditions in the Drake Passage our lecturers and naturalists will accompany you ashore as you experience your first encounter with the penguins and seals and will also be on hand to answer your questions and provide knowledge throughout the day.
Accommodation
1 night(s) on boat
Meals
1 Breakfast(s), 1 Lunch(es), 1 Dinner(s)
Day 4 - Exploring the Antarctic Peninsula - Deception Island
The South Shetland Islands are a haven for wildlife. Vast penguin rookeries, beaches ruled by Antarctic fur seals and southern elephant seals make every day spent in this amazing island group unforgettable. Sailing through the narrow passage into the flooded caldera of Deception Island is breathtaking.
We plan to make at least two landings per day whilst exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland islands (depending on the ice conditions).
Accommodation
1 night(s) on boat
Meals
1 Breakfast(s), 1 Lunch(es), 1 Dinner(s)
Day 5 - Exploring the Antarctic Peninsula - King George Island
King George Island, the largest of the South Shetland Islands, features colonies of nesting Adélie and Chinstrap Penguins, Kelp Gulls, Blue-eyed Cormorants, Antarctic Terns and Southern Giant Petrels and is home to scientific bases of many different countries.
Macaroni, Chinstrap and Gentoo Penguins as well as elephant seals await you at Livingston Island.
Accommodation
1 night(s) on boat
Meals
1 Breakfast(s), 1 Lunch(es), 1 Dinner(s)
Day 6 - Exploring the Antarctic Peninsula - Livingston Island
The Antarctic Peninsula's remarkable history will provide you with a type of excitement often only associated with the early explorers. You will have plenty of time to explore its amazing scenery, a pristine wilderness of snow, ice, mountains and waterways, and an incredible wide variety of wildlife. Apart from penguins and seabirds you are very likely to see Weddell, crabeater and leopard seals as well as Minke, killer (orca) and humpback whales at close range.
We hope to navigate some of the most beautiful waterways (depending on the ice conditions): the Gerlache Strait, the Neumayer Channel, and the Lemaire Channel, the latter are narrow passages between towering rock faces and spectacular glaciers.
Accommodation
1 night(s) on boat
Meals
1 Breakfast(s), 1 Lunch(es), 1 Dinner(s)
Day 7 - Exploring the Antarctic Peninsula - Paradise Bay
Paradise Bay is perhaps the most aptly named place in the world and we attempt a landing on the continent proper. After negotiating the iceberg-strewn waters of the Antarctic Sound, we hope to visit the bustling Adélie Penguin (over 100,000 pairs breed here) and Blue-eyed Cormorant colonies on Paulet Island. The Nordensköjld expedition built a stone survival hut here in 1903. Today its ruins have been taken over by nesting penguins. Further exploration may take you to Melchior Island, Cuverville Island, Portal Point, Neko Harbour, Pléneau Island and if ice conditions permit, to Petermann Island for a visit to the southernmost colony of Gentoo Penguins.
Accommodation
1 night(s) on boat
Meals
1 Breakfast(s), 1 Lunch(es), 1 Dinner(s)
Day 8 - Open Sea Return Voyage
As we leave Antarctica, take the chance to relax and reflect on the fascinating adventures of the past days. Join our lecturers and naturalists on deck as we search for seabirds and whales and enjoy some final lectures.
Accommodation
1 night(s) on boat
Meals
1 Breakfast(s), 1 Lunch(es), 1 Dinner(s)
Day 9 - Crossing the Drake Passage
Our return voyage takes us north across the Drake Passage to our original port of Ushuaia and dry land once more.
Accommodation
1 night(s) on boat
Meals
1 Breakfast(s), 1 Lunch(es), 1 Dinner(s)
Day 10 - Depart Ushuaia
Your adventure of a lifetime comes to an end today. If you have a late flight or have lengthened your stay by adding post tour accommodation you will have more time to explore the sights.
Please note: The above itinerary is a guide only. Our exact route and program will vary to take best advantage of local weather and ice conditions and opportunities to view wildlife. Changes will be made by the Captain and/or Expedition Leader to facilitate the best results from the prevailing conditions. A daily program sheet will be issued on board. Flexibility is the key to success.
Meals
1 Breakfast(s)
Select Dates
Available
US$ 7,604
Your Savings:
25% off
US$7,604
Your Savings:
US$2,535
Available
US$ 9,547
Your Savings:
25% off
US$9,547
Your Savings:
US$3,182
Available
US$ 9,547
Your Savings:
25% off
US$9,547
Your Savings:
US$3,182
Essential Information
What's Not Included
- Visas and travel insurance
- Spending money – budget for meals, snacks, drinks, limited souvenirs, laundry, tips and any extras
- International flights to/from the start/end of your tour and departure taxes
- Tips on excursions, visas, travel insurance, personal items and single rooms.
- Optional excursions - On each trip, you may find there are some excursions that are not included. This might be because they are not to everyone's taste or there may be various options of differing value to choose from. More information on the excursions we recommend is listed under each day of your itinerary though prices may vary. If you are after something in particular, don't hesitate to ask your tour leader.
- Tips, visas, travel insurance, personal items, single rooms & alternate cabin types.
Joining your Antarctic Expedition
Emergency Contact Details
In the case of an emergency before you meet your ship, please contact:
(Ship Owner) 0054 9 2901 616194 or (Operations Manager) 0054 9 2901 459312
For general information (non emergencies) before you meet your ship please contact the general information/head office number on 0054 2901 437728
Arriving in Ushuaia
We strongly recommend arriving in Ushuaia a day or two before the ship departure to account for any flight delays you might experience. Please note embarkation is at 4pm and we will set sail at 6pm and cannot wait for missing passengers or delayed luggage.
Accommodation on tour
Antarctic Cruise
You will be on-board an Antarctic cruise for the duration of this tour.
Facilities on-board
All cabins have en-suite bathrooms, hairdryers, air-conditioning/heating and bed linen/towels provided. Your linen and towels will be changed on request.
The gift shop on the Main Deck F is stocked with ladies and men’s clothing, sundry items, gift and souvenir items. Please see the daily program for opening hours.
Twin or Double Share
If you are travelling with a friend or partner please advise us if she wish to have a double or a twin cabin. These are subject to availability.
Solo Travellers
The price is based on a standard cabin, you can upgrade your cabin by selecting the cabin upgrade during the booking process. If you are a solo traveller we can match you with another traveller of the same sex to share a standard cabin, or you can upgrade to a private cabin.
Luggage and Packing
Luggage
We recommend one piece of luggage per person plus one smaller bag for personal items.
Packing List
All clothes should be warm and comfortable. A supply of rubber boots are available on board and includes a wide variety of sizes. It is recommended that you bring your own only if you require a special size. Please note that the boots on board have been used by previous passengers.
Clothing
- Rain Jacket
- Jeans/trousers and warm pants
- Waterproof gloves or mittens
- Hat, scarf, or other face protection
- Woollen socks
- Thermal or long underwear
- Waterproof Trousers
- T-shirts/tops/shirts
- Comfortable, rubber-soled shoes for the deck
- Rubber boots (are available on-board if you do not have your own) Pull-on, unlined, knee-high boots are required for wet landings. Boots must be 14”-16” high with strong, rubber-ridge, non-skid soles. These specifications are very important. You may be stepping into water up to 10” deep on wet landings. Moon or leather boots are NOT appropriate.
- Jumper/cardigan/fleece
Electronics
- Phone and charger
- Camera and charger
- Worldwide adaptor
- Portable battery pack
- Ipad/tablet/e-reader (great for long journeys!)
Toiletries
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Small medical kit with paracetamol/plasters
- Antibacterial hand gel
- Insect repellent and bite cream
- Sun cream and lip balm
- Shampoo/conditioner/body wash - ideally in bar form
- Antiperspirant/deodorant
Other
- One small day bag
- Plastic bags (Plastic zip-lock bags will protect your camera and binoculars from wave splash and spray while in Zodiacs)
- Sunglasses
- Reusable water bottle
- Cloth bag for shopping
- Ear plugs and sleep mask
Documents
- Passport
- Visas
- Insurance
- Printed copy of your passport
- Printed copy of your emergency contacts numbers
Laundry
There are no laundry services on-board.
Meals and Dietary Requirements
With advance notice, our team can accommodate a wide variety of special dietary requests. Please note it is imperative to inform us of any special food requests at least 4 weeks before you depart.
Meals provided are: Continental and American Breakfast Buffet, Buffet or Seated Served Lunch, Afternoon Tea and Three-course Dinner. Tea and Coffee is available throughout the day.
Money and Budget
For personal spending money you can use EURO or USD aboard the ship. MasterCard and American Express are accepted however the minimum spend is US$100.
We suggest you bring around USD300 to USD400 for spending money. We will be navigating through isolated areas where spending opportunities are scarce. For services on board you will be provided with a personal account. Your purchases will be kept on record and totalled at the end of your stay. Final payment should be settled in cash in either USD or EUR. If you would like to pay by credit card, please advise the hotel manager at the start of your stay.
Tipping
The customary gratuity to the ship’s service personnel is made as a blanket contribution at the end of the voyage and is divided among the crew. You will receive detailed guidelines aboard. Tipping is a very personal matter and the amount you wish to give is at your discretion. As a generally accepted guideline, we suggest US$15 per customer per day. Cash US Dollars would be appreciated, unfortunately credit cards cannot be accepted.
Health and Safety
A qualified physician is on-board every voyage to provide care in medical emergencies and routine health care. Office hours will be provided on your daily program. The charges for an appointment are 20 USD in the ship's infirmary and US25 in your cabin.
Fitness & Suitability
A basic level of fitness will be required to get on and off the zodiacs for on-shore excursions.
If you have any pre-existing medical conditions please let us know at the time you book or as early before departure as possible. Depending on the severity of the condition, you may be asked to produce a medical certificate from your doctor approving your participation in this tour. While this would only happen in very exceptional circumstances, if we consider you incapable completing this tour or you have concealed an existing medical condition which is affecting your ability to participate in the tour of Tucan Travel reserve the right to turn you away without reimbursement.
Safety & Security
Our vessel meets all international requirements as well as U.S. Coast Guard Guidelines. Officers and crew are well trained and regularly practice emergency procedures to ensure your comfort and safety. Within 24 hours of embarkation there will be an emergency drill which all guests are required to participate. Through this exercise, you will become familiar with procedures that must be followed in the unlikely event of an emergency.
You must obey all safety announcements given by the Captain, officers and any member of your Expedition Team.
The deck may be wet - we ask that you never run but to walk slowly and hold on to the rails.
In rough seas please hold on to banisters and fixed objects. Please expect pitching and rolling, especially in the ice, as there will be sudden lurches, rolls and other motions as the ships sails through the ice. Use the handrails whenever possible, especially going up stairways or ladders.
You will be provided with a life jacket, which inflates automatically by pulling the rip-cord. These life jackets must be worn at all times in the zodiac while cruising. Please take care of your life jacket. It will be collected at the end of the cruise.
Age Restrictions
There are no age restrictions and children are permitted on this trip however you should seriously consider if this is suitable for your situation. Should a situation arise that the parents and/or children need to be evacuated to a hospital; there is no hospital in Antarctica and evacuation to the continent may take several days or may not always be possible. The small infirmary on board is merely suitable for first aid treatment.
Responsible Travel
As a global tour operator, we understand the importance of running sustainable tours that have as low an impact on the environment as possible. Please read our comprehensive guide here before you travel.
Physical Rating
Physical rating on your tour
The about this tour section will advise you on the physical rating of your chosen tour. This is scored from 1 to 5.
- Relaxing: Sit back and relax on this trip! There are no physically demanding excursions included. You will have to carry your own bags.
- Easy: Some easy physical activities are required on this trip though you won't need to prepare in advance. There may also be more strenuous optional excursions available which may require advanced preparation depending on your level of fitness. You will have to carry your bags, enjoy short walking tours in the heat or at altitude or perhaps travel on cramped public transport.
- Moderate: This trip will get your heart racing with tough one-day or easy multi-day hikes included. A good level of fitness is required to get the most out of the trip. You will have to carry your own bags and travel on cramped public transport.
- Serious: Preparing in advance for this trip will allow you to get the most out of it. Tough multi-day hikes at altitude, having to carry your own bags and travel on public transport all feature but this rating may relate to the length of your tour and the mental endurance needed to get to the end.
- Heart-pumping: Our most difficult physical rating. This trip will get your body moving and heart pumping. Prepare to be challenged both physically and mentally.
Availability & Departures
You can find out further information on our availability and departures of tours by clicking here.
Extra Services
Cruise Cabin Upgrade - Premier Cabin (Twin occupancy)
From US$4,529.00
Cruise Standard Cabin (Solo occupancy)
From US$5,089.00
Cruise Standard Plus Cabin (Solo occupancy)
From US$7,479.00
Cruise Cabin Upgrade - Standard Plus Cabin (Twin occupancy)
Upgrade to a Standard Plus Cabin today!
- Measuring an average of 12 m2 / 128 ft2.
- Double & Triple options available.
- Located on the Sea Deck.
- Portholes.
- Panoramic Skylights.
From US$2,199.00
