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Fur seals eyeing visitors to their island

Prime Season Antarctica

Example 9 Day Cruise aboard Ocean Victory
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Take Ocean Victory on a classic, 9-day voyage to the huge white continent. Arrive in Antarctica via the legendary Drake Passage, which is located between Ushuaia, Argentina, and the world's southernmost city, Cape Horn, Chile. Learn more about South Shetland's volcanic landscapes, vast glaciers, towering icebergs, and plentiful wildlife during a two-day tour of the sub-Antarctic islands. Seals, penguin rookeries, and whales' blows are all things to look out for in Antarctica. Set foot on Antarctica's beautiful, secluded peninsula further down the coast. The breathtaking terrain of Antarctica is made up of soaring snowy cliffs, giant icebergs, and powerful glaciers. Keep an eye out for the ever-present fauna.
Chinstrap penguin sightingHiking in the South Shetland islandsBlue ice of AntarcticaWhale sighting in Polar waters!Rosy midnight sun colors over icy seasBleak but beautiful: Deception IslandFur seals eyeing visitors to their island
Highlights
  • Safely sail across the infamous Drake Passage - twice!
  • Look for seals, whales, penguins, and other wildlife
  • Explore the volcanic landscape of the South Shetland Islands
  • Set foot on the Antarctic continent with landings on the peninsula
Activities
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 city. Explore this vibrant Patagonian city, or stretch your legs in the surrounding forests. Alternatively, consider a day trip off the beaten path into the raw nature of Tierra del Fuego. The island of Tierra del Fuego is a hiker's paradise with rugged snow-capped mountains, glaciers, flower-filled meadows, and rich boggy wetlands. In the afternoon, board your vessel, waiting to welcome you in port.

After the mandatory safety drill, the expedition begins as you navigate through the calm waters of the famous Beagle Channel (named for Charles Darwin's legendary ship). This steep-sided strait divides southern Tierra del Fuego between Chile and Argentina and has been the jumping-off point for thousands of expeditions into the unknown of the deep South. Watch out for whales and dolphins as you sail off the edge of the map into the tempestuous Drake Passage.
 

Day 2-3: Drake Passage

Sailing onward, crossing the famed Drake Passage - the body of water separating Patagonia and the Antarctic Peninsula. The Drake Passage is known for rollicking conditions and strong westerly winds, nicknamed the Roaring Fifties. While this passage may be challenging, you can rest comfortably aboard the expedition vessels, which are purpose-built with stabilizers, and powerful engines and manned by a highly-qualified crew. The most spirited sailors consider the Drake Passage a lifetime achievement - and you will complete the crossing twice!

your days in the Drake Passage will be put to good use preparing for your arrival in Antarctica - the expedition leader will brief you comprehensively on how to stay safe and minimize your impact on this precious wilderness, as well as briefing you thoroughly on your plans for your time spent exploring, including hints and tips for wildlife watching. The dedicated Expedition Team will assist you to biosecuring your clothing and equipment (a vital process to protect Antarctica's delicate ecology), as well as sharing tailored lectures on Antarctic exploration history, wildlife, geology, glaciology and more! 

Cross into the Antarctic Convergence on the third day of your voyage - watch the mercury plummet as you sail southwards into Antarctic waters, an abrupt cooling that marks the intersection of Antarctic waters with the warmer waters of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. As the sea cools, wildlife multiplies; these are some of the most biologically productive water on Earth, so expect to see petrels, albatrosses and potentially penguins, seals and whales in abundance. Weather permitting, you may be able to make landfall in the South Shetland Islands (a small but spectacular archipelago to the north of the Antarctic Peninsula) on the afternoon of the second day in the Drake Passage, marking the start of your exploration on the Last Continent. 

Day 4-6: South Shetland Islands | Antarctic Peninsula

Arriving in Antarctica in the height of summer is an unparalleled experience. Enter a world where the mountains themselves are bright glittering white, and wildlife has no fear of humans. 

Begin your time in Antarctica in the South Shetland Islands. This chain of rugged rocks marks the northernmost point of Antarctica, and the most exposed to the fury of the Southern Ocean. Because of this, it is also one of the richest in terms of wildlife, with large Gentoo and Chinstrap Penguin colonies, and an abundance of large seabirds such as predatory Giant Petrels. The ice-clad mountains of Livingstone, Greenwich and King George Islands give us a glimpse of what is to come as you venture further south.

The following days will be spent exploring further south on the Antarctic Peninsula in the Gerlache Strait region. This region is typically icy, so your exact route will be subject to careful planning by the Expedition Leader and Captain - however, aim to visit a range of sites that showcase the best of this staggeringly beautiful region. Consisting of the 'spine' of the Antarctic Peninsula and a large number of glaciated and mountainous islands, the Gerlache Strait is what comes to mind when most people think of Antarctica.

Arriving at the peak of the brief southern summer, wildlife activity is at its most frenetic. Watch gentoo penguins squabble over the tiny pebbles used to build their nests, scamper up snowy hills to their partners and feed their tiny freshly hatched chicks. Marvel at the tender care these birds take over their offspring, carefully guarding them against frigid Antarctic winds and the predatory skuas that patrol overhead. 

As the ocean warms during the fleeting summer, gentle giants arrive from warmer climes. Pods of elegant humpback whales frolic in the crystalline waters of the Antarctic peninsula, feasting on the krill that blooms in these waters each summer. And where there are whales, hunters are not far behind - pods of orcas, intelligent and cunning, patrol these waters on their never-ending search for prey. 

These krill-rich waters also attract throngs of seals. Weddell seals can often be seen hauled out on the snow, snoozing after diving deep in search of prey. Groups of crabeater seals gambol in the shallows, gorging on krill, while serpentine leopard seals patrol the shoreline of penguin colonies, waiting for prey to venture nearby. 

At this point in the summer, there is no true night; spectacular sunsets merge into breathtaking sunrises, and the weather is as kind as it gets in Antarctica, offering superlative opportunities to explore. While wind, ice and sea conditions will dictate the precise destinations and timings, your plans will be explained to guests during regularly scheduled evening briefings with your Expedition Leader; these nightly sessions are also an excellent opportunity to hear from your knowledgeable Expedition Team, who will explain and expand on your experiences to ensure guests get the most from their voyage. 

Day 7-8: At Sea | Drake Passage

Depart Antarctica, and spend two days at sea on your way northwards back across the infamous Drake Passage towards the more welcoming shores of the Beagle Channel and Ushuaia, Argentina. During your time at sea, a variety of activities will be arranged on board to provide the guests with the chance to reflect on their voyage. Relax with an expertly crafted cocktail in the Nordic Bar in the company of new friends, soak up the knowledge and passion of your Expedition Team during lectures in the Shackleton Lounge, or simply enjoy the flight of the albatross that accompanies us northwards. 

During your last evening onboard, join the Captain and Officers for the Farewell Cocktail Party, followed by a presentation of photos and video by the onboard photographer - the ideal opportunity to re-live your Antarctic adventure. Skål! 

Day 9: Ushuaia | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
On the morning of the final day of your voyage, arrive back at the pier of Ushuaia, Argentina. Trees, grass and a busy city may seem strange to you after the white wilderness of Antarctica! After a hearty breakfast, it is time to bid a fond farewell to the Crew and Albatros Expedition Team, and descend the gangway back to dry land with memories of the voyage of a lifetime. 

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
$7,895 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
  • 8 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches, 8 Dinners
  • 8 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
  • Tips for the crew (we recommend USD 14 per person per day)
  • Emergency Evacuation insurance of at least $200,000 per passenger is required. Please bring a copy of your insurance onboard.
  • Kayaking - Offered on all ships and all trips if conditions allow. This can be booked onboard only.

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Kate was great to work with in the planning stage. She was prompt, helpful, and efficient. Our tour guide, Edwin, was knowledgeable and passionate. We were very happy to have traveled with Adventure Life, it made the trip easy and a true pleasure. We could concentrate on enjoying the experience rather than the details of travel.
Lisa Bridge

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