Antarctica
Ultimate Wildlife Cruise–23 Day Crossing the Circle via Falklands and South Georgia
A Little More Info
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
Single travelers staying in a room by themselves will be charged this additional single supplement fee, as all of our regular prices are otherwise based on double occupancy.
SINGLE SHARE OPTIONS (if available)
If you are traveling alone and wish to share a room, we will make every effort to find you a roommate of the same gender, in which case you will not have to pay the single supplement fee. The single supplement will be charged until we are able to confirm a roommate for you. If we are able to match you with a roommate, the single supplement will be refunded. In the event that we cannot find a share for you, you will be required to pay the single supplement fee.
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Antarctica
Ultimate Wildlife Cruise–23 Day Crossing the Circle via Falklands and South Georgia
Highlights
- Explore the world’s seventh continent on the Antarctic Peninsula by ship, Zodiac and on foot
- Learn about Antarctica’s unique geology, history and wildlife with an expert team of lecturers
- See the incredible wildlife of South Georgia, often referred to as “the Galapagos of the South.” This includes more than 30 species of breeding birds, including four species of penguin
- Follow in the footsteps of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s perilous voyage on South Georgia and pause for a moment at his graveside
- Explore the quaint, British town of Port Stanley in the Falkland Islands
- Crossing of the Antarctic Circle
- On board lecturers and educational presentations from Polar specialists
20-Day Ushuaia Deparutres at a Glance
- Day 1 Arrival Day in Buenos Aires or Ushuaia
- DAY 2 Ushuaia & Embarkation
- DAY 3 Southern Ocean
- DAY 4-5 Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)
- DAY 6-7 Southern Ocean
- DAY 8-11 South Georgia
- DAY 12-13 Scotia Sea
- DAY 14-16 Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands
- DAY 17-18 The Antarctic Cirle
- DAY 19-20 Northbound Along the Peninsula
- DAY 21-22 Crossing the Drake Passage
- DAY 23 Disembarkation in Ushuaia and Fly to Buenos Aires, Argentina or Home
23-Day Cruise Options
Ocean Diamond
Triple $16,495/person
Single Porthole $29,995/person
Single Obst. View $29,995/person
Twin Obst. View $23,995/person
Twin Window $25,495/person
Suite $26,995/person
Balcony Suite $28,495/person
Above prices are per-person for the cruise only
Ultimate Wildlife Cruise–23 Day Crossing the Circle via Falklands and South Georgia
Note about expedition cruising: Due to the expeditionary nature of our voyage, specific stops cannot be guaranteed. Flexibility is paramount in expedition travel; the following itinerary depends on the conditions at the time of travel. We strive to land often and stay as long as possible, abiding by the Guidelines for Responsible Ecotourism from IAATO.
Detailed Itinerary Crossing the Circle via Falklands and South Georgia
Day 1 International Flights to Ushuaia, Argentina
Your gateway for this expedition is Ushuaia, Argentina. Nestled within the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, Ushuaia has a small-town feel yet boasts many shops, museums, cafés and restaurants that you can enjoy before your voyage. If you’re feeling adventurous, the nearby national park and Martial Glacier offer plenty of outdoor activities, such as hiking.
DAY 2 Ushuaia & Embarkation
As you embark, the anticipation grows. Trade your land legs for sea legs, meet and greet your fellow travelers and get acquainted with your ship. Since every Antarctic adventure presents new opportunities and experiences, embarkation day is just as exciting for your Expedition Team as it is for you. On board to ensure your comfort and safety, your team will also help make your wildlife dreams come true.
DAY 3 Southern Ocean
Your days at sea are filled with presentations and lectures led by your Expedition Team, who will prepare you for the wildlife that will greet you upon your arrival. In between presentations, spend time chatting with your shipmates over a drink at the bar, or enjoy the fresh air and views on the outer decks.
DAY 4-5 Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)
Upon your arrival in the Falklands (Malvinas), your camera will get its first real workout capturing the abundant wildlife and rugged feel of this sub-Antarctic region. The archipelago contains two main islands, East Falkland and West Falkland, which you will explore during daily Zodiac excursions and landings.
Stanley, also known as Port Stanley, is often a favored landing site, as the town offers a unique British outpost feel, complete with eclectic charm. You’ll be free to explore, grab a pint at the local pub or visit numerous churches and museums.
The Archipelago is rich in wildlife, especially birds, and home to Magellanic, gentoo and southern rockhopper penguins. If you’re lucky, you may even spot king penguins here as well! You can expect to see black-browed albatross, plus two endemic bird species—the flightless Falkland steamer duck and possibly the elusive Cobb’s wren.
Your team of lecturers and specialists will be sure to educate you on the local flora and fauna, making the most out of your time in the Falklands.
DAY 6-7 Southern Ocean
Sailing southeast to South Georgia, you’ll officially enter Antarctic waters once you cross the Antarctic Convergence, an invisible biological boundary encircling the continent. This meeting of oceans, where the cold Antarctic waters mix and mingle with the warmer waters of the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, helps create the abundance of krill that attracts whales and seals to this part of the world. Your Expedition Team will notify you when you cross this invisible yet important line, and also look out for the seabirds and marine life that frequent the area.
DAY 8-11 South Georgia
This remote, mountainous island was a popular stop for many historic Antarctic expeditions and was once a haven for hunting whales and seals. Today, island wildlife populations are rebounding, but you’ll still see remnants of old whaling stations and other abandoned outposts.
One significant and historic site is the grave of the great explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. You can visit his grave at the settlement of Grytviken, which is also home to an old whaling station, plus a museum, gift shop, church and small research station.
Although South Georgia’s history is an important attraction to the island, it is the tremendous abundance of wildlife that you and your shipmates will surely find most captivating. Each landing you make on South Georgia, often referred to as the Galapagos of the Poles, will open your eyes to the wondrous lives of new, enthralling creatures.
One day you may see rookeries with hundreds of thousands of pairs of king penguins waddling on a beach, and the next, you may visit another beach blanketed with thousands of fur or elephant seals. The grasses, mountains and beaches of South Georgia all play an important role in the breeding and survival of different species on the island. This fragile and interwoven relationship is something your Expedition Team will explain to you during your time here.
DAY 12-13 Scotia Sea
Say goodbye to the king penguins, as your next destination is Antarctica! Your days at sea are filled with presentations, lectures and workshops led by your Expedition Team, who will prepare you for the wildlife that will greet you upon your arrival.
DAY 14-16 Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands
The experience is hard to put into words, but the most common reaction upon reaching the White Continent is a sense of reverence and awe. You will discover that Antarctica is a land of extremes: at one moment you’ll be overcome with a feeling of complete silence and solitude; the next, you’ll be laughing at the comical antics of a curious penguin.
Zodiac cruising, visits to historical sites and, of course, communing with seals and penguins are sure to keep you smiling every day. Perhaps you’ll catch sight of the fearless penguin eater, the leopard seal, or maybe you’ll come eye to eye with an Antarctic minke whale while you are cruising in a Zodiac. Each day and each excursion will present a new collection of creatures to delight you and keep your camera busy.
If you find yourself wanting more, treat yourself to an optional kayaking adventure (reserve in advance when booking your trip) or a plunge into Antarctic waters!
DAY 17-18 Antarctic Circle
Crossing the Antarctic Circle is an impressive achievement, as few expeditions reach so far south.
If conditions allow us to cross this famed line at 66°33´ S, we’ll toast the first explorers who ventured here, and you can raise a glass and take pride in knowing you’ve made it to a part of the world visited by very few people. This is raw Antarctica, home of the midnight sun and fantastic iceberg sightings.
DAY 19-20 Northbound Along the Peninsula
If you haven’t had your fill of Antarctic wildlife and icebergs by now, you’ll surely be satisfied by the time you return to the Drake Passage. You will continue to make excursions by Zodiac as you travel north along the western Antarctic Peninsula.
Your Expedition Team will always be on the lookout for species of seabirds, seals and whales that may have eluded you on your journey south.
DAY 21-22 Drake Passage
After more than three weeks of unique wildlife encounters and remarkable landscapes, your journey home begins. Crossing the Drake is your unofficial rite of passage, putting a final stamp of approval on your Antarctic adventure.
DAY 23 Ushuaia Disembarkation
After breakfast aboard the ship, it is time to part ways and say goodbye to your Expedition Team. Airport transfers will be provided for those departing on the first homeward flights. Other guests will be transferred to town
Antarctica Lodging
Our Ultimate Wildlife 23-Day Cruise is conducted by one of two marvelous ships; the Ocean Endeavour and the Ocean Diamond.
ANTARCTICA SHIPS
Ocean Endeavour
The Ocean Endeavour is a luxurious vessel with comfortable cabins. It is a spacious small expedition vessel engineered to explore the Polar Regions. It features an ice-strengthened hull, Zodiacs for exploration and remote landings, generous deck space and advanced navigation equipment. Ocean Endeavour also features wellness services and programs such as massage therapy, yoga classes as well as a small gym and saunas for men and women. A maximum of 199 guests will be carried per voyage.
SHIP FACILITIES
- Polar Boutique
- Library - A large collection of polar books and DVDs in a quiet cozy place for reading and relaxation.
- Lounge Areas and Lecture Theater - Offers great opportunities for socializing and observing fantastic landscapes with audiovisual facilities.
- Reception Area
- Crew Areas
- Gym
- Observation Decks
- Medical Clinic
- Elevator
- Spa
- Sauna
- Pool
- Dining Room
ALL SUITE FEATURES
- Showers and Toilets
- Electric Current
- Hairdryers
- Bathrobes
- Cabin Safe
- Temperature Control
- Housekeeping Service
CABIN OPTIONS
Triple Approximately 225 sq. ft. (20 sq. m), a Triple on Deck 4 is an interior cabin with three lower beds, and two private bathrooms. Cabin 4100 has four lower single beds and one private bathroom with a separate shower room.
Single Approximately 95 to 105 sq. ft. (9-10 sq. m), a Single on Deck 5 is an interior cabin with a lower bed and a private bathroom.
Twin Porthole Approximately 95 to 105 sq. ft. (9-10 sq. m), a Twin Porthole on Deck 4 features a porthole window, two lower beds and a private bathroom. Cabins 4060, 4062, and 4064 have one lower and one upper bed and a private bathroom.
Twin Window Approximately 95 to 105 sq. ft. (9-10 sq. m), a Twin Window on Deck 5 features a window, two lower beds and private bathroom.
Twin Porthole Suites Approximately 190 to 200 sq. ft. (18-20 sq. m), a Twin Porthole Suite on Deck 4 is twice the size of a Twin Porthole, with one bathroom. It features two single beds, a separate living area with a pull out sofa bed, two porthole windows, and one private bathroom.
Upper Deck Cabin Approximately 140 sq. ft. (13 sq. m), an Upper Deck cabin features a window (obstructed view), and private bathroom. On Deck 7, Upper Deck cabins are outfitted with two lower beds. On Deck 8, these cabins offer one double bed.
Superior Cabins Approximately 205 sq. ft. (19 sq. m), a Superior cabins features a large window, and a private bathroom. On Deck 5, Superior cabins have two lower beds and a pull out sofa bed. On Deck 7, Superiors feature one double bed and a sofa. Cabin 7018 has a bathtub; other Superiors have showers.
Top Deck Double Approximately 155 sq. ft. (14.5 sq. m), a Top Deck Double on Deck 8 features two large windows (one window with partial obstruction), one double bed and a private bathroom.
Twin Window Suite Approximately 190 to 200 sq. ft. (18-20 sq. m), a Twin Window Suite on Deck 5 is twice the size of a Twin Window, with one bathroom. It features two single beds, a separate living area with a pull out sofa bed, two windows, and one private bathroom.
Junior Suite Approximately 320 sq. ft. (30 sq. m), a Junior Suite on Decks 5 and 7 features a window, one double bed, a pull out sofa bed and private bathroom. Cabins 7000 and 7002 have bathtubs; other Junior Suites have showers.
Owner's Suite Approximately 320 sq. ft. (30 sq. m), the Owner’s Suite on Deck 7 features two large bow-facing windows, one double bed, separate living area and private bathroom with tub.
(Please note that the third berth is suitable for persons up to 5'10" in height.)
SHIP SPECS
Crew: 124
Guests: 199
Length: 137 m (450 ft)
Breadth: 11 m (36 ft)
Draft: 5.6 m (18 ft)
Propulsion: 4 Skoda Sulzer Engines, 4,355 horsepower per engine
Class: B.V. Ice Class 1B
Cruising Speed: 15 Knots
Lifeboats: 6 fully enclosed
Liferafts: 8
Ocean Diamond
The Ocean Diamond is a luxurious vessel with spacious cabins. All cabins have private bathroom facilities and exterior views. Please feel free to enjoy the flat screen TV and DVD player in your cabin. The Ocean Diamond is modern, stable super-yacht. Carrying a maximum of 189 passengers, this outstanding vessel features numerous adventure options plus on board amenities for you to enjoy such as a well-stocked polar library.
SHIP FACILITIES
- Polar Boutique
- Library - A large collection of polar books and DVDs in a quiet cozy place for reading and relaxation.
- Lounge Areas and Lecture Theater - Offers great opportunities for socializing and observing fantastic landscapes with audiovisual facilities.
- Reception Area
- Crew Areas
- Gym
- Observation Decks
- Medical Clinic
- Elevator
- Dining Room
ALL SUITE FEATURES
- Showers and Toilets
- Electric Current
- Hairdryers
- Bathrobes
- Cabin Safe
- Temperature Control
- Housekeeping Service
CABIN OPTIONS
Triple Approximately 200 sq. ft. (19 sq. m) in size, this cabin has a two twin beds and an upper bed, and two portholes. Located on the Lower Deck, these cabins have a private bathroom with shower. A refrigerator, TV, and DVD player are included in each cabin. Please note that porthole covers may be closed during sea days or during inclement weather as a safety precaution.
Twin Obstructed View Approximately 200 sq. ft. (19 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double bed or two twin beds, and a picture window (the view is obstructed). Located on the Captain’s and Upper Decks, these cabins have a private bathroom with shower. A refrigerator, TV, and DVD player are included in each cabin.
Twin Window Approximately 95 to 105 sq. ft. (9-10 sq. m), a Twin Porthole on Deck 4 features a porthole window, two lower beds and a private bathroom. Cabins 4060, 4062, and 4064 have one lower and one upper bed and a private bathroom.
Twin Window Between 183 and 200 sq. ft. (17 and 19 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double bed or two twin beds, and a picture window. Located on the Upper, Main and Captain’s Decks, these cabins have a private bathroom with shower. A refrigerator, TV, and DVD player are included in each cabin.
Suite Approximately 400 sq. ft. (37 sq. m) in size, these suites have one double bed or two twin beds, and two picture windows. Located on the Main Deck, these suites have two private bathrooms, and a separate sitting area with a sofa, chair, and small table. Two refrigerators, TVs, and DVD players are included in each cabin.
Single Porthole Approximately 200 sq. ft. (19 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double bed and two portholes. Located on the Lower Deck, these cabins have a private bathroom with shower. A refrigerator, TV, and DVD player are included in each cabin. Please note that porthole covers may be closed during sea days or during inclement weather as a safety precaution.
Single Obstructed View Approximately 200 sq. ft. (19 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double bed, and a picture window (the view is obstructed by the lifeboats). Located on the Captain’s Deck these cabins have a private bathroom with shower. A refrigerator, TV, and DVD player are included in each cabin.
Balcony Suite Approximately 325 sq. ft. (30 sq. m) in size, including the balcony, this suite has one double bed or two twin beds, and a full-size window with a sliding glass door that leads to a private deck with chairs. Located on the Observation Deck, this suite has a private bathroom with shower. A refrigerator, TV, and DVD player are included in each cabin.
SHIP SPECS
Crew: 144
Guests: 189
Length: 124 m (407 ft)
Breadth: 16 m (52.5 ft)
Draft: 4.9 m (16 ft)
Propulsion: 2 Wichmann Engines, 7,375 horsepower
Class: B.V. Ice Class 1D
Cruising Speed: 14 Knots
Lifeboats: 2 fully enclosed
Antarctica Activities
At a Glance
We emphasize spending the maximum amount of time possible in the field, both on land and cruising in zodiacs. Our unique flexible wildlife format means that we have enough leaders so that instead of keeping participants in large, tight guided groups, we are able to intersperse guides in the area visited so that travelers are able to roam freely.
Antarctica Wildlife
Rare or Endangered Possible Sightings
Mammals: Commerson's Dolphin, Peale's Dolphin
Prolific & Likely Sightings
Mammals: European Hare, Antarctic Fur Seal, South American Fur Seal, Southern (Australasian) Fur Seal, South American Sea Lion, Leopard Seal, Weddell Seal, Southern Elephant Seal, Reindeer (Caribou), Southern Right Whale, (Common) Minke Whale, Fin Whale, Humpback Whale, Hourglass Dolphin, Orca (Killer Whale), Sperm Whale, Southern Bottlenose Whale
Birds: Upland Goose, Kelp Goose, Ruddy-headed Goose, Falkland (Flightless) Steamer-Duck, Crested Duck, Chiloe Wigeon, Blue-winged Teal, Yellow-billed Pintail, South Georgia Pintail, Silver Teal, Yellow-billed Teal, Silvery Grebe, King Penguin , Adelie Penguin, Gentoo Penguin, Chinstrap Penguin, Magellanic Penguin, Macaroni Penguin, Rockhopper Penguin, Gray-headed Albatross, Black-browed Albatross, Sooty Albatross, Light-mantled Albatross, Southern Royal Albatross, Northern Royal Albatross, Wandering Albatross, Southern Giant-Petrel, Northern Giant-Petrel, Southern Fulmar, Cape (Pintado) Petrel, Snow Petrel, Kerguelen Petrel, Soft-plumaged Petrel, White-headed Petrel, Atlantic Petrel, Blue Petrel
OCCASIONAL
Birds: Broad-billed Prion, Antarctic Prion, Slender-billed Prion, White-chinned Petrel, Great Shearwater, Sooty Shearwater, Wilson's Storm-Petrel, Gray-backed Storm-Petrel, Black-bellied Storm-Petrel, Common Diving-Petrel, South Georgia Diving-Petrel, Magellanic (Rock) Cormorant, South Georgia Shag, Imperial Cormorant (King), Black-crowned Night-Heron, Variable Hawk, Snowy Sheathbill, Blackish Oystercatcher, Magellanic Oystercatcher, Two-banded Plover, Rufous-chested Dotterel, Least Seedsnipe, White-rumped Sandpiper, South American Snipe, South Polar Skua, Brown (Antarctic) Skua, Brown (Subantarctic) Skua, Parasitic (Arctic) Jaeger, Brown-hooded Gull, Dolphin Gull, Franklin's Gull, Kelp Gull, Arctic Tern, South American Tern, Antarctic Tern, Short-eared Owl, Striated Caracara, Southern Caracara, Peregrine Falcon (ssp. Cassin's), Blackish (Tussock Bird) Cincloides, Dark-faced Ground-Tyrant, Black-crowned Monjita, Cobb's Wren, Sedge Wren, Austral Thrush, Correndera Pipit, South Georgia Pipit, White-bridled (Black-throated) Finch, Long-tailed Meadowlark, Black-chinned Siskin
Antarctica FAQ
Antarctica Facts for Visitors
Climate
Typical daytime temperatures for the Antarctic Peninsula during the summer are -2º to 4ºC (28º to 39ºF). However, the weather is quite changeable, and you may encounter different conditions not only in a single day but even on a single landing. Also, strong winds can make it feel considerably colder (as low as -18ºC/0ºF), so you must be dressed for windy and wet conditions at all times. The only thing we can guarantee about the weather is that it will be unpredictable.
Health and Safety
Flights
Airfare is not included in trip costs. Detailed flight information and the contact information for our recommended flight ticketing agent is included in the Trip Materials we will send after you sign up; if you need help, she can help you arrange your flights.
We include one hotel night in the embarkation city on Day 1 of the trip, so you may book your flights to arrive at any time on the start date for your trip, or of course, you may choose to arrive a few days early to explore the city. To facilitate this, we’ll add an additional night immediately prior to the group night at no extra charge.
Our estimated disembarkation time from the vessel is 8:00 a.m. (0800 hrs) on the last day of the trip, with an included group transfer to the airport following disembarkation. Therefore we expect to be at the airport ready to check in about 9:00am, but this is subject to weather conditions in Ushuaia as well as sea conditions en route. Therefore, if you intend to fly out of Ushuaia on the day of disembarkation, we recommend booking your return flight as late in the day as possible. Try to avoid any flights departing before noon (1200 hrs). Arrival delays can occur and Wild Planet Adventures cannot be held responsible for any costs incurred due to delayed disembarkation.
Travel Insurance
Emergency Medical and Evacuation Insurance is required for this tour.
Seasickness
While in the Antarctic Peninsula area, seasickness shouldn’t be a problem for anyone save the most extremely sensitive people. It is best to be prepared for the Drake Passage crossing however. Motion sickness medication is preventative not curative. Please be prepared and bring your own medication and start taking it as soon as the ship leaves port – don’t wait until you feel sick! Patch style medication and suppositories work best. Oral medication won’t work if you can’t “keep it down”, so again, take it immediately after embarking, don’t wait to see how you feel without it. Also, the best advice we can give you is this: EAT. It may sound counter-intuitive but the sensation of nausea is much worse on an empty stomach. Eat a little something at every meal, stay hydrated and rested, take your medication and you’ll be fine.
Trip Materials
Detailed information about your specific tour will be sent to you after you make your reservation with us. These trip materials include information about flights, packing, entry and departure requirements, airport transfers, gratuities, etc. Please take a moment to read this important informtation upon receipt.
Conditions
Smoking policy: Smoking is permitted in designated outside areas only.
Itinerary route: The itinerary route, stops and plans are subject to change by unforeseen circumstances beyond our control, such as weather, wildlife sightings, or road conditions.
Medical conditions and travel risks: Travel to remote places is exciting, but it is important to understand and accept the risks, both medical and logistical. Minor medical problems can usually be treated, but due to the fact that we often travel to locations far from medical facilities, there can be no expectation for immediate medical treatment or evacuation, even in cases of trauma. Anyone with health problems needing close medical supervision should not consider going on this trip. Bring enough medication for the duration of the trip for any chronic medical needs, since pharmacies are usually not available. When you send your tour deposit and signed reservation form, you certify to us that you do not knowingly have any physical or other conditions that would create a risk for yourself or for other trip participants.
This Trip's Exclusive Wildlife Features:
- Explore the world’s seventh continent on the Antarctic Peninsula by ship, Zodiac and on foot
- Learn about Antarctica’s unique geology, history and wildlife with an expert team of lecturers
- See the incredible wildlife of South Georgia, often referred to as “the Galapagos of the South.” This includes more than 30 species of breeding birds, including four species of penguin
- Follow in the footsteps of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s perilous voyage on South Georgia and pause for a moment at his graveside
- Explore the quaint, British town of Port Stanley in the Falkland Islands
- Crossing of the Antarctic Circle
- On board lecturers and educational presentations from Polar specialists
- Explore the world’s seventh continent on the Antarctic Peninsula by ship, Zodiac and on foot
- Learn about Antarctica’s unique geology, history and wildlife with an expert team of lecturers
- See the incredible wildlife of South Georgia, often referred to as “the Galapagos of the South.” This includes more than 30 species of breeding birds, including four species of penguin
- Follow in the footsteps of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s perilous voyage on South Georgia and pause for a moment at his graveside
- Explore the quaint, British town of Port Stanley in the Falkland Islands
- Crossing of the Antarctic Circle
- On board lecturers and educational presentations from Polar specialists
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