South Shetland Islands & Antarctica Voyage
Trip type
Antarctic Peninsula
Trip length
9-12 Days
From
$7,373 -$30,095
Ship Comfort
Comfort & Adventure
South Shetland Islands & Antarctica Voyage - 9-12 Days - $7,373
Trip Summary and Itinerary Map
- 4 full days exploring Antarctica = 8 planned "off ship" excursions
- Wide range of departure dates to choose from
- Antarctic operational experience since 2017
- Expedition staff to guest ratio of 1:8
- Paddling, camping & snowshoeing optional activities available (at additional cost, select departures only)
- Complimentary 3-in-1 parka jacket, plus house wine, beer and soda with dinner
Operator's Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival Ushuaia
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 you will then board the ship. Your journey begins as we navigate through the calms of the Beagle Channel, a strait in the Tierra del Fuego Archipelago.
Days 2 & 3: Crossing the Drake Passage
Sailing onward, we cross the famed Drake Passage – a body of water that marks the intersection of the cold Antarctic with the warmer Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. The Drake Passage is known for rollicking conditions and strong westerly winds, called the Roaring Fifties.
While this passage may be challenging, you can 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 you will complete the crossing twice!
In the Drake, the excitement builds as Antarctic wildlife comes into view. Weather permitting, we will catch our first sight of seals and penguins! The area is also well-known for its abundance of birds.
Days 4 & 5: South Shetland Islands
Over the next two days, we will begin the exciting Antarctic experience our ancestors only dreamed of. During these days we will explore the sub-Antarctic islands of the South Shetland chain and absorb captivating landscapes along the way. Weather permitting, our 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 will be determined by the captain and expedition leader and communicated to guests through regularly scheduled briefings.
Days 6 & 7: Antarctic Peninsula
As the white shimmer of Antarctica looms on our horizon, the presence of wildlife multiples by tens of thousands with many species of lively penguins, inquisitive seals, nesting birds and the spray of marine mammals. Wildlife abounds on our projected route along the Antarctic Peninsula: leopard, fur and Weddell seals of Cuverville Island; humpback whales of Gerlache Strait; Paradise Bay; the dramatic Lemaire Channel's orcas and much more.
The itinerary and activities over the next few days depend on weather and ice conditions. The route and shore landings will 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 our passengers and staff. For this reason, during moments of harsh weather and throughout the entire trip, the ship has excellent public areas such as wellness/sauna, restaurant, bar and a library for our passengers to spend their spare time. The vessel is staffed by experts in the field who will also share great lectures along the way, ranging from exploration history to biology, geology, ice and wildlife.
Days 8 & 9: Depart Antarctica
We depart Antarctica and spend two days at sea on our way back to the calms of the Beagle Channel and Ushuaia, Argentina. En-route, we will cross the Drake Passage and cruise past Cape Horn, a legendary maritime landmark and the southern-most tip of South America. During our time at sea, a variety of activities will be arranged onboard which will provide the perfect opportunity to socialise with fellow travellers. Enjoy lectures by our expedition team, visit our shop and relax at leisure using the ship’s facilities.
Day 10: Back to Ushuaia & disembarkation
This morning, we arrive back in Ushuaia for the conclusion of our tour, where you can continue your adventures or begin your return journey home.
NOTE: This itinerary is for guidance only as each voyage will vary depending on ice and weather conditions, and opportunities to see wildlife. Flexibility is key and all part of the adventure of an expeditionary cruise.
Why our customers love Swoop
The Antarctic Experts.
No Compromises
Our team has visited Antarctica over 150 times and has 100 collective years of polar experience, so from which trip is right for you to what shoes to bring - there’s no question we can’t answer.
Expert impartial advice at no extra cost
Choosing the right voyage is complicated, Swoop makes it easy. We offer no-nonsense advice on 1500 voyages across 30 ships to find you the right trip, cabin, price - and we don’t charge a fee.
The only B Corp certified Antarctic specialist
We want to protect Antarctica for future generations - which is why we became a certified B Corp and set up our own conservation fund. So your adventures can be a force for good.
A full concierge service, unlike booking direct
We leave nothing to chance in delivering your perfect trip and have over 6500 happy travellers to show for it. With a dedicated Antarctic co-ordinator & support throughout - you’re in safe hands.
What our customers think of South Shetland Islands & Antarctica Voyage
South Shetland Islands & Antarctica Voyage trips scored 4.6/5 from 24 reviews
10/10 - It was a wonderful experience visiting Antarctica!
Travelled: January 2024
Nathan Pensack-Rinehart - USA
Felt safe. Loved all of the zodiac trips. Expedition team did their best to show us everything.
Travelled: January 2024
Janice Wiegmann - USA
10/10 - It was excellent, we were always informed, and everyone involved was polite and incredibly helpful.
Travelled: January 2024
Kate Ripperda - USA
The expedition team were the best and extremely passionate. All of them loved what they were doing, and it was so obvious.
Travelled: January 2024
James Bachrach - USA
10/10 - We got to experience so much of Antarctica with an extremely knowledgeable team.
Travelled: December 2023
Anthony VanTreeck - USA
10/10 - Definitely exceeded my expectations. The crew was amazing, incredibly communicative and accommodating.
Travelled: December 2023
Edward Moder IV - USA
10/10 - Everything we were able to see and experience was life-changing.
Travelled: December 2023
Patty Hultquist - USA
10/10 - This trip has been incredible – I've already recommended it to two potential travelers!
Travelled: December 2023
Suresh Venna - USA
The expedition team were knowledgeable and hard working. Great job.
Travelled: December 2023
Ziming Hua - USA
The trip was excellent, the weather, the timing, everything is in our favor. We are all blessed with such a wonderful trip.
Travelled: December 2023
Kang (Teresa) Ge - Canada
10/10 - Food was very good. Crew was awesome.
Travelled: November 2023
Amos Billesberger - Canada
10/10 - It was an exciting trip of a lifetime. I could not find anything to downrate the experience. I would recommend it to anyone interested in Antarctica!
Travelled: October 2023
Keith Lorin Harris - USA
There were many memorable moments: clearing the Drake Passage, making the first landing on Antarctica, seeing just all the beautiful snow-capped scenes, and the connection with fellow travelers were equally life memory moments.
Travelled: October 2023
Keith Lorin Harris - USA
10/10 - The trip and the crew were all very helpful. Everything was easy, except crossing the Drake. That was hard because I got sea sick... but recovered in time to enjoy everything else! We got to do most everything that was planned.
Travelled: October 2023
Bob Burgos - USA
10 - Life changing trip. I will never forget it. Seeing glaciers and then penguins and then whales! Everything was spectacular
Travelled: January 2023
Leslie Naely Ramirez - USA
It was a profound experience that is very difficult to explain. It has to be experienced. The expedition team were incredible. Each had a different area of expertise, who ensured we learned from their passion daily. They also ensured our safety and were very friendly!
Travelled: January 2023
Nathalie Spencer Weiss - USA
I loved the landings and hikes and also zodiacs excursions especially those that got close to whales!! Also loved seeing the big ice.
Travelled: January 2023
Niki Agrawal - USA
10/10 - What's not to like? Professional and friendly staff and great food in a once-in-a-lifetime setting.
Travelled: December 2022
Judi Sandall - USA
The penguins, whales, seals, and birds were amazing. I love how cute the penguins looked while walking and how close they got to pass into their penguin highways. I got lots of great photos even with just an iPhone.
Travelled: November 2022
Nova Soares - USA
The expedition team were as good as they could possibly get. Extremely nice, funny, and knowledgable. You could tell they love what they do.
Travelled: November 2022
Nova Soares - USA
Review:
About The Ship
- 70% of the staterooms offer private balconies
- Incredible Antarctic backdrops from the open-deck dining facility
- Part of a brand new generation of low-energy vessels
- Highest polar code 6 and ice class 1A ratings
- Sturdy construction and X-Bow®-Infinity class provides high stability in rough weather
- Optional activities on selected voyages include: kayaking, snowshoeing and camping
Prices, Departures and Inclusions
Prices quoted below are per person based on two people sharing. Cabin availability changes all the time, so please contact us for up-to-date details and information on availability.
2024
2025
2026
* Note: Prices are per person. Paid in USD ($) - figure above is based on today's exchange rate. Actual cost $7373
Additional Notes
The departures on 08-Nov-2024 and 28-Nov-2024 are 12 days long and perfect for those with an adventurous soul. During these voyages, the ship has no set itinerary and will aim to explore less-visited Antarctic locations, potentially even venturing into the Antarctic Sound and Weddell Sea if conditions allow.
The departures on 8-Nov-2025 and 05-Dec-2025 are extended voyages with 11 nights aboard the ship. They will aim to visit the Weddell Sea if ice conditions allow.
The departures on 31-Oct-2024, 4-Jan-2025, 12-Jan-2025 and 24-Mar-2025 are nine-day voyages, with eight nights aboard the ship. This is one night fewer than in the itinerary above, with three days in Antarctica rather than four.
The departure on 8-Nov-2024 (12 days) includes one complimentary paddle (one-off kayaking) activity for all guests and an extra day in Antarctica.
The departure on 3-Jan-2026 will be a dedicated halal-certified departure. There will be no pork or alcohol served on this voyage. Dedicated ladies only hours will be available at the onboard sauna.
Single Supplement And Child Policy
For those travelling solo, the ship offers dedicated single cabins (Category G). If you're looking for a different cabin category, the single supplement in a twin cabin is 75%. There is no single supplement for passengers willing to share a cabin, which is possible in the Category F triples and Category C balcony staterooms.
At the date of embarkation, the minimum age restriction of 8 years and a minimum height requirement of 48 inches (1.2 metres) must be met.
Optional Adventure Activities
Enhance your trip with the following add ons. Limited places per activity.
Get in contact to check availability.
Activity | Cost | Additional Information |
---|---|---|
Paddling | $345 | One-off paddle session during the course of your voyage. Available on all departures, subject to weather conditions. Previous kayaking experience is required. Cannot be booked in advance; onboard booking only. Cost for departures from November 2024 - March 2025 will be USD $345. |
Camping | $395 | Available on select departures in November and December; subject to weather conditions. This is open air camping using a snow hole and bivy sack. Must be booked in advance. |
Snowshoeing | $225 | Available on select departures in November and December, subject to weather and suitable snow conditions. Cannot be booked in advance; onboard booking only. |
Photography | $495 | Available on select departures. Maximum 10 participants. The photography group will generally disembark first for zodiac cruises and landings. On board and off the ship the dedicated Photographer Guide will lead workshops and assist the group in developing their technical skills and artistic vision. |
Includes
- Voyage aboard the vessel as indicated in the itinerary
- Accommodation and meals during the voyage on full board
- Free tea and coffee 24 hours daily
- House wine, beer and soda included with dinner (except on 3-Jan-2026 departure)
- All Zodiac landings and excursions as per itinerary
- Expedition parka
- Rubber boot rentals
- Guiding and lectures by our expedition leader and team
- English-speaking expedition team
- Taxes
- Short shuttle transfer from water's edge pickup point to ship for embarkation
- Shuttle transfer after disembarkation directly from the ship to the airport in the morning
Excludes
- Extra excursions and activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Single room supplement and cabin upgrades
- Meals not on board the ship
- Tips for the crew (we recommend USD $13.5 per person per day)
- Personal expenses
Questions about this Voyage?
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