expedition antarctica small ship cruising with a raft of penguins swimming in the foreground on a partly sunny day
Dark whale tail peeks out of calm water with an iceberg in the distance, seen on the Antarctic Peninsula Aboard Expedition cruise.
Man & woman in black clothing put together tent poles with others setting up tents in the snow behind them, in Antarctica.
group of adventure travelers kayak on a sunny day in antarctica with large mountains in the distance
group of gentoo penguins with their beaks in the air in front of snowy mountains in antarctica
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Polar Regions Antarctica Cruise

Antarctic Peninsula Aboard Expedition

This 11- or 13-day Antarctic Peninsula Aboard Expedition cruise introduces the magic of the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. Passing huge icebergs in the flat calm of a polar morning reshapes one’s view of the world. Encounter huge whales, enormous rookeries of penguins and stunning landscapes that few others have witnessed. 

Watch majestic albatross soar by the ship while crossing the Drake Passage. Opt to brave the chill of a polar plunge. Some departures offer kayaking and even camping (at an additional cost). And best of all, set foot on Antarctica—the world’s least-visited continent. Throughout the voyage, enjoy lectures by guides eager to share their knowledge of the region’s remarkable wildlife, natural and human history. 


You can also partake in the Citizen Science program, an interactive information gathering initiative aimed at better understanding marine mammals in Antarctica. With a little guidance beforehand, learn which angles and types of wildlife the program is looking for during your voyage and put your photography skills to the test! The reward is making a meaningful contribution to science.

Other highlights include exploring the port town of Ushuaia. Learn about Antarctic wildlife, geology and history from highly skilled historians, marine biologists and naturalists who offer keen insight and a unique personal perspective to each and every adventure. With one expert for every 10 guests there is always someone on hand to answer questions and provide greater insight and appreciation of the world at its extremes. During regular excursions, watch for penguins, seals and whales while getting up close to towering icebergs and glaciers.

The main Antarctica Peninsula Aboard Expedition itinerary cruises over 11 days and there is also a longer 13-day itinerary that spends two additional days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula. The ice-strengthened, 134-guest Expedition small ship is ideally suited for cruising this icy wilderness, and its expert staff are on hand to ensure guests fully appreciate the majesty of Antarctica. This classic Antarctica voyage is a true adventure to the world’s most remote wilderness! 

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Antarctica cruises and trips to Antarctica.



Itinerary

Antarctica Classic Itinerary

The 11-day Antarctica Classic expedition operates round-trip from Ushuaia and explores the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands.

Route map showing a red line of the path of the Antarctic Peninsula aboard Expedition small ship voyage, operating round-trip from Ushuaia, Argentina with stops along the Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands.
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Day 1
Arrive Ushuaia, Argentina

Arrive in Ushuaia at any time; your arrival transfer is included. Enjoy the sights and sounds of Ushuaia, the world’s most southerly city. There will be a welcome desk in the lobby of the start hotel that will provide more specific information on the M/S Expedition and the upcoming adventure.

Accommodations

Albatros Hotel, or similar

Meals

n/a

Read More
Day 2
Embark Ushuaia

Enjoy a free morning in Ushuaia. Do any last minute shopping, explore the town or visit the surrounding countryside. Embarkation begins in the afternoon at the port in Ushuaia. The Expedition Leader will give an expedition overview outlining what the specific plans are for the trip. Enjoy the evening sailing through the Beagle Channel.

Optional Added-Cost Activity: Tierra del Fuego National Park
Explore this stunning coastal national park extending 243 square miles (630 sq km). Pass by Valle Rio Pipo on the way to Austral Fueguino train station. You can also add the End of the World train (for an additional price) before visiting Lago Roca and Bahía Lapataia. Keep an eye out for a variety of birdlife and spectacular colors in the fall. Please note: The entirety of this activity (including the End of the World train) can only be booked on the ground locally. This activity takes place in the morning and prices listed are for the park entry only. Transport and guides are at an additional cost and can be arranged with the help of ship staff.

Accommodations

M/S Expedition

Meals

breakfast, dinner

Read More
Days 3 - 4
Drake Passage

The adventure begins with a 600-mile crossing of the passage named in honor of the 16th-century English sea captain and privateer, Sir Francis Drake. Enjoy daily lectures from the expedition team and keep watch for the first icebergs, whales and albatross. Become acquainted with the ship by frequenting the common areas that include the lounge, dining hall, library and lecture hall. Meet the guides, ship’s crew and expedition staff. Enjoy lectures and information sessions that explain the extraordinary human and natural history of the Antarctic region.

Accommodations

M/S Expedition

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 5 - 8
Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands

Over the next 4 days the ship will navigate southwards, making stops in the South Shetland Islands then through the Bransfield Strait and to the Antarctic Peninsula. Experience some of the most unique wildlife viewing and inspiring scenery in the world while setting foot on the Antarctic continent. Attempt two shore landings per day (weather conditions permitting) and encounter gentoo, chinstrap and adélie penguin rookeries. Search for Weddell, crabeater and leopard seals, as well as orca, humpback and minke whales in the cold Antarctic waters. The Peninsula also has a remarkable human history. During the voyage, learn about some of the most important and dramatic expeditions to this remote corner of the world.

Accommodations

M/S Expedition

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 9 - 10
Drake Passage

Leave Antarctica and head north across the Drake Passage. In between bird watching and whale watching and enjoying some final lectures by the expedition staff, this is a chance to relax and review the adventures of the past week before returning to Ushuaia. Keep sharp eyes on the observation deck for albatross, prions and some last-minute whale sightings.

Accommodations

M/S Expedition

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 11
Disembark Ushuaia, Argentina

Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for flights home or an extension. If time, explore the city prior to a later airport transfer (transferring first from the ship to the luggage storage point and later to the airport).

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Accommodations aboard M/S Expedition; all meals as indicated in itinerary; one night hotel in Ushuaia; arrival and departure transfers; Zodiac excursions with expert expedition team; lectures and educational programs; waterproof boots supplied for USA size 4-16; expedition parka.

Exclusions

Airfares to the embarkation point and from the disembarkation point; adventure options; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes; hotel accommodations; supplement for single hotel accommodations; meals while in Ushuaia; Trip Cancellation Insurance with emergency medical evacuation insurance (required); excess baggage charges and all items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar and beverage charges and telecommunication charges; and the customary gratuity at the end of the voyage for those who have served you aboard (guidelines will be provided). Note: Should the price of marine fuel increase dramatically, there may be a fuel surcharge.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a nonrefundable deposit of $1,000 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 90 days – 100% of deposit (may be applied to future trip by trip operator)
89 to 60 days – 100% of deposit (may be applied to future trip by trip operator) and 50% of the remainder of payments made
59 to 0 days – 100% of deposit (may be applied to future trip by trip operator) and 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Antarctica Peninsula Aboard Expedition cruise begins and ends in Ushuaia, Argentina (USH). Plan flights to arrive to Ushuaia at any time on Day 1. Plan flights to depart Ushuaia no earlier than 11:00 am on the final day. Upon completion of the morning disembarkation in Ushuaia, passengers will receive a complimentary transfer to either the airport or a central location where luggage can be stored. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Various optional activities may be available on your Antarctica Peninsula Aboard Expedition cruise. Per-person prices for the 2024-25 & 2025-26 seasons: kayaking $999; camping $379; photography, polar plunge and citizen science program included. Please note camping is limited to 60 people and kayaking is limited to 10 people per excursion (multiple excursions included). Please contact AdventureSmith to reserve activity space with your booking.

Room Configuration

Solo travelers willing to share can reserve a quad, triple or twin-shared cabin, where you will be matched with a person of the same gender. If the other cabin berth goes unsold, you will be guaranteed the rate with no single supplement. For those who desire single occupancy, cabins are available for single occupancy at 1.75x the twin rate, excluding Category 1 and 1A cabins.

Families & Children

Minimum age for children is 10 years old. An adult over the age of 21 must accompany every 2 children under the age of 18. The ratio of adults to children traveling together must be one adult per two children and two adults per four children (17 and under).

Travel Insurance

Travelers are required to have travel insurance with a minimum medical, evacuation and repatriation coverage of USD $200,000 covering all applicable dates of travel, personal injury and emergency medical evacuation. It is strongly recommended that you extend coverage to include personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and all other expenses that may arise as a result of loss, damage, injury, delay or inconvenience while traveling. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Antarctica expedition. Visits to research stations depend on final permission.

Antarctica Classic In-Depth Itinerary

The 13-day Antarctica Classic In-Depth expedition operates round-trip from Ushuaia and spends two more days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands.

Route map showing a red line of the path of the Antarctic Peninsula In Depth small ship voyage, operating round-trip from Ushuaia, Argentina with stops along the Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands.
Read More
Day 1
Arrive Ushuaia, Argentina

Arrive in Ushuaia at any time; your arrival transfer is included. Enjoy the sights and sounds of Ushuaia, the world’s most southerly city. There will be a welcome desk in the lobby of the start hotel that will provide more specific information on the M/S Expedition and the upcoming adventure.

Accommodations

Albatros Hotel or similar

Meals

n/a

Read More
Day 2
Embark Ushuaia

Enjoy a free morning in Ushuaia. Do any last minute shopping, explore the town or visit the surrounding countryside. Embarkation begins in the afternoon at the port in Ushuaia. The Expedition Leader will give an expedition overview outlining what the specific plans are for the trip. Enjoy the evening sailing through the Beagle Channel.

Optional Added-Cost Activity: Tierra del Fuego National Park
Explore this stunning coastal national park extending 243 square miles (630 sq km). Pass by Valle Rio Pipo on the way to Austral Fueguino train station. You can also add the End of the World train (for an additional price) before visiting Lago Roca and Bahía Lapataia. Keep an eye out for a variety of birdlife and spectacular colors in the fall. Please note: The entirety of this activity (including the End of the World train) can only be booked on the ground locally. This activity takes place in the morning and prices listed are for the park entry only. Transport and guides are at an additional cost and can be arranged with the help of ship staff.

Accommodations

M/S Expedition

Meals

breakfast, dinner

Read More
Days 3 - 4
Drake Passage

The adventure begins with a 600-mile crossing of the passage named in honor of the 16th-century English sea captain and privateer, Sir Francis Drake. Enjoy daily lectures from the expedition team and keep watch for the first icebergs, whales and albatross. Become acquainted with the ship by frequenting the common areas that include the lounge, dining hall, library and lecture hall. Meet the guides, ship’s crew and expedition staff. Enjoy lectures and information sessions that explain the extraordinary human and natural history of the Antarctic region.

Accommodations

M/S Expedition

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 5 - 10
Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands

Over the next 6 days the ship will navigate southwards, making stops in the South Shetland Islands then through the Bransfield Strait and to the Antarctic Peninsula. Experience some of the most unique wildlife viewing and inspiring scenery in the world while setting foot on the Antarctic continent. Attempt two shore landings per day (weather conditions permitting) and encounter gentoo, chinstrap and adélie penguin rookeries. Search for Weddell, crabeater and leopard seals, as well as orca, humpback and minke whales in the cold Antarctic waters. The Peninsula also has a remarkable human history. During the voyage, learn about some of the most important and dramatic expeditions to this remote corner of the world.

Accommodations

M/S Expedition

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 11 - 12
Drake Passage

Leave Antarctica and head north across the Drake Passage. In between bird watching and whale watching and enjoying some final lectures by the expedition staff, this is a chance to relax and review the adventures of the past week before returning to Ushuaia. Keep sharp eyes on the observation deck for albatross, prions and some last-minute whale sightings.

Accommodations

M/S Expedition

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 13
Disembark Ushuaia, Argentina

Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for flights home or an extension. If time, explore the city prior to a later airport transfer (transferring first from the ship to the luggage storage point and later to the airport).

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Accommodations aboard M/S Expedition; all meals as indicated in itinerary; one night hotel in Ushuaia; arrival and departure transfers; Zodiac excursions with expert expedition team; lectures and educational programs; waterproof boots supplied for USA size 4-16; expedition parka.

Exclusions

Airfares to the embarkation point and from the disembarkation point; adventure options; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes; hotel accommodations; supplement for single hotel accommodations; meals while in Ushuaia; Trip Cancellation Insurance with emergency medical evacuation insurance (required); excess baggage charges and all items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar and beverage charges and telecommunication charges; and the customary gratuity at the end of the voyage for those who have served you aboard (guidelines will be provided). Note: Should the price of marine fuel increase dramatically, there may be a fuel surcharge.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a nonrefundable deposit of $1,000 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 90 days – 100% of deposit (may be applied to future trip by trip operator)
89 to 60 days – 100% of deposit (may be applied to future trip by trip operator) and 50% of the remainder of payments made
59 to 0 days – 100% of deposit (may be applied to future trip by trip operator) and 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Antarctica In Depth Aboard Expedition Cruise begins and ends in Ushuaia, Argentina (USH). Plan flights to arrive to Ushuaia at any time on Day 1. Plan flights to depart Ushuaia no earlier than 11:00 am on the final day. Upon completion of the morning disembarkation in Ushuaia, passengers will receive a complimentary transfer to either the airport or a central location where luggage can be stored. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Various optional activities may be available on your Antarctica Peninsula Aboard Expedition cruise. Per-person prices for the 2024-25 & 2025-26 seasons: kayaking $1,299; camping $379; photography, polar plunge and citizen science program included. Please note camping is limited to 60 people and kayaking is limited to 10 people per excursion (multiple excursions included). Please contact AdventureSmith to reserve activity space with your booking.

Room Configuration

Solo travelers willing to share can reserve a quad, triple or twin-shared cabin, where you will be matched with a person of the same gender. If the other cabin berth goes unsold, you will be guaranteed the rate with no single supplement. For those who desire single occupancy, cabins are available for single occupancy at 1.7x the twin rate, excluding Category 1 and 1A cabins.

Families & Children

Minimum age for children is 10 years old. An adult over the age of 21 must accompany every 2 children under the age of 18. The ratio of adults to children traveling together must be one adult per two children and two adults per four children (17 and under).

Travel Insurance

Travelers are required to have travel insurance with a minimum medical, evacuation and repatriation coverage of USD $200,000 covering all applicable dates of travel, personal injury and emergency medical evacuation. It is strongly recommended that you extend coverage to include personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and all other expenses that may arise as a result of loss, damage, injury, delay or inconvenience while traveling. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Antarctica expedition. Visits to research stations depend on final permission.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

Jan 02 - Jan 12, 2025
MS Expedition • 11 days
brown tent icon depicting camping activity brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity
From $9199USD
Per Person
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Jan 30 - Feb 09, 2025
MS Expedition • 11 days
brown tent icon depicting camping activity brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity
From $8999USD
Per Person
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Mar 04 - Mar 14, 2025
MS Expedition • 11 days
brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity
From $7999USD
Per Person
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Mar 13 - Mar 23, 2025
MS Expedition • 11 days
brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity
From $7599USD
Per Person
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Nov 11 - Nov 23, 2025
MS Expedition • 13 days
small ship alternate itinerary icon with a grey background brown tent icon depicting camping activity brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity
From $9699USD
Per Person
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Nov 22 - Dec 02, 2025
MS Expedition • 11 days
brown tent icon depicting camping activity brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity
From $8999USD
Per Person
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Dec 01 - Dec 13, 2025
MS Expedition • 13 days
small ship alternate itinerary icon with a grey background brown tent icon depicting camping activity brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity
From $10799USD
Per Person
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Dec 12 - Dec 22, 2025
MS Expedition • 11 days
brown tent icon depicting camping activity brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity
From $9299USD
Per Person
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Jan 02 - Jan 12, 2026
MS Expedition • 11 days
brown tent icon depicting camping activity brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity
From $10199USD
Per Person
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Jan 30 - Feb 09, 2026
MS Expedition • 11 days
brown tent icon depicting camping activity brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity
From $9899USD
Per Person
Read More
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Mar 04 - Mar 14, 2026
MS Expedition • 11 days
brown tent icon depicting camping activity brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity
From $8799USD
Per Person
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Mar 13 - Mar 23, 2026
MS Expedition • 11 days
brown tent icon depicting camping activity brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity
From $8399USD
Per Person
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brown tent icon depicting camping activity Camping
brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity Kayaking
Accommodation

Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary

Expedition Ship
MS Expedition

The 134-passenger Expedition is a top-of-the-line polar vessel at an affordable price. Unlike many expedition ships, where public space is at a premium, there are multiple large public areas aboard to enjoy.

Expert Review

Reviews from Our Experts So You Know What to Expect

Arielle Lightcap • October 21st, 2019
Expert Aboard: Expedition Ship Review

An AdventureSmith Specialist writes this detailed ship review of the 134-guest Expedition polar vessel. Read about her favorite features and cabin insights.

Testimonials

Hear It from Travelers Who Have Explored with Us

"Out of the World Experience"

Antarctica is an out of the world experience. It is nothing like anywhere. Neither was there an experience like this before nor can there be similar one after.

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"This Was an Unbelievable Trip!!"

This was an unbelievable trip!! I can't recommend this destination, itinerary, company (yours and G Adventures), the ship, the crew highly enough!!!

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"Fabulous"

Fabulous itinerary, ship, and crew.

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Book with the confidence that comes from experience.

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

Extend Your Trip

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Cruise

Add to Wishlist
5 - 7 Day Land Tour
Explora Torres del Paine

This 5-, 6- or 7-day lodge-based trip in the center of Torres del Paine National Park offers over 40 unique explorations to choose from, including Base Torres and Grey Glacier. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Paine Massif and Salto Chico waterfall from home base.

From $2850USD
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5 - 7 Day Land Tour
Patagonia Wildlife Safari

Discover the magic at the end of the world on a 4- to 7-day Patagonia Wildlife Safari! No matter the length of your stay, you will be blown away by the unlimited beauty of the world heritage site Torres del Paine National Park.

From $1235USD
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Explora El Chaltén

Enjoy one-of-a-kind access to the solitude, Andean mountains, alpine waterways and stunning glaciers of Argentinean Patagonia. From the all-inclusive Explora El Chaltén Lodge, choose from a daily selection of over 30 guided, small-group explorations.

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Antarctic Peninsula Aboard Expedition

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