Group of guests in yellow coats on an Antarctica cruise with helicopter walk over snow beside a yellow heli during a landing.
Woman in yellow jacket looks out the window to jagged, snow-covered peaks during an Antarctica helicopter tour.
Seal with brown fur sits on beach of dark stones by snow-covered mountains, seen on an Antarctica helicopter tour.
5 Adelie penguins with blue eyes walk, glide & jump off of iceberg into sea on an Antarctica cruise with helicopter.
Group of guests in yellow coats stand atop rocky summit & wave to yellow helicopter on a sunny day in Antarctica.
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Polar Regions Antarctica Cruise

Antarctica by Helicopter: Icebergs, Mountains & Remote Lands

Soar beyond the ordinary to the rarely-visited east coastline of Antarctica. Learn what it’s like to step out of a helicopter onto Antarctica and gaze upon polar landscapes, some of which resemble the planet Mars!

From modern expedition ship Ultramarine and its two twin-engine helicopters, maximize your opportunities to explore the interior of the magical 7th Continent, as well as Erebus and Terror Gulf, Antarctic Sound and the great Weddell Sea. Anticipate unrivalled views by air, including sculpted icebergs rising from the depths of the sea and snow-capped peaks. Enjoy two heli flightseeing adventures and one heli landing—all included in the price of your voyage—while exploring in total comfort.  

Voyage aboard the 199-guest Ultramarine. Enjoy cruising knowing carbon offsets have been purchased. A passenger elevator makes accessing all decks easy, and each ship’s photography program includes the services of a resident photography instructor. Adventurous add-on activity options include kayaking, camping, one-time paddling excursions and stand-up paddleboarding. Ultramarine’s special helicopter landings and heli-assisted alpine trekking options set her apart and make her an ideal ship for luxury Antarctica cruises.

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



Itinerary

Antarctica by Helicopter: Icebergs, Mountains & Remote Lands Itinerary

Cruise round-trip from Ushuaia, Argentina, with bookend charter flights to start and end in Buenos Aires. Soar above the rarely-visited east coastline of Antarctica, with two heli flightseeing adventures and one heli excursion included.

Route map of Antarctica by Helicopter cruise round-trip from Ushuaia, Argentina with visits in the Weddell Sea, bookended by charter flights connecting Buenos Aires.
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Day 1
Arrive Buenos Aires, Argentina

Upon arriving in this cosmopolitan city, much celebrated for its architecture and rich European heritage, you will independently transfer to your group hotel (pre-expedition hotel night included in mandatory transfer package).

Accommodations

Hotel TBA

Meals

n/a

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Day 2
Fly to Ushuaia & Embark

After an early breakfast at the hotel, transfer with the group to the airport and board a private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina. Upon arrival, be transferred from the airport to a central downtown location to have some time on your own to explore this quaint port town before making your way to the pier.

After a late afternoon embarkation, sail along the historic Beagle Channel, which transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America. Expect an air of anticipation while departing—the next time you see land, you’ll be in the remote Antarctic wilderness.

Accommodations

Ultramarine

Meals

breakfast, dinner

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Day 3
Drake Passage

Crossing the legendary roughly 500-mile (800km) stretch of water is a must-do for many travelers. Prepare yourself for dramatic seascapes as you stand on the deck and gaze at the water stretching beyond the distant horizon. Be on the lookout for dolphins, whales and seabirds, especially albatrosses, petrels and skuas as they glide over the sometimes rough waters. As the ship approaches the Antarctic Peninsula, keep your eyes peeled for your first glimpse of towering, multi-shaped icebergs.

Accommodations

Ultramarine

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 4
At Sea

Today, cross the Antarctic Convergence, moving into the biological Antarctic, where the warmer waters of the sub-Antarctic meet the cold Antarctic. Your days at sea are filled with presentations led by your expedition team on photography, wildlife, glaciology and history. In between presentations, spend time on deck looking for wildlife or chatting with your shipmates over a drink at the bar.

Accommodations

Ultramarine

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Days 5 - 9
Explore the Weddell Sea by Water, Land & Air

Helicopter operations in Antarctica are acutely weather-dependent. This itinerary is designed so you can spend time each day in stunning locations that allow you to enjoy helicopter opportunities if the weather allows and, alternately, to maximize your experience of Antarctic wildlife, ice and landscapes when flying conditions are not favorable. Each day on the Antarctic Peninsula will showcase the flexibility and technical prowess of your industry-leading expedition team, pilots and crew. As the ship gains access to the Antarctic Peninsula, your team will look for opportunities to experience Antarctica beyond the coast and over the expansive glacial terrain of the last great wilderness. Together, Antarctic Sound, Erebus and Terror Gulf, northwestern Weddell Sea are the theater of this venture.

Initially, plan to sail into Antarctic Sound where you will visit two towering geological features: Madder Cliffs on Joinville Island and Brown Bluff on the most northerly tip of the Antarctic Continent. The goal is to visit large Adélie penguin colonies in this area by Zodiac. Gentoo penguins and seals also frequently roam this coast. There will be time to marvel at the impressive topography, namely the 2,225- foot (678m) volcanic rock cliffs at Brown Bluffthough, if weather allows, you may pivot from marine operations and embark on your first flightseeing experience of the voyage. What you will have just seen from sea, you will now experience from the sky as you gaze over the vastness of Antarctica with the perspective of a snow petrel.

Continuing through Antarctic Sound and into Erebus and Terror Gulf, located on the tip of the southeast side of the Antarctic Peninsula, the ship will be positioned to maximize both helicopter and Zodiac excursions. The James Ross Island group, which comprises several Islands, offers myriad opportunities to explore historically relevant sites that were discovered by the Swedish Antarctic Expedition of 1901-04. Upon landing, plan to hike to a summit to view an Adélie penguin colony, as well as the northern Weddell Sea. If the tide is low, there may be grounded bergs in the shallow waters—a surreal sight you’re unlikely to encounter on many polar expeditions.

These islands, highly valued for their geological significance, are home to fossil finds, ventifacts (ancient rocks polished smooth over time by wind and grains of sand) and the remains of the KT Boundary, which marks the transition between the Cretaceous Period (dinosaurs and reptiles) and the Tertiary Period (mammals). The goal is to provide opportunities for you to see ventifacts up close, to better appreciate the significance of wind erosion—by sand or ice particles—over long periods of time. These ventifacts provide valuable information about the climatic history and prevailing wind patterns of the region.

Atmospheric conditions influence when and where you’ll fly. When not flying, you’ll shift your focus from geology to wildlife. For instance, you could Zodiac cruise to Devil Island and head out on a hike to appreciate the twin towering cones of ash and hardened lava that rises from a bay on the north shore of Vega Island. Alternatively, you may aim for renowned Paulet Island, home to one of the largest Adélie penguin rookeries in the area, as well as the historic hut built by members of the Swedish Antarctic Expedition of 1901-04. A cross marks the grave site of Ole Wennersgaard, a member of the crew.

Another potential destination for helicopter operations includes the dramatic headland on the northeastern tip of Joinville island. One of the first features you’ll see upon approaching the island by air is, of course, the distinct rocky headland sticking out of the rugged, icy landscape. This prominent landmark has proven useful for navigation and exploration over the years.

Expect a dramatic finale to the helicopter-focused segment of the expedition as you prepare to return back across the Drake Passage. While your team has devised multiple back-up plans—crucial on any polar expedition—the ultimate goal at this point is a heli flightseeing excursion to Livingston Island, home of the most spectacular mountains of the South Shetland Islands. Among the towering peaks you’ll see from air are the Tangra Mountains (stretching roughly 20mi/32km long, by 5mi/8.5km wide), Mount Friesland (rising to 5,578ft/1,700m), Bowles Ridge and Pliska Ridge (2,188ft/667m).

Another landing option is Deception Island. Along with waddling penguins and lounging seals, you can also see the rusting remnants of long-ago whaling operations on the beach. The landscape of Deception Island often presents opportunities for longer walks to striking vistas. The stark contrast between snow and dark volcanic sand, and the geothermic steam along the shoreline gives this location an atmospheric feel.

Accommodations

Ultramarine

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 10
At Sea

Take some time, as you journey back across the 500-mile (800km) Drake Passage, to relax after your off-ship adventures. Consider booking a soothing facial treatment or massage. Additionally, you can also relax in the sauna with floor-to-ceiling windows that keep you connected to the polar seas while you rejuvenate indoors.

Accommodations

Ultramarine

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 11
At Sea

Your polar learning isn’t over. Join your on-board experts as they continue to share their vast polar expertise through scheduled presentations in the theater. The state-of-the-art, high-resolution LED screen wall in the main theater ensures high-definition viewing of presentations from your expedition team from any angle. This is an excellent opportunity to ask any lingering questions you have about any aspect of your Antarctic experiences.

Accommodations

Ultramarine

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 12
Disembark Ushuaia, Argentina, Fly to Buenos Aires & Depart

Arrive in Ushuaia in the morning and disembark after breakfast. The mandatory transfer package includes a tour of Tierra del Fuego National Park for a taste of Patagonia, after which you’ll transfer to the airport for the return group charter flight to Buenos Aires.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

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Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

One heli landing; two 10- to 15-minute helicopter flightseeing excursions (weather and logistics permitting); Mandatory Transfer Package (approximate package price is $1,195 for the 2025-26 season and includes one night’s pre-expedition hotel night in Buenos Aires with breakfast on Day 2, group transfer from hotel to airport in Buenos Aires, charter flight from Buenos Aires (AEP) to Ushuaia, arrival and departure transfers in Ushuaia, charter flight from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires (EZE), and combined airport transfer and, if available, express bus tour of Tierra del Fuego National Park [before embarkation or after disembarkation] in Ushuaia); shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping; all meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board; beer, wine, standard spirits and cocktails during dinner and bar service hours; complimentary WiFi; all shore landings per the daily program; leadership throughout the voyage by experienced expedition leaders; all Zodiac transfers and cruising per the daily program; formal and informal presentations by expedition team and special guests as scheduled; a photographic journal documenting the expedition; waterproof expedition boots on loan for shore landings; an official Quark Expeditions® parka to keep; coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock; a hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; all luggage handling aboard the ship; emergency evacuation insurance to a maximum benefit of US$500,000 per person.

Exclusions

International airfare; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above; meals ashore unless otherwise specified; baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance (strongly recommended); excess-baggage fees on international flights; mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, and any other gear not mentioned above; laundry, bar, massage services and other personal charges unless specified; phone and premium WiFi package charges; additional overnight accommodation; optional adventure activities; voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew; arrival and departure transfers, except where explicitly stated.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required when booking 181 days or more prior to departure. A second deposit of 25% of trip cost is due 180 days prior to departure. Bookings made 180 days or less prior to departure require a deposit of 50% of total trip cost. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days prior to departure. 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 121 days – 100% of deposit
120 to 91 days – 75% of total trip cost
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

(For expeditions booked prior to October 15,2024: Please refer to your invoice for your payment and cancellation terms.)

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 by Helicopter cruise begins and ends in Buenos Aires, Argentina (EZE), with charter group flights to and from Ushuaia. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to Buenos Aires ahead of the 12:00-8:00pm window for luggage weighing and tagging on Day 1. Arrange your own independent transfer to the included Buenos Aires hotel on Day 1. Plan flights to depart Buenos Aires no earlier than 9:00pm on disembarkation day. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Internal Flights

Group charter flights between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia are required on this trip’s itinerary; see the Mandatory Transfer Package information listed above under Inclusions. The flight to Ushuaia is expected to depart early on Day 2 of the itinerary. There is a strict luggage limit on the flights to and from Ushuaia, which will be detailed in your final documents as flights are confirmed close to departure. Should you have additional luggage, it can be stored at the hotel in Buenos Aires; there is no option to pay for additional luggage. On the final day of the itinerary, the ship is scheduled to arrive at the pier between 7:00 and 8:00am local time. Disembarkation follows breakfast, with an included short tour of Tierra del Fuego National Park before transferring to the airport for the return charter flight to Buenos Aires (note: This tour may happen prior to embarkation).

Activities

Included are optional hiking, Zodiac cruising, daily presentations, photography guides, the polar plunge, and both a 10- to 15-minute helicopter flightseeing excursion and a heli-landing experience (weather- and logistics-dependent). There are no added-cost, optional activities available on your Antarctica by Helicopter cruise.

Room Configuration

Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Solo travelers willing to share can reserve a 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 double rate. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x (2x for Premium cabins) the per-person listed rate in select cabins based upon availability. Premium Cabins are as follows:
Ultramarine: Deluxe Balcony Suite, Terrace Suite, Penthouse Suite, Owner’s Suite & Ultra Suite

Families & Children

At date of embarkation, a minimum age restriction of 8 years and minimum height and weight requirements (weight of 64lbs or 29kg and 48 in. or 1.2 m. tall) must be met. Children under 16 years of age must be supervised by a parent/guardian at all times and may not participate in adventure options.

Travel Insurance

Emergency evacuation insurance to a maximum benefit of up to $500,000 USD per paying traveler provides coverage between the first and last day of ship-based travel and is included in the cost of this trip. For ship- and land-based trips, additional days of travel pre- and post-expedition are not covered. Travelers are responsible for having adequate international medical coverage prior to embarkation, with a minimum benefit of $50,000 USD. In addition, we highly recommend our travelers also protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. 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 conditionswildlife 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

Rates are variable per remaining availability and are subject to change.

Nov 27 - Dec 08, 2025
Ultramarine • 12 days
From $15701USD
Per Person
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Dec 07 - Dec 18, 2025
Ultramarine • 12 days
From $15701USD
Per Person
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Accommodation

Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary

Expedition Ship
Ultramarine

The new Ultramarine 199-passenger polar ship is purpose-built for safety and far-off exploration in Antarctica and the Arctic. Dual helicopter pads and an incredible 70-day cruising range allow access to the hardest-to-reach places.

Expert Review

Ship Reviews from Our Experts So You Know What to Expect

Andrew Browning • December 1st, 2023
Expert Aboard: Ultramarine Ship Review

Read a detailed ship review from our expert who was aboard Ultramarine, plus see traveler ratings on everything from the food & helicopters to his Greenland itinerary highlights.

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
7 Day Land Tour
Torres Del Paine Trek

The trails amongst the famous Torres del Paine craggy mountains are among the world's classic trekking routes. By day, explore nature in its raw form while winding through these exceptional mountains. By night, enjoy the cozy luxury of EcoCamp's unique dome accommodations, or camping.

From $1940USD
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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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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.

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Antarctica by Helicopter: Icebergs, Mountains & Remote Lands

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