A ship cuts through sea ice next to a giant iceberg rising out of the ocean in antarctica
Penguins scamper on rocks in the foreground while a ship sails across the open sea in the background in antarctica
Passengers from the expedition cruise classic antarctica look over the railing of the ship while the sun sets in the background
A penguin family group seen during a Classic Antarctic trip aboard the Ushuaia seen resting before returning to the waters
During a Classic Antarctica trip aboard the Ushuaia a group of explorers set ashore to hike and see the beautiful landscape
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$5190USD
Starting At
10-12
Days
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
Nov
Dec
Polar Regions Antarctica Cruise

Classic Antarctica

This 10- or 11-day Classic Antarctica expedition cruise to the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands lands at penguin colonies, research stations and the White Continent itself. Learn to identify species of whales and sea birds while crossing the Drake Passage beside expert naturalists and lecturers on the intimate 88-guest Ushuaia. Photograph penguins, icebergs and snow-capped mountains on South Shetland Islands, a haven for wildlife. Be greeted by macaroni, chinstrap and gentoo penguins as well as elephant seals at Livingston Island. Sail through into the caldera of Deception Island and experience wildlife overload on King George Island!

A unique addition to this Antarctic Peninsula itinerary is an intended visit to Paulet Island, where over 100,000 breeding pairs of Adélie penguins have been known to nest. Other landing sites (weather and sea conditions permitting) include Melchior Island group, Cuverville Island, Portal Point, Neko Harbor, Pléneau Island and Petermann Island to visit the southernmost colony of gentoo penguins. 

Accommodation is aboard the 88-guest Ushuaia, an ice-strengthened polar vessel originally built for the United States agency NOAA (National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration). As one of the smallest ships operating in Antarctica, she offers an open bridge policy and more time on land for her guests, intending to get the most out of her journeys. 

In addition to the main Classic Antarctica 10- or 11-day itinerary listed, there are alternative itineraries of varying lengths that explore the Weddell Sea (11 days) or attempt to cross the Polar Circle (12 days).

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



Itinerary

Classic Antarctica Itinerary

The main, 10- or 11-day Classic Antarctica cruise operates round-trip from Ushuaia, Argentina, crossing the Drake Passage in both directions and spending four or five days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula.

Route map for Classic Antarctica small ship cruise roundtrip from Ushuaia, Argentina with stops along the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands.
Read More
Day 1
Embark Ushuaia, Argentina

Embark the Ushuaia in the afternoon and meet the expedition and lecture staff. After settling in, sail along the famous Beagle Channel and the scenic Mackinlay Pass.

Accommodations

Ushuaia

Meals

dinner

Read More
Days 2 - 3
Drake Passage

Named after the renowned explorer, Sir Francis Drake, who sailed these waters in 1578, the Drake Passage also marks the Antarctic Convergence, a biological barrier where cold polar water sinks beneath the warmer northern waters. This creates a great upwelling of nutrients, which sustains the biodiversity of this region. The Drake Passage also marks the northern limit of many Antarctic seabirds.

As Ushuaia sails across the passage, onboard lecturers help to identify the amazing variety of seabirds, including many albatrosses following in the ship’s wake. The Ushuaia’s open bridge policy provides the option to join officers on the bridge and learn about navigation, watch for whales and enjoy the view. A full program of lectures will be offered as well. The first sightings of icebergs and snow-capped mountains indicate arrival at the South Shetland Islands, a group of twenty islands and islets first sighted in February 1819 by Captain William Smith of the brig Williams. With favorable conditions in the Drake Passage, lecturers and naturalists will accompany you ashore to experience the first encounter with the penguins and seals on day 3.

Accommodations

Ushuaia

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 4 - 7/8
Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands

The South Shetland Islands are a haven for wildlife. Vast penguin rookeries, beaches ruled by Antarctic fur seals and southern elephant seals make every day spent in this amazing island group unforgettable. Sailing through the narrow passage into the flooded caldera of Deception Island is truly amazing. King George Island, the largest of the South Shetland Islands, features colonies of nesting Adélie and chinstrap penguins, kelp gulls, blue-eyed cormorants, Antarctic terns and southern giant petrels and is home to scientific bases of many different countries. Macaroni, chinstrap and gentoo penguins as well as elephant seals await at Livingston Island.

The Antarctic Peninsula’s remarkable history will provide a type of excitement often only associated with the early explorers. Enjoy plenty of time to explore the continent’s amazing scenery, a pristine wilderness of snow, ice, mountains and waterways, and an incredible wide variety of wildlife. Apart from penguins and seabirds, hope to see Weddell, crabeater and leopard seals as well as minke, killer (orca) and humpback whales at close range. Navigate some of the most beautiful waterways (depending on ice conditions) like the Gerlache Strait, the Neumayer Channel and the Lemaire Channel. The latter are narrow passages between towering rock faces and spectacular glaciers.

Paradise Bay is perhaps the most aptly named place in the world and the ship’s Zodiacs will attempt a landing on the continent proper. After negotiating the iceberg-strewn waters of the Antarctic Sound, hope to visit the bustling Adélie penguin colony (over 100,000 pairs breed here) and blue-eyed cormorant colony on Paulet Island, where the Nordenskjöld expedition built a stone survival hut in 1903. Today its ruins have been taken over by nesting penguins. Further exploration may lead to the Melchior Island group, Cuverville Island, Portal Point, Neko Harbour, Pléneau Island and, if ice conditions permit, to Petermann Island for a visit to the southernmost colony of gentoo penguins.

Accommodations

Ushuaia

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 8/9 - 9/10
Drake Passage

Depart Antarctica and head north across the Drake Passage. Join lecturers and naturalists on deck in search for seabirds and whales and enjoy some final lectures. Take the chance to relax and reflect on the fascinating adventures of the past days on the way back to Ushuaia.

Accommodations

Ushuaia

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 10/11
Disembark Ushuaia, Argentina

Arrive at the port of Ushuaia in the early morning and disembark the Ushuaia after breakfast.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Voyage aboard the Ushuaia as indicated in the itinerary; all meals throughout the voyage aboard the Ushuaia; all shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by Zodiac; program of lectures by noted naturalists and leadership by experienced expedition staff; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; comprehensive pre-departure material; detailed post-expedition log.

Exclusions

Any airfare, whether on scheduled or charter flights; pre- and post land arrangements; transfers to/from the vessel; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes; meals ashore; baggage, cancellation, personal insurance and insurance of any kind (strongly recommended); excess baggage charges and all items of a personal nature such as bar and beverage charges and telecommunication charges; and the customary gratuity at the end of the voyages (guidelines will be provided); possible fuel surcharge if price of crude oil is higher than USD $100/barrel.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a nonrefundable deposit of 30% is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 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 as a future cruise credit)
89 to 0 days – 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

All 10-day Classic Antarctica itineraries begin and end in Ushuaia, Argentina (USH). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. No ground transfers are provided in Ushuaia. Embarkation is at 4:00pm on Day 1 of the itinerary. The vessel will sail at 6:00pm and is not able to wait for missing passengers or luggage. Ushuaia’s port is located on Maipu Avenue. The main entrance to the pier is on Lasserre Street, opposite of the Hotel Albatross, about 15 minutes’ drive from the airport. The ship arrives at 7:00am on the final day of the expedition and disembarkation is normally at 8:00 or 8:30am. Plan flights to depart Ushuaia no earlier than 12:00pm noon on disembarkation day. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Activities included aboard this expedition include Zodiac cruises, hiking, land treks, glacier viewing and wildlife observation.

Room Configuration

In addition to listed Single cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.5x the per-person listed rate for twin cabins and 2x the per-person listed rate for suites in select cabins based upon availability. Suites and Superior #301 receive a 50% fare reduction for the third person. Shared accommodation can be arranged on request.

Families & Children

AdventureSmith recommends children be at least 12 years old to enjoy the Classic Antarctica cruise. A child (under 16 years) accompanied by two adults will be free of charge in a triple Superior cabin or triple Suite.

Travel Insurance

Emergency medical evacuation insurance is mandatory for this trip, with a minimum recommended coverage of $100,000 USD per person. In addition to the emergency evacuation insurance, we highly recommend our travelers 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 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. 

Weddell Sea Quest Itinerary

The 11-day Weddell Sea Quest operates round-trip from Ushuaia, Argentina, crossing the Drake Passage in both directions and spending three days exploring the Weddell Sea and two days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula.

Route map of Weddell Sea Quest Antarctica small ship expedition cruise, operating round-trip from Ushuaia, Argentina.
Read More
Day 1
Embark Ushuaia, Argentina

Embark the Ushuaia in the afternoon and meet the expedition and lecture staff. After settling in, sail along the famous Beagle Channel and the scenic Mackinlay Pass.

Accommodations

Ushuaia

Meals

dinner

Read More
Days 2 - 3
Drake Passage

Named after the renowned explorer, Sir Francis Drake, who sailed these waters in 1578, the Drake Passage also marks the Antarctic Convergence, a biological barrier where cold polar water sinks beneath the warmer northern waters. This creates a great upwelling of nutrients, which sustains the biodiversity of this region. The Drake Passage also marks the northern limit of many Antarctic seabirds.

As Ushuaia sails across the passage, onboard lecturers help to identify the amazing variety of seabirds, including many albatrosses following in the ship’s wake. The Ushuaia’s open bridge policy provides the option to join officers on the bridge and learn about navigation, watch for whales and enjoy the view. A full program of lectures will be offered as well. The first sightings of icebergs and snow-capped mountains indicate arrival at the South Shetland Islands, a group of twenty islands and islets first sighted in February 1819 by Captain William Smith of the brig Williams. With favorable conditions in the Drake Passage, lecturers and naturalists will accompany you ashore to experience the first encounter with the penguins and seals on day 3.

Accommodations

Ushuaia

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 4 - 6
Weddell Sea

The Weddell Sea is where huge tabular icebergs roam. In some years, the Erebus & Terror Gulf and Weddell Sea are full with ice, making for exciting navigation. Get up early and go out on deck for a special Antarctic sunrise. Huge tabular bergs break from the Larsen, Ronne and Filchner ice shelves and combine with one-year-old and multi-year sea ice to produce a floating, undulating panorama of rugged ice scenery. All-white snow petrels are likely to be coursing over the floes, often joined by pintado petrels.

Possible visits may include Hope Bay, the Argentine Station Esperanza, Brown Bluff, Devil Island, Paulet Island, Snow Hill Island and Cape Well-Met on Vega Island. The numbers of Adélie penguins are breathtaking and there may be opportunities to spot juvenile Emperor Penguins riding ice floes. The expedition staff shares the exciting and bizarre tale of the first overwinter in this area of the Peninsula, the Swedish Antarctic Expedition of 1901-03 under the command of geologist Otto Nordenskjöld. His ship the Antarctic, under the command of the famous Norwegian whaling captain Carl Anton Larsen, was trapped in the ice and sank, but the men survived on different locations and even managed to carry out significant scientific research in the area.

Accommodations

Ushuaia

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 7 - 8
Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands

Enjoy exploring the Antarctica Peninsula’s amazing scenery, a pristine wilderness of snow, ice, mountains and waterways and a wide variety of wildlife. Hope to encounter gentoo and chinstrap penguins alongside other seabirds, as well as Weddell, crabeater and leopard seals, Minke whales and orcas at close range.

Hope to navigate the Gerlache Strait, Errera Channel and Neumayer Channel. Possible landing sites may include: Paradise Bay, which is perhaps the most aptly named place in the world with its impressive glacial fronts and mountains, Cuverville Island, home of the biggest gentoo penguin colony in the Peninsula surrounded by glaciers and castellated icebergs, and the British Museum and Post office at Port Lockroy.

Further exploration leads to the volcanic South Shetland Islands, a haven for wildlife. Vast penguin rookeries and seals hauling out on the shorelines make every day unforgettable. The ship plans to sail into the flooded caldera of Deception Island, the largest of three recent volcanic centers in the South Shetlands. Once inside, the rising slope of the black, cinder-covered volcanic rim can be walked uphill to a spectacular vantage point. Also aim to visit the crescent-shaped island Half Moon, home to chinstrap penguins in breathtaking surroundings, in the entrance of Moon Bay between Greenwich and Livingston Islands.

Accommodations

Ushuaia

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 9 - 10
Drake Passage

Depart Antarctica and head north across the Drake Passage. Join lecturers and naturalists on deck in search for seabirds and whales and enjoy some final lectures. Take the chance to relax and reflect on the fascinating adventures of the past days on the way back to Ushuaia.

Accommodations

Ushuaia

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 11
Disembark Ushuaia, Argentina

Arrive at the port of Ushuaia in the early morning and disembark the Ushuaia after breakfast.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Voyage aboard the Ushuaia as indicated in the itinerary; all meals throughout the voyage aboard the Ushuaia; all shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by Zodiac; program of lectures by noted naturalists and leadership by experienced expedition staff; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; comprehensive pre-departure material; detailed post-expedition log.

Exclusions

Any airfare, whether on scheduled or charter flights; pre- and post land arrangements; transfers to/from the vessel; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes; meals ashore; baggage, cancellation, personal insurance and insurance of any kind (strongly recommended); excess baggage charges and all items of a personal nature such as bar and beverage charges and telecommunication charges; and the customary gratuity at the end of the voyages (guidelines will be provided); possible fuel surcharge if price of crude oil is higher than USD $100/barrel.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a nonrefundable deposit of 30% is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 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 as a future cruise credit)
89 to 0 days – 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

All 11-day Weddell Sea Quest itineraries begin and end in Ushuaia, Argentina (USH). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. No ground transfers are provided in Ushuaia. Embarkation is at 4:00pm on Day 1 of the itinerary. The vessel will sail at 6:00pm and is not able to wait for missing passengers or luggage. Ushuaia’s port is located on Maipu Avenue. The main entrance to the pier is on Lasserre Street, opposite of the Hotel Albatross, about 15 minutes’ drive from the airport. The ship arrives at 7:00am on the final day of the expedition and disembarkation is normally at 8:00 or 8:30am. Plan flights to depart Ushuaia no earlier than 12:00pm noon on disembarkation day. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Activities included aboard this expedition include Zodiac cruises, hiking, land treks, glacier viewing and wildlife observation.

Room Configuration

In addition to listed Single cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.5x the per-person listed rate for twin cabins and 2x the per-person listed rate for suites in select cabins based upon availability. Suites and Superior #301 receive a 50% fare reduction for the third person. Shared accommodation can be arranged on request.

Families & Children

AdventureSmith recommends children be at least 12 years old to enjoy the Weddell Sea Quest cruise. A child (under 16 years) accompanied by two adults will be free of charge in a triple Superior cabin or triple Suite.

Travel Insurance

Emergency medical evacuation insurance is mandatory for this trip, with a minimum recommended coverage of $100,000 USD per person. In addition to the emergency evacuation insurance, we highly recommend our travelers 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 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. 

Polar Circle Quest Itinerary

The 12-day Polar Circle Quest operates round-trip from Ushuaia, Argentina, crossing the Drake Passage in both directions and spending six days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula with an attempt to cross the Polar Circle.

Route map of Polar Circle Quest Antarctica small ship expedition cruise, operating round-trip from Ushuaia, Argentina, with visits to the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula.
Read More
Day 1
Embark Ushuaia, Argentina

Embark the Ushuaia in the afternoon and meet the expedition and lecture staff. After settling in, sail along the famous Beagle Channel and the scenic Mackinlay Pass.

Accommodations

Ushuaia

Meals

dinner

Read More
Days 2 - 3
Drake Passage

Named after the renowned explorer, Sir Francis Drake, who sailed these waters in 1578, the Drake Passage also marks the Antarctic Convergence, a biological barrier where cold polar water sinks beneath the warmer northern waters. This creates a great upwelling of nutrients, which sustains the biodiversity of this region. The Drake Passage also marks the northern limit of many Antarctic seabirds.

As Ushuaia sails across the passage, onboard lecturers help to identify the amazing variety of seabirds, including many albatrosses following in the ship’s wake. The Ushuaia’s open bridge policy provides the option to join officers on the bridge and learn about navigation, watch for whales and enjoy the view. A full program of lectures will be offered as well. The first sightings of icebergs and snow-capped mountains indicate arrival at the South Shetland Islands, a group of twenty islands and islets first sighted in February 1819 by Captain William Smith of the brig Williams. With favorable conditions in the Drake Passage, lecturers and naturalists will accompany you ashore to experience the first encounter with the penguins and seals on day 3.

Accommodations

Ushuaia

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 4 - 9
Antarctic Peninsula, South Shetland Islands & Polar Circle

Exquisite beauty and pristine landscapes await on the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula. Myriad icebergs with different shades and shapes are floating free in the waterways around the continent. Enjoy plenty of time to explore the amazing scenery and a wide variety of wildlife. Apart from Adélie, gentoo and chinstrap penguins, among other seabirds, hope to encounter Weddell, crabeater, fur and leopard seals as well as Minke whales and orcas at close range. At this time of year it is also very likely to encounter big cetaceans, such as humpback, Fin and Sei whales in the area.

Hope to navigate some of the most beautiful waterways the area has to offer, such as: the Gerlache Strait, Errera Channel, Neumayer Channel and the extremely narrow Lemaire Channel. Possible landing sites may include: Paradise Bay, which is perhaps the most aptly named place in the world with its impressive glacial fronts and mountains, Cuverville Island, home of the biggest gentoo penguin colony in the Peninsula surrounded by glaciers and castellated icebergs, and the British Museum and post office Port Lockroy.

The ship sets her sights south of the Lemaire Channel in quest of the Polar Circle, and might also stop at the Ukrainian Station Vernadsky, the former British base Faraday, where the ozone hole was first spotted, the rugged Yalour Islands and Detaille Island south of the Polar Circle.

En route North, explore the volcanic South Shetland Islands, a haven for wildlife. Vast penguin rookeries and seals hauling out on the shorelines make every day unforgettable. Sailing through the narrow passage into the flooded caldera of Deception Island is truly amazing, so is visiting the crescent-shaped island Half Moon, home to chinstrap penguins in breathtaking surroundings.

Accommodations

Ushuaia

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 10 - 11
Drake Passage

Depart Antarctica and head north across the Drake Passage. Join lecturers and naturalists on deck in search for seabirds and whales and enjoy some final lectures. Take the chance to relax and reflect on the fascinating adventures of the past days on the way back to Ushuaia.

Accommodations

Ushuaia

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 12
Disembark Ushuaia, Argentina

Arrive at the port of Ushuaia in the early morning and disembark the Ushuaia after breakfast.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Voyage aboard the Ushuaia as indicated in the itinerary; all meals throughout the voyage aboard the Ushuaia; all shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by Zodiac; program of lectures by noted naturalists and leadership by experienced expedition staff; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; comprehensive pre-departure material; detailed post-expedition log.

Exclusions

Any airfare, whether on scheduled or charter flights; pre- and post land arrangements; transfers to/from the vessel; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes; meals ashore; baggage, cancellation, personal insurance and insurance of any kind (strongly recommended); excess baggage charges and all items of a personal nature such as bar and beverage charges and telecommunication charges; and the customary gratuity at the end of the voyages (guidelines will be provided); possible fuel surcharge if price of crude oil is higher than USD $100/barrel.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a nonrefundable deposit of 30% is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 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 as a future cruise credit)
89 to 0 days – 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

All 12-day Polar Circle Quest itineraries begin and end in Ushuaia, Argentina (USH). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. No ground transfers are provided in Ushuaia. Embarkation is at 4:00pm on Day 1 of the itinerary. The vessel will sail at 6:00pm and is not able to wait for missing passengers or luggage. Ushuaia’s port is located on Maipu Avenue. The main entrance to the pier is on Lasserre Street, opposite of the Hotel Albatross, about 15 minutes’ drive from the airport. The ship arrives at 7:00am on the final day of the expedition and disembarkation is normally at 8:00 or 8:30am. Plan flights to depart Ushuaia no earlier than 12:00pm noon on disembarkation day. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Activities included aboard this expedition include Zodiac cruises, hiking, land treks, glacier viewing and wildlife observation.

Room Configuration

In addition to listed Single cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.5x the per-person listed rate for twin cabins and 2x the per-person listed rate for suites in select cabins based upon availability. Suites and Superior #301 receive a 50% fare reduction for the third person. Shared accommodation can be arranged on request.

Families & Children

AdventureSmith recommends children be at least 12 years old to enjoy the Polar Circle Quest cruise. A child (under 16 years) accompanied by two adults will be free of charge in a triple Superior cabin or triple Suite.

Travel Insurance

Emergency medical evacuation insurance is mandatory for this trip, with a minimum recommended coverage of $100,000 USD per person. In addition to the emergency evacuation insurance, we highly recommend our travelers 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 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

Dec 20 - Dec 29, 2024
Ushuaia • 10 days
From $7210USD
Per Person
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Dec 29 - Jan 08, 2025
Ushuaia • 11 days
From $7990USD
Per Person
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Jan 08 - Jan 18, 2025
Ushuaia • 11 days
From $7990USD
Per Person
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Jan 18 - Jan 27, 2025
Ushuaia • 10 days
From $7210USD
Per Person
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Feb 26 - Mar 08, 2025
Ushuaia • 11 days
From $6700USD
Per Person
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Mar 07 - Mar 17, 2025
Ushuaia • 11 days
From $6790USD
Per Person
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Mar 08 - Mar 17, 2025
Ushuaia • 10 days
From $5730USD
Per Person
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Mar 17 - Mar 26, 2025
Ushuaia • 10 days
From $5730USD
Per Person
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Mar 17 - Mar 26, 2025
Ushuaia • 10 days
From $6120USD
Per Person
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Mar 26 - Apr 04, 2025
Ushuaia • 10 days
From $5730USD
Per Person
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Nov 03 - Nov 12, 2025
Ushuaia • 10 days
From $5190USD
Per Person
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Nov 12 - Nov 22, 2025
Ushuaia • 11 days
From $6790USD
Per Person
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Nov 22 - Dec 01, 2025
Ushuaia • 10 days
From $6120USD
Per Person
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Dec 01 - Dec 11, 2025
Ushuaia • 11 days
From $6790USD
Per Person
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Dec 11 - Dec 20, 2025
Ushuaia • 10 days
From $6120USD
Per Person
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Dec 20 - Dec 29, 2025
Ushuaia • 10 days
From $7390USD
Per Person
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Dec 29 - Jan 07, 2026
Ushuaia • 10 days
From $7390USD
Per Person
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Jan 07 - Jan 16, 2026
Ushuaia • 10 days
From $7390USD
Per Person
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Jan 16 - Jan 25, 2026
Ushuaia • 10 days
From $7390USD
Per Person
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Jan 25 - Feb 03, 2026
Ushuaia • 10 days
From $7390USD
Per Person
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Feb 03 - Feb 14, 2026
Ushuaia • 12 days
small ship alternate itinerary icon with a grey background
From $8990USD
Per Person
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Feb 14 - Feb 25, 2026
Ushuaia • 12 days
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From $8990USD
Per Person
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Feb 25 - Mar 07, 2026
Ushuaia • 11 days
From $6990USD
Per Person
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Mar 26 - Apr 04, 2026
Ushuaia • 10 days
From $6120USD
Per Person
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Accommodation

Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary

Expedition Ship
Ushuaia

The 88-guest Ushuaia is known for her excellent expedition staff and is one of the smallest ships operating in Antarctica, maximizing her passengers’ time on land. A true science-focused vessel, she was originally built for use by NOAA.

Deal

Current Deals on This Trip

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Offer expires December 31st, 2024
Save Up To 30% On Select 2025 Classic Antarctica Cruises

Holiday savings, for a limited time! Book your select 2025 departure of the Classic Antarctica cruise to save up to 30% per person.

Testimonials

Hear It from Travelers Who Have Explored with Us

"Great Cruise Choice!!!!"

Great cruise choice!!!! They were excellent. It was nice and small so we all got a LOT of time on land. Really good service and food. No complaints!

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"An Amazing Experience"

Personal goal to step foot on all 7 continents. Met a friend who had done it and highly recommended the trip. The expedition was an amazing experience.

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"Over The Top Amazing Trip Of A Lifetime!"

Over the top amazing trip of a lifetime! Antarctica is otherworldly, vast, never seen before, beautiful, untouched, unique. I enjoyed the experience even more on a smaller ship and more intimate setting.

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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.

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Extend Your Trip

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Cruise

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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
Jan Feb Mar Apr Sep Oct Nov Dec
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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
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Sep Oct Nov Dec
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5 - 7 Day Land Tour
Explora Rapa Nui

Experience the mysterious draw of the moai statues of Easter Island on foot, by sea or bike at Explora Rapa Nui. This 5-, 6- or 7-day adventure blends the island's unique history, vibrant Polynesian culture and stunning scenery into over 30 possible tailored activities.

Special Offer
From $3268USD
Year Round
Travel Guides

Inspiration, Education & Travel Journals

View All Antarctica Travel Guides
Polar Regions • October 20th, 2023
Antarctica Travel Guide

There are more small ships than ever cruising Antarctica with vessels and itinerary options for every style and budget. This up-to-date guide culls the best tips for a comprehensive look at Antarctica travel today.

Travel Essential • June 26th, 2023
Best Time to Visit Antarctica

When is the best time to go to Antarctica? On the White Continent, the answer isn’t so black-and-white. Consult this month-by-month list covering everything from penguins to pack ice to help guide your travel timing.

Travel Essential • February 9th, 2022
Antarctica Books & Travel Reading List

Our experts recommend their favorite Antarctica books on this comprehensive reading list. Prepare for travel with recommended books, field guides, travel guides, maps, & resources.

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11-12 Day Cruise
Antarctic Explorer

Cruise the Antarctic Peninsula in style aboard a selection of premier expedition ships. Antarctica cruises combine wildlife viewing, shore landings, visits to scientific bases, breathtaking waterways, glaciers and icebergs.

Special Offer
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22 Day Cruise
Classic South Georgia

The 22-day Classic South Georgia Cruise offers spectacular scenery, outstanding wildlife and history of human endeavor in a remote island group at the bottom of the world.

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12-15 Day Cruise
Realm of Penguins & Icebergs

Experience the Realm of Penguins & Icebergs during this 12- to 15-day activity-packed itinerary aboard the all-suite 114-guest Sea Spirit, which boasts the best of Antarctica, spacious accommodations and an ideal staff-to-passenger ratio.

From $10095USD
Jan Feb Dec
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Classic Antarctica

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