‘Classic’ Antarctic Expedition Cruise

​11 days – from €11,250 per person

The itinerary below covers the ‘traditional’ Antarctic cruise from Ushuaia, Argentina, aboard the Janssonius, Hondius or Plancius ships operated by Oceanwide Expeditions. Slightly different itineraries are also available; please ask us for details and which itinerary best suits your specific requirements.

• Point your binoculars at albatrosses on the Drake Passage
• Make landings at penguin and sea lion colonies
• Visit a former research station
• Kayak among the ice floes
• Hiking on ice volcanoes

Days 4–7 | Antarctica

Over the next few days, you will explore the Antarctic Peninsula: the Gerlache Strait, Neko Harbour, the Lemaire Channel and the Melchior Islands – Anvers and Brabant. You’ll already be thoroughly enjoying the landscape of rock formations covered in thick layers of snow, the deep blue colour of the pack ice and the pristine waters that surround it. Where landings take place, you’ll swap the ship for a small Zodiac and head ashore. From this low vantage point, the icebergs are even more impressive, especially when you come face to face with penguins or seals lazing on an ice floe. The landings are mainly focused on encounters with the unique wildlife. The programme also includes walks or visits to former research stations.

During your time in Antarctica, you are sure to spot many species of animals and birds. Humpback whales, minke whales and leopard seals can be found in the bays around the Melchior Islands. At the former British research station Port Lockroy on Wiencke Island, gentoo penguins and emperor cormorants breed. Weddell and crabeater seals are found scattered across the islands. During a walk on Pléneau Island, you may come across a colony of blue-eyed cormorants. Petermann Island is where you can see the adorable Adélie penguin, which often moves across the ice as if on a sledge. Read more here about the animals you might encounter in Antarctica.

During your stay in Antarctica, you can plan a range of wonderful activities, such as snowshoe walks (included), kayaking trips, diving and even a night’s camping on the ice (please ask us about the additional cost).

Day 8 | South Shetland Islands

Today you’ll explore the rugged South Shetland Islands, where mist and wind create a mysterious atmosphere. You’ll discover a variety of flora and wildlife, including gentoo and chinstrap penguins and southern giant petrels. A highlight is Deception Island, a volcanic crater which you’ll sail into via the narrow passage known as Neptune’s Bellows. In this impressive, moon-like landscape, you’ll see the remains of an old whaling station, surrounded by countless seabirds. Penguins and seals regularly come ashore on the geothermal beaches at Whalers Bay. Depending on conditions, you may visit Half Moon Island, home to a large colony of chinstrap penguins and where Weddell seals are often seen resting along the coast.

Days 9–10 | At sea

Depending on weather conditions, the return journey will be undertaken either earlier or later. You won’t be able to get enough of scanning the water and the sky with your binoculars, hoping to spot those species you’ve yet to see.

Day 11 | Ushuaia

On this day, the ship will dock again at the port of Ushuaia. Are you flying back to the Netherlands, or will you be continuing your journey in Argentina or Chile? We’d be happy to advise you on the options.