The ultimate polar voyage aboard the ultimate expedition ship
Follow in the legendary footsteps of Shackleton and his crew, hear stories from the experts who have delved deeper than most into the great explorer’s life, and toast to the New Year with a celebration like no other. Make your way south from Buenos Aires and spend the days around the Peninsula, Weddell Sea and South Georgia in search of humpback whales, seals and penguins from the bow of a Zodiac, and the evenings making the most of the ship’s onboard luxuries. With land excursions, adventurous optional activities and two special guest polar experts, this adventure is one you don’t want to miss.
Explore the Weddell Sea, where Shackleton and his crew drifted for months, and Elephant Isle where they finally landed and the next epic journey began, all while hearing stories from polar and Shackleton expert Tim Jarvis.
South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula are rich in history and wildlife. Stand upon beaches teeming with thousands of penguins, see abundant species of whales, seabirds, and seals, and make sense of it all with talks from special guest expert Ross MacPhee.
Toast to the New Year in the southernmost region in the world and enjoy the included onboard celebrations.
Freezing is great but freedom is better. Customise your trip with a wide range of optional activities on top of regular Zodiac excursions. Explore the water by kayak, sign up for a photography masterclass, rejuvenate with some onboard yoga and a massage, take a refreshing polar plunge or camp overnight like a true polar explorer.
Although our ice strengthened ships are big and sturdy, Antarctic waters can be unpredictable and rough. Some people may experience seasickness, especially through the Drake Passage and other open water crossings. Please be prepared with medications to combat this. There is also a doctor on-board should you need further assistance.
As you’d expect, temperatures in the Antarctic are freezing. A warm parka will be provided along with waterproof boots and unlimited hot drinks, but you should also bring base layers and lots of warm clothing. Please see the trip notes for further important information about what to bring.
Weather depending, you will be making regular excursions in a Zodiac boat to explore the local area and look for wildlife. It can get very cold and wet on the Zodiac, so make sure you are dressed appropriately and that you keep your camera safe and dry. Sturdy sea legs are needed as you make wet and dry landings from the boat, and on steep terrain, snow and other uneven surfaces. Some ships have a lot of stairs, so please hold on to the handrails if seas are rough.
The weather plays a pivotal part in this adventure and although there’s an itinerary in place, there are no guarantees that you’ll be able to do everything that is planned for. A level of flexibility and openness to embracing the unexpected are important in expedition travel, especially to such a remote area. There are nearly 200 recognised sites in the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetlands; the places mentioned in the itinerary may need to be changed to others (which are equally as interesting). We may also be confined to the ship during rough weather. The on-board library and educational lectures are ideal ways for keeping entertained.
Trip departures are unavailable.
There are currently no scheduled departures on our South Georgia and Antarctica Peninsula Celebrating Shackleton from Buenos Aires trip. If you are interested in other trips in the region visit one of the links below.
BOOKING CONDITIONS
Arctic and Antarctic bookings have an increased deposit requirement of 20% of the full voyage cost (before any discount). The balance is due 120 days before departure.
If a booking is cancelled 120 days or more before departure - the cancellation fee is the full loss of the deposit paid.
If a booking is cancelled between 119 days and departure - the cancellation fee is 100% of the total price of the voyage.
Other fees may apply for air tickets and other arrangements booked in conjunction with a Polar voyage.
ADVENTURE OPTIONS
Kayaking is available to book on all Antarctic voyages. Some voyages also offer other activities such as camping, stand up paddle boarding, cross country skiing and mountaineering. All of these activities must be booked prior to departure and incur an additional cost. Spaces are limited so please enquire at time of booking. For kayaking, previous, recent experience is essential and a good level of fitness is required for cross country skiing and mountaineering. See the itinerary for Adventure options available on this voyage.
Your voyage is operated by our sister company, Quark Expeditions. All accommodation and transfer arrangements as listed in the itinerary are also operated by Quark Expeditions or their local representatives.
Strict luggage limits apply. Please see Trip Notes (What to Take) for more information.
Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.
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