HIGHLIGHTS
- Step
ashore on the Antarctic continent to unforgettable vistas, bustling
penguin colonies and swooping skuas.
- Raise
a glass as you join a small club of people to attempt to cross below
the Antarctic Circle (conditions permitting).
- Zodiac-cruise
through glassy waters and gaze at the iridescent blues of gleaming
icebergs.
- In
South Georgia king penguins are sitting on eggs, chicks are hatching,
juveniles are moulting and fledging.
- Hike
along pebble beaches and climb tussock steps with unexpected wildlife
encounters at every turn.
DATES / RATES
Rates are listed per person in USD. Promotional offers are not reflected in the rates below.
|
| Start Date | End Date | Stateroom Single | Stateroom Single Superior | Stateroom Triple | Stateroom Twin | Stateroom Superior | Balcony Stateroom C | Balcony Stateroom B | Balcony Stateroom A | Balcony Suite | Junior Suite | Captains Suite |
|---|
| Dec 17, 2026 | Jan 08, 2027 | 43,595 | 47,795 | 36,095 | 37,195 | 39,295 | 40,395 | 42,495 | 45,695 | 49,895 | 59,495 | 67,995 |
Rates are listed per person in USD. Promotional offers are not reflected in the rates below.
|
| Start Date | End Date | (Starting from)
Stateroom Single | (Mid-range)
Balcony Stateroom C | (High-end)
Captains Suite |
|---|
| Dec 17, 2026 | Jan 08, 2027 | 43,595 | 40,395 | 67,995 |
ITINERARY
Day
1 : Ushuaia
Arrive
in Ushuaia, where you will be met by a representative of Aurora
Expeditions and transferred with your fellow expeditioners to your
assigned pre-voyage hotel. If you are already in Ushuaia, we ask you to
make your way to your hotel. Check-in is from 3.00 pm. This afternoon,
visit the Aurora Expeditions hospitality desk in the hotel lobby,
between 3.00 pm and 7.00 pm, to collect your luggage tags, and confirm
if you wish to join our Lake Escondido pre-embarkation tour tomorrow.
Our team will confirm details regarding your embarkation day, answer
any questions and provide you with information on where to dine or
purchase last minute items.
Expeditioners
arriving after 7.00 pm will find a welcome pack waiting for them at
check-in. We ask you to visit our hospitality desk tomorrow between
8.00 am – 10.00 am.
The
remainder of your time is at leisure. All meals today are at your own
expense.
Assigned
accommodation: Las Hayas Ushuaia Resort or Los Acebos Ushuaia
Hotel
Day
2 : Embarkation
This
morning, enjoy breakfast and check-out. Please ensure your cabin
luggage is fitted with cabin tags clearly labelled with your name and
cabin number. Take your cabin luggage to hotel reception, prior to, or
at check-out. Your luggage will be stored and transferred directly to
the port for clearance, to be placed in your cabin ahead of your
arrival on board. Please keep any valuables or personal items with you
throughout the day.
Your morning is at leisure to explore
Ushuaia.
Those wishing to join our afternoon catamaran cruise, meet back at the
hotel lobby for a transfer to the port. Here we board our catamaran and
sail the Beagle Channel, towards the city’s iconic Les
Eclaireurs Lighthouse. Crossing the Bridges Archipelago we’ll
slow down to watch colonies of sea lions and imperial cormorants sun
themselves on the rocky outcrops, while gulls, rock cormorants, skuas,
petrels, albatrosses and cauquenes are often sighted. Our cruise offers
panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountain range, in
addition to hearing tales of the people and communities of the
region.
Alternatively, enjoy your day at leisure and meet at your hotel lobby
or from the meeting point at the parking lot near the pier (details
will be given by our ground staff at the hotel), to be transferred to
the pier for embarkation.
Please note that the catamaran cruise is weather dependant and may be
replaced with a National Park tour in the event of adverse weather
conditions. Additional information, including specific times, will be
provided at our hospitality desk upon arrival.
Once onboard, you’ll have time to settle into your cabin
before our important mandatory briefings. As the ship pulls away from
port, we’ll gather on the deck to commence our adventure with
spectacular views over Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego.
This evening get to know your fellow expeditioners and friendly
expedition team and crew at a welcome dinner to celebrate the start of
a thrilling adventure to Antarctica.
Day
3 : At Sea
As
we commence our trip across the South Atlantic Ocean towards the
Falklands~Malvinas, we make the most of our time getting comfortable
with the motions of the sea. Our expedition team prepare you for our
first landing with important wildlife guidelines, biosecurity
procedures, and start our lecture program to help you learn more about
the region’s history, wildlife and environment.
Our wildlife experiences begin as we enjoy watching and photographing
the many seabirds, including majestic albatrosses and giant petrels
following the vessel. They rise and fall skilfully, using air currents
created by the ship to gain momentum.
Day
4 : Falklands~Malvinas
The
Falklands~Malvinas comprises two large islands (East and West
Falkland), with over 700 islands scattered off the coast. All but seven
of these are uninhabited, with windswept coastlines, white sand beaches
and crystal-clear water. These beautifully barren islands are true
wildlife havens, sheltering an impressive diversity of birdlife,
including the largest black-browed albatross colony on earth. The cold,
nutrient-rich waters surrounding the islands make this a prime location
for spotting marine life.
There
are many beautiful areas to explore across the Falklands~Malvinas, each
offering a unique perspective on this magnificent archipelago. Your
experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this
area, will use their expertise to design your voyage from day to day,
choosing the best options based on the prevailing winds, weather and
wildlife opportunities.
We
generally make landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day. Even though
we are north of the Antarctic Convergence it can be quite chilly here,
so you will want to layer up before joining Zodiac cruises into rocky
coves or along sea cliffs, keeping watch for seals, sea lions, dolphins
and penguins. Zodiacs will also shuttle you from the ship to land,
where you may visit albatross colonies, penguin rookeries and perhaps
even have a traditional English ‘tea and scones’ at
a local cottage.
Conditions
permitting, we plan to land in historic Stanley, the capital of the
Falklands~Malvinas. This charming town has a distinctly British
character, with terraced town houses, pioneer cottages and even an
iconic red telephone box! Colourful buildings house cosy cafes, English
pubs, souvenir shops, a post office and the fascinating Historic
Dockyard Museum, with displays on the maritime history of the Falkland
Islands, natural history and links to Antarctica.
If
you have chosen an optional activity, you will have the option to do
that whenever conditions allow, and of course keen polar plungers will
have the chance to fully immerse themselves in polar waters -
conditions permitting!
Days
5-6 : At Sea
Between
the Falklands~Malvinas and South Georgia, you will be enthralled by the
ceaseless flight of the many seabirds that follow and circle the ship.
Our onboard lecture program will continue with presentations from our
team of experts. You can also enjoy the many facilities on the ship,
borrow a book from our well-stocked library or perhaps stay active in
the fitness centre.
Day
7 At Sea / South Georgia
Sea
and weather conditions will determine our arrival time into South
Georgia today.
As you near the rugged island of South Georgia, spare a thought for
Captain James Cook, who arrived here in 1775 and believed it to be the
northern tip of a great southern continent! In fact, it is a small
island only 176 km (110 mi) long, but with a 3,000 m (9,842 ft)
snow-capped mountain range, some of the world’s largest
congregations of wildlife and a truly fascinating human history, South
Georgia is an island of incredible riches.
On approach, jagged mountain peaks rise steeply, while seabirds are
often spotted soaring around the ship. We will sail down the coast,
taking in the spectacular glaciated scenery. This enchanting coastline
is yours to explore!
If time and weather conditions permit, en route we could pass close to
Shag Rocks, a fascinating group of jagged rocky islets protruding from
the sea, in the proximity of South Georgia.
Days
8-11 : South Georgia
Your
experienced expedition team will use their local knowledge to plan your
voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the
prevailing weather, sea state and wildlife opportunities.
Remember to layer up before joining Zodiac excursions that may zip into
craggy coves and along the rocky coastline in search of nesting
penguins, seal haul-outs and bird cliffs. Remember to keep an eye out
for South Georgia’s kelp forests as well - these remarkable
underwater ecosystems are quite mesmerising as their fronds sway back
and forth on the water’s surface.
Our Zodiacs will also transport ashore, where you can visit some of the
largest king penguin colonies on Earth, take a guided walk among fur
seals and elephant seals (making sure you listen to your guides and
keep your distance!) and wander along pebbled streams and grassy
glacial outwash plains. We also hope to visit the remnants of South
Georgia’s thriving whaling stations and pay our respects to
Sir Ernest Shackleton, whose incredible voyage of survival is
synonymous with this island. If you have chosen an optional activity,
you will have the option to do that whenever conditions
allow.
In addition to Zodiac excursions and shore excursions, we may ship
cruise through fjords with towering cliffs of ancient stone, or into
deeply indented bays towards dramatic glacier fronts. This is a great
time to find a comfy spot in the observation lounge or make your way to
the bridge (open at the Captain’s discretion) to enjoy
uninterrupted views of South Georgia’s majestic coast.
Day 12 : South Georgia /
At Sea
Sea and weather conditions will determine our departure time from South
Georgia today.
Days
13-14 : At Sea
Attend
informative lectures to learn about Antarctica as we sail across the
Scotia Sea towards the white continent. Perhaps treat yourself to a
massage in the wellness centre or stay active in the gym; the choice is
yours on how you want to enjoy days at sea.
Days
15-20 : Antarctic Peninsula and Antarctic Circle Crossing
En
route to the Peninsula, if time and weather permits, we may attempt to
follow the coastline of Elephant Island, a half-submerged mountain
cloaked with an ice sheet at the outer limits of the South Shetland
Islands.
It
is almost impossible to describe the feeling of arriving in Antarctica.
Spotting your first iceberg and taking a deep breath of some of the
most fresh, crisp air on earth is an experience that will stay with you
forever.
Once
we arrive, the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South
Shetland Islands are ours to explore, and we have a host of choices
available to us. Because we are so far south, we will experience
approximately 18-24 hours of daylight and the days can be as busy as
you wish.
Your
experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this
area, will use their expertise to design your voyage from day to day,
choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, ice
conditions and wildlife opportunities.
We
generally make landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day. You will want
to rug up before joining Zodiac cruises along spectacular ice cliffs or
among grounded icebergs, keeping watch for whales, seals and porpoising
penguins. Zodiacs will also transport you from the ship to land, where
you can visit penguin rookeries, discover historic huts and explore
some of our favourite spots along the peninsula.
While
ashore we aim to stretch our legs, wandering along pebbly beaches or
perhaps up snow-covered ridgelines to vantage points with mountains
towering overhead and ice-speckled oceans below. If you have chosen an
optional activity, you will have the option to do participate in the
activity whenever conditions allow, and of course keen polar plungers
will have the chance to fully immerse themselves in polar waters -
conditions permitting! The polar plunge can take place at any time
during the voyage, so listen out for the announcement from the
expedition team and get ready for the most exhilarating dip of your
life!
In
addition to Zodiac cruises and shore excursions, we may ship cruise
some of the narrow, dramatic straits separating offshore islands from
the mainland, or linger in scenic bays to watch whales travelling or
feeding. This is a great time to enjoy the observation lounge or make
your way to the bridge (open at the captain’s discretion) for
uninterrupted views of Antarctica in all its splendour. Listen out for
the creak and deep rumble of glaciers as they carve. Take a quiet
moment to experience the wonder of the pristine paradise of the
splendid white continent.
On
this voyage, under favourable conditions, we plan to cross the
Antarctic Circle, an imaginary line located at latitude 66°33'
south. This is certainly a special highlight for many expeditioners,
and the moment will be celebrated with a toast on deck (conditions
permitting). You have earned some boasting privileges, joining a small
group of lucky adventurers who have ventured to this part of the world.
As we approach The Circle, you will notice subtle changes in the
landscape and in the distribution of wildlife. The waters at this time
of year are rich with krill and we hope to see plenty of whales -
particularly humpbacks and minkes. We also hope to enjoy the spectacle
of penguins feeding their ravenous chicks.
Days 21-22 : Drake Passage Crossing
Enjoy
a final morning landing in the South Shetland Islands before we
re-enter the Drake Passage for our return journey to South America.
With lectures and film presentations to complete our Antarctic
experience, there is still plenty of time to enjoy the magic of the
Southern Ocean and the life that calls it home. There is time for
reflection and discussion about what we have seen and experienced. We
hope you become ambassadors for Antarctica telling your family, friends
and colleagues about your journey to this magical place, advocating for
its conservation and preservation so that they might one day visit the
region to experience what you have been lucky to see and do
here.
As we approach the tip of South America, our Captain may sail close to
legendary Cape Horn, weather and time permitting.
Day 23 : Disembark in
Ushuaia
During the early morning, we cruise up the Beagle Channel, before
quietly slipping into dock in Ushuaia, where we will be free to
disembark around 8.00 am. Farewell your expedition team and fellow
passengers as we all continue our onward journeys, hopefully with a
newfound sense of the immense power of nature.
Upon disembarkation, for those continuing their travels in the region,
transportation to the hotel will be arranged exclusively for guests who
have booked their accommodations through Aurora or for those staying in
downtown areas near the port. Expeditioners departing on flights prior
to 12:30 pm will be directly transferred to Ushuaia Airport, those with
flights after 12:30 pm will have the opportunity to explore Ushuaia
before an afternoon airport transfer, and the transfer procedures and
details will be communicated onboard before disembarkation.
Note: At the conclusion of the voyage, we do not recommend booking
flights departing Ushuaia prior to 12.00 pm on the day of
disembarkation in case there are delays.
Douglas Mawson (Luxury Expedition, 154-guests)
The Douglas Mawson features a host of amenities to help you connect with like-minded travellers and elevate your time onboard our floating base camp for adventure. After a long day of exploring, head to the back deck to swim in the heated outdoor swimming pool, find a sun bed to read on, or soak in one of two Jacuzzis. Work up a sweat in the gym before unwinding in the sauna, resolve to learn something new in the Citizen Science Centre, then enjoy a delicious meal with new and old friends in one of two restaurants. Or, with multiple observation areas throughout the ship, simply relax in comfort while you keep watch for wildlife or incredible landscapes unfold before you.
(Click image to view Ship details)
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- All airport transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
- One night’s hotel accommodation including
breakfast, in Ushuaia on Day 1.
- ?Lake Escondido tour in Ushuaia, on Day
2.
- Onboard accommodation during voyage, including daily cabin
service.
- All meals, snacks, tea and coffee during voyage.
- Soft drinks and juices throughout all meals.
- Beer and house wine with dinner.
- Captain’s Farewell reception including
four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic
beverages.
- All shore excursions and Zodiac cruises.
- Educational lectures and guiding services provided by
Expedition Team.
- Complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and
medical clinic (initial consultation).
- One 3-in-1 waterproof, polar expedition jacket.
- Complimentary use of Muck Boots during the voyage.
- Comprehensive pre-departure information.
- Port surcharges, permits and landing fees.
- Wi-Fi*.
* Please
note we travel to remote regions and therefore the connection can be
unreliable.
Excluded
from this voyage :
- International or domestic flights – unless
specified in the itinerary.
- Transfers – unless specified in the itinerary.
- Airport arrival or departure taxes.
- Passport, visa, reciprocity and vaccination fees and
charges.
- Travel insurance or emergency evacuation charges.
- Hotel accommodation and meals – unless specified
in the itinerary.
- Optional excursions and optional activity surcharges.
- All items of a personal nature, including but not limited
to alcoholic beverages (outside of dinner service), gratuities, laundry
services, personal clothing, medical expenses or phone charges.
ADVENTURE
OPTIONS
Add-on
Activities
- Sea Kayaking : USD 1,745
- Snorkelling : USD $835
- Paddling : USD $640
Included
Activities
- Bird watching
- Lectures on wildlife, our environment, history and
destinations
- Near shore cruises
- Photography
- Polar plunge
- Trips ashore
- Walking
- Whale and mammal spotting
- Zodiac cruises
