REGION
AntarcticaTHEME
Cruise, Expedition, WildlifeACTIVITIES
Birds, Conference, Glacier, Hiking, Photography, ZodiacDURATION
14 daysDIFFICULTY
ModerateWelcome to Deep Weddell after the Nordenskjold expedition.
A new journey that focuses more on the Weddell Sea region than any of our other voyages.
The Weddell Sea region is known for its vast quantities of ice – sea ice, pack ice, and massive icebergs. Even icebreakers struggle to navigate around the Weddell Sea. For adventurous explorers, a visit to the region can be rewarding, particularly for its historical associations.
In 1902, the Swedish explorer Otto Nordenskjöld was forced to spend two winters in the Weddell Sea, and the main expedition hut built on Snow Hill Island still stands. The region is also central to the work of Ernest Shackleton.
It was in the Weddell Sea that Shackleton’s crew had to abandon their ship, the Endurance, after it became trapped in the ice. In addition to ice watching, the area is rich in geology and paleontology.
We hope to see ice seals such as Weddell seals and leopard seals hauled out on the pack ice, and on land, you can search for ancient fossils of gastropods, giant clams, and spiral-shaped ammonites.
Overview
Day 1 Arrival in Ushuaia and transfer to your hotel for the night
Day 2 Embarkation
Day 3-4 Crossing of the Drake Passage Day 5-11 Weddell Sea Region and Antarctic Peninsula
Day 12-13 Crossing of the Drake Passage
Day 14 Disembarkation in Ushuaia
Trip Highlights
- Listen to epic tales of heroic exploration, tragedy, and triumph in the Weddell Sea region
- Cruise in Zodiacs in isolated bays and tranquil coves filled with impetuous ice and photograph massive glaciers and icebergs with spectacular shapes in various shades of blue
- Be awed by the array of wildlife that plays and hunts in the Antarctic Sound
- With favorable conditions, we hope to spend more time enjoying the breathtaking icy landscapes of the Weddell Sea region than on any of our other voyages
Onboard the Sylvia Earle
Aurora Expeditions operates in remote and challenging environments, and in the spirit of expedition travel, they encourage a flexible and adventurous attitude when joining their trips. This itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather, sea conditions, and other factors beyond our control.
Detailed program
DAY 1 | ARRIVAL IN USHUAIA
Upon arrival in Ushuaia, you will be welcomed by an Aurora Expeditions representative and transferred to our group hotel. This evening, enjoy a light refreshment while getting to know your fellow expeditioners at a welcome reception. Then, dine at your leisure (dinner not included). Accommodation: Hotel Las Hayas (or similar)
DAY 2 | EMBARKATION IN USHUAIA
This morning, please ensure your cabin luggage is clearly labelled with your name and cabin number. Your luggage will be collected from your hotel and transferred directly to the port for customs clearance and delivery to your cabin before your arrival on board. Please keep any valuables or personal items with you during the day. Enjoy some free time after check-out, meet in the hotel lobby at 2:00 PM to begin a short guided tour of Ushuaia. Ushuaia, the capital of Tierra del Fuego, is located on the shores of the Beagle Channel and surrounded by the Martial Mountains, offering a unique landscape in Argentina that combines mountains, sea, glaciers, and forests. During this brief introductory tour, you will visit the “La Mission” neighborhood, the former government house, and the upper part of the city, which offers beautiful panoramic views of Ushuaia and the Beagle Channel. During the tour, you will see antique houses that belonged to the first families settled in Ushuaia. The tour concludes with a visit to the old prison museum before transferring to the embarkation point for boarding at around 4:00 PM.
If you choose not to participate in the guided tour, you will need to make your own way to the Prison Museum parking area before 3:45 PM to join the group for the transfer to the embarkation point. After boarding, you will have time to settle into your cabin before our important mandatory briefings. As the ship departs from the port, we will gather on the deck to start our adventure with spectacular views of Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego.
DAY 3-4 | CROSSING OF THE DRAKE PASSAGE
As we begin the crossing of the Drake Passage, we make the most of our time getting to know the ship and adjusting to the motion of the sea. Our expedition team prepares you for our arrival with important wildlife and biosecurity information, and our program of lectures to help you learn more about the history, wildlife, and flora of Antarctica. Our wildlife encounters begin as we enjoy watching and photographing the many seabirds, including majestic albatrosses and giant petrels following our ship. On sea days, you can enjoy the ship’s facilities, including the gym, wellness center, or relax in one of the observation lounges. As we approach the South Shetland Islands and the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula on the afternoon of the fourth day, the excitement is palpable as everyone converges on one of the observation decks, looking for our first iceberg. The ocean takes on a whole new perspective once we are under the Antarctic Convergence and surrounded by the surreal presence of floating ice sculptures. The memory of your first significant iceberg sighting is likely to stay with you for a lifetime. If weather and conditions permit, we may attempt our first landing in Antarctica late in the afternoon.
DAY 5-11 | WEDDELL SEA REGION AND ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
It is nearly impossible to convey the feeling of arriving in Antarctica. Spotting your first iceberg and breathing in some of the freshest, crispest air on the planet is an experience that will stay with you forever. Your experienced expedition team, who have embarked on countless journeys in this region, will utilize their expertise to craft your day-by-day journey, selecting the best options based on weather, ice conditions, and wildlife. A journey to the Antarctic Peninsula is inherently an adventure, but venturing into the Weddell Sea region, situated on the wild eastern side of the peninsula, takes it up a notch. A substantial aspect of a journey to the Weddell Sea is the thrill of not knowing whether the ice will grant us access to its frozen kingdom.
The Weddell Sea propels vast quantities of ice from the Filchner-Ronne Ice Shelf towards the area near the Antarctic Sound, blocking the entrance to the Weddell Sea. However, visiting the region brings many rewards. It is steeped in history, with the place where Sir Ernest Shackleton’s ship, the Endurance, became trapped in formidable sea ice. The Weddell Sea undoubtedly tops the list for many polar adventurers. A small group of islands rising to the east of the Antarctic Peninsula collectively forms the Antarctic Sound – the gateway to the Weddell Sea. With a well-earned reputation for iceberg alleys, many large tabular icebergs break free from the Weddell Sea through the Antarctic Sound, often making navigation difficult. Enormous skyscraper-sized icebergs overshadow our Zodiacs as we try to navigate the seemingly impenetrable sea ice to land on isolated beaches where ancient fossils are found. The wildlife you can encounter in the Weddell Sea region makes the endeavor worthwhile. Abundant ice attracts ice seals such as crabeater seals, leopard seals, and Weddell seals, all of which breed and give birth on the sea ice. The Weddell Sea hosts a significant Adélie penguin colony just outside the Antarctic Sound, with some of them nesting on the rocky slopes of a small volcanic island, where a large colony of blue-eyed shags competes for space with Wilson’s storm-petrels.
We usually make two Zodiac landings or excursions per day. You’ll want to bundle up before joining Zodiac cruises along spectacular ice cliffs or amidst beached icebergs, watching for whales, seals, and Gentoo penguins. The Zodiacs will also transport you from the ship to land, where you can visit penguin colonies, explore historic huts, and discover some of our favorite locations along the peninsula and in the Weddell Sea region.
During exciting Zodiac cruises or while navigating the labyrinth of sea ice in your kayak, keep an eye out for crabeater seals and Gentoo penguins in and out of the water, as well as humpback whales, minke whales, and orcas. In the Weddell region, fossils serve as reminders of a more temperate time—gastropods, large clams, and spiral-shaped ammonites, all transformed into stone. Your camera is sure to get a thorough workout during your time in the Weddell Sea. On land, we aim to stretch our legs, strolling along pebble beaches or perhaps up snowy ridges for viewpoints with mountains overhead and ice-dappled oceans below. If you’ve opted for an activity, you’ll have the opportunity to do it whenever conditions allow, and of course, passionate polar divers will have the chance to fully immerse themselves in polar waters if conditions permit!
DAY 12-13 | DRAKE PASSAGE CROSSING
Enjoy a final morning stop before we venture back across the Drake Passage for our return journey to South America. With lectures and film presentations to complement our Antarctic experience, there is still plenty of time to savor the magic of the Southern Ocean and the life it harbors. There will be time for reflection and discussion about what we have seen and experienced. We hope you will become ambassadors for Antarctica by sharing your journey with your family, friends, and colleagues, advocating for its conservation and preservation so that they may one day visit the region and discover what you’ve had the privilege to see and do here. As we approach the tip of South America, our Captain may sail close to the legendary Cape Horn, weather and time permitting.
DAY 14 | DISEMBARKATION IN USHUAIA
In the early morning, we’ll navigate up the Beagle Channel and slip quietly into port in Ushuaia, where we will disembark from approximately 8:00 AM. Farewell to your attentive crew, the expedition team, and your fellow passengers as we all continue our journeys, hopefully with a newfound appreciation for the immense power of nature. A transfer to Ushuaia’s airport or your hotel is included in the trip’s price.
Note: At the end of the journey, we advise against booking flights departing from Ushuaia before 12:00 PM on the disembarkation day in case of any delays.
Travel periods
Departures from 24/03/2024 to 10/07/2024Prices
From 13,890€Ask for a quote
Pricing information
OUR RATES INCLUDE:
- All airport transfers as mentioned in the itinerary.
- One night of hotel accommodation with breakfast in Ushuaia on Day 1.
- Accommodation on board during the journey,
including daily cabin service. - All meals, snacks, tea, and coffee during the journey.
- Beer, house wine, and non-alcoholic beverages at dinner.
- Captain’s welcome and farewell receptions, including a four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, and non-alcoholic beverages.
- All onshore excursions and Zodiac cruises.
- Educational lectures and guiding services provided by the expedition team.
- Free access to the expedition doctor and
medical clinic (initial consultation). - A 3-in-1 waterproof polar expedition jacket.
- Free use of Muck Boots during the journey.
- Comprehensive pre-departure information.
- Port surcharges, permits, and landings.
OUR RATES DO NOT INCLUDE:
- International or domestic flights unless otherwise specified in the itinerary.
- Transfers unless otherwise specified in the itinerary.
- Airport arrival or departure taxes.
- Passport, visa, reciprocity, and vaccination fees.
- Travel insurance or emergency evacuation fees.
- Hotel accommodation and meals unless otherwise specified in the itinerary.
- Optional excursions and optional activity supplements.
- All items of a personal nature, including but
not limited to alcoholic beverages and non-alcoholic
beverages (outside of dinner service), laundry services,
personal clothing, medical expenses, Wi-Fi, email, or phone charges. - Multirisk “PREMIUM” cancellation insurance (please inquire for details).
Good to know
Your excursions can be as intense as you wish.
We offer the richest activity program in the world, an unparalleled choice to help you push your limits and fulfill your wildest dreams.
Some of the activities include Photography, Snowshoeing, Sea Kayaking, Shackleton Crossing, Ski & Snowboard Touring, Alpine Hiking, Climbing, Camping in Antarctica, Polar Diving, Guided Hikes.
Specially Designed for Discovery
Our expedition vessels, the Greg Mortimer and the Sylvia Earle, harness the latest advances in naval design and technology, truly revolutionizing navigation aboard small expedition ships. The Ulstein X-BOW® hull makes navigation smoother and faster, and exploration on land is facilitated by four sea-level Zodiac loading platforms, a mudroom, and an activity preparation area. They are fully equipped for adventure and comfortable navigation, carrying only 120 to 130 passengers. They are ready to take you where the adventure awaits.
Designed for Active Expeditions
Whether you’re diving, climbing, snowshoeing, or paddling, our activity preparation area and unique sea kayaking launch platform make adventure preparation easy.
Designed for Remote Regions
The ships are designed to take you to some of the most remote and spectacular places on Earth. With cutting-edge nautical technology, they are robust, powerful, and offer world-class safety.
Designed for Comfort
The cabins are beautifully appointed, with simple, neutral colors inspired by nature. Choose from a range of configurations and features, including twin and double bed options, private balconies, and connecting cabins.
Sail with Confidence
Aurora Expeditions has reinforced every aspect of the health and safety protocol to ensure the safety and comfort of passengers and crew. They rigorously follow it and want to assure you that your health and safety are in good hands, allowing you to fully enjoy your expedition.
Unforgettable Destinations
We have been exploring the world relentlessly for 30 years. Here are some of the fabulous destinations we can introduce you to, satisfying your curiosity.
Subantarctic Islands and Antarctica
Antarctic Peninsula | Antarctic Circle | Falkland Islands | South Georgia | South Sandwich Islands
Nothing can prepare you for the feeling of stepping foot on the ice of Antarctica.
Gaze at the indecent blue heart of an iceberg, feel the thrill of watching a leopard seal on the hunt, or sit quietly on a beach and be enchanted by the song of penguins.
Curiosity, Passion, Responsibility
We have an ongoing commitment to responsible and respectful travel. As founding members of IAATO and AECO, we take our responsibility seriously.
We are curious, we are passionate. For us, it’s about making good decisions and taking inspiring action in our areas of operation.
Our goal is to support and empower the people, communities, places you visit, the extraordinary wildlife you encounter, and the nature that connects you with them.
Our Planet: Minimal Footprint
We are 100% carbon-neutral. The ships use the innovative X-BOW® design, which reduces fuel consumption.
We are committed to eliminating unnecessary emissions and reducing our footprint.
We invest in two partnerships with global South Pole leaders specializing in emission reduction projects and strategies.
We create a sustainable food program.
We set up and improve regional supply chains. We work closely with suppliers who encourage regenerative agriculture and nature-based farming principles. We collaborate with suppliers in Europe, Chile, Argentina, and the United States aboard regional farm-to-table inspired experiences.
Your Expedition Team
When you choose to travel with Aurora Expeditions, you are traveling with the most seasoned, professional, and passionate expedition team in the market, going above and beyond to take you to the heart of nature and make the most of your stay in the most beautiful places in the world. We favor small groups for big adventures, and we have the highest expedition team/passenger ratio of all operators.
For Grand Adventures in Groups
We have already hosted a number of specific groups during our 2022 season in Antarctica, including over 50 photographers, ornithologists, and wildlife lovers. Our unique expedition site and experienced teams on board make group trips easy to organize.
Expedition Team:
French
By traveling with Aurora Expeditions, you can experience magical moments on land, unprecedented encounters with wildlife and flora, and an intimate and friendly atmosphere unique to small-ship travel. Plus, you’ll have access to an unparalleled program of activities. At every step, the warm and attentive expedition team will be at your service. Aurora Expeditions is delighted to announce that they will have French-speaking team members on board their upcoming 2022 Arctic and 2023 and 2024 destination voyages.
Opportunities to Learn and Explore
Expeditions are designed to take you as close to the action as possible. We offer a range of activities included in your trip to make the most of your time in incredible places you visit.
Bird and Wildlife Watching
Aurora Expeditions’ trips offer unique opportunities to discover some of the most extraordinary and rarest birds and animals on our planet. The ships are designed to immerse passengers in the environment. On board each ship, you will find numerous spots for birdwatching, animal watching, or simply admiring the wild landscapes.
Guided Hikes
With so much to see and learn, it’s time to get off the ship, stretch your legs, and explore the extraordinary environment around you. Guided hikes for all levels of adventure are included in our expeditions. Discover historical ruins, walk on pristine beaches or among wild and lush landscapes, be charmed by local wildlife and flora, or reach peaks with breathtaking views.
Lectures by Experts
Meet expedition specialists and be captivated by legends of terror, triumph, and human adventures in the most remote corners of the world. The team includes some of the best experts in the fields of nature, science, and history, so don’t miss their informative lecture series that will deepen your perspective of the region you are discovering.
These experiences are just the tip of the iceberg – Aurora Expeditions offers many additional activities, including photography, kayaking, scuba diving, Zodiac tours, alpine hiking, and much more!
The activities are conducted in English.
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