Quest for the Weddell Sea
Highlights
- Sail deep into the Weddell Sea and Antarctic Sound, home to colossal tabular icebergs, Adélie penguin colonies, and haunting volcanic landscapes.
- Explore the glacier-carved bays and historic outposts of the Antarctic Peninsula, with Zodiac landings to see whales, seals, and penguins up close.
- Step inside the steaming caldera of Deception Island and walk among rusting ruins and steaming black sands on one of Antarctica’s most otherworldly islands.
This 13-day expedition is a sweeping journey through some of the most dramatic and remote realms of Antarctica, taking you from the southernmost city on Earth, Ushuaia, through the fabled Drake Passage to the dazzling wilderness of the White Continent. Unlike shorter Peninsula-only voyages, this itinerary reaches both the wildlife-rich waters of the Weddell Sea and the iconic sites of the Antarctic Peninsula—an ambitious arc that promises exceptional diversity in scenery, wildlife, and experiences.
Departing in the late austral summer, the voyage aligns with Antarctica’s peak wildlife viewing season: penguin chicks are active in their colonies, humpback whales are at their most visible as they gorge before migrating north, and the summer light casts a surreal glow over glaciers and jagged peaks. The season also offers the best chance to explore deeper into the Weddell Sea, where massive tabular icebergs drift silently through icy blue waters and volcanic features add a primeval touch to the landscape.
Your days will be filled with unforgettable moments: Zodiac cruises past sculpted icebergs, hikes among penguin colonies and historic huts, and lectures from leading polar experts that bring the region’s science and history to life. Onboard, you can contribute to real scientific research through our Citizen Science program, adding deeper meaning to your journey.
Crossing the Antarctic Convergence and venturing into areas few humans have ever reached, this voyage offers not just adventure, but a sense of achievement—standing in the presence of true wilderness. Expect moments of awe, introspection, and exhilaration that will stay with you long after you return. This is an expedition tailor-made for the curious, the brave, the wildlife lover, and the world wanderer seeking something truly extraordinary.
Standard Activities
About the Quest for the Weddell Sea
This 13-day expedition is a sweeping journey through some of the most dramatic and remote realms of Antarctica, taking you from the southernmost city on Earth, Ushuaia, through the fabled Drake Passage to the dazzling wilderness of the White Continent. Unlike shorter Peninsula-only voyages, this itinerary reaches both the wildlife-rich waters of the Weddell Sea and the iconic sites of the Antarctic Peninsula—an ambitious arc that promises exceptional diversity in scenery, wildlife, and experiences.
Departing in the late austral summer, the voyage aligns with Antarctica’s peak wildlife viewing season: penguin chicks are active in their colonies, humpback whales are at their most visible as they gorge before migrating north, and the summer light casts a surreal glow over glaciers and jagged peaks. The season also offers the best chance to explore deeper into the Weddell Sea, where massive tabular icebergs drift silently through icy blue waters and volcanic features add a primeval touch to the landscape.
Your days will be filled with unforgettable moments: Zodiac cruises past sculpted icebergs, hikes among penguin colonies and historic huts, and lectures from leading polar experts that bring the region’s science and history to life. Onboard, you can contribute to real scientific research through our Citizen Science program, adding deeper meaning to your journey.
Crossing the Antarctic Convergence and venturing into areas few humans have ever reached, this voyage offers not just adventure, but a sense of achievement—standing in the presence of true wilderness. Expect moments of awe, introspection, and exhilaration that will stay with you long after you return. This is an expedition tailor-made for the curious, the brave, the wildlife lover, and the world wanderer seeking something truly extraordinary.
Itinerary Day to Day
Arrive in and explore Ushuaia
After a friendly welcome at the airport and a transfer to the Las Hayas Ushuaia Resort, take some time to unwind or explore the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia.
Our evening briefing is your opportunity to ask questions and meet some of your fellow explorers.
All aboard!
Drake Passage
Antarctic Sound & Weddell Sea
Antarctic Peninsula
South Shetland Islands
Drake Passage
Ushuaia, disembarkation
Route Map
Enjoy up to $7000 discount on selected voyages aboard Seaventure
This program is designed for those guests who just want a taste of the Antarctic kayaking experience. Each participant kayaks once per voyage in a group of 14 with a dedicated guide team and safety Zodiac. Total number of available kayaking spots on each departure will vary by itinerary length and weather, but we aim to get groups on the water at every opportunity.
The Details
Anyone 14 or older, in reasonably good health and with even a small amount of paddling experience is welcome to join. Our kayaks have a per person weight limit of 260 lbs.
Prior to your first kayaking adventure, our guides will do a thorough job of handing out and explaining all your gear, as well as the basic rules of operating an ocean kayak.
Typical excursions last anywhere from 1-3 hours.
We Provide
High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) tandem (two-man) kayaks with paddles, dry suits, personal floatation devices (PFDs), and pogies (neoprene gloves.)
You Provide
Guests pre-booked on both of our kayak programs should read and follow the detailed preparation notes sent prior to departure. Make sure to bring warm layers and a keen sense of adventure!
*Advanced booking is recommended. Additional outings can be purchased on board, space permitting.
This program is designed for those more experienced guests who want to kayak as much as possible during their voyage. Immersive Kayaking is limited to 10 participants, with a dedicated kayak guide and safety Zodiac. Immersive paddlers will have the opportunity to kayak during most excursions and landings, weather and conditions permitting.
The Details
Anyone 14 or older, in reasonably good health and with even a small amount of paddling experience is welcome to join. Our kayaks have a per person weight limit of 260 lbs.
Prior to your first kayaking adventure, our guides will do a thorough job of handing out and explaining all your gear, as well as the basic rules of operating an ocean kayak.
Typical excursions last anywhere from 1-3 hours.
We Provide
High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) tandem (two-man) kayaks with paddles, dry suits, personal floatation devices (PFDs), and pogies (neoprene gloves.)
You Provide
Guests pre-booked on both of our kayak programs should read and follow the detailed preparation notes sent prior to departure. Make sure to bring warm layers and a keen sense of adventure!
* Advanced booking is highly recommended
What’s camping in Antarctica like? Long after most passengers are tucked away in their cabins, chances are you’ll still be lying awake, cozy in your sleeping bag, captivated by the ethereal sounds of gently lapping waves, creaking glaciers and perhaps the blow of a whale passing in the night.
The air seems even more pure than in the daytime, the scale of your surroundings even more humbling, and by morning you’ll find yourself wondering how you could possibly describe this once-in-a-lifetime experience to friends back on board.
What to Expect
After dinner and a full briefing on board, day turns into dusk, and we head ashore to camp. We set up in a breathtaking spot near the edge of the water, surrounded by a landscape rarely seen by human eyes.
Our experienced Camping Team will be right there with you to show you how to dig a shallow hole for wind protection, how to set up your bivy and sleeping bag, and most importantly – how to use the portable toilet!
Once camp is set up, you’re on your own – explore along flagged routes if available, or just relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of Antarctica at night. Our team will gently wake you at dawn to start breaking down camp so you can get back onto the ship for a hot shower and a hearty breakfast.
What Not to Expect
Camping in Antarctica is not your typical camping experience, because Antarctica is not your typical destination. We have a responsibility to protect the environment and the wildlife, which is why you won’t see campfires, cookstoves, or coolers. Aside from emergency rations, essential medical supplies, and drinking water, it’s just you, the waves, and the ice.
Once you’re settled on shore, the ship will sail a short distance away to give you complete immersion in your surroundings. Be aware that once you are ashore, barring rapidly deteriorating conditions or a serious medical emergency, you will not be able to get back to the ship until morning.
About Bivy Sacks
During your camping adventure, you will not be sleeping in a tent. Instead, you will use something called a bivy sack. Just larger than your sleeping bag, a bivy offers protection from water and wind, allowing you to truly experience your surroundings, while staying warm and snug.
Won’t I Be Cold?
Believe it or not, many people find themselves too warm at some point during the night! Our sleeping bags are designed for temperatures far lower than what we expect – you likely won’t see lower than 10° F (-12° C) overnight. It’s best to avoid sweating, which can make you colder while you sleep. This is why we recommend bringing a dry set of thermals and a pair of socks ashore to change into before getting into your sleeping bag. That being said, if you are a person who does not enjoy the feeling of cold air on your face while you sleep, this may not be the best experience for you!
What We Provide
We supply all the equipment you need to be comfortable, warm, and safe during your night on the ice.
Mountaineering bivy sack
Insulated sleeping pad
Insulated sleeping bag (rated to -20° F / -29° C)
Sleeping bag liner
Dry-bag to carry all of the above
Portable toilet for the group
Emergency rations and medical supplies
What You Should Bring
Come ashore in your normal, daily excursion wear – warm layers, waterproof pants and parka, boots, etc. Using the dry bag we provide you, bring a clean, dry set of thermals (top and bottom) and a warm pair of socks to change into before getting into your sleeping bag for the night. You may also want to have a flashlight on hand.
Always remember you are in a wild and unpredictable environment, so be prepared to layer up if necessary!
What's Included
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One pre-voyage hotel night with breakfast in Ushuaia.
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Transfer from airport in Ushuaia (USH) to group hotel (providing you arrive on Day 1 of the itinerary, and we have your confirmed air itinerary at least 15 days prior to departure).
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Transfer from group hotel to ship for embarkation.
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Shipboard accommodations and meals.
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Coffee/Tea/Cocoa 24 hours a day.
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Expedition jacket for use during the voyage.
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Fleece-lined down jacket (yours to keep).
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A pair of loaner boots for use during the voyage.
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All scheduled landings and excursions.
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Snowshoes for use during landings (subject to availability).
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Our Citizen Science program: participation in a variety of scientific activities that support important research projects.
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Photography Coach available throughout the voyage.
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Participation in the Polar Plunge.
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Access to our onboard medical clinics.
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Access to our onboard fitness centers.
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All port and landing fees.
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Digital Voyage Log.
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Group transfer from ship to airport, hotel in Ushuaia, or central location (please note we cannot drop at Airbnbs or private homes, which are often inaccessible for our transfer vehicles).
What's Excluded
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Any airfare or travel expenses associated with arrival or departure other than those specified above.
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Pre- or post-voyage expenses in Ushuaia other than those specified above.
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Travel insurance; medical insurance; evacuation coverage.
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Laundry and personal expenses incurred on board, except as listed in inclusions.
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Any other alcohol and soft drinks, except as listed in inclusions.
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Onboard communication charges such as outgoing phone calls or WiFi, except as listed in inclusions.
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Staff/crew gratuities.
Classic Antarctica Air-Cruise
Antarctic Explorer: Discovering The 7th Continent
In-Depth Antarctica, Falklands & South Georgia Expedition
South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula
Antarctica - Basecamp
Antarctic Circle Expedition
Antarctic Express: Fly The Drake
Spirit of Antarctica
Highlights of Antarctica
Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica