Giants of the Southern Ocean: Whale Voyage with South Shetlands & the Antarctic Peninsula
Highlights
- Witness the peak of whale activity in the rich Antarctic waters, with humpback whales frolicking and teaching their young survival skills.
- Explore the awe-inspiring Antarctic Peninsula, with its glittering ice cliffs, precipitous peaks, and rugged snowfields.
- Experience the unique ambiance of autumn in Antarctica as penguin chicks moult and the skies are painted with golden sunsets.
Embark on this fantastic 9-day sunset voyage to the great White Continent and experience the peak of Antarctic whale activity, stunning mountain scenery, and gigantic icebergs of Earth’s last frontier. In mid- to late-March as the days grow shorter and fewer vessels venture south, a truly unique experience awaits as the continent is draped in a magical golden light and we can explore the region more or less by ourselves. However, you can still expect plentiful company in the form of wildlife, as intimate encounters with whales, seals, birds, and penguins fill our SD cards and hearts.
Departing Argentina’s southernmost city of Ushuaia, we cross the mighty Drake Passage en-route southwards to the glittering ice cliffs, precipitous peaks, and now nutrient-rich waters of the Antarctic Peninsula. Autumn in Antarctica brings a delightful change in the seasonal rhythms of the continent and is truly something to behold—fluffy penguin chicks begin to moult into their sleek adult plumage, hefty male fur seals feast on the ubiquitous krill harvest, and large pods of gentle humpback whales frolic with their (still giant) young whilst keeping a watchful eye out for deadly orcas.
Ships

Ocean Victory
Standard Activities
About the Giants of the Southern Ocean: Whale Voyage with South Shetlands & the Antarctic Peninsula
Embark on this fantastic 9-day sunset voyage to the great White Continent and experience the peak of Antarctic whale activity, stunning mountain scenery, and gigantic icebergs of Earth’s last frontier. In mid- to late-March as the days grow shorter and fewer vessels venture south, a truly unique experience awaits as the continent is draped in a magical golden light and we can explore the region more or less by ourselves. However, you can still expect plentiful company in the form of wildlife, as intimate encounters with whales, seals, birds, and penguins fill our SD cards and hearts.
Departing Argentina’s southernmost city of Ushuaia, we cross the mighty Drake Passage en-route southwards to the glittering ice cliffs, precipitous peaks, and now nutrient-rich waters of the Antarctic Peninsula. Autumn in Antarctica brings a delightful change in the seasonal rhythms of the continent and is truly something to behold—fluffy penguin chicks begin to moult into their sleek adult plumage, hefty male fur seals feast on the ubiquitous krill harvest, and large pods of gentle humpback whales frolic with their (still giant) young whilst keeping a watchful eye out for deadly orcas.
Itinerary Day to Day
Arrival Ushuaia, Embarkation
Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina – the world’s southernmost town. Explore the quaint city or local countryside. Alternatively, consider a day trip off the beaten path to the raw, natural archipelago of Tierra del Fuego. It’s a hiker’s paradise with rugged snow-capped mountains, glaciers, flower-filled meadows and boggy quagmires. In the afternoon, we board our ship.
Our journey begins as we navigate through the calms of Beagle Channel, a strait in the Tierra del Fuego Archipelago
At Sea - Cross Drake Passage, South Shetland Islands
South Shetland Islands
Antarctic Peninsula
Depart Antarctica - At Sea
Back in Ushuaia and Disembarkation
Route Map
Snowshoeing is an activity that allows you to hike across soft, powdery snow up gentle slopes to reach to unique vantage points without the hassle of sinking into deep snow. Snowshoeing is as basic as hiking and you do not need to have previous experience.
The snowshoe program is not intended to take place during all landing activities, but rather when the weather, terrain and snow conditions are appropriate. The Snowshoe Master will present an introduction to the snowshoe program and the equipment for all guests with interest, on a workshop before introduction of this activity. This adventure activity will run separate from, though simultaneous to, Zodiac cruising and landing activities. This activity is dependent on suitable snow conditions and appropriate terrain as agreed upon by our expedition team.
The snowshoe program is conducted and supervised by experienced mountain guides who dictate the route based on site guidelines and conditions at the time of each outing.
Snowshoeing is offered on all ships and all trips during the early season departures (Antarctica; November to December) if conditions allow.
Glide through the waters and take in the royal grace of the icebergs, see the varied birds and seals, and maybe even the whales in their natural habitat under the supervision of experienced kayak guides, who will ensure your safety during each outing.
Exercise your body while engaging your mind and heart in an unforgettable outing, safely guided by Kayak masters throughout the journey.
Although kayaking opportunities are possible in most locations during each excursion in the Antarctic region, weather, sea and ice conditions will dictate the when and where to ensure your safety and improve your experience.
In order to sign up for this activity you need to have previous kayaking experience and attend a mandatory safety briefing by the Kayak Master.
Kayaking is offered on all ships and all trips* if conditions allow.
Would you like to experience the ultimate Antarctic expedition adventure, like the original explorers did? Then join us for a night under the open skies on the actual Antarctic Peninsula!
Cuddled up in a warm, snug and weatherproof sleeping bag, listening to the sounds of distant whale blows, penguins’ squeaks and shifting icebergs, Antarctic Open Air Camping is truly a memorable experience.
After dinner onboard the ship, our expedition team will take you to shore, where you will be a part of preparing your camp for the night. Once you decide on the location within the set perimeter, you will level out your own spot in the snow, fix the base cover, insulated pad, and warm sleeping bag – and get ready for a night like no other.
Camping in Antarctica is limited to 30 participants, who all need to participate in the briefing prior to the camp activity. It is provided all the special camping and bivouac gear for this outing, allowing you to stay warm, dry, and protected for all weather types while you enjoy the beauty of the Antarctic wilderness. For the ultimate camping experience, we use a wind and waterproof yet still breathable bivy bag, offering you the possibility to watch the amazing Antarctic night skies.
Our experienced expedition guides stay in constant radio contact with the ship and ensure that you have a safe and unforgettable night.
(Available untill mid Jan 24)
What's Included
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9-day cruise with accommodation in a shared double stateroom featuring ensuite facilities
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Shuttle transfers to the ship from city centre/from the ship (morning) to city centre or airport (Ushuaia)
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All Zodiac landings and excursions as per itinerary
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Expedition parka
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Rubber boot on loan
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Guiding and lectures by our expedition leader and team
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English-speaking expedition team
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Full board on the ship - breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks
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Free tea and coffee 24 hours daily
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Taxes
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Guiding and lectures by our experienced expedition leader and team
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Special photo workshop
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Welcome and farewell cocktails
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Digital visual journal link after voyage, including voyage log, gallery, species list and more!
What's Excluded
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Extra excursions and activities not mentioned in the itinerary
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Single room supplement and stateroom upgrades
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Meals not on board the ship
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Beverages (other than coffee and tea)
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Tips for the crew (we recommend USD 14 per person per day)
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Personal expenses
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Anything not mentioned under “Inclusions”